News Release

PASADENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 18, 2026-- IHOP has officially named Mohammad Khadar the 2025 Franchisee of the Year. A proud franchisee of over 30 restaurants across Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii, Khadar represents what is possible when passion, purpose, and operational excellence align. From the dining room to the boardroom, his leadership inspires teams, enriches communities, and continues to elevate the IHOP brand with every milestone.

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IHOP has officially named Mohammad Khadar the 2025 Franchisee of the Year.

As the leader in breakfast and family dining, IHOP and its dedicated franchisee network remain committed to delivering memorable moments for every guest. Each year, IHOP recognizes one franchisee who stands out for their exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to the brand. While Khadar shows remarkable entrepreneurial vision and courage in running restaurants across three states, he also leads with heartfelt hospitality, investing time in understanding his guests, honoring their communities, and providing unparalleled service described as personal, warm, and sincere.

"Mohammad Khadar is a dedicated franchisee and partner who elevates iHospitality to the next level, as he cares deeply about his guests, team members and the brand," said Lawrence Kim, IHOP President. "For over two decades, Mohammad has built something truly special, including over 30 restaurants that operate with heart and hospitality. I’ve visited his restaurants and personally witnessed how he leads with humility, gives back to his community, and shows up every day with purpose."

Khadar is regarded as both a leader and a mentor by his Team Members, many of whom have been with him throughout his IHOP tenure. They describe him as a franchisee dedicated not only to building successful restaurants, but also to creating opportunities for diverse teams, families, and neighborhoods. Whether engaging directly with the kitchen staff or taking the time to learn and remember guests’ favorite orders, Khadar treats both his employees and guests like family.

Beyond day-to-day operations, Khadar’s leadership extends across IHOP’s broader ecosystem. As a current member of the brand’s Franchise Leadership Committee and supply chain boards, he demonstrates a proactive, deep commitment to shaping the brand’s future. He also continues to grow his portfolio, with four new restaurant openings this year and additional locations in development. Khadar’s expansion into Hawaii highlights his strategic vision and ability to identify and execute growth opportunities. This entrepreneurial drive and commitment to excellence earned Khadar IHOP’s 2024 Developer of the Year award, recognizing his success in creating modern, welcoming, and strategically located restaurants that strengthen the brand’s presence across the Northwest.

Khadar’s dedication to hospitality reaches beyond his restaurants' walls and into the heart of the communities they serve. A trusted and active partner, Khadar supports several charitable organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs across the Seattle metro area. His continued involvement reflects a deep sense of compassion, generosity, and responsibility to those around him.

“It all comes down to culture of the company, and I’m incredibly fortunate to have built a team that inspires me every day to create an environment where people aren’t just colleagues, but family,” said Khadar. “After 22 years with IHOP, my team and I are driven by one simple goal: welcoming every guest with genuine hospitality and a warm smile. By being ourselves and continually improving how we operate, we aim to create restaurants where everyone feels at home. Those moments when guests feel seen and cared for are what serving joy truly means to me, and it’s the standard I hold myself to every day.”

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OF PANCAKES, LLC

For more than 65 years, IHOP has been a leader, innovator and expert in all things breakfast, lunch and dinner. The chain offers over 65 different signature, fresh, made-to-order breakfast options and a wide selection of popular lunch and dinner items including Ultimate Steakburgers, Hand-Crafted Sandwiches, Platters and more. IHOP restaurants offer guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. As of March 29, 2026, there are 1,814 IHOP restaurants globally. IHOP restaurants are franchised by affiliates of Pasadena, Calif.-based Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN).

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Candice Graham
IHOP Communications
Media@IHOP.com

Abby Hoffman
DeVries Global on behalf of IHOP
Ahoffman@devriesglobal.com

Source: IHOP