

There are more than 24,900 restaurant and foodservice locations in the state of Ohio according to the National Restaurant Association, and they generate $44.2 billion in annual sales. More than 563,900 people are employed in Ohio'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 Ohio restaurants contributes $1.89 to the state's economy.
Ohio restaurants for sale are something many buyers explore due to the state's diverse economy, affordable cost of living, and strong consumer base. Major industries including healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, logistics, education, and technology help drive demand for restaurants across the state. From Columbus and Cleveland to Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, and Dayton, restaurants benefit from both local residents and millions of annual visitors.
It's no wonder those buying a business flock to Ohio restaurants for sale offered by Restaurant Brokers. Restaurants are an influential part of Ohio's economy. The industry generates approximately $7.4 billion in state and local taxes annually while supporting communities in every region of the state. Ohio's combination of major metropolitan markets, thriving suburban communities, and strong small-business environment creates opportunities for restaurant owners across a wide range of concepts.
Ohio's thriving hospitality industry, loyal customer base, and diverse economy continue to support restaurant ownership across the state. Combined with nearly 25,000 restaurant locations, annual sales exceeding $44 billion, and employment of more than 560,000 workers, these factors make Ohio an attractive market for restaurant ownership and investment.
Resources for Buying Ohio Restaurants for Sale
Buying a Ohio Restaurant for Sale is a team sport and you may need all kinds of help. Our Restaurant Broker© team has plenty of resources and aid for you. Here’s a starting point for the most common requests:















































Frequently Asked Questions: Ohio Restaurants for Sale
What is the average price of a restaurant for sale in Ohio? 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 Ohio with an SBA loan? Yes. Many Ohio 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 Ohio? Most sales close within 3 to 9 months. Clean financials, favorable lease terms, and qualified buyers help transactions move faster.
What is my Ohio 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 Ohio? 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 Ohio? Generally a food service operation license, Certified Food Protection Manager certification, vendor's license for sales tax collection, liquor permit (if serving alcohol), Certificate of Occupancy, and any applicable local permits.
Do I need a broker to buy or sell a restaurant in Ohio? 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.