Top 8 Mexican Fast Food Chains in Australia

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Mexican Food Chains in Australia

Australia has embraced a diverse culinary culture, and Mexican food is no exception. Many Australians have developed a love for Mexican dishes, and because of this, Mexican franchises have gained momentum, establishing their presence across the country. From fast food chains to warm and welcoming dine-in restaurants, the demand for Mexican food is rapidly growing in Australia. As a sequel to our post on the Top Fast-Growing Fast Food Franchise Chains in Australia, this blog post will inform you of some of the most popular Mexican food franchises that have made an impact in Australian restaurants. We’ll discuss the opportunities they present to investors, franchisees, and customers, as well as their unique offerings.

Mad Mex

Mad Mex is a well-known name in the Australian fast food chain, particularly in Mexican cuisine. Since its inception in 2007, led by CEO Clovis Young, the franchise has focused on offering real Mexican flavours with home-cooked quality.

With 71 locations across New South Wales, Mad Mex is the favourite destination for those craving fresh, high-quality Mexican food. Their menu includes burritos, tacos, and nachos, all made with real ingredients to cater to the growing demand for nutritious yet flavorful meals.

For aspiring franchises, the initial investment for a Mad Mex restaurant starts at $300,000, depending on factors such as location, size, and format. Ongoing fees include a 6% royalty and a 3% marketing levy, both calculated from gross monthly sales (GST exclusive).

Within Australia, the company offers franchising opportunities in New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC), Queensland (QLD), and Western Australia (WA). Beyond Australia’s borders, the franchise has extended its reach to select countries like Malaysia, Singapore, and New Zealand.

The company offers comprehensive support to its franchise partners, including a 6-week training programme that consists of 5 weeks of in-restaurant training followed by a week of administrative training at the Sydney Head Office. Beyond initial training, Mad Mex assists with important aspects of business setup and operation, such as site selection, team recruitment, local area marketing, and ongoing IT support. Each franchisee is also assigned a Regional Operations Manager to provide coaching and guidance during the establishment phase.

As Mad Mex continues to expand its footprint across Australia, it represents a promising investment opportunity for those looking to enter the fast food industry with a focus on quality, health, and authentic Mexican flavours.

You can find out more about Mad Mex here

Taco Bell

Taco Bell, a globally known Mexican-inspired fast-food chain, has made a significant impact on the Australian food chain since its reentry into the market in 2018. This marks a successful comeback after a brief presence in the 1980s, demonstrating the brand’s resilience and adaptability to changing consumer preferences.

Founded in 1997 by CEO Glen Bell, Taco Bell has its Australian headquarters in Hamilton, Queensland. The brand is celebrated for its diverse menu, which includes classic Mexican-inspired dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, all offered at affordable prices. This combination of flavour, affordability, and convenience has resonated well with Australian consumers seeking quick and satisfying meals.

Since its 2018 relaunch, Taco Bell has experienced steady growth in Australia, establishing 39 locations across key urban centres, including Melbourne and various cities in New South Wales. The initial franchise fee for Taco Bell ranges from just $25,000 to $45,000 per location, a royalty fee of 5.5%, and an initial investment fee that ranges from $575,600 to $3,370,100.

For franchisees, Taco Bell presents an appealing franchise opportunity. Taco Bell’s established reputation in the fast-food industry, combined with the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine in Australia, positions it as an attractive option for those looking to enter the competitive restaurant market with a well-known international brand.

You can find out more about Taco Bell here

Zambrero

Zambrero has carved out a unique name in the Australian fast-food chain since its founding in 2005. More than just a Mexican-inspired chain, Zambrero distinguishes itself through its commitment to social responsibility, embodied in its “feel good” philosophy.

Founded by Dr Sam Prince and led by CEO Matthew Kenny in Australia, Zambrero combines the appeal of fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine with a powerful social mission. The brand’s Plate 4 Plate initiative exemplifies this commitment: for every burrito or bowl sold, Zambrero donates a meal to someone in need, allowing customers to directly contribute to fighting global hunger through their dining choices.

With over 200 locations across Australia, Zambrero has established a significant presence in the market.

For potential franchisees, Zambrero offers a unique investment opportunity. The initial cost to open a Zambrero restaurant ranges from $400,000 to $650,000 (excluding GST), covering franchise fees, training, restaurant fit-out, equipment, and opening stock. Ongoing fees include a 7% franchise fee and a 3% marketing fee, both calculated from monthly sales.

Zambrero supports its franchisees with a comprehensive 4-week training and induction programme, ensuring new owners are well-prepared to operate their restaurants successfully. This support, combined with Zambrero’s established marketing strategies and strong brand recognition, provides a solid foundation for franchisees.

The brand’s focus on fresh ingredients and healthy options aligns well with the growing consumer demand for nutritious fast-food alternatives. This positioning, along with its ethical business model, makes Zambrero an attractive option for entrepreneurs who aim to run a profitable business while making a positive impact on society.

