There are more than 12,300 restaurant and foodservice locations in the state of Arizona according to the National Restaurant Association, and they generate more than $31 billion in annual sales. More than 339,000 people are employed in Arizona'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 Arizona restaurants contributes $1.91 to the state's economy.
Arizona restaurants for sale are something many buyers explore due to the state's growing population, strong tourism industry, and expanding economy. Arizona's Gross Domestic Product exceeded $550 billion in 2025, placing it among the nation's fastest-growing state economies. Major industries including technology, healthcare, manufacturing, aerospace, and tourism help drive demand for restaurants across the state.
It's no wonder those buying a business flock to Arizona restaurants for sale offered by Restaurant Brokers. Restaurants are an influential part of Arizona's economy. From Phoenix and Tucson to Scottsdale, Mesa, and Flagstaff, restaurants benefit from both local residents and millions of annual visitors.
Arizona's thriving hospitality industry, continued population growth, and strong consumer spending continue to support restaurant ownership across the state. Combined with popular tourism destinations, year-round outdoor attractions, and a diverse customer base, these factors make Arizona an attractive market for restaurant ownership and investment.
Resources for Buying Arizona Restaurants for Sale
Buying an Arizona restaurant for sale is a team sport and you may need all kinds of help. Our Arizona Certified Restaurant Brokers® have plenty of resources and aid for you. Here’s a starting point for the most common requests:

Purchasing a restaurant marks a pivotal chapter in your entrepreneurial journey. At We Sell Restaurants—the nation’s leading restaurant brokerage firm—we’ve guided thousands of buyers through this complex process, and we know that success begins with asking the right questions. Our latest blog post, How to Buy a Restaurant: 5 Essential Questions from We Sell Restaurants, offers the clarity and confidence every prospective buyer needs.



Mike Smith is the Certified Restaurant Broker® and Franchise Partner for the Phoenix, Arizona market. He has 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry.




Doreen Gorman is a seasoned professional in the restaurant and hospitality industries and currently serves as the We Sell Restaurants Franchise Partner for the Glendale and Scottsdale markets.




Are you looking to buy a restaurant? If so, you're in luck! In this article, we will outline the complete process in nine steps that will help make the process easier.










































Frequently Asked Questions: Arizona Restaurants for Sale
What is the average price of a restaurant for sale in Arizona? 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 Arizona with an SBA loan? Yes. Many Arizona 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 Arizona? Most sales close within 3 to 9 months. Clean financials, favorable lease terms, and qualified buyers help transactions move faster.
What is my Arizona 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 Arizona? 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 Arizona? 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 Arizona? 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.