MacQue's BBQ - Franchise
Quick Summary
A fast casual BBQ concept that believes in high quality food that’s reasonably priced, while delivery exceptional service to the QUEmunity. MacQUE’s captured over 30 years of BBQ restaurant experience into an efficient and consistent franchise system. With the Barbecue industry poised for growth, this is a great opportunity to join a $4b industry.
*Please contact "MacQue's BBQ" to confirm the accuracy of any information provided on this page.
MacQue's BBQ
Business Cost, Fees & Facts for 2026
| Minimum Cash Required | $100,000 | |
| Training & Support | Yes |
Available In These States:
- AZ
- CA
- OR
- WA
- Overview
- Video
MacQue's BBQ - Franchise
Our History
Founded in 1986 by Mack and Charlie Thomas, MacQue's Barbecue began with a dream of serving the best barbeque and sauces for their community. Starting out in the industrial buildings in South Sacramento, Mack began his grass roots effort to build the brand through catering. He spent the next few years establishing MacQue’s as the premier catering company in the region, including playing a major part in the development of quality vendors for the Olympics Trials in 2000.
That is how MacQue’s Barbeque was born. The first location started in 1986 serving walk up and drive up traffic for just a few days a week. Because it wasn’t in an area to be seen from the road, through word of mouth through the community, it turned into the area's best kept secret.
After years of service in the United States Marine Corp and a career in law enforcement, Mack always dreamed of opening his own restaurant. When the opportunity presented itself to expand the business into the adjoining store front, the family took it. In 1991, Mack and Charlie responded to the demand of the community by opening their first restaurant location. With family and friends always eager to come by when Mack was barbecuing, the groundwork was set and the business became a local favorite. This small, “hole in the wall” has provided quality-smoked meats, scratch made side orders and their fabulous varieties of barbeque sauces to the area for almost three decades.
On August 13, 2019 MacQue’s BBQ opened its second location in Elk Grove with a large launch and community support and has experienced steady and continual growth since then. With the expansion into this second location, MacQue’s now has its eye on franchised growth across the nation and even internationally. MacQue’s has successfully established itself as one of the area's best barbecue restaurants and catering services providing amazing food to the public.
Your Steps to Franchise Ownership
- Submit your inquiry
- Our franchise team contacts you
- Discuss concept compatibility
- Complete your franchise matching process
- Sign your agreement contract
- Track to open your first location
Perfect QUEmunity Ownership Candidates
MacQue's BBQ is looking for passionate entrepreneurs who share our love and commitment to excellence for:
- Quemunity
- Quality food and service
- Family culture
FAQ
How long does it take for an application to be approved?
Upon receiving a fully completed and verified application, we can review and return a decision as quickly as 1-3 business days, as long as no follow up information is required.
How much will it cost to open a MacQUE's BBQ location?
The cost will vary based on whether it is a single location or area development, restaurant size, location, equipment selection, along with other factors. The basic cost for one restaurant is estimated from $227,000 up to $530,500, which includes the initial franchise fee of $37,500.
If we do not have a location, will you get one for us?
Though we make no guarantees on locations, MacQUE's BBQ has a team of experienced real estate professionals that will assist you throughout the location selection process. They will help you select the site, as well as negotiate the lease.
What is the recommended location size?
1,800 to 2,500 square feet.
Do you franchise out of state?
Yes, absolutely!
Can I franchise in multiple states?
Yes, you can open multiple locations in different states.
How long will it take to open a restaurant?
Once a location is secured and the construction permit has been issued, construction usually takes 12-16 weeks depending on your contractor's performance.
Do you provide training?
Yes, absolutely! MacQUE's BBQ will provide the initial training, along with industry leading software technology to streamline daily restaurant operations, such as Jolt and Toast POS system. Ongoing training and support is available and determined as needed.
Do I have to purchase supplies from you?
In order to deliver consistent and high quality food to our customers, we partner with certain vendors who are preferred suppliers for you to purchase from.
Video not loading? Click here to download it.
Here are some other suggestions in the same category that you selected :
Roti Modern Mediterranean
Rōti Modern Mediterranean is a fast-casual franchise serving fresh, customizable Eastern Mediterranean bowls, salads and wraps. Founded in Chicago in 2007 and backed by Edible Brands, Rōti combines health-forward menu offerings with streamlined operations and flexible restaurant formats. Franchisees benefit from comprehensive training, operational support, and the opportunity to grow with an innovative brand in the expanding Mediterranean dining category.
$ 250,000 Min.Cash Required
Edible
Edible® is a leading food gifting franchise that helps customers celebrate life’s special moments with handcrafted fruit arrangements, chocolate-dipped treats, baked goods, flowers, balloons, and premium gifts. Founded in 1999, the brand offers franchisees a proven business model, strong brand recognition, innovative technology, e-commerce capabilities, and comprehensive support to serve both individual and corporate customers year-round.
