Who we are

Ponderosa and Bonanza Steak House restaurants deliver the old western flavor of grilled steaks coupled with a buffet full of sides, salads, soups and more. Chicken, shrimp, pasta and appetizers are also available ensuring there is always something for everyone. Restaurant wait staff serve customers at their tables while customers also have the opportunity to select a wide variety of foods and desserts from the self-serve buffet giving customers freedom by the plateful. The warm, fun and friendly atmosphere make the restaurants a perfect place to take the family or to meet with friends for a great affordable meal.

Why choose Ponderosa/Bonanza Steakhouses?

Ponderosa and Bonanza steak houses have been around a long time and are both recognizable brands. Their dining style, flexible menu, fun and friendly atmosphere and self-serve buffet make it an affordable place for people of all ages to dine. Owning such a franchise provides owners with a restaurant with a reputation for taking care of customers.

When becoming a franchise owner, training is provided, to make sure the new owner understands the entire operation of the restaurant. Training includes operations, staffing, inventory control, accounting, marketing and other areas of the business. Post training support is provided as well, ensuring franchise owners are not left alone. Support starts when a candidate applies to become a franchise owner and continues through the opening of their location. Even after that, support continues while owners grow their restaurant acquiring new customers and bringing back existing ones.

Franchise owners also receive marketing support through Pon Bon headquarters. The marketing campaigns include television, traditional and online advertising to attract new customers with a certain loyalty style and also offer incentives for return business. These campaigns are designed by the experienced marketing staff at headquarters, so franchise owners do not need to know how to market themselves.

Who we're looking for

The ideal candidate for a Ponderosa or Bonanza restaurant franchise is a person who wants to have fun while providing good affordable dining experiences to customers of all ages. This person should have a warm, inviting personality and is one who enjoys communicating face to face with people all day. Experience in the food and beverage industry is not required, but can certainly help. Strong leadership, the ability to mentor and good organization skills will help the candidate to succeed, as will any business experience.

The candidate should be prepared to work hands-on in the restaurant on a day to day basis and have a passion for delivering quality foods and the best customer service while operating at peak performance.

Although it is not required, the proper candidate to become a franchise owner should also know how to hire staff and motivate them to enjoy working at the restaurant with the same level of commitment and dedication to maintain a consistent level of service throughout the organization.

Training and Support

Initial training includes operations, staffing, inventory control, accounting, marketing and other areas of the business. Support and training begins when the franchise application is complete and continues all the way through the opening of the restaurant. Post training and operational support is provided as well to make sure franchisees are supported and able to grow their business.