Straw Hat Pizza - Franchise

Legacy Brand

In 1959, Straw Hat Pizza opened its first location in San Leandro, California. The founders created their pizza recipes using only fresh, locally sourced ingredients to ensure quality. By combining superior food with a family entertainment theme, Straw Hat Pizza quickly became a favorite across California. Over the years, the restaurants added themed characters, arcade games, sports TV screens, and salad bars to appeal to a broad demographic.

Today, Straw Hat Pizza thrives as a value-based entertainment venue with incredible food. The company is led by a board comprised mostly of franchise owners, ensuring decisions are made in the best interest of franchisees. The corporate team includes industry professionals deeply rooted in the brand’s culture, dedicated to helping franchise owners grow their business.

Our Concept

Serving Up Pizza & Fun Since 1959

• Inviting atmosphere with comfortable, modern seating
• Big screen televisions with sports broadcasts
• Party rooms for birthdays, groups, and teams
• Game rooms and redemption games
• Labor-efficient kitchens

Great Food & Menu Selection

The menu offers a diverse selection that satisfies everyone, from those indulging to health-conscious guests. With Gluten Free and Vegan options, Straw Hat Pizza ensures nobody is left out. Customers can enjoy a salad bar, craft beers, and, of course, delicious pizzas.

Customer Experience

Comfortable dining areas with booths, tables, high tops, and bars make Straw Hat Pizza a favorite gathering spot. Fast and efficient service delivers food to the table, while the friendly staff ensures guests enjoy their time and keep coming back.

Revenue Streams

Many Avenues to Reach Customers

Franchise owners use a variety of marketing strategies and events to differentiate the brand and attract customers. The corporate team provides ongoing support for events, catering, and marketing initiatives.

• Dine-in
• Carry-out
• Delivery
• Catering
• Online/Mobile Ordering
• Beer & Wine
• Game Room

Straw Hat Pizza embraces third-party online ordering services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, making it easier for customers to place orders from their phones and increasing sales opportunities.

Quality Food

Only the Best!

• Dough made fresh daily
• Premium grade meats
• Locally grown fresh produce
• Boxes and napkins made from 100% recycled materials

Our Food

• Genuine California Pizza
• Hot Hats (stromboli-inspired)
• Wings
• Salads
• Groovy Twists

With nearly 65 years as California’s favorite pizza, Straw Hat Pizza continues to stand out for its quality ingredients and memorable flavors.

Advantages

Operations Support

• Three weeks of hands-on owner training
• 24/7 access to corporate support
• Training systems to quickly onboard team members
• Detailed manuals covering HR, equipment, safety, and more
• Approved vendor relationships for seamless operations

Marketing Support

• Social media assistance
• Custom advertisements and coupons
• Company-wide promotions
• Digital marketing support
• Event marketing guidance

Real Estate

Site Selection

Straw Hat Pizza works closely with franchise owners and real estate professionals to secure ideal locations with strong local demographics, traffic patterns, and competition analysis.

• 3000–3200 sq. ft. with sufficient utilities
• Shopping center with strong anchor tenants
• Easy access and ample parking
• Highly visible signage

Territories

Each franchise is awarded a protected territory that includes specific zip codes or a defined radius. Territories for multi-unit owners can be larger based on development agreements.

FAQs

How long does it take to open a Straw Hat Pizza?

Typically 6–12 months, depending on site selection and construction timelines.

How does the franchisor support franchisees?

Straw Hat Pizza provides assistance with site selection, construction, vendor connections, and training. At opening, corporate support staff assist with setup and staff training. Ongoing field support is also provided.

What purchasing power do you provide?

Franchisees benefit from the brand’s contracts with national distributors and preferred vendors for equipment, marketing, and repairs.

Is Straw Hat Pizza SBA loan approved?

Yes, many locations have been approved and opened using SBA loans.

Next Steps

1. Discovery: Call with the Franchise Development Team to understand the benefits and process.
2. Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD): Review the FDD and sign a receipt of acknowledgment.
3. Franchise Application: Complete an application providing experience and financial information.
4. Financial Verification: Verify net worth and liquid assets.
5. Location Selection: Work with a real estate company to find your location.
6. Construction: Construction partners assist from plans to opening.
7. Training: Receive three weeks of hands-on training.
8. Grand Opening: Support with staffing, operations, marketing, and community outreach.