Buying a restaurant is one of the most significant business decisions you will ever make. It is also one of the most complex. From evaluating financials and negotiating lease assignments to navigating franchise approvals and SBA lending, the process demands expertise that goes far beyond simply finding a listing online.

That is where EATS Broker comes in. We are not a generalist business brokerage firm that occasionally sells a restaurant. We are a restaurant-only brokerage — and that specialization makes all the difference for buyers who want to make a confident, informed purchase

Why Restaurant Buyers Work With EATS Broker

Most buyers who attempt to purchase a restaurant without professional representation make costly mistakes. They overpay. They miss red flags in the financials. They get surprised by the lease. They fail to qualify with the franchisor.

A dedicated Restaurant Broker represents your interests throughout every phase of the transaction — from identifying the right opportunity to sitting across from you at the closing table. Here is what you get when you work with EATS Broker:

• Access to off-market listings and pre-qualified opportunities not available to the general public
• Expert financial review — we analyze Profit & Loss statements, tax returns, and POS data so you understand exactly what you are buying
• Lease review guidance to identify assignment risks, personal guarantee exposure, and landlord approval requirements
• Franchise resale expertise — EATS Broker has closed franchise transactions for Papa John’s, Firehouse Subs, Jimmy John’s, Marco’s Pizza, Schlotzsky’s,Smoothie King and more
• SBA lender introductions — we connect buyers with Texas-based SBA 7(a) lenders experienced in restaurant transactions
• Asset Purchase Agreement preparation — EATS Broker drafts and manages the paperwork from offer through close
• Coordination with franchisors, landlords, closing attorneys, and lenders so you are never managing the process alone

How the Restaurant Buying Process Works

The process of buying a restaurant typically takes four to nine months from initial inquiry to closing. Every transaction is different, but buyers who understand the process move faster and negotiate better. Here is what to expect when working with EATS Broker:

1. Step 1 — Buyer Consultation: We learn your goals, financial capacity, preferred concept, and target market. This helps us identify the right opportunities — not just any available listing.
2. Step 2 — Sign a Confidentiality Agreement: Before receiving financial details on any listing, buyers sign a Confidentiality Agreement. This protects the seller and ensures professional standards throughout.
3. Step 3 — Financial Pre-Qualification: To view the back of house or meet with a seller, buyers provide proof of funds — a bank statement, 401(k), or letter from a banker. EATS Broker only introduces serious, qualified buyers to sellers.
4. Step 4 — Review Financials and Visit the Restaurant: You will review Profit & Loss statements, tax returns, and POS sales data. We recommend visiting as a customer first before requesting a formal showing.
5. Step 5 — Make an Offer: EATS Broker drafts the Asset Purchase Agreement on your behalf. We guide the negotiation to protect your interests and reach a fair deal.
6. Step 6 — Due Diligence: Once under contract, buyers verify all financial claims, review the lease, confirm the status of any franchise agreement, and finalize lender approvals.
7. Step 7 — Secure Your Business: Apply with the landlord for lease assignment, complete franchise approval and training (if applicable), establish your legal entity, and open a new business bank account.
8. Step 8 — Close: Sign closing documents, transfer utilities, complete the physical inventory count, and receive the keys. EATS Broker coordinates every detail to the finish line.