Cilantro Taco Grill plans 110 new locations
Cilantro Taco Grill is greatly expanding its plans for growth so far this year.
The fast-casual Mexican chain, which signed its first franchise agreement in January 2024, has already secured over 100 units in development nationwide in less than six months. Six different franchise groups have signed franchise agreements and an area rep agreement with Cilantro Taco Grill, totaling 110 units in development in Illinois, Texas, California and Florida, with 100 of the new stores slated to open in the Sunshine State.
“We are incredibly proud of the over 100-unit growth Cilantro Taco Grill has achieved just six months after signing our first deal,” said Temoc Morfin, founder of Cilantro Taco Grill. “What started as a small taqueria in 2013 has now scaled into a thriving brand spreading across the U.S. This growth is not just a testament to our passion and dedication but also a beacon of hope for other families striving to achieve the American dream. Together, we are creating opportunities and sharing the flavors of our heritage with communities nationwide."
Founded in 2013 by Morfin, who was inspired to bring the family's treasured flavors and recipes to the masses by his father, “Don Javi” Morfin, Cilantro Taco Grill has since grown in the Chicagoland market, expanding to 15 open locations with three more in development opening in 2024.
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"The next big thing in the Mexican fast-casual space is real Mexican food,” said Dan Rowe, CEO of Fransmart, Cilantro Taco Grill's exclusive franchise development partner. “Chipotle and Taco Bell are now trying to come up with what they call 'authentic Mexican' menu items, but they are not actual Mexican concepts, so at best they will be superficial examples. Anyone who has been to Mexico and loves the food will know the difference when they try Cilantro Taco Grill."