Nick Filet, the first-ever filet mignon sandwich restaurant, today announced that it has recently signed agreements to open 11 new franchise locations and one additional corporate-owned location. On the heels of this past December’s first franchise opening in Wayne, Pa., the company’s second franchise location will open this May in Orlando, followed by its third corporate-owned location opening in West Chester, Pa. in August. Over the next five years, Nick Filet will open 10 franchise locations in Dallas and surrounding areas.
Founded in 2018 by father-son entrepreneurs Keith and Nick Kline, Nick Filet is a fast-casual restaurant specializing in affordable, steakhouse quality meals for lunch and dinner. Known for its cooked-to-order filet mignon sandwich on a toasted Amoroso Kaiser roll, the concept offers a high-end alternative to burger joints and cheesesteak shops. Nick Filet’s tender filet mignon sandwiches can be built to order with melted cheese and free toppings, including steak sauce, horseradish, mushrooms, and onions.
“Expansion through franchising was always part of our plan. From our very beginnings, we designed a simple, elevated menu that would put a new spin on fast casual,” says 26-year old Nick Kline, co-founder, Nick Filet. “In just three years, it’s taken off, and I feel we’ve created a new category in dining – something I like to call ‘Elite Fast Casual.’ We’re one of the only restaurants serving filet mignon and lobster at fast food prices.”
When Nick Filet’s co-founders Nick and Keith Kline of Malvern, Pa. cooked their first filet mignon sandwich on a backyard grill in 2018, they knew they had created something special. Within months, the father and son team had opened the first Nick Filet in Paoli, Pa., a suburb about 25 miles west of Philadelphia, and quickly followed it up with a second location in Cape May, NJ. Soon after in May 2020, they announced that they would begin franchising. In December 2020, one of Nick Filet’s original employees opened the chain’s first franchise in Wayne, Pa.
Philadelphia Magazine named Nick Filet a “Best of Philly 2020” winner for its filet mignon and lobster Surf & Turf Sandwich. Many customers go for the concept’s signature sandwiches, such as the Nickadelphia which comes topped with provolone cheese, onions, and horseradish. Popular menu items also include a filet grilled cheese, bun-free filet bites, and parmesan truffle fries.
“We’re so excited to see the brand we built together open in new markets across the country,” says Keith Kline, co-founder, Nick Filet. “It’s a thrill to witness our passion project appeal to so many. We really just can’t wait for new customers to taste the difference and take part in the Nick Filet experience. I’m particularly proud of my son Nick for pushing to make our dream a reality.”
