Established
2003
Franchise Units
20
Minimum Investment
$350,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$700,000
Home Based
No
Description
Maui Tacos is a vibrant fast-casual restaurant franchise that blends the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the fresh, island-inspired taste of Hawaii. Known for its signature sweet-savory sauces, flame-grilled proteins, and laid-back surf culture vibe, Maui Tacos has carved out a unique niche in the highly competitive quick-service restaurant (QSR) segment.
The brand offers a colorful menu featuring tacos, burritos, bowls, quesadillas, and salads infused with tropical flavors like pineapple, mango, and citrus-based marinades. This fusion approach allows Maui Tacos to stand apart from traditional taco chains while appealing to modern consumers seeking fresh, flavorful, and customizable meals.
With a scalable business model, streamlined kitchen operations, and strong off-premise sales potential, Maui Tacos is positioned as an attractive franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the fast-casual dining space with a differentiated, lifestyle-driven brand.
Why Invest in the Maui Tacos Franchise?
Maui Tacos presents a compelling investment opportunity for franchisees seeking a recognizable concept with operational efficiency and broad customer appeal.
Key reasons investors choose Maui Tacos include:
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Distinctive Fusion Concept: Hawaiian-Mexican cuisine creates strong brand differentiation in crowded food markets.
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Fast-Casual Growth Segment: Positioned in one of the fastest-growing categories within the restaurant industry.
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Efficient Operations: Limited menu complexity, fast ticket times, and reduced labor requirements.
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Strong Branding: Surf-inspired aesthetics, bold colors, and a relaxed island culture resonate with younger demographics.
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Dine-In, Takeout & Delivery Friendly: Menu performs well across in-store, online ordering, and third-party delivery platforms.
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Multi-Unit Potential: Well-suited for area developers and multi-unit operators.
Background
Established Year: 2003
Founders: Dan Murray
Industry Category: Fast Casual Restaurant / Mexican-Hawaiian Fusion
Maui Tacos was founded in 2003 with the vision of combining the flavors of the islands with classic Mexican street food. The brand quickly gained popularity for its proprietary sauces, flame-grilled meats, and casual surf-inspired atmosphere.
From its early beginnings, Maui Tacos focused on delivering consistent food quality, strong branding, and a simplified operating system that could be replicated across markets. Over the years, the brand expanded through franchising and established a presence in multiple U.S. states, particularly in high-traffic suburban and urban locations.
Today, Maui Tacos continues to grow as a fast-casual franchise, attracting customers looking for bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a relaxed dining experience. The brand appeals to families, college students, professionals, and health-conscious diners alike.
Franchise Active Units (Current Number): Approximately 20+ locations across the United States
Support Training
Maui Tacos offers comprehensive franchise support designed to help new owners launch confidently and operate efficiently.
Pre-Launch Support
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Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
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Lease review and restaurant layout planning
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Equipment specifications and vendor sourcing
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Assistance with permits and licensing
Training Program
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In-depth initial training covering food preparation, operations, and quality control
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POS system training and inventory management
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Employee hiring, onboarding, and scheduling best practices
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Brand standards and customer experience training
Operational Support
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Ongoing field support and performance reviews
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Standardized recipes and operating procedures
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Supply chain coordination and approved vendors
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Menu innovation and seasonal promotions
Marketing & Brand Support
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National and local marketing strategy guidance
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Digital marketing tools and social media templates
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Grand opening marketing assistance
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Ongoing brand campaigns and promotions
Ideal Candidate
Maui Tacos is well-suited for entrepreneurs who are passionate about food, hospitality, and lifestyle brands.
Ideal candidates typically include:
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First-time business owners with strong management skills
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Experienced restaurant or QSR operators
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Multi-unit franchise investors
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Hands-on owner-operators or semi-absentee investors
Key traits include:
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Passion for customer service and food quality
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Ability to manage teams and daily operations
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Financial capability to meet investment requirements
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Interest in developing one or multiple locations
The brand performs best in high-visibility retail corridors, urban centers, college towns, and suburban trade areas with strong lunch and dinner traffic.
Financial Detail
| Financial Category | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $350,000 – $700,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | ~$350,000 |
| Build-Out & Leasehold Improvements | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment & Fixtures | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| POS System & Technology | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $40,000 – $80,000 |
| Royalty Fee | ~6% of Gross Sales |
| National / Brand Marketing Fee | ~2% of Gross Sales |
| Franchise Term | 10 Years (Renewable) |
| Expected Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 Months |
| Typical Unit Size | 1,200 – 2,000 sq. ft. |
| Franchise Active Units (Current) | 20+ Locations (USA) |