Fast-growing birria restaurant franchise Mike’s Red Tacos has appointed Patrick Cunningham as its new Chief Development Officer (CDO), reinforcing the company’s leadership team as it accelerates its nationwide franchise expansion strategy. The appointment follows the brand’s recent franchising initiative and continued development momentum across the United States.
Cunningham brings more than 25 years of franchise development and quick-service restaurant (QSR) experience to the San Diego-based brand. In his new role, he will oversee franchise development, market expansion, franchisee recruitment, and long-term growth strategy while helping strengthen relationships with current and prospective operators.
Before joining Mike’s Red Tacos, Cunningham served as Chief Development Officer at Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay. Earlier, he was Vice President of U.S. Development at Little Caesars and spent more than two decades in senior development roles with Dunkin’ and Inspire Brands, building extensive expertise in scaling restaurant franchise systems.
“I’ve been incredibly impressed by the Mike’s Red Tacos brand and the momentum the team has built so far. There’s a strong foundation, backed by an experienced and forward-thinking leadership team that knows how to successfully scale a concept,” said Cunningham. He added: “Birria is bringing real excitement to the fast casual segment, and Mike’s Red Tacos delivers with its authentic and craveable menu that resonates with guests. I look forward to building on the energy driving the company’s growth and growing the brand in new cities nationwide.”
The executive appointment comes as Mike’s Red Tacos expands its leadership bench under recently appointed President Vincent Montanelli, a restaurant industry veteran who previously spent nearly two decades in leadership roles at Wetzel’s Pretzels. The company believes the combination of Montanelli’s operational expertise and Cunningham’s franchise development background positions the brand for its next phase of growth.
“We’re entering an incredible new chapter with our recent franchising growth initiative, and Patrick possesses the expertise that will help bring the Mike’s Red Tacos growth vision to life,” said Montanelli. “Patrick has an impressive track record and shares our enthusiasm for the brand. We’re thrilled to have him on board and are confident he’ll prove to new communities that ‘the dip really is worth the drip.'”
Rapidly Growing Birria Franchise
Founded by Mike Touma, Mike’s Red Tacos began as a single San Diego food truck in 2021, inspired by the growing popularity of authentic Mexican birria. Following the success of its mobile operation, the company opened its first brick-and-mortar restaurant and has since expanded into a fast-growing franchise concept centred on its signature slow-cooked beef birria tacos, consommé dipping sauce, and distinctive brand identity.
The company says its restaurants have built a strong following among Millennial and Gen Z consumers, driven by authentic Mexican flavours, social-media-friendly menu items and an engaging guest experience. Its tagline, “The Dip Is Worth the Drip,” has become synonymous with the brand’s signature birria offerings.
Mike’s Red Tacos has recently launched an aggressive franchising program aimed at experienced multi-unit operators and restaurant entrepreneurs. According to the company, more than 200 franchise locations are currently in the pipeline, reflecting strong interest in the emerging fast-casual Mexican concept. The brand is actively seeking franchise partners with proven operational and business experience to support nationwide expansion.
Cunningham’s appointment is expected to play a central role in executing that strategy by identifying new markets, supporting franchise development, and helping scale operations while maintaining the brand’s focus on quality, hospitality and authentic Mexican cuisine.
