
Mellow Mushroom, a popular pizza franchise known for its eclectic decor and unique, stone-baked pizzas, has expanded significantly since its founding in 1974. As of recent data, the chain boasts over 200 locations across the United States, with a strong presence in the Southeast and growing footprints in other regions. Each location maintains the brand’s signature vibe, blending creative menu offerings with a laid-back, art-filled atmosphere. The exact number of Mellow Mushroom locations can fluctuate due to new openings and closures, but its continued growth reflects its enduring appeal to pizza enthusiasts nationwide.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Total Mellow Mushroom Locations (as of 2023) | Approximately 170+ |
| Locations in the United States | 160+ |
| International Locations | 10+ (primarily in Canada and Mexico) |
| States with Mellow Mushroom Locations in the U.S. | 20+ (including Georgia, Florida, Texas, Colorado, and more) |
| Franchise vs. Corporate-Owned | Primarily franchise-owned, with a small number of corporate-owned locations |
| Year Founded | 1974 |
| Headquarters Location | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Type of Cuisine | Pizza, craft beer, and eclectic American fare |
| Average Location Size | Varies, typically around 3,000-5,000 square feet |
| Parent Company | Home Grown Industries, Inc. |
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What You'll Learn

Total U.S. Locations
As of the most recent data available, Mellow Mushroom, the popular pizza chain known for its eclectic decor and stone-baked pizzas, has a significant presence across the United States. The total number of Mellow Mushroom locations in the U.S. stands at approximately 200 restaurants. These locations are strategically spread across various states, ensuring that fans of the brand can enjoy their unique offerings in numerous regions. The chain has been steadily expanding since its founding in 1974, with a focus on both company-owned and franchised locations.
The majority of Mellow Mushroom restaurants are franchised, which has been a key factor in the brand's growth. This franchising model allows for rapid expansion while maintaining the brand's identity and quality standards. States like Georgia, Florida, and Texas boast a higher concentration of Mellow Mushroom locations, reflecting the brand's strong regional presence in the Southeast. However, the chain has also made inroads into other areas, including the Midwest and Northeast, as part of its broader national expansion strategy.
To find the exact number of Mellow Mushroom locations in the U.S., one can visit the company's official website, which provides a store locator tool. This tool allows users to search for nearby locations by entering their city, state, or zip code. Additionally, the website often updates its list of new openings and upcoming locations, giving customers a real-time view of the chain's growth. For those interested in franchising opportunities, the website also offers detailed information on how to become a franchisee.
It's worth noting that while the total number of U.S. locations is around 200, this figure can fluctuate as new restaurants open and others close. Mellow Mushroom's expansion plans continue to evolve, with a focus on both urban and suburban markets. The brand's commitment to sustainability, community involvement, and innovative menu items has helped it maintain a loyal customer base and attract new patrons. As the chain looks to the future, it aims to increase its footprint while staying true to its roots.
For those curious about international presence, Mellow Mushroom has a limited number of locations outside the U.S., but the majority of its restaurants remain within the country. This domestic focus underscores the brand's dedication to serving its core American audience. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, the widespread availability of Mellow Mushroom locations across the U.S. makes it easy to experience their signature pizzas and vibrant atmosphere.
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International Mellow Mushroom Presence
As of the most recent data, Mellow Mushroom boasts a significant presence across the United States, with over 170 locations spanning 19 states. However, the brand’s expansion efforts have increasingly turned toward international markets, marking a strategic shift to establish a global footprint. International Mellow Mushroom Presence is still in its early stages but has shown promising growth, particularly in key regions where demand for artisanal pizza and eclectic dining experiences is high. The company’s first international venture began in Canada, with a location in Toronto serving as a pilot for broader North American expansion. This move was driven by the brand’s unique positioning—combining handcrafted pizzas with a vibrant, art-filled ambiance—which resonates well with diverse cultural tastes.
Outside of North America, Mellow Mushroom has set its sights on the Middle East, a region known for its burgeoning food and beverage sector. The brand opened its first location in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, leveraging the city’s status as a global hub for tourism and culinary innovation. This location has become a flagship for international operations, showcasing Mellow Mushroom’s adaptability to local preferences while maintaining its core identity. The success in Dubai has paved the way for additional sites in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with plans to expand into Saudi Arabia and Qatar in the coming years. These markets are particularly attractive due to their young, affluent populations and growing appetite for Western-style casual dining.
