Cilantro Taco Grill Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Cilantro Taco Grill was established in 2013 by Temoc Morfin in the Stone Park neighborhood of Chicago. Inspired by his father, “Don Javi” Morfin, who came to the United States from Guadalajara, Jalisco, the concept started as a family-owned taqueria dedicated to serving authentic Mexican flavors.
A decade later, in 2023, the company introduced its franchise program, bringing on experienced industry partners to fuel national expansion. The brand’s very first franchised restaurant opened in Wheeling, Illinois, symbolizing a new chapter in its growth.
The menu highlights traditional recipes from Jalisco, with a focus on tacos, burritos, and freshly made salsas that reflect the Morfin family’s culinary heritage.
What sets Cilantro Taco Grill apart is its unwavering dedication to authenticity. Combining genuine Mexican recipes with the efficiency of a fast-casual dining model, the brand emphasizes quality, community engagement, and innovative systems—making it a strong contender in the Mexican fast-casual dining market.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise? It costs on average between $273,000 – $731,000 to start a Cilantro Taco Grill franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as construction, kitchen equipment, inventory, and early operating costs. The total required will vary depending on several factors, including the restaurant format selected, the market location, and whether the property is leased or purchased by the franchisee.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Delayed Opening Fee | $0 – $9,000 |
| Your Training Expenses | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Premises deposits | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Rent – 3 months | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Design and Architect Fees | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| On-Site Location Evaluation | $0 – $500 |
| Leasehold Improvements, Construction and/or Remodeling | $85,000 – $250,000 |
| Equipment, Furniture & Fixtures | $45,000 – $150,000 |
| Interior and Exterior Signage | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Business Licenses and Permits | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Computer Systems | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Computer Systems – Installation and Training | $0 – $2,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Professional Fees | $500 – $1,500 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $15,000 |
| Insurance | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Ancillary Real Estate Costs | $5,000 – $25,000 |
| Third-Party Training | $0 – $4,800 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $25,000 – $100,000 |
| TOTAL | $273,000 – $730,800 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise? A Cilantro Taco Grill franchised restaurant makes on average $1,069,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Cilantro Taco Grill locations are there?
As of the latest data, Cilantro Taco Grill operates 18 company-owned locations in the Chicagoland area.
What is the total investment required to open a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise?
The total investment required to open a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise ranges from $273,000 to $731,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise?
Cilantro Taco Grill franchisees pay a 6% royalty fee plus a 2% marketing/advertising fee on their gross sales.
What are the financial requirements to become a Cilantro Taco Grill franchisee?
To qualify for a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise, prospective investors must demonstrate a minimum net worth of $1,000,000 and have at least $500,000 in liquid capital readily available.
How much can a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Cilantro Taco Grill franchise are approximately $1.07 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.07 million yearly revenue can result in $161,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Cilantro Taco Grill?
Cilantro Taco Grill franchise is owned by the Morfin family, founded by Temoc Morfin and inspired by his father, Javier “Don Javi” Morfin.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.
All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial and/or legal advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.
