Margaritas Mexican Restaurants, a popular 35-year-old Northeast full-service brand known for its inviting and authentic Mexican atmosphere, scratch kitchen and the best margaritas outside of Mexico, announced the signing of a multi-unit franchise agreement including its two existing New Jersey restaurants located in Toms River and Metuchen, plus three new locations to open in the state by 2028.
Behind the multi-unit signed agreement are seasoned restaurant entrepreneurs Agam Vaidya, Sanjay Patel and Dipak Patel. Agam always wanted to go into business for himself, and with over three decades of experience in the restaurant industry – working as a line cook all the way up to director of operations managing 13+ restaurants from NYC to Philadelphia – he was ready to take the next leap. Agam and Sanjay – best friends of 30 years – met while working together in the restaurant industry. Sanjay and Dipak have been business partners for 15 years owning 58 Burger King franchises across four states, and were looking to expand their portfolio. When Agam approached them to combine their decades of experience and go into business together, they jumped at the chance. The three had visited several Margaritas Mexican Restaurants and always admired the brand’s authenticity, food and drinks and overall experience.
“With 30 years in the restaurant space, I’ve made a huge impact on the companies I worked for in my career,” says Vaidya. “I’m now ready to continue making an impact in the industry by owning and operating open my own franchise business. My partners and I see amazing growth potential and appeal for the Margaritas brand, with its scratch kitchen, outstanding drinks, unique décor and great leadership, and we look forward to being a part of this restaurant franchise concept now and well into the future.”
With a mix of 25 franchise and corporate-owned locations throughout Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the established restaurant brand has successfully built a loyal following based on encouraging guests to have fun, drink great margaritas and experience the food, culture and hospitality of Mexico – without getting on a plane. The brand’s “leave your bags at the door” mentality aims to provide a vacation vibe for its guests ranging from families to the late-night crowd through decor, upbeat music tracks and personable, energetic team members.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Agam, Sanjay, and Dipak to the Margaritas team,” said Vice President of Franchise Development Tom Radomski. “Their expertise in the restaurant industry is invaluable and we look forward to working with them to further expand into New Jersey and continue to serve their communities.”
Margaritas Mexican Restaurants has delighted guests since 1986 with colorful, authentic décor and atmosphere, delicious Mexican recipes, 20+ hand shaken, made-to-order margaritas, and an inviting, fun experience for any occasion. In order to keep the brand special, founder John Pelletier made countless adventures to Mexico to seek out and purchase carved chairs, furnishings, artwork, and colorful tile from local artisans, ultimately using this décor to highlight Mexican culture in the restaurants. Today, that spirit lives on with managers and staff taking organized trips to central Mexico to visit artist communities and manufacturing towns to immerse themselves in the food and culture.
The total investment for a full-service Margaritas Mexican restaurant ranges from $1.5 to $2.5 million, depending on location on square footage.
