

There are more than 25,000 restaurant and foodservice locations in the state of Michigan according to the National Restaurant Association, and they generate more than $30 billion in annual sales. More than 450,000 people are employed in Michigan's restaurant and hospitality industry, making it one of the state's largest private-sector employers.
Michigan restaurants for sale are something many buyers explore due to the state's diverse economy, affordable cost of living, strong tourism industry, and rich food culture. Michigan's Gross Domestic Product exceeded $700 billion in 2025, placing it among the largest state economies in the nation. Major industries including automotive manufacturing, healthcare, technology, tourism, and professional services help drive demand for restaurants across the state.
It's no wonder those buying a business flock to Michigan restaurants for sale offered by Restaurant Brokers. Restaurants are an influential part of Michigan's economy. From Detroit and Grand Rapids to Ann Arbor and Traverse City, restaurants benefit from both local residents and millions of annual visitors.
Michigan's economy continues to benefit from its diverse industries, growing tourism sector, and population centers throughout the state. More than 128 million visitors traveled to Michigan in 2024, generating billions in visitor spending and supporting restaurants in communities large and small. Combined with strong local demand and a thriving hospitality industry, these factors make Michigan an attractive place to own and operate a restaurant.
Resources for Buying a Michigan Restaurant

Gary and Mike Elle are the Franchise Partners for We Sell Restaurants in the Farmington, Michigan area. Both have undergone education and testing to earn designation as Certified Restaurant Brokers® and will advise buyers and sellers in their local market using industry leading tools and processes.



























































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Frequently Asked Questions: Michigan Restaurants for Sale
What is the average price of a restaurant for sale in Michigan? Independent restaurants typically list between $50,000 and $500,000. Established franchises range from $250,000 to over $1 million.
Can I buy a restaurant in Michigan with an SBA loan? Yes. Many Michigan 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 Michigan? Most sales close within 3 to 9 months. Clean financials, a transferable lease, and qualified buyers help transactions move faster.
What is my Michigan 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 Michigan? 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 Michigan? Generally a Certified Food Protection Manager certification, food service establishment license, liquor license (if serving alcohol), Certificate of Occupancy, and any applicable local business permits.
Do I need a broker to buy or sell a restaurant in Michigan? 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 a Certified Restaurant Broker® 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.
Gary & Mike Elle, Certified Restaurant Broker® Team
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