In essence, Zambrero offers more than just a franchise opportunity; it provides a chance to be part of a movement that combines successful business practices with meaningful social change, appealing to both socially conscious consumers and purpose-driven investors.

You can find out more about Zambrero here

Guzman y Gomez

Guzman y Gomez (GYG) has established itself as a leading Mexican food franchise in Australia since its inception in 2006. Founded by Steven Marks and Robert Hazan, GYG has changed the fast-food chain by offering unique Mexican cuisine with convenience.

The brand’s rapid expansion is evident in its impressive network of over 135 locations across Australia. GYG’s menu showcases a variety of Mexican favourites, from burritos to enchiladas, all crafted with a commitment to using high-quality, fresh ingredients. This dedication to authenticity and quality has helped GYG cultivate a loyal customer base and strong brand recognition.

Since beginning its franchising journey in 2010, GYG has become an attractive proposition for potential franchisees. The investment required to open a GYG franchise ranges from $576,500 to $1,376,500, reflecting the brand’s commitment to maintaining high standards across all locations. This investment includes an initial franchise fee of $60,000.

Ongoing fees for GYG franchisees consist of a marketing levy of 3-4% and royalties of 8%, both calculated from sales.

GYG provides comprehensive support to its franchisees, including an extensive 12-week training program. This thorough preparation ensures that new franchise owners are well-equipped to maintain the brand’s high standards and operate their businesses effectively.

For franchisees looking to enter the food service industry, GYG offers a compelling franchise opportunity. The combination of a strong brand identity, a proven business model, and the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine in Australia positions GYG franchises for potential success.

You can find out more about GYG here

Salsas Fresh Mex

Salsas Fresh Mex has established itself as a prominent player in Australia’s Mexican fast-food market. As part of the Retail Zoo group, which includes other successful brands like Boost Juice and Betty’s Burgers, Salsas benefits from strong corporate backing and expertise in the food service industry.

Under the leadership of Nishad Alani, CEO of Retail Zoo, Salsas has grown into a beloved brand known for its exquisite menu and commitment to fresh, fast meals. Headquartered in Chadstone, Victoria, the franchise has been expanding since 2008, offering many kinds of Mexican-inspired dishes, from burritos to nachos, all prepared with high-quality, fresh ingredients.

For potential franchisees, the initial investment ranges from $430,000 to $650,000, reflecting the brand’s commitment to maintaining high standards across its locations. While the initial franchise fee is not publicly disclosed, ongoing fees include a 3% marketing fee and 7% royalties, both calculated from sales.

Salsas provides comprehensive support to its franchisees, including a 4-week training program. This training ensures that new franchise owners are well-prepared to operate their businesses effectively and maintain the brand’s standards of quality and service.

What sets Salsas apart in the competitive fast-food landscape is its positioning as a leader in the “fresh mex” category. This niche appeals to customers seeking a balance between quality Mexican-inspired cuisine and convenient, quick-service dining. The brand’s focus on fresh ingredients resonates with health-conscious consumers while still delivering on taste and satisfaction.

For entrepreneurs looking to enter the food service industry, Salsas Fresh Mex offers a compelling package: a recognised brand, a focus on quality and freshness, and the support of an experienced parent company. These factors, combined with the continuing popularity of Mexican cuisine in Australia, position Salsas franchises as an interesting prospect in the competitive fast-food sector.

You can find out more about Salsas Fresh Mix here

The Burrito Bar

The Burrito Bar has rapidly established itself as a standout Mexican-inspired fast-food chain in Australia since its inception in 2011.

Under the leadership of General Manager Shaun Butcher, The Burrito Bar has expanded to 31 locations across Australia. Headquartered in Carseldine, Queensland, the chain began offering franchise opportunities in 2013, capitalising on the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine in the country.

The Burrito Bar’s menu features a diverse array of Mexican-inspired dishes, including burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, all prepared with a focus on fresh ingredients. This commitment to quality, combined with a vibrant dining atmosphere, has helped the brand attract a broad customer base.

For prospective franchisees, their initial investment ranges from $500,000 to $800,000, with an initial franchise fee of $30,000. The brand offers a unique tiered structure for ongoing fees:

Year 1: 4% marketing fee and 5% royalties
Year 2: 3% marketing fee and 6% royalties
Year 3 onwards: 2% marketing fee and 7% royalties

This graduated fee structure potentially allows new franchisees to establish their business with lower ongoing costs in their early years.

The Burrito Bar provides comprehensive support to its franchise partners, including a robust 9-week training programme.

A key strength of The Burrito Bar’s franchise model is its flexibility. The brand offers various operational formats, including kiosk, full restaurant, and takeaway options. This versatility allows franchisees to adapt to different locations and market demands, potentially increasing their chances of success.

For entrepreneurs looking to enter the food service industry, The Burrito Bar offers several compelling advantages. These include a recognised brand name, a proven business model, and the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine in Australia.

