Bodine Berger Leads Franchise Growth for Broken Yolk Cafe

Restaurant Industry Veteran Previously Spearheaded Expansion Efforts for Eggs Up Grill, Steak ‘n Shake and Domino’s Pizza

Broken Yolk Cafe, a California-based breakfast and brunch franchise, has named Bodine Berger director of franchise development. The restaurant industry veteran has previously fostered growth for Eggs Up Grill, Steak ‘n Shake and Domino’s Pizza.

“I am familiar with the breakfast and brunch segment and its growth potential,” Berger said. “What initially caught my attention about Broken Yolk Cafe was its impressive average unit volume. Having spent years in franchise development, I know how important strong unit-level performance is when evaluating a brand’s potential. But what ultimately sold me was the people. I was genuinely impressed by the team, the founder and their passion for the brand.

“Between the strong restaurant performance, established brand identity and the people behind the concept, I felt Broken Yolk Cafe was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Ultimately, I want to look back several years from now and see thriving Broken Yolk Cafe locations in markets we haven’t even entered yet.”

Bodine Berger is the new director of franchise development for Broken Yolk Cafe.

The breakfast franchise is targeting emerging markets for expansion, including Boise, Idaho; Dallas; Indianapolis; Northern California; and Phoenix. Berger said growth is more than just signing a franchise agreement. “The real measure of success is whether franchisees open their restaurants, operate successfully and eventually want to grow with the brand,” he said. “Franchisors should focus on franchisee validation, operational support, transparent communication and sustainable development in order to grow responsibly.”

John Gelastopoulos, CEO of Broken Yolk Cafe, said Berger has the franchise development experience to take the breakfast and brunch concept to the next level. “With franchise development, our focus has always been on quality over quantity. While Bodine’s addition to the team won’t alter that approach, his experience is sure to accelerate our expansion into new markets and communities nationwide,” Gelastopoulos said.

Entrepreneurial Upbringing

Berger said growing up with an entrepreneurial father gave him a unique perspective on both the franchisee and franchiser sides of franchising. “Franchising has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My father was a Domino’s franchisee and also founded You’ve Got Maids, a residential cleaning franchise brand. That early exposure eventually led me into franchise development. Helping entrepreneurs pursue their entrepreneurial goals and potentially change the trajectory of their family’s future is incredibly rewarding.”

Berger advises prospective franchise owners about the importance of understanding the financial commitment and day-to-day responsibilities of business ownership and choosing a concept that aligns with their interests, abilities and long-term goals.

“I’d also encourage prospective franchisees to think beyond their first location. Even if you’re starting with one restaurant, understand what the opportunity could look like five or 10 years down the road,” he said. “Franchising can be an incredible vehicle for entrepreneurship, but it’s important to remember that you’re still running a business. Success requires hard work, commitment and the right partnership.”

In his downtime, Berger enjoys travel, exploring New York City’s restaurant scene and spending time with his dog, Lady.

About Broken Yolk Cafe

Founded in Pacific Beach, Calif., in 1979, Broken Yolk Cafe is famous for its scratch-made ingredients, generous portions and inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. The breakfast and brunch franchise has expanded to 42 locations nationwide.