Abstract: A support structure for the simplified assembly of structurally sound food merchandising units and entire food court systems. The support structure includes a horizontal counter support member, front and back vertical support members, and a horizontal bottom shelf support member attached together to form an essentially square or rectangular frame shape. First and second structural support pieces are used to tie the horizontal counter support member and the horizontal bottom shelf support member, respectively, to the vertical support members. Legs, which may be adjustable to allow height adjustment of the support structure, are attached to the bottom of the lower shelf support member. To assemble a food court merchandising unit using the support structure, one support structure is used at each end of the unit. A merchandising unit countertop is attached to the top of the horizontal counter support members of the support structures.