What started as a small operation with big flavors is now an international powerhouse. The story to date is one of ambition and values, in the words of Jeff Young (CDO) though, “We’re just getting started.” 

Barrio Burrito Bar, known as BarBURRITO Inc. in Canada, has taken its homegrown magic and exported it with dazzling success. From 350 bustling locations in Canada to over 900 stores contracted in the United States in a staggeringly short time - this isn’t just a restaurant brand; it’s a unique take on what it means to be in the franchise business. 

With a menu that seamlessly blends bold flavours, diverse options, and fresh, high-quality ingredients, the brand has captured the hearts - and taste buds - of customers across North America. Now, as it embarks on a historic expansion into the U.S. market, with over 900 locations under contract, Barrio Burrito Bar is setting a new standard, both for what a franchise model can achieve and also how it should act. 

The American Executive had the pleasure of sitting down with Jeff Young, Chief Development Officer of BarBURRITO Inc./ Barrio Burrito Bar, exploring the vision behind this meteoric growth, the challenges of maintaining excellence at scale, and the brand’s exciting plans for the future. Young, a veteran of the franchise industry, has been instrumental in steering Barrio Burrito Bar through its most ambitious chapter yet, blending decades of expertise with a passion for fostering meaningful partnerships. 

It’s not just about the food (though we are certainly fans!); it’s about the entire experience. The people, the partnerships, and the passion.  

From Local Favourite to Industry Powerhouse 

Every good origin story starts small. Barrio Burrito Bar was born in 2005 when founder Alex Stein opened the first location in downtown Toronto. By 2009, the brand began franchising, and today, it boasts over 350 locations across Canada, cementing its reputation as the country’s go-to burrito destination. The brand's ethos has always been simple: offer high-quality, fresh, and customisable Mexican-inspired cuisine at an accessible price point. 

But Barrio Burrito Bar’s appeal goes far beyond its food. The brand’s franchisee-first philosophy, scalable business model, and commitment to operational excellence have made it a magnet for entrepreneurs. As Young explains, “We’ve created a concept that offers relatively low entry costs, favourable prime costs, and a quick break-even point. This makes the business highly profitable for franchisees, many of whom go on to open multiple locations.” 

Indeed, roughly 50% of Barrio Burrito Bar’s Canadian franchisees own more than one location—a testament to the strength of the brand and its commitment to supporting its partners. 

The Journey of Jeff Young 

As Chief Development Officer, Young is the man responsible for bringing this Canadian sensation to American soil—and he’s done so with the kind of flair and expertise that only comes from decades in the franchise industry. 

Jeff Young joined Barrio Burrito Bar in September 2022, bringing with him over 35 years of experience in the franchise industry. His journey to the company began during his time as a franchise consultant, where he worked with emerging and established brands to refine their operations and accelerate growth. 

“It was through my consulting work that I first met Alex [Stein],” Young recalls. “He asked if I’d consider coming back in-house. For me, it came down to three things: the brand, the leadership, and the role.” 

After a series of conversations with Stein, Young was offered the opportunity to join Barrio Burrito Bar as its Chief Development Officer, supporting various departments in its Canadian operations and spearheading its ambitious expansion into the U.S. market. 

“My role has evolved since then,” Young explains. “The U.S. has become such a significant part of our business that it now occupies the majority of my time. The growth we’re seeing south of the border is extraordinary.” 

A Masterclass in Franchising 

Barrio Burrito Bar’s success in the U.S. can largely be attributed to its innovative master franchise model. Unlike traditional systems that grant exclusive rights for entire countries or large regions, Barrio Burrito Bar offers master franchisees smaller territories, such as individual states. 

“This approach allows us to grow more strategically,” says Young. “By focusing on smaller territories, we can ensure that each franchisee receives the support they need to succeed. It also allows for more localized decision-making, which is critical in a market as diverse as the United States.” 

The results speak for themselves. Since entering the U.S., Barrio Burrito Bar has awarded master franchise agreements for 15 territories, representing over 900 stores under contract. Many master franchisees have already expanded their portfolios, acquiring multiple states to capitalize on the brand’s momentum. 

“This model is a ground-floor opportunity,” Young notes. “Our franchisees are essentially becoming franchisors within their territories, sharing in the franchise fees and royalties. It’s a predictable, recurring revenue stream that’s incredibly attractive to experienced operators.” 

Rebranding for the Future 

One of the many pivotal moments in Barrio Burrito Bar’s U.S. journey was its rebranding. The brand adopted the name Burrito Bar for its first U.S. locations but quickly realised the need for a more distinctive identity. 

In 2024, the company partnered with a prominent Canadian design firm to reimagine its branding, resulting in the birth of Barrio Burrito Bar. “Barrio” means “neighbourhood” in Spanish, a fitting nod to the brand’s community-focused ethos. The rebranding also included a new logo, updated colour schemes, and modernised interior designs, creating a cohesive and elevated guest experience. 

The first Barrio Burrito Bar featuring these enhancements will open in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, this December, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s evolution. “The timing was perfect,” says Young. “We only had a handful of U.S. stores at the time, so this was an opportunity to set a strong foundation for future growth.” 

