Bear Rock Story

What began as a single sandwich shop and deli in 1997 has now evolved into a unique neighborhood gathering place. Our emerging national quick-casual restaurant brand is characterized by a distinctive menu of hand-crafted sandwiches, hot and savory soups, garden fresh salads, loaded baked potatoes, oven-fresh breads, and delectable desserts in an inviting, nature-inspired setting, served by a warm, friendly guest-focused team.

The original Bear Rock Cafe opened in October of 1997 as a 60-seat sandwich shop and deli in Raleigh, NC, and has now evolved into a unique neighborhood gathering place with locations in 11 states. CEO and Bear Rock visionary, Gary Bryant, sold his first Bear Rock Cafe franchise in 2001 and by the end of 2002, 15 locations were open in three states with an additional 48 commitments. Today, Bear Rock Franchise Systems, Inc., operates a central restaurant support center headquartered in Cary, NC. Bear Rock is 38 locations strong with more than 150 signed franchise and area development agreements spanning the United States. The emerging national quick-casual restaurant brand is characterized by a distinctive menu of hand-crafted sandwiches, hot and savory soups, garden fresh salads, loaded baked potatoes, oven-fresh breads, and delectable desserts in an inviting, nature-inspired setting, served by a warm, friendly guest-focused team.

A thriving network of franchise owners and a dedicated team of individuals in the areas of restaurant operations, development, real estate, support services, training, accounting and marketing diligently drive the growth of the Bear Rock Cafe brand.

Our guests however, are our greatest asset. We invite you to become a part of our Bear Rock Story. Escape to a higher taste at Bear Rock Cafe. Explore the variety. Experience our passion for food and passion for people.