Drew Quackenbush and Corey Ward launched Tom + Chee, a grilled cheese and tomato soup concept, by investing $2,400 in a tent and a griddle, then setting up shop next to a Cincinnati skating rink. A year later, they had earned enough money to open one brick-and-mortar store in Cincinnati, offering unique items like a grilled cheese doughnut. With help from “Shark Tank” investor Barbara Corcoran, Tom + Chee claims to have 170 stores under contract since their episode aired in 2013.
10. Tom + Chee
2016 U.S. Systemwide Sales: $18 million (up 78.2%)
2016 Units: 27 (up 80.0%)
Concept: A grilled cheese and tomato soup shop mixing comfort food and unexpected flavor combinations
2016 Units: 27 (up 80.0%)
Concept: A grilled cheese and tomato soup shop mixing comfort food and unexpected flavor combinations