You can find out more about Burrito Bar here

Del Taco

Del Taco, while not yet a dominant force in Australia’s Mexican fast-food landscape, is an emerging player with significant potential. Founded in 1964, Del Taco has built a reputation for offering a unique fusion of traditional Mexican cuisine and American fast-food favourites, setting it apart from its competitors.

Under the leadership of Chief Development Officer Tim Linderman, Del Taco has positioned itself as the second-largest brand in the rapidly growing Mexican quick-service restaurant (QSR) category. The brand’s success is attributed to its commitment to serving freshly prepared, crave-able food at competitive prices, a combination that customers love so much.

As Del Taco expands its presence in Australia, it presents an intriguing investment opportunity for potential franchisees. The estimated initial investment for a Del Taco franchise ranges from $1,312,200 to $3,085,000, reflecting the brand’s commitment to establishing high-quality, well-equipped locations. This investment includes a franchise fee of $35,000 per location.

Ongoing fees for Del Taco franchisees consist of a 5% royalty fee and a 4% advertising fee, both calculated from net sales.

Del Taco’s focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients aligns with growing consumer demand for better-quality fast food. This commitment to freshness, combined with the brand’s value proposition, positions Del Taco to make a significant impact on Australia’s Mexican fast-food scene in the coming years.

For entrepreneurs looking to enter the food service industry, Del Taco offers a compelling franchise opportunity.

While Del Taco may not yet have the same level of brand recognition in Australia as some of its competitors, this could present an opportunity for early adopters to establish a strong presence in their local markets as the brand expands.

You can find out more about Del Taco’s here

Funky Mexican Cantina

Funky Mexican Cantina offers a fresh and modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine.

Headquartered in Cleveland, Queensland, Funky Mexican Cantina began its franchising journey in 2017. The brand has since established a growing presence across Australia, with three locations in New South Wales, two in Victoria, and one in Queensland.

Funky Mexican Cantina is known for its lively, laid-back atmosphere that complements its menu of traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, authentic ingredients aligns with the growing “fresh mex” trend, appealing to health-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on flavour or experience.

For potential franchisees, the initial investment ranges from $450,000 to $650,000.

While specific details about ongoing fees and training programmes are not provided, the brand’s focus on fresh ingredients and vibrant dining experiences suggests a commitment to maintaining high standards across its franchise network.

What sets Funky Mexican Cantina apart in the competitive fast-food landscape is its emphasis on creating a unique dining atmosphere. The brand goes beyond just serving food; it offers customers an experience, combining the casual nature of fast food with the lively ambience of a cantina.

While Funky Mexican Cantina may not yet have the same level of brand recognition as some larger chains, this could present an opportunity for franchisees to establish a strong presence in their local markets as the brand continues to grow.

You can find out more about Funky Mexican Cantina here

Parting Words

There you have it, the top 8 Mexican fast food chains in Australia, gaining momentum and providing quality meals and investment opportunities to Australians. As specialist franchise accountants, we have curated this list to help you make an informed decision before picking the franchise that appeals to you. Moreso, if you need more information on what franchising is all about and the information you might need to check, feel free to contact us for a one-on-one section with our experts today.

FAQS

What makes Mexican food chains popular in Australia?

Mexican food chains have gained immense popularity in Australia due to their healthy Mexican options and vibrant flavors. These chains cater to customer demand by offering fresh, authentic meals that are quick and convenient. Additionally, many of these chains operate as quick service restaurants, allowing customers to grab a meal on the go. The adaptability of these chains and their focus on innovation have solidified their presence in the Australian food market.

How do Mexican food franchises operate in Australia?

Mexican food franchises in Australia operate under the leadership of a franchisor, who provides the guidelines for brand consistency and operations. Each franchise typically receives ongoing updates on the menu and ordering systems, including integration with an app to facilitate smoother customer experiences. The franchise system allows for profitability through streamlined operations and the ability to scale across various restaurant brands and locations, making it a lucrative option for those looking to invest in the fast-food industry.

What sets Mexican fast-food restaurants apart from others in Australia?

Mexican fast-food restaurants stand out in Australia due to their commitment to using fresh ingredients and delivering bold flavors. Many of these restaurants are constantly evolving to meet customer demand, often introducing innovative menu items like chicken burritos and healthy Mexican dishes. The combination of traditional Mexican cuisine with modern twists has helped these chains become a household names in the fast-food industry.

How do Mexican restaurants in Australia meet customer demand?

Mexican restaurants in Australia meet customer demand by offering a wide variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Many chains have adopted quick service restaurant models that allow for efficient ordering processes, often with the help of a branded app. The ability to continuously update their menus and incorporate feedback from guests ensures that these restaurants remain relevant and successful in a constantly evolving market.

What is the future of Mexican food chains in Australia?

The future of Mexican food chains in Australia looks promising as they continue to expand and attract new investors. With many franchises now announcing plans to take a larger stake in the restaurant industry, the sector is seeing substantial growth. This expansion is supported by strong funding and a focus on innovation, ensuring that Mexican food chains remain a dominant force in Australia’s fast-food landscape for years to come.

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