Dolce International Holdings

The Dolce International Holdings franchise presents a distinctive and compelling opportunity within the rapidly expanding fast-casual Chinese restaurant sector, leveraging the highly acclaimed reputation of its consumer-facing brand, Nan Xiang Express. This enterprise is an innovative offshoot of the renowned Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao, a culinary institution established in 2006 with its foundational location in Flushing, Queens, New York City. The original Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao quickly garnered significant national recognition, consistently earning a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide for an impressive nine consecutive years, commencing in 2007. This enduring recognition underpins the brand’s unwavering commitment to authenticity and culinary excellence. The concept for Nan Xiang Express was meticulously developed in the early 2020s as a modern, streamlined fast-casual model, engineered to broaden the accessibility of these traditional Shanghainese flavors. The primary objective was to offer a more convenient and contemporary dining experience without ever compromising the exceptional quality that defined its flagship predecessor. Specializing in authentic Shanghainese comfort food, the Dolce International Holdings franchise is particularly celebrated for its Michelin-recommended soup dumplings, known globally as xiao long bao. The brand officially embarked on its franchising journey in the early 2020s, with the inaugural express locations commencing operations around 2022. While the specific founders for Nan Xiang Express are not explicitly detailed beyond a mention of co-founder and owner Eddie Zheng in the context of Nan Xiang’s strategic expansion, Michael Ma is frequently cited as a prominent representative and spokesperson for the express model. The corporate headquarters for this burgeoning franchise system are strategically situated in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, though some sources also indicate a presence in Flushing, N.Y., reflecting its New York roots. The Dolce International Holdings franchise continues to build upon a legacy of culinary distinction and market innovation.

The Dolce International Holdings franchise operates within the vibrant and expansive fast-casual Chinese restaurant industry, focusing its unique culinary proposition on authentic Shanghainese comfort food. The menu is meticulously crafted to feature signature items such as the celebrated soup dumplings (xiao long bao), a variety of delectable noodles, hearty rice bowls, crispy potstickers, savory scallion pancakes, and other classic Chinese street-food favorites. The express model is ingeniously designed for a modern, quick-service format, catering efficiently to dine-in patrons, takeout orders, and a growing demand for delivery services. The broader Chinese snack and fast-food market represents an enormous economic landscape, having surpassed an astonishing 80 trillion yuan, which translates to approximately $11.25 trillion USD, by the close of 2023, according to the comprehensive 2023 Snack and Fast Food Category Development Report by the Hongcan Industry Research Institute. This immense market encompasses more than 4 million snack and fast-food outlets nationwide, with approximately 30% of these brands boasting over 50 individual establishments and 2.9% operating more than 500 units. The diverse array of Chinese fast-food options available includes staples like noodles, rice dishes, steamed buns, various dumplings, wontons, pancakes, and comforting porridge. While traditional Chinese cuisine often involves intricate and time-consuming cooking processes, fast-food chains like those offered by the Dolce International Holdings franchise are adeptly standardizing operations to maintain quality and efficiency. There is a discernible and growing consumer trend towards making time-honored Chinese culinary traditions more modern, convenient, and readily accessible. The express format, which is central to the Dolce International Holdings franchise strategy, has proven to be particularly effective in high-traffic locations such as bustling urban centers or near university campuses, skillfully catering to the specific demands of students and late-night diners. The average check at Nan Xiang Express locations typically ranges from $12-$13 per person, extending up to $20 for a more comprehensive meal inclusive of noodles and dumplings, indicating strong revenue potential within this dynamic market segment.

