

KEY FRANCHISE STATS
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$1,541,000
Del Taco, a notable entity in the fast-food sector known for its Mexican-inspired offerings, was established in 1964 by Ed Hackbarth and David Jameson in Yermo, California.
The company began franchising in 1967, creating global opportunities for franchisees. Starting with a modest menu featuring 19¢ tacos and 24¢ cheeseburgers, Del Taco made a striking debut with $169 in sales on its first day, equivalent to selling 900 tacos.
Based in Lake Forest, California, Del Taco has maintained a robust presence in the Pacific Southwest region of the United States. The chain's extensive menu features a mix of Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, alongside American staples such as hamburgers and crinkle-cut fries.
What sets Del Taco apart from its competitors is its distinctive combination of Mexican and American cuisine, appealing to a wide audience with its varied menu. The use of fresh ingredients and a broad selection of options provide a competitive advantage in the quick-service restaurant industry.
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Prior to launching a Del Taco restaurant, franchisees participate in an extensive training program. This comprehensive program covers all facets of restaurant management, including operational methods, customer service practices, and marketing strategies.
The aim is to equip franchisees with the knowledge and skills needed to run their businesses successfully.
Beyond the initial training, Del Taco places a high value on continuous education. They offer ongoing support and additional training sessions to keep franchisees informed about the latest operational procedures and brand standards, ensuring consistent and effective management of their franchises.
Del Taco franchisees do not receive exclusive territorial rights. Instead, they are granted a specific location to operate their restaurant.
While this provides a defined area for their business operations, it does not prevent the establishment of other Del Taco restaurants or outlets nearby. The franchisees’ rights are confined to their designated location, and any operation beyond this area requires prior written approval from the franchisor.
This arrangement underscores the importance of adhering strictly to the assigned location and recognizes that no broader territorial exclusivity is provided.
Below are some of
Del Taco
key competitors in the
Mexican
sector.

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$35,000
$1,497,000
$3,321,000
n.a.
$1,541,000
$xxx,xxx
74.4%
n.a.
16.2%
n.a.

Taco Rico / Taco Works is a Tex-Mex restaurant franchise offering tacos, burritos, fajitas, chimichangas, salads, and salsa bars, serving families and office crowds, and known for quick counter service, complimentary chips, and approachable, value-focused neighborhood locations.
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Mike's Red Tacos is a fast-casual Mexican franchise offering birria tacos, quesadillas, and shareable plates, serving flavor-driven diners and late-night crowds, and known for richly stewed meats, vibrant red tortillas, lively branding, and roots in San Diego’s taco culture.
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Mucho Burrito is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant franchise offering burritos, bowls, tacos, and catering, serving lunch and dinner guests seeking bold flavors, and known for fresh-prepared ingredients, customizable entrees, and a contemporary brand backed by strong training and support.
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District Taco is a fast-casual Mexican franchise offering made-to-order tacos, bowls and margaritas, serving lunch and dinner crowds, and known for fresh ingredients, bold regional flavors and franchise growth momentum.
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Chronic Tacos is a fast-casual franchise offering customizable tacos, burritos, bowls, and Mexican favorites, serving lunch and late-night diners, and known for fresh ingredients, made-to-order prep, and a laid-back California vibe.
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Taco Cabana is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant franchise serving tacos, fajitas, and freshly prepared salsas in a relaxed, colorful setting.
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