A Proven Bar & Restaurant Franchise Built on Quality and Experience
Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill – Founded by Dan & Julie Volmert
More than 30 years ago, Dan Volmert and Julie Volmert recognized a gap in the St. Louis restaurant scene — the need for an authentic sports bar & grill that combined great food, fast service, and an energetic atmosphere. In 1990, they turned that vision into reality by opening the first Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill.
How Did We Get Here?
From the beginning, Hotshots was built to deliver more than just a place to watch the game. The goal was to create a fun, high-energy environment featuring pool, darts, video games, spontaneous promotions, and a party atmosphere that kept guests coming back. The concept quickly became a local favorite — and that success laid the foundation for expanding Hotshots into a proven bar franchise opportunity.
Looking for a Winning Bar Investment Concept?
Since 1990, Dan and Julie Volmert have remained deeply involved in refining the Hotshots system and strengthening its growing brand. Today, Hotshots is recognized as a leader in sports bar marketing and guest engagement — a concept often imitated but never successfully duplicated.
Our longevity, adaptability, and hands-on operational approach have positioned Hotshots as a smart investment for franchise partners looking for a bar and restaurant brand with staying power.
A Top Bar Franchise Needs a Top Menu
Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill pairs its high-energy atmosphere with a diverse, crowd-pleasing menu. Guests enjoy a wide selection of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, and entrées — along with rotating daily lunch specials designed to drive repeat visits.
We’re especially known for our award-winning Hotshots Hot Wings and signature St. Louis–style pizza, two menu staples that consistently perform across markets and help define the brand.
As a family-owned business for more than three decades, the Volmert family has built a culture centered on teamwork, loyalty, and long-term relationships. Many members of our management and staff have been with Hotshots for 15+ years — a testament to the strength of our systems and leadership.
Those same values extend to our franchise partners as we continue expanding Hotshots across the country.
How Many Locations Does Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill Have?
Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill currently operates 14 locations across the United States. Each location delivers the same commitment to quality food, friendly service, and an energetic sports-focused atmosphere.
With restaurants in Missouri, Illinois, Ohio, North Carolina, and Arkansas, Hotshots has become a go-to destination for sports fans — offering ALL the games, ALL the time since 1990. Our locations are ideal for large groups, parties, and community gatherings.
They’re Talking About Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill
Industry publications and franchise resources continue to recognize Hotshots as a strong bar and restaurant franchise opportunity:
