Keke's Breakfast Cafe Ohio Expansion Targets 25 New Locations

ORLANDO, Fla. — Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, the rapidly growing breakfast, brunch, and lunch restaurant with more than 80 locations, is accelerating its Midwest franchise expansion with Ohio emerging as a key market for future growth. The company is actively seeking franchise partners with long-term plans to develop 25-30 locations across the state.

“We believe Keke’s will thrive throughout the Midwest, and Ohio sits at the ‘crossroads of America,’” said Ardag Tachian, senior director of franchise development at Keke’s Breakfast Cafe. “There are several Ohio markets with strong population density, steady job growth and a favorable cost of living that leaves residents with some extra disposable income.”

Keke's is targeting four markets: Columbus, Dayton, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. Columbus is attracting young professionals at a higher rate. Cleveland is experiencing a steady revival in dining and its neighborhoods. Cincinnati's growth across the river into Northern Kentucky is creating new retail areas. Dayton has lower real estate costs and a loyal customer base. These markets provide Keke's a clear path from entry-level locations to larger metro opportunities as development in Ohio moves toward the brand's goal of 25 to 30 locations.

Ohio market targets

As Keke’s continues to grow, the brand is looking for franchise partners across Ohio who are strong business leaders, understand how to build and manage teams, and genuinely care about creating a great experience for both team members and guests.

“While restaurant experience can certainly be helpful, it is not required,” Tachian said. “We are looking for passionate businesspeople who value hospitality, culture and building strong teams within their communities.”

Keke’s ideal real estate opportunities include end cap, free-standing or outlot locations ranging from approximately 3,500 to 4,000 square feet. Patio space is preferred but not required, and the brand favors co-tenancy alongside daily-needs retailers such as higher-end grocery stores and fitness centers. Each Keke’s cafe is expected to employ approximately 35 team members, two managers per restaurant, and additional district leadership roles across each market.

Growth opportunities

With continued franchise momentum and growing interest from prospective operators, Keke’s Breakfast Cafe sees Ohio as one of the brand’s strongest long-term development opportunities in the Midwest.

Keke's Breakfast Cafe is a Florida-born restaurant chain specializing in breakfast, brunch and lunch favorites. Known for its freshly made meals, Keke's offers a wide range of options, including pancakes, waffles, omelets and other classic dishes. With a commitment to high-quality ingredients and excellent customer service, Keke's Breakfast Cafe provides a welcoming and relaxed dining experience for customers of all ages.

The cafe currently operates in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Nevada, Texas, Colorado and California, with other locations in multiple U.S. states slated in the near future.

The breakfast franchise is continuing its Midwest growth push with a focus on Columbus, Dayton, Cleveland and Cincinnati.