$ 100,000 Min.Cash Required
Port of Subs
Port of Subs® offers a proven franchise with 50+ years of history, loyal fans, and a reputation for fresh, made-to-order sandwiches. Now entering rapid growth with sleek new designs, updated branding, and streamlined operations, it boasts competitive build-out costs, strong unit economics, and prime territories. A revitalized regional powerhouse, Port of Subs is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking a scalable, community-driven opportunity with long-term potential.
$ 150,000 Min.Cash Required
South Daytona Brewery Project
We aspire to be community-driven and innovation-focused, dedicated to delivering product excellence by crafting unique and distinctive brewed products using high-quality ingredients. We aim to create a welcoming, casual, and memorable environment for everyone, grounded in our core family values of ethics, principles, and morals.
$ 300,000 Min.Cash Required
Brusters Real Ice Cream
At Bruster's our simple retail model distinguishes us from the other franchises by focusing on serving ice cream and related products filled with the giant chunks of real fruit, candies, cookies, nuts and other delicious mix-ins. We have over 200 successful units open in 22 states!
$ 150,000 Min.Cash Required
Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings
The World’s Largest Cheesesteak Franchise is Rapidly Expanding Throughout the United States. Are you ready to build your cheesesteak empire? Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings, the world’s largest cheesesteak franchise, is ready to help you turn your dream into reality. Learn more now!
$ 200,000 Min.Cash Required
Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
Harmony the Hummingbird has been the soul of Robeks since 1996 — tireless, vibrant, & always seeking out the best that nature provides. She’s the perfect symbol for a brand that brings flavor, health, and profitability into harmony for every franchise owner. As one of America’s original smoothie and juice franchises, Robeks didn’t follow the wellness movement — it helped start it, introducing millions to acai bowls, raw-pressed juices, and superfood smoothies long before they went mainstream.
$ 100,000 Min.Cash Required
Slappy Cakes
Slappy Cakes turns breakfast into an interactive experience where guests create their own pancakes right at the table. Combining fresh ingredients, playful dining, and a family-friendly atmosphere, this unique concept serves up memorable moments alongside delicious meals. Franchise owners can tap into the growing demand for experiential dining while building a fun, community-focused business that keeps customers coming back.
$ 250,000 Min.Cash Required
West Coast Sourdough
Founded in California, West Coast Sourdough serves handcrafted sandwiches on authentic San Francisco sourdough. Since March 2020, we’ve grown to 75 locations, with 30+ in development. Our deli offers sandwiches, salads, soups, and flatbreads in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The approachable, scalable concept combines premium ingredients, consistent operations, and modern technology, offering franchisees a proven, profitable model.
$ 100,000 Min.Cash Required
Randy's Donuts
Randy's Donuts has been serving handmade donuts since 1952, earning worldwide recognition as one of America's most iconic restaurant brands. Famous for its legendary rooftop donut and commitment to quality, Randy's offers premium donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and specialty beverages. Franchisees benefit from a recognized brand, proven operating model, comprehensive support, and a loyal customer base as the company continues expanding across the U.S. and internationally.
$ 300,000 Min.Cash Required
Rush Bowls
Rush Bowls is a small scale, simple restaurant concept serving blended fruit bowls and smoothies. Take advantage of the booming better-for-you industry with a scalable business model. Rush Bowls has built a streamlined business model featuring few moving parts (no cooking, grills, or hoods), small footprints, low labor counts, easy-to-replicate recipes, and no food waste.
$ 150,000 Min.Cash Required
SmartMarket Solutions
SmartMarket Solutions is redefining unattended retail with AI-powered SmartMarts that offer secure, grab-and-go access to today’s most popular snacks and beverages. No lines, no staff, and no franchise fees—just a smarter, more scalable way to build a flexible business. Backed by advanced technology, national brand products, and full training and support, this is a future-ready opportunity designed for entrepreneurs who want real freedom and strong income potential.
$ 50,000 Min.Cash Required
Purchase A Franchise Using Your Retirement Plan
This is NOT a franchise or business opportunity. This is a service offered to those seeking to purchase a franchise or business using their retirement funds without having to pay the taxes and penalties. You can purchase a franchise or traditional business with a tax qualified retirement plan such as an IRA, 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), SEPs and others.
$ 30,000 Min.Cash Required
Healthier4U Vending
Are you passionate about owning your own business? Are you interested in giving people the choice to eat healthy? If the answer is yes, then you have found the right partner to build you a successful healthy vending business. At Healthier4U Vending we share your passion and want you to join us to give the choice to eat healthy to everyone.
$ 30,000 Min.Cash Required
Daylight Donuts
Donuts are one of the most profitable food items in the nation! In addition, the Daylight Signature Coffee and beverage program generates significant dollars to the bottom line. You do not pay a franchise percentage or even an upfront licensing fee. All the profits you make are yours to keep. Inquire now to learn more!
$ 100,000 Min.Cash Required
