In 1990, Baja Fresh was opened as an all-fresh traditional Mexican grill.  They pride themselves on being much different than all the other fast food joints that are out there.  Jim and Linda Magglos started the company with a third mortgage against their home.  They began in Conejo Valley, California and they have grown to an entire chain of restaurants.  This is considered to be a fast-casual Tex Mex type of restaurant that uses only fresh ingredients.  Their motto was that their customers would never see a can opener, and no microwaves, no freezers, no lard, and no MSG would be used.  They began franchising in 1995 and in 1998 Greg Dollarhyde took control of the company.  It grew from 45 locations to 249 stores within a year.  Baja Fresh was bought by Wendy’s International in 2002 for $275 million.

The menu at Baja Fresh features fresh ingredients that are sued to make Burritos, Tacos, Salads, Soups, Sides, and Desserts. They also have a section that is known as the Baja Favorites and it features Quesadilla, Nachos, Chicken Taquitos, and Fajitas.  They only use quality meats, produce, and salsa that are made with a bold flavor for their entrees.  One of the things that set them apart from many other choices is that they grill their tortillas, which is different than many others and they have a fresh salsa bar as well.  They are most well-known for making everything to order and using the freshest ingredients they can find.

Baja Fresh has many franchise opportunities for those that want to own their own restaurant.  More than 50% of their stores are franchises and they are across 15 different states.  They have markets available in both the United States and internationally as well.  In order to invest in a franchise one must have $200,000 of liquid cash and a net worth of at least a half million dollars.  Restaurant experience is also required and a franchise fee of $50,000 along with a 5% royalty fee.  The franchise agreement is for 10 years and there are some limitations on how a Baja Fresh franchise can be sold and who it can be sold to as well.