Baja Fresh Mexican Grill

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill is a well-regarded fast casual restaurant chain that has carved out a niche with its focus on fresh, made-to-order Mexican cuisine. Founded in 1990 in Newbury Park, California, the brand quickly gained popularity by offering dishes made with farm-fresh produce and grilled proteins, complemented by a unique salsa bar with a variety of house-made salsas. This approach set Baja Fresh apart from more traditional quick-service Mexican restaurants and appealed to consumers looking for healthier and customizable dining options.

After a period of rapid expansion in the 1990s and early 2000s, Baja Fresh was acquired by Wendy’s International in 2002. Under Wendy's ownership, the brand expanded to over 400 locations. However, financial challenges led to a series of ownership changes, culminating in its acquisition by MTY Food Group in 2016. This acquisition integrated Baja Fresh into MTY's diverse portfolio of restaurant concepts.

As of November 2025, Baja Fresh operates 78 locations, primarily concentrated in Southern California and the western United States. The company has adopted a more selective expansion strategy, focusing on operational stability and franchise support rather than aggressive growth. This approach includes renewing existing franchises and exploring targeted opportunities in high-traffic retail centers.

Baja Fresh's menu continues to highlight grilled chicken, steak, fish, and vegetarian options, along with its signature salsa bar and customizable bowls, burritos, and tacos. For commercial real estate professionals, Baja Fresh represents a credible and established tenant. Its proven fast casual format and adaptable store prototypes make it an appealing choice for retail developments looking to include well-known foodservice operators. The chain's steady expansion targets select growth markets while reinforcing its core presence in California and the western United States.