

There are 12,486 restaurant and foodservice locations in the state of Missouri according to the National Restaurant Association, and they generate $23.5 billion in annual sales. More than 298,000 people are employed in Missouri's restaurant and foodservice industry, making it the third-largest private employer in the state in 2025. National Restaurant Association research also shows that every $1.00 spent in Missouri restaurants contributes $1.81 to the state's economy.
Missouri restaurants for sale are something many buyers explore due to the state's diverse economy, affordable cost of living, and central location in the United States. Major industries including healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, agriculture, financial services, and tourism help drive demand for restaurants across the state. From St. Louis and Kansas City to Springfield, Columbia, and Branson, restaurants benefit from both local residents and millions of annual visitors.
It's no wonder those buying a business flock to Missouri restaurants for sale offered by Restaurant Brokers. Restaurants are an influential part of Missouri's economy. The industry generates $3.7 billion in state and local tax revenue and accounts for 9.4% of the state's workforce, creating opportunities for restaurant owners in both metropolitan and smaller community markets.
Missouri's strong hospitality industry, growing communities, and loyal customer base continue to support restaurant ownership across the state. Combined with thriving tourism destinations, major population centers, and a diverse economy, these factors make Missouri an attractive market for restaurant ownership and investment.
Resources for Buying Missouri Restaurants for Sale
Buying a Missouri Restaurant for Sale is a team sport and you may need all kinds of help. Our Missouri Certified Restaurant Broker© team has plenty of resources and aid for you. Here’s a starting point for the most common requests:










































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Frequently Asked Questions: Missouri Restaurants for Sale
What is the average price of a restaurant for sale in Missouri? Independent restaurants typically list between $50,000 and $500,000. Established franchises range from $250,000 to more than $1 million.
Can I buy a restaurant in Missouri with an SBA loan? Yes. Many Missouri restaurant acquisitions qualify for SBA 7(a) financing. We Sell Restaurants can connect buyers with experienced restaurant lenders.
How long does it take to sell a restaurant in Missouri? Most sales close within 3 to 9 months. Clean financials, favorable lease terms, and qualified buyers help transactions move faster.
What is my Missouri restaurant worth? A Certified Restaurant Broker can provide an opinion of value that will include comparable pricing. He or she is a market specialist that can adjust for location, lease terms, equipment condition, sales trends, and profitability.
How do I sell my restaurant in Missouri? Start with a free valuation from a Certified Restaurant Broker. We handle confidential marketing, buyer qualification, negotiations, and transaction management.
What licenses do I need to take over a restaurant in Missouri? Generally a Certified Food Protection Manager certification, food establishment permit, liquor license (if serving alcohol), Certificate of Occupancy, and any applicable local permits.
Do I need a broker to buy or sell a restaurant in Missouri? Not legally, but a Certified Restaurant Broker helps maintain confidentiality, qualifies buyers, manages due diligence, and guides the transaction from listing to closing.
Is We Sell Restaurants a franchise? Yes, We Sell Restaurants is itself a franchise opportunity, not just a service provider to restaurant franchises. Franchisees become Certified Restaurant Brokers™ through our structured onboarding process, then use We Sell Restaurants' proprietary BOSS (Broker's Operations and Sales System) platform and Restaurant For Sale marketplace to help entrepreneurs buy, sell and lease hospitality properties in their territory.