In Europe, Mellow Mushroom is taking a measured approach, focusing on cities with strong expat communities and a penchant for American-style cuisine. The brand’s entry into London, England, marks its first European outpost, strategically located in a bustling urban area to maximize visibility and foot traffic. This location serves as a testing ground for further European expansion, with potential targets including Germany, France, and Spain. The European strategy emphasizes localization, incorporating regional ingredients and flavors into the menu while retaining Mellow Mushroom’s signature creativity and quality.
Asia represents another frontier for Mellow Mushroom’s international growth, though progress has been slower due to cultural and logistical challenges. The brand has identified Japan and South Korea as priority markets, given their sophisticated dining scenes and openness to international brands. Initial efforts in Tokyo have focused on pop-up events and collaborations with local eateries to build brand awareness before committing to permanent locations. This cautious approach ensures that Mellow Mushroom can tailor its offerings to meet the unique preferences of Asian consumers, from portion sizes to flavor profiles.
Overall, International Mellow Mushroom Presence is characterized by a deliberate, market-specific strategy that balances global brand consistency with local relevance. While the number of international locations remains modest compared to its U.S. footprint, the brand’s strategic focus on high-potential regions positions it for sustained growth. As of now, Mellow Mushroom operates approximately 10 international locations, with plans to double this number by 2026. This expansion underscores the brand’s commitment to becoming a globally recognized name in the casual dining sector, one location at a time.
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States with Most Locations
As of the latest data, Mellow Mushroom, the popular pizza chain known for its unique and eclectic atmosphere, has expanded significantly across the United States. With a focus on states with the most locations, it's evident that certain regions have embraced the brand more than others. According to recent figures, there are over 170 Mellow Mushroom locations nationwide, and the distribution varies widely by state.
Georgia stands out as the state with the highest number of Mellow Mushroom locations. As the brand's home state, Georgia boasts a strong presence, with more than 25 locations spread across major cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta. This concentration can be attributed to the brand's origins in Atlanta, where it was founded in 1974. The local connection and strong customer base have facilitated the growth of Mellow Mushroom throughout the state, making it a go-to destination for pizza lovers.
Florida follows closely behind, with a significant number of Mellow Mushroom locations, totaling around 20. The Sunshine State's vibrant food scene and tourist-heavy areas like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami have proven to be fertile ground for the brand's expansion. Florida's diverse population and year-round visitors contribute to the success of Mellow Mushroom, as the chain caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The state's casual dining culture also aligns well with the brand's laid-back, bohemian vibe.
Texas is another state with a notable Mellow Mushroom presence, hosting approximately 15 locations. Major cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin have embraced the brand, drawn to its creative pizza combinations and craft beer selections. Texas's thriving food industry and appreciation for unique dining experiences have made it an ideal market for Mellow Mushroom's growth. The state's large population and strong economy further support the chain's expansion efforts.
North Carolina and Tennessee also rank high in terms of Mellow Mushroom locations, each with around 10 to 12 restaurants. In North Carolina, cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Asheville have become hotspots for the brand, while Tennessee's Nashville and Memphis contribute significantly to its presence. Both states share a love for Southern hospitality and a growing interest in artisanal food options, making them perfect fits for Mellow Mushroom's concept. The brand's ability to adapt to local tastes while maintaining its core identity has been key to its success in these regions.
Understanding the distribution of Mellow Mushroom locations highlights the brand's strategic approach to expansion. By focusing on states with strong local connections, thriving food scenes, and a match with the brand's unique identity, Mellow Mushroom has successfully established itself as a beloved pizza chain across the United States. As the brand continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how these state rankings evolve and whether new markets emerge as key players in its expansion strategy.
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Franchise Growth Over Time
As of the most recent data available, Mellow Mushroom boasts over 180 locations across the United States, with a strong presence in the Southeast and expanding reach in other regions. The franchise's growth over time reflects a strategic and measured approach to expansion, balancing quality with quantity. Founded in 1974 by two college students in Atlanta, Georgia, Mellow Mushroom started as a single pizzeria with a unique, laid-back vibe and a focus on stone-baked pizzas. The early years were marked by steady growth, primarily through word-of-mouth and a loyal customer base drawn to the brand's eclectic atmosphere and high-quality ingredients.
The 1990s and early 2000s saw Mellow Mushroom begin to formalize its franchising model, which became a turning point in its growth trajectory. By standardizing operations and offering franchise opportunities, the brand started to expand beyond its Southeastern roots. This period was characterized by a focus on maintaining the brand's identity while scaling operations. Franchisees were attracted to Mellow Mushroom's proven business model, distinctive brand image, and commitment to community engagement. As a result, the number of locations grew from a handful to several dozen by the mid-2000s, with a concentration in states like Georgia, Florida, and Texas.
