Barberitos is an American franchise restaurant chain of Mission burrito-inspired restaurants based in Athens, Georgia, United States. As of August 2023[update], 46 Barberitos restaurants are operating in seven southeastern United States.[1] The company name is a portmanteau of Downing Barber, company founder, and burrito, a signature item at Barberitos restaurants.[2] The company mascot is Pepe, a grinning chili pepper wearing dark glasses and clutching a burrito.
| Barberitos | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Restaurant information | |
| Established | February 2000 |
| Owner(s) | WOWorks |
| Previous owner(s) | Downing Barber |
| Food type | Tex-Mex |
| Country | United States |
| Other information | As of August 2023, there are 46 franchise agreements for Barberitos in the Southeastern US. |
| Website | www |
The idea of the restaurant developed when Barber tried eating a healthy diet without a budget, while noticing a restaurant in Aspen, Colorado serving fresh food to customers. After realizing his dissatisfaction with working in a corporate career, he decided to pursue building a restaurant in Athens. At first, the business struggled, then skyrocketed after a football game between University of Georgia and University of Tennessee. On February 20, 2020, Barberitos celebrated its 20th anniversary.[3]
The original Barberitos in downtown Athens opened in 2000. Franchising for the company began in 2002.[1] In 2019, NFL player and UGA alum David Pollack joined Barberitos as the brand's ambassador.[4]
References
edit- ^ a b Lerch, Denali (February 19, 2020). "Barberitos to celebrate its 20th anniversary on Feb. 20". The Red and Black. Retrieved 2020-09-02.
- ^ Ketron, Jamie (2014-02-20). "Barberitos Opens Second Location "Campus Barbs" near ETSU". Mitch Cox Companies. Retrieved 2020-09-02.
- ^ O'Donnell, Caitlin (February 18, 2020). "Barberitos: A fresh take on food that's grown in 20 years". Athens Banner-Herald. Archived from the original on 2020-02-19. Retrieved 2020-09-02.
- ^ "ESPN's David Pollack Named Barberitos Brand Ambassador". QSR magazine. Retrieved 2020-09-02.
