Sobelmans Targets Multi-Unit Investors Looking to Diversify Portoflio with Unparalleled Franchising Opportunity

When Dave and Melanie Sobelman announced that they would launch a franchise opportunity for their 16-year-old business, Sobelman’s Pub & Grill, they did so with one important goal in mind—to be the “anti-franchise” franchise.

This meant that as Dave’s brand would continue to grow, his high standards needed to be upheld beyond his watchful eye. That includes creating a Bloody Mary that’s nationally-recognized, featuring shrimp, polish sausage, cheese, pickled asparagus, celery and, of course, a burger—all sticking out of the drink. It also includes crafting the perfect Sobelman’s Burger to feed hungry crowds of businessmen, factory workers, students and tourists—all of which sit elbow to elbow to experience a truly classic Milwaukee experience in an historic building with lots of character.

But, perhaps most importantly, this includes maintaining and embracing Dave’s passion for Sobelman’s—something that’s evident the second a customer walk into his restaurants’ doors. There’s a good chance you’ll see Dave himself at his restaurants every single day. He’s there from early morning until late in the evening, handling tasks like cleaning the floor and bussing dirty tables.

He has an alarm set on his phone that goes off every hour—it serves as a reminder to check in on his staff to make sure everything’s in order. And when it comes to taking time off, Dave is only away from his restaurants a few days throughout the entire year.

“This is a franchising opportunity that’s not about money—it’s about building the brand. We are the only Sobelmans in Milwaukee, and that means something. I want an entrepreneur who has the same passion that I have for this restaurant—you can’t survive in the business without it,” Sobelman said.

“Becoming a franchisee with Sobelman’s is something you pursue because you genuinely believe it’s cool. The Bloody Mary’s, the burgers, the service, the atmosphere, the old historic buildings—it’s all cool and it’s all unique to our brand. The right franchisee will have a true appreciation for that kind of novel business opportunity.”

In particular, Dave believes that multi-unit operators will find an intriguing franchise opportunity with Sobelmans. They may be a big chain operator, but as they look to diversify their portfolio, they can turn to Sobelmans—a unique franchise they can feel proud to help grow. And today, with three locations under his belt and his first two franchises opening in Waukesha and Richfield Wisconsin, Dave is confident that positioning will protect Sobelman’s reputation, character and charm in the years to come.

“Our prospective franchisees will view Sobelmans as something they’re eager to show off to their friends. This is their baby—the fun project,” Dave said. “I can promise that as we grow, we will never become too big or chain-like. The Sobelman’s experience will never feel like a trip to a ‘chain’ restaurant. We’re diligent in identifying franchisees who truly values their community and believe in keeping with the Sobelmans tradition and atmosphere that our customers love and have come to expect since 1999.”