San Diego Taco Chain Plans Michigan Expansion
A small San Diego-based taco chain has finalized plans to franchise across the U.S., with Michigan being a potential target market. The company is now seeking franchisees to expand beyond its Southern California roots, though specific locations and timelines have not been announced.
The chain, Mike's Red Tacos, specializes in beef birria, a slow-cooked, spiced meat stew, and was named one of Yelp's Top 100 U.S. Restaurants in 2023. The brand is known for its signature red tacos and the accompanying consomé for dipping, carrying the tagline "the dip is worth the drip." Founder Mike Touma started the business as a San Diego food truck in 2021, opening the first brick-and-mortar location in 2022. The company currently has only two physical locations, with a third set to open in San Diego in March 2026. The aggressive national expansion plan includes the development of more than 200 locations. This growth is fueled by a partnership with restaurant industry veterans who spurred the rapid growth of brands like Dave's Hot Chicken and Wetzel's Pretzels. Franchise development agreements are already in place for markets in Michigan, Minnesota, Texas, Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Nevada, Virginia, and New England. The first of these new franchise locations are expected to begin construction in the coming months and open by the end of 2026.
