Tacombi
Preferred Sq. Footage: 2,000-3,000 s.f.
12-Month Anticipated Openings: 10-15
The New York-based taco chain plans up to 15 new units per year until 2027. Expansion is fueled by a capital investment the company received late last year, primarily led by Enlightened Hospitality Investments, overseen by the founder of Shake Shack. Look for units to come to New Jersey, Connecticut, Long Island, N.Y., Washington, D.C., Chicago and many restaurants throughout South Florida. Downtown, street-front, shopping center and non-traditional sites will be desired. The menu includes traditional tacos, quesadillas and burritos and the chain has its own “Vista Hermosa” brand of tortillas and tortilla chips.
Rusty Taco
Preferred Sq. Footage: 1,700 s.f.
12-Month Anticipated Openings: 10
The Atlanta-based taco brand will ramp up growth in 2024 with plans to add up to 50 new units per year. The chain plans expansion nationwide but will first target locations in Virginia, West Texas, Nevada and Salt Lake City, followed by Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Iowa and Kansas. Freestanding pad, shopping center and grocery-anchored sites will be sought after. The chain is known for its street tacos with flavors such as Southern fried chicken, cauliflower and BBQ brisket.
Velvet Taco
Preferred Sq. Footage: 2,500 s.f.
12-Month Anticipated Openings: 3+
The taco chain plans bullish expansion in Texas, with units in the works for Allen, Grapevine and The Colony, as well as whispers of restaurants coming to Frisco and Forth Worth. A unit also recently opened in Charlotte, N.C., late last month, the third in the state. Freestanding pad, shopping center, mall and food court sites are targeted. The chain is known for its unique and global twists on tacos such as spicy tikka chicken, chicken & waffle, fried paneer, Cuban pig and Korean fried rice.
