Building a Brand with Purpose: The 3Natives Story with Founder & CEO Anthony Bambino
From a small juice bar in Tequesta, Florida to nearly 50 locations across the U.S., 3Natives has carved out a unique space in the fast-casual landscape. On a recent episode of QSR Uncut, 3Natives Founder and CEO Anthony Bambino opened up about the brand’s origin, philosophy, and the passionate drive behind its thoughtful, strategic growth.
Whether you’re an aspiring franchisee or a fan of health-forward concepts, Anthony’s candid conversation offers valuable insight into what makes 3Natives special — and why now is a prime time to get involved.
From Sales Rep to Smoothie Pioneer
3Natives began in 2013, not as a corporate venture but as a passion project rooted in community need. While traveling Southern California for work, Anthony noticed the growing popularity of small juice and smoothie bars — something missing in his own hometown of Tequesta, FL.
“Florida, like SoCal, is a health-driven lifestyle state,” he said. “But we had greasy diners and old Italian spots. There was nothing fresh, fast, and healthy.”
So he took a leap, leaving behind the safety of his sales job to open a modern deli that served acai bowls, smoothies, juices, and most importantly, real food with real ingredients.
Not Just “Bird Food”: A Menu Built for Everyone
The brand found quick traction, but Anthony knew it needed broader appeal.
“We had women lining up, but their husbands would head to the deli down the plaza,” he explained. “When I asked why, they said, ‘You serve bird food.’ That hit me.”
The solution? Introduce hearty, protein-packed wraps and salads. Today, menu staples like the Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Tuna Salad, and Tex-Mex Chicken Bowl make 3Natives a standout in a category where most brands focus on just bowls and smoothies.
This balanced, inclusive menu helps attract a wider customer base — and keeps them coming back.
Why Customer Service Is the Core of the Brand
Anthony is crystal clear about one thing: “Customer service is everything.”
In a world driven by speed and convenience, 3Natives is doubling down on human connection. Every franchisee is expected to lead with hospitality, not just operations.
“You can have a great product, but if the energy in the store is off, people will notice. Our franchise partners must embody the warmth, friendliness, and community spirit that sets 3Natives apart.”
Even tiny gestures, like writing a heart on a to-go bowl lid, have a huge impact. “You’d be surprised how many customers email us to say that one small thing made their day.”
Growth That’s Purposeful, Not Pressured
Franchising wasn’t part of the original plan. But after the third corporate store opened, demand grew organically, and the brand decided to take the plunge.
Not every experience was smooth. “Our first franchisee went rogue,” Anthony recalled. “It was a wake-up call. We had to slow down and get intentional.”
Today, 3Natives carefully selects franchise partners based on cultural fit, not just capital. “We say no more than we say yes. We’re not chasing growth. We’re building a brand that lasts.”
A Flexible Footprint & Franchisee-Friendly Model
Most 3Natives locations are 1,000–1,400 sq ft, with a to-go-first design that maximizes revenue per square foot. Some stores, like their high-performing 800 sq ft location, are now being developed as "express models" in high-rent areas with strong foot traffic.
Highlights:
Investment Range: $350K–$500K
Menu: Bowls, wraps, salads, smoothies, cold-pressed juice, and more
Real Estate Flexibility: Traditional and express models available
Off-Premise Power: Some locations do 75%+ of business through takeout and delivery
Franchisee Profile: From Passionate Operators to Multi-Unit Partners
3Natives attracts a mix of single-unit operators and growing multi-unit partners, many of whom were loyal customers before becoming franchisees.
As Anthony shared, “We want franchisees who care about the community, the guest experience, and building something meaningful. We’re not backed by private equity. We’re founder-led, family-owned, and collaborative by design.”
What’s Next? Sustainable Growth in the Southeast and Beyond
While the brand has expanded into markets like Oklahoma, New York, and Arizona through trusted franchisees, its core focus remains the Southeast — Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
With 40% systemwide growth in 2024 and projections to reach 70–80 locations in the next two years, the momentum is strong, but carefully managed.
“We’ve never been more excited,” said Anthony. “Our systems are dialed in, our team is experienced, and our culture is stronger than ever. Now’s the time to grow with us.”
Ready to Explore 3Natives Franchise Ownership?
If you're looking for a fresh, modern brand with a proven track record, loyal following, and strong values, 3Natives could be the right fit.
Join a brand where customer service, community, and quality still matter — and be part of the next generation of fast-casual success.
