In the world of breakfast dining, few names are as iconic as IHOP and The Original Pancake House (TOPH). Both are beloved by generations of diners and offer franchise opportunities that appeal to entrepreneurs seeking a foothold in the lucrative breakfast market.
But which brand is the better franchise investment? At Star Brands Consulting Group, we break down the key differences to help you decide which one suits your goals.
Brand Background
IHOP (International House of Pancakes)
- Founded: 1958, Los Angeles, CA
- Headquarters: Glendale, California
- Global Reach: 1,700+ locations in multiple countries
- Format: Full-service, all-day breakfast diner
The Original Pancake House (TOPH)
- Founded: 1953, Portland, Oregon
- Headquarters: Portland, Oregon
- Locations: 100+ (U.S. and international)
- Format: Full-service, traditional breakfast-focused restaurant
Unique Selling Points (USP)
IHOP
- All-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Affordable, family-style menu
- Highly recognized international brand
- Strong marketing campaigns and loyalty programs
TOPH
- Made-from-scratch menu using premium ingredients
- Signature dishes like Dutch Baby and Apple Pancake
- James Beard Award-winning heritage
- Focus on traditional breakfast and culinary authenticity
Franchise Investment Comparison
IHOP
- Initial Investment: $1.3 million – $3.5 million
- Franchise Fee: $40,000 – $50,000
- Royalty Fee: 4.5% of gross sales
- Marketing Fee: 3.5% of gross sales
TOPH
- Initial Investment: $350,000 – $1.2 million
- Franchise Fee: Varies by location
- Royalty Fee: Typically lower, varies
- Marketing Fee: Typically lower or regionalized
Operational Considerations
IHOP:
- Requires a larger space and staff
- Suited for high-traffic, 24/7 locations
- Strong franchisor support and training
- Diverse menu requires more inventory and kitchen management
TOPH:
- Smaller footprint possible
- Morning-to-afternoon hours (not 24/7)
- Focus on breakfast operations simplifies prep and scheduling
- Emphasis on quality, tradition, and consistency
Ideal Franchisee Profile
IHOP:
- Ideal for experienced multi-unit operators
- Suits investors with access to higher capital
- Best for urban, highway, and mall locations
TOPH:
- Great for hands-on operators and food lovers
- Accessible to first-time franchisees
- Works well in suburban, neighborhood, and community markets
Verdict by Star Brands Consulting Group
If you’re looking for scale, marketing power, and menu versatility, IHOP might be your best bet. But if you value culinary authenticity, lower upfront investment, and a legacy brand rooted in quality, The Original Pancake House is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Both offer strong support and loyal customer bases — it all comes down to your vision and investment readiness.
Ready to Explore Your Breakfast Franchise Journey?
Contact Star Brands Consulting Group to get personalized guidance on which franchise fits your goals, capital, and market opportunity.