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Velvet Taco sign
Mexican fast-casual brands made a strong showing in Fast Casual’s 2024 Top 75 Brands List. Seven well-known Mexican-cuisine brands made the list:
Chipotle – Naturally, Chipotle made the list. The brand was recognized for its advancements in technology, such as its partnership with TikTok, an automated bowl prep lane that uses artificial intelligence, and Autocado, an avocado processing system that cuts, cores and peels avocados.
Velvet Taco – This taco purveyor, which will finish 2024 with 50 locations, also was cited for its technology innovations. For example, it began an AI-driven Weekly Taco feature and a points-based loyalty system, The Velvet Room, that does not rely on conventional discounts.
Torchy’s Tacos – This 17-year-old chain with 120 locations was honored for adopting a loyalty and messaging platform and a robust point-of-sale system. The concept plans 15 more openings this year.
Cilantro Taco Grill – This Chicago-based chain was recognized for initiating a new franchise system focusing on authentic Mexican cuisine. The franchise program, which is supported by rapper Pitbull, is aiming for 1,000 locations in the next 10 years.
California Tortilla – This 31-unit chain was honored for launching a new décor package and a new cuisine category, the Grill Melt, in the past year. It is planning to open three new locations in 2024.
Condado Tacos – This Ohio-based chain with 50 locations features a tequila list of more than 100 brands and hand-painted mural artwork in its interiors. Condado, which had just 11 locations three years ago, plans to add six more this year.
Qdoba – This giant fast-casual Mexican chain made the list because of its menu innovations, such as several healthier options, and its growth plans. The chain has over 750 locations and plans to add 50 more in 2024.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop – This 140-location fast casual is known for chef-driven menus and a full bar. Among menu innovations in 2023 were the Birria Taco and the Elote Street Corn Taco & Bowl. The chain plans to add 5 locations this year.
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