Technology as a Competitive Edge 

In an increasingly digital world, technology plays a crucial role in Barrio Burrito Bar’s operations. The company has integrated cutting-edge tools to enhance both the customer experience and back-of-house efficiency. 

One of the most impactful innovations has been the introduction of combi ovens, a cloud-based cooking technology that ensures consistent, high-quality food. “The combi oven has been a game-changer,” says Young. “It reduces cooking times, minimizes waste, and eliminates the risk of under- or overcooking. It’s all about delivering a consistent product every time.” 

On the customer-facing side, the brand is developing a proprietary app for its U.S. market, complete with features like AI-driven geotargeting and seamless integration with third-party delivery platforms. The app will allow customers to place orders, earn rewards, and receive personalized promotions, enhancing their overall experience. 

Drive-thru locations are also being designed with future AI capabilities in mind, including voice-activated ordering systems. “Technology allows us to meet our customers where they are,” Young explains. “Things like AI will only elevate the customer experience.” 

Standing Out in a Crowded Market 

As one of the fastest-growing Tex-Mex brands in North America, Barrio Burrito Bar faces stiff competition from industry giants. However, Young is confident in the brand’s ability to differentiate itself. 

“Our menu is more diverse than most of our competitors,” he says. “We offer unique items like bang bang shrimp, churros, and extreme fries, alongside traditional burritos and tacos. We also cater to a wide range of dietary preferences, from vegan to gluten-free.” 

Real estate strategy is another area where Barrio Burrito Bar excels. Unlike Chipotle, which typically operates standalone locations, Barrio Burrito Bar’s footprint is more flexible, allowing it to thrive in grocery-anchored shopping centres and suburban markets. 

“Our ability to adapt to different types of real estate has been a key driver of our growth,” Young explains. “We’re disciplined in our site selection, focusing on high-visibility locations that align with our target demographics.” 

A Brand Built on Partnership 

At the heart of Barrio Burrito Bar’s success is its deeply ingrained culture of partnership, a philosophy that permeates every level of the organisation. From franchisees to the corporate team, the brand operates more like an extended family, united by a shared vision of excellence and mutual respect. 

“When you sign a franchise agreement with us, it’s the beginning of a relationship,” says Young. “It’s built on trust, respect, and mutual goals. That’s what makes us different, and that’s why we’ve been able to achieve so much.” 

This partnership mindset extends to the day-to-day operations. Barrio Burrito Bar’s open-door policy ensures that franchisees can access support whenever they need it, whether it’s troubleshooting operational challenges or seeking guidance on growth strategies. Founder and CEO Alex Stein exemplifies this approach, maintaining direct relationships with many franchisees and often fielding their calls personally. “Alex has an extraordinary ability to connect with people,” Young adds. “His leadership has created an environment where franchisees feel truly supported.” 

Young likens the franchise relationship to a marriage or long-term partnership. “It’s about mutual success,” he explains. “When our franchisees thrive, we thrive. That’s why we focus so much on providing the tools, training, and support they need to excel. Whether it’s site selection, menu innovation, or technology integration, we’re with them every step of the way.” 

Ultimately, Barrio Burrito Bar’s success is a testament to the power of strong relationships. By prioritising partnership, the brand has not only built a thriving franchise network but also cultivated a sense of loyalty and shared purpose that sets  

Building Momentum from Tennessee  

The opening of Barrio Burrito Bar’s first fully rebranded location in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on December 4th was a pivotal moment, further symbolizing  and demonstrating the brand’s bold ambitions for the U.S. market. This store showcased the new identity and design elements that will define the brand moving forward, setting a standard for all future locations. 

Earlier this year, Barrio Burrito Bar signed agreements for new locations in key markets such as Delaware, Illinois, Florida, and beyond. These agreements highlight the brand’s accelerating growth and its ability to resonate with franchisees and customers alike in diverse regions. With its proven business model, enhanced brand appeal, and a growing network of franchise partners, Barrio Burrito Bar is poised to extend its reach further across the U.S., solidifying its place as a leader in the Tex-Mex dining category. The success of the Murfreesboro opening serves as a testament to the brand’s vision, paving the way for future launches that will bring its elevated dining experience to communities across the country. 

The 20th Anniversary and Beyond 

As Barrio Burrito Bar achieves its 20th anniversary in 2025, the brand certainly has a lot to celebrate. From its Canadian roots to its U.S. expansion, the journey has been marked by innovation, resilience, and a relentless commitment to quality. Although specific plans for the anniversary remain under wraps, Young hints at something special for its customers. 

Despite its rapid growth, Barrio Burrito Bar remains focused on disciplined, sustainable expansion. “This is a marathon, not a sprint,” says Young. “Our priority is to create successful franchisees one store at a time. When our franchisees succeed, the entire brand succeeds.” 

International expansion is also on the horizon. While the U.S. remains the primary focus, the brand has already received inquiries from markets in Europe, South Korea, and India. “The potential is enormous,” Young notes. “We’re just getting started.” 

For Young, the journey is both personal and professional. When asked about his go-to order, he doesn’t hesitate: “A spicy chicken burrito with our signature burrito sauce. It’s the perfect balance of flavour and heat.” 

As Barrio Burrito Bar prepares for its next chapter, one thing is clear: this is a brand with big dreams—and the drive to make them a reality.