Barberitos is an American franchise restaurant chain of Mission burrito-inspired restaurants based in Athens, Georgia, United States. The company name is a portmanteau of founder Downing Barber's last name and burrito.[1]
History
The idea of the restaurant developed when Downing Barber tried eating a healthy diet without a budget, while noticing a restaurant in Aspen, Colorado serving fresh food to customers. The original Barberitos in downtown Athens opened in January 2000.[2] The company struggled early on, but started to turn things around by 2010.[2]
In 2019, NFL player and UGA alum David Pollack joined Barberitos as the brand's ambassador.[3]
On February 20, 2020, Barberitos celebrated its 20th anniversary.[4]
In May 2022, the company was acquired by Woworks.[5]
Franchises
Franchising for the company began in 2002;[6] as of August 2023, forty-six restaurants are operating through the Southeastern United States.[6]
Mascot
The company mascot is Pepe, a grinning chili pepper wearing dark glasses and clutching a burrito.
External links
References
- Jamie Ketron. Barberitos Opens Second Location "Campus Barbs" near ETSU Mitch Cox Companies, February 20, 2014, retrieved September 2, 2020^
- Elissa Elan. Barberitos: Fast-casual Mexican chain's chief exec says opportunities for expansion are starting to heat up again Nation's Restaurant News, April 5, 2010, retrieved April 24, 2025^
- ESPN's David Pollack Named Barberitos Brand Ambassador QSR magazine, retrieved 2020-09-02^
- Caitlin O'Donnell. Barberitos: A fresh take on food that's grown in 20 years Athens Banner-Herald, February 18, 2020, retrieved 2020-09-02^
- Joanna Fantozzi. Woworks acquires Barberitos and Zoup Eatery Nation's Restaurant News, May 13, 2022, retrieved April 24, 2025^
- Denali Lerch. Barberitos to celebrate its 20th anniversary on Feb. 20 The Red and Black, February 19, 2020, retrieved 2020-09-02^