Prospective franchisees considering the Dolce International Holdings franchise will find a clear and structured investment framework. The initial franchise fee is established at $40,000, a standard entry point for a brand with established recognition and operational backing. Additionally, an initial training fee of $10,000 is required, ensuring that all new operators are thoroughly prepared to uphold the brand's stringent standards. The total initial investment necessary to launch a Nan Xiang Express franchise ranges comprehensively from $448,000 to $876,000. This inclusive range is designed to cover all essential costs associated with the successful startup and initial operation of the franchise unit, providing a transparent financial outline for investors. A detailed breakdown of these initial investment costs, as provided, illustrates the various components that contribute to this range. Construction and leasehold improvements, often the most variable cost, are estimated between $200,000 and $500,000, reflecting different site conditions and build-out requirements. Furniture, fixtures, and equipment represent a significant allocation, ranging from $100,000 to $120,000, essential for creating the desired fast-casual dining environment. Signage costs are projected at $3,000 to $6,000, ensuring brand visibility. Technology systems, crucial for modern operations, are estimated at $4,000 to $8,000. An initial supply of proprietary items, vital for maintaining product consistency, falls between $20,000 and $25,000, supplemented by $5,000 for other initial inventory. Rent for three months and lease deposits account for $40,000 to $100,000, providing operational buffer. Utility deposits are set at $3,000 to $5,000, while insurance deposits and premiums range from $4,000 to $9,000. Travel and lodging for initial training are estimated between $1,500 and $4,500. Grand opening advertising, crucial for market penetration, is budgeted at $2,000 to $5,000. Professional fees, covering legal and accounting services, are $3,000 to $5,000. Finally, business licenses and permits range from $5,000 to $15,000, covering regulatory compliance. Beyond the initial investment, the ongoing royalty fee for a Dolce International Holdings franchise is 5.00% of gross sales, a standard industry percentage that supports the franchisor's continued development and support services. Furthermore, franchisees are mandated to contribute to an advertising or national brand fund at a rate of 3.00%, ensuring collective marketing efforts to enhance brand awareness and drive customer traffic. While the precise liquid capital required is not explicitly itemized as a separate figure, it is fully encompassed within the comprehensive total investment range, signifying a need for substantial financial readiness from prospective investors in the Dolce International Holdings franchise.

The Dolce International Holdings franchise is committed to equipping its operators with a comprehensive and multi-level training program, ensuring consistency and quality across all Nan Xiang Express locations. This robust support structure begins with an intensive Initial Training Program, which comprises a significant 56 hours of dedicated classroom instruction complemented by an equally crucial 56 hours of hands-on, on-the-job training. This program meticulously covers essential operational areas, including the brand’s distinctive culture, effective marketing strategies, precise inventory management, authentic food preparation techniques, exemplary customer service protocols, and the proficient use of Point of Sale (POS) systems. Following this foundational training, the franchisor extends invaluable On-Site Opening Support, dispatching experienced representatives to assist with the restaurant’s grand opening for a critical period of five days, providing direct guidance and troubleshooting. Franchisees are responsible for reimbursing all associated travel and living expenses for these support representatives, ensuring focused assistance during this vital launch phase. Beyond the initial setup, the Dolce International Holdings franchise mandates Ongoing Training, requiring franchisees to attend periodic refresher or development programs. These sessions, designed to keep operators abreast of evolving best practices and brand updates, may incur additional training fees, currently set at $300 per day, plus expenses. Furthermore, to maintain leadership continuity and operational standards, any new General Manager hired during the franchise term must also successfully complete the Initial Training Program before officially assuming their responsibilities. The search results do not provide specific details regarding exclusive territory information for franchisees, suggesting a potential for flexibility in market development, although this would be clarified in the Franchise Disclosure Document. The operational model itself emphasizes efficiency and convenience through its fast-casual format, accommodating dine-in, takeout, and delivery services. Locations typically feature smaller footprints, ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 square feet, and are equipped with modern ordering kiosks and mobile ordering options to streamline customer experience. A critical component of the Dolce International Holdings franchise strategy for maintaining product consistency and quality is the operation of a commissary in New Jersey. This central facility produces fresh dumplings, freezes them, and then distributes them to various locations, ensuring that the signature xiao long bao meet the exacting standards of the Michelin-recommended parent brand. Authenticity is further emphasized through the employment of Chinese staff, ensuring an immersive and knowledgeable experience for customers, a core tenet of the Dolce International Holdings franchise.

