2001
2
$400,000
$35,000
$900,000
No
The Cabo Fish Taco franchise represents a unique blend of Baja Mexican cuisine and a laid-back coastal dining experience that has captured the hearts of food lovers across the United States. Known for its signature fish tacos, vibrant flavors, and relaxed beach-inspired atmosphere, Cabo Fish Taco has become a go-to destination for customers who crave fresh, flavorful meals paired with an unforgettable dining ambiance.
With an established reputation for quality food, consistent service, and a strong brand identity, Cabo Fish Taco offers franchisees the opportunity to join a growing concept in the booming fast-casual dining industry. Positioned between casual dining and quick-service restaurants, the franchise caters to today’s consumer demand for healthier, freshly prepared meals at an affordable price. By investing in Cabo Fish Taco, franchisees tap into a proven business model with loyal customers, strong marketing, and a dynamic brand presence.
Proven Brand Success: Cabo Fish Taco has built a strong reputation for delivering fresh coastal Mexican cuisine with bold flavors and an approachable dining experience.
Thriving Industry: The U.S. Mexican and Tex-Mex dining market continues to grow, with high demand for healthier, customizable, and flavorful dining options.
Unique Concept: Unlike traditional taco chains, Cabo Fish Taco specializes in Baja-style seafood tacos, margaritas, and fresh sides, offering a differentiated niche in a competitive market.
Scalable Business Model: Designed to perform well in urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and college towns, the franchise model supports expansion in multiple markets.
Comprehensive Support System: Franchisees receive ongoing operational, marketing, and training support to ensure business success.
Established Year: Cabo Fish Taco was founded in 2001.
Founders: The brand was started by Rob Walker and Gary Walker, who had a vision to bring the vibrant flavors of Baja Mexican cuisine together with the casual, welcoming feel of a coastal eatery.
Company History & Brand Journey:
The first Cabo Fish Taco opened in Blacksburg, Virginia, and quickly became a local favorite among students, families, and food enthusiasts. With its unique concept of combining fresh seafood, hand-crafted tacos, and Baja-inspired flavors with an inviting, laid-back dining experience, the restaurant gained strong popularity. Over the years, the brand expanded its menu with signature fish tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and margaritas, all crafted with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
The success of the flagship restaurant inspired the launch of additional locations. Today, Cabo Fish Taco has 2 established restaurant units and continues to grow its footprint through franchising, targeting high-traffic areas such as college towns, urban neighborhoods, and bustling suburban hubs.
Ownership: Cabo Fish Taco is independently owned and operated, with a strong commitment to quality, consistency, and brand integrity. Unlike larger chains, the brand maintains a community-focused and personalized dining experience, making it stand out in the competitive casual dining sector.
Franchise Units: Currently, Cabo Fish Taco operates 2 locations in the United States. With proven operational success and a strong brand identity, the company is actively seeking franchise partners to help expand its presence nationwide.
Market Presence in the USA:
Cabo Fish Taco has built a loyal following among consumers who appreciate fresh, affordable, and flavorful Baja-style Mexican food. Its niche positioning in the fast-casual dining industry allows it to compete effectively with both traditional Mexican chains and mainstream casual dining restaurants. The combination of seafood specialties and a relaxed coastal vibe makes it particularly attractive to younger demographics, families, and food-conscious consumers.
Industry Category: Food & Beverage – Casual Dining / Mexican Cuisine / Seafood Specialties.
Other Key Information:
The brand leverages its Baja-inspired theme not only in food but also in restaurant décor and branding, creating a consistent customer experience.
Cabo Fish Taco caters to the growing U.S. demand for healthier dining options with fresh ingredients and lighter seafood-based meals.
The franchise opportunity sits in the fast-growing Tex-Mex and seafood dining sector, offering franchisees a strong position in a high-demand market.
Cabo Fish Taco ensures franchise partners are fully prepared for success with a robust support system:
Pre-Launch Training: Hands-on training covering restaurant setup, menu preparation, inventory management, and customer service.
Operational Support: Detailed operations manuals, supply chain guidance, POS training, and efficiency best practices.
Marketing Assistance: National and regional marketing campaigns, digital marketing strategies, social media branding, and grand opening promotions.
Academic & Staff Training: Employee training modules to ensure consistent food quality and customer experience across all units.
Ongoing Support: Continuous business consultations, performance monitoring, new product development, and seasonal menu updates.
Cabo Fish Taco is looking for entrepreneurs and investors who are passionate about food, hospitality, and building strong community connections. The ideal franchisee is not just an investor but someone who wants to be actively involved in bringing the Baja coastal dining experience to their local market.
Passion for Food & Hospitality
A genuine love for fresh, high-quality food and a desire to create an enjoyable dining atmosphere.
Interest in Baja-inspired cuisine, seafood, and casual dining concepts.
Business & Leadership Skills
Prior experience in restaurant management, hospitality, or retail is preferred but not mandatory.
Strong leadership skills to build, motivate, and manage a team.
Ability to oversee daily operations while maintaining consistent quality and service standards.
Customer-Focused Mindset
Commitment to delivering outstanding customer service and creating memorable guest experiences.
Engaging personality that connects with the local community, fostering repeat business and loyalty.
Financial Capability
Minimum investment capacity of $400,000+ to cover setup, working capital, and initial operations.
Adequate liquid capital and net worth to sustain business growth until profitability.
Community-Oriented & Lifestyle-Driven
Enthusiasm for building a community hotspot that attracts families, young professionals, and college students.
Preference for locations in high-traffic areas such as urban centers, college towns, tourist hubs, or vibrant suburban neighborhoods.
Growth-Minded Entrepreneur
Interest in multi-unit ownership or scaling operations in the future.
Open to adopting Cabo Fish Taco’s proven systems, operational standards, and brand guidelines.
Restaurateurs seeking a differentiated Mexican/seafood concept.
Entrepreneurs passionate about food and lifestyle brands.
Investors looking for a scalable business with recurring revenue streams from dine-in, takeout, delivery, and bar sales.
Community-focused business owners wanting to build a recognizable brand presence in their region.
| Financial Requirement | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $400,000 – $900,000 |
| Minimum Investment | $400,000+ |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out | $250,000 – $500,000 |
| Equipment & Décor | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Marketing Budget | 2%–3% of gross sales |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of gross sales |
| National Marketing Fund | 1%–2% of gross sales |
| Expected ROI | Within 3–4 years |
| Break-Even Time | 12–24 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in sales, takeout, catering, bar/beverage sales, delivery partnerships |
| Current Franchise Units | 2 (USA) |
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