Since its inception in 2015 as Biggie’s Beach Grill, now known as “LocOhana Tropical Grill” the concept has evolved into a standout player in the fast-casual dining space. The transition to LocoHana—a name blending the Hawaiian term “Ohana” (family) and the Spanish word “Loco” (crazy)—symbolizes the brand’s fusion of cultures and its vibrant, family-friendly ethos. We offer handcrafted Caribbean-inspired food made fresh daily. Here at LocOhana Tropical Grill, we strive to provide awesome and affordable food TO GO!
The Evolution of LocOhana
What began as a passion project to explore culinary creativity has grown into a finely tuned restaurant concept. The original name, inspired by a founding partner’s nickname, gave way to the current brand when the partnership shifted. Today, LocOhana stands as a testament to years of refinement, offering a unique menu and an inviting atmosphere that reflect its founders’ vision.
The grill emphasizes more than just food—it’s about creating experiences. From reggae music to outdoor games like cornhole and ring toss, every detail aims to evoke the feeling of a tropical vacation. As co-owner Jamie notes, their motto, “Good Vibes, Great Food,” encapsulates their mission to deliver not just delicious meals but a lively, memorable outing. “Our journey into franchising has been bolstered by the expertise of Spadea Lignana, a trusted legal partner specializing in franchise development. Their guidance, particularly through Harold Kestenbaum’s book and direct support, has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the process. “They’ve been super helpful explaining the legal jargon and helping us understand every step,” says Jamie while reflecting on their partnership.
Food That Looks as Good as It Tastes
One of LocOhana’ s distinguishing features is its impeccable food presentation. Their attention to detail in food photography has garnered high praise, enhancing customer engagement and reinforcing the grill’s reputation for quality. Diners frequently rave about both the visual appeal and the exceptional flavor of the dishes in online reviews. The emphasis on aesthetics and taste plays a pivotal role in defining LocoHana’s identity. By combining elements from different cuisines and cultures, the menu offers something genuinely distinct in a crowded marketplace dominated by pizza and sandwich chains.
Franchising the LocOhana Lifestyle
LocOhana has set its sights on expansion, recently selling its first franchise in Florida. The flagship store, located in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, operates seasonally, from mid-May to mid-September. Despite this limited timeframe, the restaurant consistently achieves impressive revenue, a promising indicator for year-round operations in new locations.
The team takes pride in offering a comprehensive franchise package. From training manuals and on-site assistance to detailed blueprints and ongoing support, LocOhana equips franchisees with the tools needed to succeed. As co-founder Jamie highlights, “We have step A to Z already planned out, ensuring our franchisees have the best possible start.” Moreover, LocoHana represents more than just a business venture—it’s a lifestyle change. This philosophy resonates with franchisees seeking a fresh, exciting opportunity that stands apart from conventional chains like Chipotle or Moe’s.
Franchising with LocOhana
LocOhana Tropical Grill is a unique company in the restaurant industry that offers franchisees a tried and true established model. Come join a team that pulls inspiration from tropical islands across the world with a “no worries” atmosphere for its customers and team members!
Here are some important details of the franchise program:
- 40k franchise fee
- Training at our headquarters for franchisees and management
- On-site training for franchisees, management, and all team members
- Intuitive and in-depth training and operating manuals for all levels of the business
- Ongoing training and support
- Site selection assistance/blue prints provided
- 900-1500 sq ft of shopping mall/non-traditional locations
- Supplier assistance
- Marketing assistance
A Vision for the Future
As LocoHana Tropical Grill embarks on its franchising journey, it continues to champion its core values: family, quality, and good vibes. Whether through its vibrant atmosphere, unique culinary offerings, or robust franchise system, LocOhana is carving out a distinctive niche in the fast-casual dining industry.
For those seeking a fresh opportunity with a proven concept and a lifestyle-centric brand, LocoHana Tropical Grill is poised to deliver not just success, but also a taste of the tropics.
