Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar, a full-service family sports bar that provides gourmet takes on game day favorites, recently announced plans to launch North Carolina expansion efforts. As a new restaurant concept in the market, the emerging brand will ramp up growth through strategic franchise partnerships with an overall goal to introduce more than 15 new locations throughout the state over the next five years.

Setting the local development push in motion, the growing brand already has deals inked for Fayetteville, Wilmington, and Ft. Bragg. The first Walk-On’s North Carolina location will open in Fayetteville in April 2019 at 2116 Skibo Rd. under the ownership of franchisee, Jason Sadowski. Sadowski is also behind the development of the Wilmington location slated to open Q4 2019. The Ft. Bragg restaurant will be Walk-on’s debut on a military based and will open under the ownership of Mark “Ranger” Jones, a renowned retired Master Sargent of the U.S. Army. Additional target development markets throughout the state include Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem among others. 

“Growing our presence in North Carolina is an exciting chapter for our growth story as we break into untapped markets with new franchise partners,” says Walk-On’s president & COO, Scott Taylor. “Our development team is poised for success and our initial locations in these areas will no doubt bring success to enthusiastic entrepreneurs ready to join our team. With a proven business model, positive business environment, and open real estate market, North Carolina is an obvious and attractive area for Walk-On’s continued growth.” 

Since opening its flagship location in Baton Rouge, Walk-On’s has become an increasingly popular eatery, offering signature Louisiana-inspired menu items. Whether it be for date night, a drink, girl’s night out or a family dinner, Walk-On’s is the place for everyone—because everyone needs a little playing time. Every dish is made from scratch using fresh ingredients to bring its savory cuisine to life. Walk-On’s diverse menu has offerings ranging from unique twists on game day staples to upscale takes on Louisiana mainstays pleasing all palates. Its game day atmosphere paired with a true southern hospitality makes it a perfect dining destination for everyone. As stated by co-owner and NFL superstar Drew Brees, Walk-On’s is “a great place to bring my family, teammates and business colleagues,” and we’re excited to help “expand the brand across the nation.”

“As we grow in North Carolina, we’re committed to fulfilling our vision of consistently offering an unparalleled dining experience,” says Walk-On’s founder, Brandon Landry. “Walk-On’s is hands-down the best quality and our ability to provide our guests with a true game day experience outmatches the competition- all of which has created a loyal customer following directly contributing to our $5.4 million average unit volume.”

Today, with over 100 locations in development across 15 states, the brand is on track for strategic franchise expansion nationwide. 

Industry News, NextGen Casual, Walk-On's Bistreaux & Bar