Minnesota fresh-Mex concept acquired and set for regional expansion

MINNEAPOLIS — An independently owned and operated fast-casual concept called Baja Sol has been acquired by a group of Minnesota businessmen. The group said it will operate under the name Baja Sol Restaurants Group.

 

"We saw the potential of the concept," said Bill Cooper, partner of the group and former chief executive of TCF Financial Corp. "And we know with the right plan and capitalization, we can take this popular local brand and turn it into a strong regional, even national competitor."

 

Baja Sol was established in the Twin Cities in the mid-1990s, but has not moved outside the area. The restaurant's new owners believe they can take advantage of the national popularity for the fast-casual Mexican concept, which includes the likes of Chipotle, Moe's Southwest Grill and Baja Fresh.

 

"The burrito is the hamburger of the 21^st Century," said Tony Sutton, partner of the restaurant.

 

There are six corporate stores in the Minneapolis area. Cooper said they "have a great selection of franchise models to offer to potential franchisees."