While the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for the Dolce International Holdings franchise is available for prospective investors, specific financial performance representations (FPRs) such as average revenue per unit, median revenue, or detailed profit margins, typically presented in Item 19 of the FDD, are not provided within the current search snippets. One source explicitly indicates that the "franchise profile is not processed yet" for Item 19 data, meaning this crucial financial information, if the franchisor chooses to disclose it, has not been publicly released or compiled in the readily available research. It is important for potential franchisees to understand that Item 19 of the FDD allows franchisors the option to voluntarily provide financial performance information; however, they are not legally obligated to do so. Should a franchisor elect to make any earnings claims or representations, these must be thoroughly disclosed in Item 19 and robustly supported by documented, verifiable data. The absence of this specific Item 19 data means that prospective franchisees for the Dolce International Holdings franchise must undertake extensive and diligent due diligence. This includes a comprehensive review of the entire FDD, engaging with existing franchisees to gather insights into their operational experiences and financial outcomes, and conducting independent market research to formulate realistic financial projections for their intended location. Despite the lack of disclosed profit margins, the operational model of Nan Xiang Express is inherently designed for efficiency and high volume, characteristics that typically contribute to favorable unit economics. The brand successfully caters to a consistent average check, ranging from $12-$13 per person for a quick bite up to $20 for a more complete meal, which includes popular items like noodles and dumplings. The strategic positioning of the Dolce International Holdings franchise within the vast and growing fast-casual sector of the Chinese snack and fast-food market, which surpassed an impressive $11.25 trillion USD by the end of 2023, suggests a substantial and receptive customer base. This expansive market provides a fertile ground for market penetration and sustained growth, even in the absence of explicit Item 19 disclosures. The emphasis on streamlined menus, optimized smaller footprints for locations, and centralized commissary support are all operational efficiencies intended to optimize the financial performance of each Dolce International Holdings franchise unit.

The Dolce International Holdings franchise is currently undergoing a period of dynamic and rapid expansion, demonstrating a robust growth trajectory within the U.S. market. As of 2025, the brand had established a total of 10 units, comprising 6 franchised-owned locations and 4 company-owned locations, showcasing a balanced approach to market penetration. By July 2024, the network had grown to 11 locations, consisting of 5 full-service restaurants and 6 express versions. Further accelerating its expansion, the brand had reached 13 locations across the United States by May 2025. This consistent growth underscores the market acceptance and operational viability of the Nan Xiang Express concept. Recent notable openings include a strategic Manhattan location in Hell's Kitchen, which commenced operations on April 26, 2024. This particular unit, the fifth Nan Xiang Express location, spans 1000 square feet and accommodates 30 seats, reflecting the brand’s efficient use of urban space. Another significant opening occurred in Manhattan's Upper West Side on June 10, 2024, a 1,500 square-foot location designed to seat 24 patrons. The very first express location was successfully launched in Forest Hills, Queens, in 2023, marking the initial foray into the fast-casual model. Looking ahead, the Dolce International Holdings franchise has articulated significant and ambitious expansion plans. These include upcoming locations on the Upper West Side in Manhattan, South End Boston, Philadelphia, and at Mercer Mall in New Jersey. Further planned openings extend to a second location in Boston, as well as multiple units across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Houston, effectively extending the brand's reach beyond its traditional East Coast stronghold. The first franchised location successfully opened in Boston in 2024, with two more units already planned for that city, indicating strong franchisee interest. Additionally, more franchised units are currently under construction in Houston and North Carolina, signaling continued momentum. The long-term strategic goal for the Dolce International Holdings franchise is to "hit every major city on the map" within the United States, positioning it for widespread national presence. Currently, all operational focus remains solely within the United States. Key competitive advantages supporting this aggressive growth include the formidable brand recognition inherited from the Michelin-recommended parent brand, the unique offering of authentic Shanghainese specialties, particularly the highly sought-after soup dumplings, and the efficient fast-casual model designed for maximum accessibility. Furthermore, the centralized commissary operation ensures consistent quality control of proprietary items, while modern technology, encompassing ordering kiosks, mobile ordering, and a dedicated app, enhances customer experience and operational efficiency, all contributing to the strong market position of the Dolce International Holdings franchise.

