History of Ground Pat'i International, Inc.

Mention the name Ground Pat'i anywhere in Louisiana and the response is likely to be a mouth-watering description of the best-known hamburger in the state. Founded in 1971, Ground Pat'i became known not only for the best hamburgers, but also for a warm inviting and casual dining experience complete with a fireplace and free peanuts. "“Hungry?…Ground Pat'i!'” was the slogan of the time.

Under previous ownership, the Ground Pat'i chain began offering franchises in the late 1970's and grew to nineteen locations throughout Louisiana and surrounding states. Early on, the restaurant experimented with a couple of different looks. However, none of these new decors was as inviting or as popular as the original, casual and rustic Ground Pat'i restaurants. The new franchisor, Ground Pat'i International, Inc., intends to return it to the original Ground Pat'i concept of a sit-down family restaurant, serving gourmet hamburgers in a casual setting.

The partnership of Rick Cambre and brothers Dudley and Barry Melancon began in 1984. Originally, college buddies Rick (a banker) and Barry (a CPA) bought a Ground Pat'i franchise. As their professional careers blossomed, they realized a full-time person was needed to run and manage the restaurant. They convinced Dudley to leave his business to do just that. Dudley's success with the franchised store convinced Rick and Barry to make him an equal partner.

In 1998, the partnership made a decision to expand their involvement with Ground Pat'i. With Dudley overseeing the operations and management, they opened their second restaurant location in 1999. As the partnership profited, they realized the overall potential of the franchise. Sensing an opportunity, Rick began discussions with the owner and founder of the restaurant chain to buy out his interests in the company. In the first quarter of 1999, the partnership of Rick, Dudley and Barry acquired the franchise from its originator.