Fuzzy's Taco Shop hires new chief marketing officer
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop has added to its c-suite with a restaurant veteran.
Patrick Kirk will join the fast-casual Mexican restaurant as chief marketing officer, overseeing all aspects of marketing including advertising, digital marketing, and culinary and beverage innovation. He joins Fuzzy’s from Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar as president of bar and beverage.
In his previous role, which he held since 2016, Kirk led the strategy for Applebee’s bar and beverage experience across restaurants nationwide, growing his marketing department into a substantial revenue driver for the chain. Kirk served at Buffalo Wild Wings for more than 10 years before joining Applebee’s, with his total experience in the restaurant industry adding up to over 23 years.
“Over the past eight years, Patrick has disrupted the casual dining industry through stand out marketing campaigns at Applebee’s,” says Paul Damico, president of Fuzzy’s. “His ability to create strategic platforms and forge strong brand and franchisee partnerships with a focus on creating buzzworthy and fun guest experiences is undeniable. I look forward to the new expertise and creative thinking he’ll bring to our talented team.”
Kirk currently is a member of Millennium Advisory Board, a collection of industry leaders aiming to “shape the future of on-premise beverage.” He has also served on other industry councils including the VIBE Conference and the Bar & Nightclub Expo.
“I love Fuzzy’s badass attitude and strong values,” said Kirk. “After Dine Brands acquired Fuzzy’s in 2022, I’ve had the chance to get to know the team and have been impressed by the way the brand brings its Baja vibe to life and connects with guests. I can’t wait to dive in further with the team to unlock the brand’s marketing potential.”
Founded in 2003 in Fort Worth, Texas, 44 franchise groups operated 131 Fuzzy's restaurants in 18 states as of Dec. 31, 2023. The chain owns one restaurant in Texas, making the total store count 132.
Fuzzy’s restaurants are franchised by affiliates of Dine Brands Global, Inc., which also supports and operates Applebee's and IHOP franchises.