(LAKE FOREST, CA) July 17, 2012 – Del Taco is setting its sights on Abilene, Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland and Odessa as the next growth targets in Texas as it continues its steady, fast-moving march through the state. Since first announcing plans to open its popular restaurants in Texas in 2010, Del Taco now has more than a dozen locations throughout the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex and Houston.

“Texans have embraced Del Taco’s bolder flavors and fresher food, and our franchise partners clearly see we’re the better choice when compared with anything available in the quick-service category,” said Paul Murphy, Del Taco CEO. “We are looking forward to continuing to expand across the state.”

The company is planning 2 -3 locations for the cities of Abilene, Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland and Odessa for about 14 more restaurants in Texas. Each restaurant will employ between 25 – 40 people.

To support its expansion plans, Del Taco is actively seeking experienced franchise partners, particularly operators who want to expand their brand portfolio with an established successful Mexican quick-serve concept. Over the past year, the company has signed development agreements with franchise groups in Dallas, Ft. Worth and Houston.

According to Murphy, the communities of Abilene, Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland and Odessa are prime for Del Taco’s quality and variety of food, value and convenience. Del Taco prepares all menu items to order using fresh ingredients including cheddar cheese grated from 40-pound blocks, hand-made pico de gallo salsa, slow-cooked, lard free beans and marinated chicken grilled in the restaurant.

Del Taco’s menu features popular Mexican items including tacos, burritos, quesadillas and nachos as well as American favorites such as cooked-to-order burgers, crinkle cut fries and handmade shakes. Del Taco locations in Texas also feature a salsa bar.

“In Texas, Del Taco has appealed to students, families, professionals and everyone in between,” added Murphy. “Our raving fans tell us that Del Taco’s varied menu, new building designs, and overall experience make us a bolder, fresher, better choice.”

Del Taco also serves breakfast and most restaurants are open 24 hours with a drive thru. Additional information franchising requirements is available at http://www.deltacofranchise.com

Del Taco has more than 540 restaurants in 17 states.

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