ALEXANDRIA, Va.—Americans eat more than 4.5 billion tacos a year, and the global taco market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.76% by 2027, reports Mashed, which listed 12 taco chains that are booming.
Taco John’s has nearly 400 locations across 23 states and is planning a big expansion and a revamped menu. Over the next three years, it plans to open 80 stores with several already planned to open in places like Milwaukee, Massachusetts, Louisville and the Grand Rapids area. The taco chain was recently in the news after Taco Bell filed a petition with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to cancel the trademark “Taco Tuesday,” which is owned by Taco John’s.
Del Taco is popular on the West Coast and was recently purchased by San Diego-based Jack in the Box Inc. for $585 million. After the acquisition, Jack in the Box CEO Darin Harris said, "This is a natural combination of two like-minded, challenger brands with outstanding growth opportunities." Since the acquisition, Del Taco has introduced several plans to expand and update its menu.
Dallas-based Rusty Taco has obtained backing from Inspire Brands (parent company of Arby's) and has future growth plans. The company has already signed several franchise agreements to expand into states like Utah, Virginia and Nevada and add other locations in Texas.
Capital Tacos, which began in Land O' Lakes, Florida, has been highly rated, including ranking in the top 3 of best tacos in America by Business Insider. The chain has four locations in Florida, but it’s targeting more states for expansion, including Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Also based in Texas, Taco Cabana, is popular in the state with around 150 units. The chain was recently acquired by Yadav Enterprises for $85 million in 2021, and owner Anil Yadav wants to open more than 1,000 units over the next five to 10 years outside of Texas.
Chronic Tacos first opened in Orange County, California and became famous for its 13-inch "monster" burritos, tacos al pastor, carne asada fries, and California burritos. There are currently 50 locations across the U.S., Canada and Japan, but the company is aiming for 300-500 units worldwide.
See what other taco joints made Mashable’s list.
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