Chronic Tacos Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Chronic Tacos is a vibrant fast-casual Mexican restaurant franchise that embodies the laid-back spirit of Southern California. Known for its bold flavors and fully customizable tacos, burritos, and bowls, the brand celebrates what it calls the “taco life” — a mix of fun, flavor, and community.
Established in 2002 in Newport Beach, California, by Randy Wyner and Dan Biello, the company now operates from its headquarters in Aliso Viejo, California. After launching its franchise program in 2006, Chronic Tacos has grown beyond its local roots, expanding to numerous locations across the United States, Canada, and Japan.
Its menu is inspired by third-generation authentic Mexican recipes, featuring dishes such as tacos, burritos, tostada bowls, and carne asada fries — all made to order with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
What makes Chronic Tacos stand out is its fusion of flavorful Mexican cuisine with the cool, surf-and-street art culture of Southern California. Each restaurant blends artistic décor, relaxed service, and a strong emphasis on customization, creating not just a dining option but a distinctive, experience-driven brand.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Chronic Tacos franchise? It costs on average between $284,000 – $884,000 to start a Chronic Tacos franchised restaurant.
This investment covers expenses such as building and construction, kitchen equipment, inventory, and other startup costs needed to launch operations. The total amount can vary depending on factors like restaurant format, geographic location, and whether the franchisee leases or purchases the site for their Chronic Tacos restaurant.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Permits and Licenses | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Leasehold Construction | $110,000 – $475,000 |
| Signage | $7,500 – $10,000 |
| POS System/Audio/Video/Digital Menus | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Equipment and Furniture | $70,000 – $200,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Uniforms | $500 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Taco Restaurant Premises (Lease Deposit and First 3 Months’ Rent) | $15,000 – $48,000 |
| Insurance – Liability & Workers’ Compensation (Initial Deposit) | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Legal Fees/Organizational Expenses | $2,000 – $5,500 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 Months) | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Grand Total | $284,000 – $884,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Chronic Tacos locations are there?
As of the latest data, Chronic Tacos operates 31 restaurant locations across the United States, Canada, and Japan.
What is the total investment required to open a Chronic Tacos franchise?
The total investment required to open a Chronic Tacos franchise ranges from $284,000 to $884,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Chronic Tacos franchise?
Franchisees of Chronic Tacos are required to pay ongoing fees that include a royalty fee of 6% of gross sales and a marketing or advertising fee of 2% of gross sales. These continuing fees contribute to brand support, national marketing initiatives, and ongoing operational assistance provided by the franchisor.
Who owns Chronic Tacos?
The franchise is owned by Chronic Tacos Enterprises, Inc., a privately held company based in Aliso Viejo, California.
Disclaimer
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