San Diego-based birria concept Mike’s Red Tacos announced it is preparing to expand into California, after a franchise agreement with restaurant ownership group JM Foods. While specific Orange County locations and opening timelines have yet to be announced, a recent press release states that the brand plans to open 18 new restaurants across Orange County and Los Angeles, expanding its footprint in the region.
Led by longtime operators Victor Fiss and John Thomas, JM Foods already operates 25 Jersey Mike’s restaurants throughout the region, with eight additional units currently in development.
Mike’s Red Tacos was initially founded by Mike Touma. It first gained popularity as a food truck in San Diego before expanding into brick-and-mortar restaurants. The brand quickly built a loyal following through its signature beef birria tacos, consommé dipping broth, and social media-friendly aesthetic…