Baja Fresh

Baja Fresh is a chain of fast-casual restaurants specializing in Mexican cuisine. Founded in Newbury Park, California in 1990, the restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and made-to-order dishes. Baja Fresh operates numerous locations across the United States and has expanded internationally.

History

Baja Fresh was established by Jim and Linda Magglos in 1990. The first restaurant opened in Newbury Park, California. The concept was to provide fresh, flavorful Mexican food in a fast-casual setting, distinguishing itself from traditional fast food chains by emphasizing fresh ingredients and a lack of freezers, microwaves, and can openers in their kitchens.

In 2002, the company was acquired by Wendy's International, Inc., which aimed to expand the brand. However, in 2006, Wendy's sold Baja Fresh to a private equity firm, Cypress Group, for $31 million. The chain has since changed ownership multiple times, with its most recent acquisition by MTY Food Group in 2016.

Menu

Baja Fresh's menu features a variety of Mexican-inspired dishes, including burritos, tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, and salads. The restaurant is known for its self-serve salsa bar, which offers a range of salsas from mild to spicy. Popular items include the Baja Burrito, Baja Bowl, and the Baja Ensalada.

The chain emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients, with food prepared on-site daily. Baja Fresh does not use lard, MSG, or margarine in its cooking, catering to health-conscious consumers.

Locations

Baja Fresh has locations across the United States, with a significant presence in California, Texas, and the Mid-Atlantic region. The chain has also expanded internationally, with locations in Dubai and Singapore.

Corporate Affairs

The headquarters of Baja Fresh is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The company operates under the parent company MTY Food Group, which owns a variety of other restaurant brands.

See Also

• Mexican cuisine
• Fast-casual restaurant
• List of Mexican restaurants