The Evolution of the Original Roadhouse: The Kelseys Story
Founded by the Jeffries brothers in Oakville, Ontario, the brand was born from a desire to bring the unpretentious, high-energy atmosphere of a roadhouse to the suburbs. What started as a single community social hub has evolved into a powerhouse network of 67 locations, each maintaining the “hometown feel” and “come as you are” philosophy that has defined Kelseys for nearly 50 years.
Modern Nostalgia and Freshness
What sets Kelseys apart in casual dining is its mastery of “Modern Nostalgia.” While competitors pivot toward minimalist designs that can feel sterile, Kelseys leans into its heritage. The brand balances the grit of a traditional roadhouse with the sophisticated amenities today’s diners expect – high-definition sports coverage and an extensive selection of 16 beers and cocktails on tap.
Furthermore, Kelseys distinguishes itself through its “unapologetically Canadian” identity. While the inspiration was the classic roadhouse, the execution is deeply local. By positioning itself as “The Original Roadhouse,” the brand claims the authority of history and is a premium version of the neighborhood bar and grill, creating trust equity with guests and franchisees alike.
Strategic Growth and Unmatched Support
Kelseys is currently positioned for strategic development, with a focused roadmap to expand our footprint throughout Ontario and the East Coast. When you join Kelseys, you aren’t just buying a franchise; you are backed by the Recipe Restaurant Group, Canada’s largest and most experienced restaurant company. This partnership provides world-class systems, unparalleled purchasing power, and a foundation for long-term stability.
Our disciplined operational model is designed to reduce complexity. Franchise partners benefit from standardized systems, performance tracking, and access to experts who provide best practices. National marketing campaigns are bolstered by local tools, ensuring your restaurant remains a visible pillar of your community.
The Heart of the Roadhouse: The KREW
The true “secret sauce” of Kelseys is the KREW. Kelseys take pride in a culture where people stay; some members have been with the brand for over 30 years, and multiple locations are operated by multi-generational franchisee families. The brand seeks community-based operators who share their passion for people, providing an extensive onboarding process to ensure excellence.
Join the Original
The brand’s competitive advantage lies in versatility. Kelseys is one of the few brands that can successfully transition from a quiet lunch spot to a high-energy late-night destination. Inspired by the uninhibited spirit of road-tripping, we prove that a well-executed classic never goes out of style.
Kelseys remains the benchmark for how a legacy brand can honor its 1970s roots while remaining a dominant force in 21st-century hospitality. It’s where guests fuel an adventurous spirit that craves something a little more original.
Kelseys, Canada’s Original Roadhouse since 1978
Testimonials
“Starting my journey as a Kelseys franchisee at 26 was the best move I ever made. Today, I’m scaling to my third location, a growth trajectory fueled by total confidence in this brand and its leadership. Kelseys provides the systems and support that turn ambition into reality.” — Sho Godda, Multi-Unit Franchisee
“Building a brand from the ground up in a new market comes with challenges. Through every obstacle, the Kelseys’ team stood by me as a partner. I’m not just running a restaurant; it’s a decade-long commitment to growth supported by a brand that puts its franchisees first.” — Connie Fillier, St. John’s Franchisee