The ideal franchisee for the Dolce International Holdings franchise, while not explicitly defined in the provided data, can be inferred from the brand’s robust operational requirements and strategic growth objectives. Prospective franchisees would ideally possess a strong background in restaurant management or multi-unit operations, particularly within the fast-casual dining sector, demonstrating a proven ability to manage complex food service environments. A genuine passion for authentic culinary experiences, specifically an appreciation for Shanghainese comfort food and the brand’s signature soup dumplings, would be a significant asset, ensuring alignment with the core values of the Nan Xiang Express concept. Given the paramount emphasis on product consistency and quality, candidates must be unequivocally committed to adhering to established operational protocols, rigorous food preparation standards, and comprehensive training programs provided by the Dolce International Holdings franchise. The substantial total initial investment range, which extends from $448,000 to $876,000, clearly indicates that prospective franchisees require significant financial resources and a sound business acumen to effectively manage both the initial startup costs and the ongoing operational expenses. Experience in developing and managing multiple units would be particularly advantageous, considering the brand’s ambitious and rapid expansion plans across various U.S. cities, including key markets in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Houston. The strategic focus on securing high-traffic locations, such as bustling urban centers, vibrant mall environments, and areas in close proximity to universities, suggests a preference for franchisees who possess strong real estate identification skills and an understanding of demographic targeting. Although specific exclusive territory information is not detailed in the available research, the stated long-term goal of the Dolce International Holdings franchise to expand into "every major city on the map" within the U.S. implies that new franchisees will play a pivotal role in establishing and cultivating strong brand presence in these new and emerging markets. Furthermore, the mandatory contribution of 3.00% to a national advertising fund highlights the importance of franchisees understanding and valuing collective marketing efforts and brand building within their respective operational areas.

The Dolce International Holdings franchise presents an exceptionally compelling investor opportunity within the rapidly burgeoning fast-casual Chinese restaurant segment, skillfully capitalizing on the formidable established reputation of its Michelin-recommended Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao brand. With a distinguished track record of delivering unparalleled quality and unwavering authenticity since its inception in 2006, the parent brand provides an incredibly robust and credible foundation for the express model's strategic and rapid expansion. This growth is tangibly evidenced by the brand's impressive expansion to 13 locations across the United States by May 2025. The strategic implementation of a New Jersey-based commissary is a critical component, ensuring meticulous product consistency and exceptional operational efficiency across the ever-growing network of units. This centralized approach effectively mitigates many common logistical and quality control challenges typically associated with scaling a high-quality food concept across diverse geographical markets. The total initial investment, ranging comprehensively from $448,000 to $876,000, coupled with a manageable 5.00% royalty fee and a strategic 3.00% contribution to the national advertising fund, positions the Dolce International Holdings franchise as a significant and attractive venture for well-qualified investors seeking to enter a high-demand and underserved market segment. The brand's ambitious long-term goal to expand into "every major city on the map" within the U.S., powerfully supported by recent successful openings and meticulously planned developments in key strategic markets such as Boston, Philadelphia, and Houston, unequivocally highlights a substantial and sustained growth potential. While specific Item 19 financial performance data is not yet publicly processed, the sheer scale of the broader Chinese snack and fast-food market, which impressively exceeded $11.25 trillion USD by the close of 2023, profoundly underscores a fertile and receptive ground for significant market penetration. The potent combination of strong brand recognition, comprehensive multi-level training programs, and a meticulously structured ongoing support framework offered by the Dolce International Holdings franchise is expertly designed to equip its franchisees for profound success in a dynamic and highly competitive industry. Explore the complete Dolce International Holdings franchise profile on PeerSense to access the full suite of independent franchise intelligence data.