WINTER PARK, Fla. – Winter Park-based Tijuana Flats announced on Tuesday that it has bounced back from bankruptcy.
“Emerging from Chapter 11 is pivotal for our business,” Jim Greco, CEO of the restaurant chain, said in a prepared statement. “This process positions us to focus on what truly matters—delivering exceptional hospitality, value and flavors to our guests.
In April 2024, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. It also closed 11 locations and was acquired by new owners – Flatheads, LLC.
One of the restaurants that closed reopened a couple of months later, as News 6 previously reported.
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During the restructuring process, Tijuana Flats made some adjustments such as changing its menu and refreshing the design of its stores, the news release states.
“We are dedicated to preserving our unique identity while continuing to innovate and meet the evolving needs of our guests,” Greco said in a prepared statement.
Meanwhile, as the chain is also celebrating its 30th anniversary and plans to grow into new markets, according to the news release. It did not reveal where it plans on opening new locations.
There are currently roughly 90 locations across Florida, North Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee, according to the brand’s website. UCF alumni Brian Wheeler opened the first Tijuana Flats in 1995 with help from his dad and stayed with the brand until he sold it in 2015.
Wheeler recently opened a new restaurant with his son, Jake Wheeler. Big Taco opened in November 2023 in Casselberry.
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