The 2010s marked a phase of accelerated growth for Mellow Mushroom, as the franchise capitalized on the rising popularity of craft pizza and the demand for unique dining experiences. During this decade, the brand expanded into new markets, including the Midwest and Southwest, while also increasing its footprint in existing regions. Strategic partnerships and a focus on digital marketing helped Mellow Mushroom reach a broader audience, attracting both franchisees and customers. By 2020, the franchise had surpassed 150 locations, solidifying its position as a leading player in the casual dining segment.
In recent years, Mellow Mushroom has continued to grow, albeit at a more controlled pace, prioritizing sustainability and brand consistency. The franchise has adapted to changing consumer preferences by introducing menu innovations, such as gluten-free and vegan options, while staying true to its core offerings. International expansion has also been explored, with a few locations opening in countries like Canada and Saudi Arabia, signaling the brand's potential for global growth. As of the latest updates, the total number of Mellow Mushroom locations stands at over 180, a testament to its successful franchise growth strategy over nearly five decades.
Looking ahead, Mellow Mushroom's franchise growth is expected to remain steady, with a focus on strategic market entry and enhancing the customer experience. The brand's ability to evolve while preserving its unique identity has been key to its longevity and expansion. By continuing to attract dedicated franchisees and fostering a strong community connection, Mellow Mushroom is well-positioned to increase its presence both domestically and internationally in the coming years.
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Upcoming New Openings
As of the latest data, Mellow Mushroom boasts over 180 locations across the United States, with a strong presence in the Southeast and expanding rapidly in other regions. The brand’s unique, art-filled pizzerias and commitment to high-quality, stone-baked pizzas have fueled its growth. With a focus on franchising, Mellow Mushroom continues to attract entrepreneurs looking to bring its laid-back, eclectic vibe to new communities. The upcoming new openings reflect this momentum, with several locations set to debut in the near future.
One of the most anticipated upcoming openings is in Austin, Texas, a city known for its vibrant food scene and love for creative dining experiences. Scheduled to open in late 2023, this location will feature Mellow Mushroom’s signature eclectic decor, a full bar, and an outdoor patio. The menu will include fan favorites like the "Holy Shiitake Pie" and "Mellow Teriyaki Pizza," alongside local specials tailored to Austin’s culinary preferences. This opening marks the brand’s continued expansion in Texas, where it already has a loyal following.
Another exciting addition is the Nashville, Tennessee location, set to open in early 2024. Nashville’s booming population and thriving music culture make it an ideal fit for Mellow Mushroom’s laid-back, artistic atmosphere. The new restaurant will be located in the heart of the city, offering both dine-in and takeout options. Expect live music events and collaborations with local artists to enhance the Mellow Mushroom experience, aligning with Nashville’s creative spirit.
In the Midwest, Indianapolis, Indiana will welcome its first Mellow Mushroom in mid-2024. This opening is part of the brand’s strategic push into new markets, bringing its unique pizza offerings to a city with a growing appetite for diverse dining options. The Indianapolis location will feature a spacious dining area, a family-friendly environment, and a menu that includes gluten-free and vegan options to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Lastly, Denver, Colorado is set to join the Mellow Mushroom family with a location opening in late 2024. Known for its craft beer culture and outdoor lifestyle, Denver is a perfect match for Mellow Mushroom’s focus on quality ingredients and community-oriented spaces. The Denver location will include a large outdoor seating area, a curated selection of local craft beers, and exclusive menu items inspired by Colorado’s culinary trends.
These upcoming openings underscore Mellow Mushroom’s commitment to expanding its footprint while maintaining the unique, community-focused experience that has made it a favorite among pizza lovers. With each new location, the brand continues to bring its signature blend of delicious food, artful ambiance, and local flavor to more cities across the country.
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Frequently asked questions
As of the most recent data, there are over 170 Mellow Mushroom locations across the United States.
Yes, the majority of Mellow Mushroom locations are franchised, with only a few corporate-owned stores.
Mellow Mushroom has locations in over 20 states across the United States.
Currently, Mellow Mushroom operates primarily within the United States, with no international locations.
On average, Mellow Mushroom opens around 5 to 10 new locations annually, depending on market conditions and franchise growth.





















