Franchising

Chef Rick Bayless opening concept via Kitchen United

Provided

August 19, 2020

Tortas Frontera, the Chicago O'Hare airport brand created by Chef Rick Bayless, will start serving downtown Chicagoans next week through a partnership with kitchen-as-a-service company Kitchen United. Customers may order the locally sourced Mexican specialties via pickup and delivery from Kitchen United's near north side location, but pickup and delivery will also be available at Tortazo at Willis Tower — a sister brand of Tortas Frontera. Between the two locations, Tortas Frontera's delivery radius will cover the majority of downtown Chicago, according to a company press release.

"Over the years, I have met countless people who have shared their deep love and gratitude for Tortas Frontera, many even routing their flights through O'Hare in order to enjoy their favorite torta," Bayless said. "During this time of reduced travel, I'm thrilled to partner with Kitchen United to bring Tortas Frontera to Chicago residents where they live and work."

Bayless, who founded Frontera Grill and Topolobampo, said he created Tortas Frontera to share the Mexican flavors that he is known for in a fast casual format ideal for the digital ordering, pickup and delivery model required in today's COVID operating environment.

"We're honored to have Chef Bayless' Tortas Frontera concept in our Chicago Kitchen Center," said Jim Collins, CEO of Kitchen United. "Restaurant models are evolving to meet growing consumer demand for off-premise dining. Tortas Frontera is part of a truly iconic Chicago restaurant family. It's fun to be able to offer the city food from such a great brand through our Kitchen Center."

Located at Kitchen United MIX at 831 N. Sedgwick St., Tortas Frontera is surrounded by residential development and a strong millennial and Gen Z population, according to the release.