Do I need restaurant or franchise experience to open a Mike's Red Tacos?

Yes. We're looking for experienced, growth-minded operators who have the operational expertise and infrastructure to scale a fast-moving concept. Ideal candidates have multi-unit restaurant or franchise backgrounds and are actively involved in their business.

What's the typical timeline to open a Mike's Red Tacos location?

Most franchisees can expect to open their first location in 9–12 months from signing their agreement. The timeline can vary depending on factors like site selection, permitting, and build-out. We'll guide you every step of the way — from real estate to grand opening.

How many employees will I need to run a location?

A typical Mike's Red Tacos restaurant requires a lean but efficient team. Most locations operate smoothly with a general manager and a small crew, designed to keep operations streamlined without sacrificing guest experience. Staffing levels may vary based on market and volume.

What are the investment requirements?

Franchisees should be prepared for a million-dollar commitment to open a store, which includes build-out, equipment and working capital. Full investment details are available in the current Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

How much space do I need for a Mike's Red Tacos?

Earnings potential can vary depending on factors like market, operations, and performance. Qualified prospects will receive our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) during the discovery process, which includes Item 19 financial performance information to help you make an informed business decision.

How much can I make as a franchisee?

Earnings potential can vary depending on factors like market, operations, and performance. Qualified prospects will receive our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) during the discovery process, which includes Item 19 financial performance information to help you make an informed business decision.

bring the birria boom to your market

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WHY MIKE'S?

Born in San Diego and built on the bold, craveable flavors of authentic birria, Mike’s Red Tacos has grown into a fan-favorite fast-casual experience. We started as a local food truck sensation where guests lined up to try our signature birria and consome dip, and now, we’re bringing that same energy nationwide. With a proven business model, a leadership team of QSR experts and a cult-like fan following, Mike’s Red Tacos is growing coast to coast.

Our story

IN 2023, MIKE'S RED TACOS GOT VOTED

TOP 100 PLACES TO EAT IN THE U.S.

LANDING IN AT #52, BECOMING THE ONLY TACO SHOP TO MAKE THE LIST THAT YEAR

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THE BIRRIA BOOM

Birria isn’t new, but it’s finally getting the spotlight it deserves on U.S. restaurant menus. Across the country, more and more guests are craving high-quality, flavor-forward Mexican concepts that go beyond the ordinary. Mike’s Red Tacos was built on the kind of authentic flavor and craveable experience that keeps people lining up.
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Mike’s Red Tacos isn’t chasing a trend, we’re scaling a category that’s already proven it has staying power in today’s fast-casual segment.

GET STARTED

Illustration of a taco with red sauce dripping on a red background.

Positioned to win

We don’t just serve Birria tacos. We defined The Birria Experience, and built a brand around it.
Mike’s Red Tacos pairs bold flavor with a scalable operational model designed to bring authentic birria to communities everywhere.

Here’s what sets us apart:
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Authentic, craveable menu that’s both simple to execute and hard to replicate.

A strong leadership team of QSR and franchise experts with a proven background in growing nationally-recognized brands.

Proven performance, with impressive average unit volumes (AUV)*

Scalable model with early-entry into the fast-growing birria space and fast-casual Mexican segment.

Support & training

From the moment you sign on as a Mike’s Red Tacos franchisee, we provide hands-on guidance designed to make opening and running your restaurant smoother, smarter and more efficient.

Our support begins well before your grand opening, with a streamlined onboarding process and real estate, construction and architectural guidance to bring your location to life. Once you’re up and running, you’ll have access to a comprehensive training program that sets your team up to deliver a consistent Birria experience, no matter the market.

Behind the scenes, we’ve built operational systems that protect quality at scale — from pre-portioned ingredients and smart packaging to equipment innovations that cut down cook time without cutting corners. And when it’s time to launch, our grand opening marketing support helps generate buzz and build a loyal following from the start.

Still have questions?

We’re happy to talk tacos, strategy, and your path to becoming a Mike’s Red Tacos franchisee.

ARE YOU RED-Y FOR IT?

INVESTMENT

As an emerging brand with national momentum, Mike’s Red Tacos is focused on bringing on experienced, growth-minded operators who have the vision and infrastructure to scale alongside our team.

restaurant OWNERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT

• Currently own/operate 5+ QSR or Fast Casual Franchise restaurant in the market area of interest
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• Cannot currently have ownership in a Mexican restaurant concept
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• Have strong operational metrics and referrals from your current franchise system

REAL ESTATE

Mike’s Red Tacos offers modern restaurant formats fit for your desired market and development areas. From endcap, in-line and freestanding options to choose from, we’ll help you create the ideal restaurant for your community.

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Outdoor seating area with tables and chairs in front of Mike's Red Tacos restaurant.

IDEAL FRANCHISEE

We’re looking for partners who have QSR/FSR or other business experience, restaurant operations expertise and the infrastructure to open multiple Mike’s Red Tacos locations. Our ideal franchisee is hands-on, passionate about hospitality and ready to grow.