Established
1993
Franchise Units
15
Minimum Investment
$350,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$900,000
Home Based
No
Description
Berryhill Baja Grill is one of the fastest-growing Mexican grill concepts in the USA, known for its fresh Baja-style cuisine, vibrant ambiance, and unmatched customer experience. As a franchise opportunity, Berryhill Baja Grill offers aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to tap into the booming fast-casual Mexican dining industry. With a loyal customer base, strong brand recognition, and a proven business model, this franchise blends authentic flavors, modern dining trends, and profitable operations—making it a powerful choice for investors looking to enter the food and beverage industry.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in a Berryhill Baja Grill franchise means stepping into a brand that combines the authentic appeal of Mexican food with the growing demand for healthier, flavorful fast-casual dining. Here are key reasons to invest:
-
Strong Market Demand – Mexican cuisine is one of the fastest-growing food categories in the USA.
-
Proven Business Model – Streamlined operations and training systems designed for scalability.
-
Diverse Menu – Fresh Baja-style tacos, burritos, enchiladas, salads, margaritas, and more.
-
Brand Recognition – Berryhill Baja Grill is widely loved for its Baja-inspired flavors.
-
Franchisee Support – Comprehensive training and operational support ensure smooth business setup and long-term growth.
Background
Established Year: Berryhill Baja Grill was officially founded in 1993 in Houston, Texas.
Founders & Origins: The concept was inspired by a small taco stand that had been operating in Houston since the 1920s. Entrepreneur Jeff Anon purchased the rights in the early 1990s and transformed it into a scalable fast-casual restaurant brand known for authentic Baja-style Mexican cuisine.
Franchise Launch: Recognizing the growing popularity of Tex-Mex and Baja-style food, the company began franchising in the late 1990s, opening opportunities for entrepreneurs across the United States.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
-
By 2007, Berryhill Baja Grill had 15 locations (6 corporate-owned and 9 franchised), primarily across Texas, with expansions into Dallas, Austin, and even Cancún International Airport.
-
Recent reports highlight at least 17 operating locations (14 in Texas and 3 in Cancún, Mexico).
-
The brand remains a regional powerhouse in Texas, with recognition for its award-winning fish tacos, tamales, and margaritas.
Ownership & Brand Journey: Berryhill’s evolution from a humble taco stand to a full-fledged casual dining franchise has been driven by its reputation for high-quality ingredients, fresh preparation, and a laid-back Baja-inspired atmosphere. Today, it continues to blend authentic recipes with a modern fast-casual dining model, making it competitive in the booming Mexican dining segment.
Industry Category: Food & Beverage → Fast-Casual Mexican Grill Franchise.
Reputation & Recognition: Berryhill Baja Grill has received multiple local and national accolades, including awards for Best Margarita in Houston and consistent praise for its fresh fish tacos, cementing its reputation as a customer favorite.
Support Training
Berryhill Baja Grill provides end-to-end franchisee support designed to help investors succeed regardless of prior foodservice experience.
-
Pre-Launch Support – Site selection assistance, restaurant design guidance, licensing, and vendor setup.
-
Operational Training – In-depth training programs for owners, managers, and staff covering food preparation, customer service, and restaurant management.
-
Marketing Support – Local marketing campaigns, social media promotions, grand opening assistance, and ongoing national brand marketing.
-
Ongoing Support – Continuous operational guidance, menu innovation, quality checks, supply chain management, and regular business consultations.
-
Technology Support – POS systems, digital ordering, and delivery platform integration.
Ideal Candidate
Berryhill Baja Grill is best suited for entrepreneurs with a passion for food, hospitality, and community-driven business.
-
Business Background: Prior experience in restaurant management, hospitality, or retail is preferred but not required.
-
Investment Capability: Ability to meet financial requirements and sustain working capital during the early growth phase.
-
Entrepreneurial Mindset: Hands-on operators who are eager to build a strong team and deliver great customer experiences.
-
Location Preference: High-traffic urban centers, suburban communities, and college-town markets where fast-casual Mexican dining is in demand.
-
Passion for Brand Values: Investors who value quality food, authentic flavors, and excellent service.
Financial Detail
| Financial Element | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $400,000 – $900,000 |
| Minimum Investment | $350,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out Cost | $250,000 – $600,000 |
| Marketing Budget (Pre-Launch) | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 5% – 6% of gross sales |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% annually |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 30 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, catering, delivery, alcoholic beverages (margaritas, beer, cocktails) |
