Mendocino Farms Expands in Bay Area
Fast-casual restaurant chain Mendocino Farms has opened a new location in Dublin, California. The company, known for its sandwiches and salads, also plans to open two additional Bay Area outlets before the end of 2026. The move signals continued expansion for the brand in the competitive regional dining market.
- The two additional Bay Area locations planned for 2026 are slated for Mill Valley and Concord. The Mill Valley restaurant will be located in the Alto Center shopping plaza, and the Concord outlet will be in the Willows Shopping Center. - This expansion is part of a broader growth phase for the company, which opened its 75th location in San Jose in January 2025 and planned to open 15 new restaurants nationwide that year. Over the next two years, the company intends to open more than five new locations in Northern California. - Founded in Los Angeles in 2005 by husband-and-wife team Mario Del Pero and Ellen Chen, the chain has grown significantly from its Southern California roots. As of late 2025, there were 65 Mendocino Farms locations in California and 82 across the United States. - The company's growth is backed by private equity firm TPG Inc., which acquired a majority stake in 2017. This followed an earlier investment deal in 2010 with L Catterton and a minority investment from Whole Foods Market. - The fast-casual market is a competitive space, with major national players including Panera Bread, Chipotle Mexican Grill, and Sweetgreen. The U.S. fast-casual market is projected to see continued growth, driven by consumer demand for customized and higher-quality convenience food. - The brand positions itself by offering chef-driven, seasonal menus with a focus on fresh ingredients, aiming to occupy a space between traditional fast-food and full-service dining. The CEO is Kevin Miles.
