Taqueria del Sol has established a wholly-owned subsidiary, Taqueria del Sol Development, LLC (TDSD), to franchise its 10-year-old successful restaurant brand that features a winning combination of a simple menu with eclectic and flavorful dishes that have kept fans of the restaurant returning day after day.

While the menu is driven by southwestern cuisine, many of the dishes feature cross-cultural flair with the spice of Mexican, the boldness of southwestern, and the comfort of southern cuisines. Taqueria del Sol has a full bar in each location, and in addition to a distinctive selection of bottled beers, Taqueria del Sol boasts an expansive tequila list, specialty margaritas, and a “build-your-own margarita” option.

Equally responsible for the long-term success of the concept are the well-designed systems and procedures which enable Taqueria del Sol to deliver its food and service efficiently and consistently. These systems will also serve to differentiate the concept from other fast-casual operators and assist franchisees in delivering the same compelling experiences in their markets.

Bill Burnett has been named president and chief operating officer of TDSD. Burnett is an industry veteran, having worked for 38 years in executive capacities with a number of established and reputable companies including Houston’s, Roy’s Restaurants, and The Capital Grille, as well as having five years experience in franchise operations.

Founder and Taqueria del Sol CEO Mike Klank retains control of the four existing company-owned restaurants and the company’s purchasing, manufacturing, and distribution operation for future franchise restaurants. Klank came to Atlanta to attend Georgia Institute of Technology, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, and then later went on to earn a master’s degree in business administration from Georgia State University. He has a multifaceted background, including extensive food and beverage experience. Klank oversees the day-to-day operations and business development, and it’s his expertise that is truly the foundation for the well-oiled machine that is Taqueria del Sol.

“Over the past several years, we have fielded many calls regarding franchising,” Klank says. “We plan to be very selective in the awarding of franchises and will insist franchisees have prior operating experience, combined with the necessary financial resources to support a successful program. Taqueria del Sol has a strong market reputation to maintain, and we are only interested in adding franchisees who will enhance that reputation.”

Franchises will be offered for both new, build-to-suit restaurants, and conversion of other restaurants to Taqueria del Sols. Multi-unit development, with rare exceptions for single-unit development, will be offered in selected markets, namely metropolitan areas, to qualified franchisees.

All existing and future locations within the state of Georgia will be company-owned. Taqueria del Sol will not provide nor guarantee any financing but will refer qualified franchisees to financial institutions.

Taqueria del Sol is truly one of a kind, juxtaposing the quality of fine dining ingredients against fast-casual prices, and offering authentic southwestern selections as well as a variety of Southern-inspired menu choices. Corporate Chef Eddie Hernandez, originally from Monterrey, Mexico, is the mastermind behind the menu.

Hernandez is motivated by a strong desire to continue learning and to stay ahead of the culinary curve. The chef spends a large part of his time researching new ways to combine ingredients and concepts. Favorite dishes at Taqueria del Sol include the fish taco, the shrimp and corn chowder, and the turnip greens. Taqueria del Sol also keeps followers coming with the rotation of weekly blue plate, seafood, and taco specials.

Taqueria del Sol’s public relations and marketing is handled by Green Olive Media, a marketing, public relations, and graphic design firm specializing in the food and beverage, retail, and municipal industries. The company was named by I.D. Magazine as one of the most recommended branding firms in the southeast. Green Olive Media can be reached by phone at 404-815-9327. Visit www.greenolivemedia.com for more information.

Information regarding Taqueria del Sol Franchising Company can be obtained by calling Burnett at 732-747–2763 or emailing bill@taqueriadelsol.com. For more information visit www.taqueriadelsol.com.