Frequently asked questions

The Local Epicurean (TLE) is a hospitality business that blends immersive private cooking classes, fresh pasta production, a curated European-style market, and craft wine and cocktail service. It's not a restaurant. It's a destination for culinary experiences and connection.

• Private cooking classes for couples, friends, families, celebrations and corporate teams
• Fresh pasta production for in-store sale and retail packaging
• A curated European-style market with handmade items, imported goods and wine
• Take-and-bake gourmet meals such as lasagna, sauces and garlic bread
• Beverage service, with wine, beer and craft cocktails poured throughout classes

Initial investment varies by market, square footage, buildout and liquor licensing. It includes the $25,000 franchise fee, buildout, equipment and startup working capital. We walk every candidate through the full cost picture, along with our Franchise Disclosure Document, before any commitment.

A 4% royalty on gross sales.

Yes. Every franchisee receives an exclusive territory.

We're small, hands-on and fully invested in your success. You'll get:

• Site selection and lease review support
• Pre-opening training for you and your team
• Our SOPs, the same operating procedures we run in our own kitchens
• A launch and local marketing plan
• Our full library of class menus and recipes

You'll work directly with operators who've built and run these locations, not a disconnected corporate team.

Most franchisees open within 9 to 12 months of signing. The timeline varies with the type of building and location, as well as permitting and buildout, and we're with you every step of the way.

• Entrepreneurs with a passion for hospitality and high-quality food
• Community-minded leaders who want to build something meaningful
• A minimum net worth of $500K and at least $150K in liquid capital
• People who want a true partnership, not just a license to operate

No. TLE isn't a restaurant. It's a hospitality and experience business. Service or operations experience helps, but it isn't required, and pre-opening training covers how to run the business.

Yes. We welcome growth-minded operators and will work with you on a path to multi-unit ownership.

Yes, and we encourage it. Every serious candidate visits East Lansing or Grand Rapids, takes a class, and sees the business from the inside.

Fill out the inquiry form and we'll reach out to schedule a personal intro call. From there, we'll walk you through the FDD and the full cost picture, then invite you to visit and take a class.