Mendocino Farms Expands to Chicago and Denver in 2025
Mendocino Farms, a popular West Coast fast-casual chain, is gearing up to expand into new markets in 2025, including its first locations in Chicago and Denver. The Los Angeles-based sandwich chain, known for its fresh, premium ingredients, is growing rapidly, having ended 2024 with 75 locations across California, Texas, and Washington. In celebration of its 20th anniversary, Mendocino Farms (also known as Mendo) plans to open 15 new restaurants in 2025, with a significant push into Colorado and Illinois.
The company’s CEO, Kevin Miles, shared that the brand is aiming for 150 locations within the next five years, with further expansion to the East and eventual national reach. While Mendocino Farms is focused on company-owned locations for now, they have no immediate plans to franchise.
Founded in 2005 by Mario del Pero and Ellen Chen, Mendocino Farms was acquired by private-equity firm TPG Growth in 2017. Despite rumors of a potential sale, TPG remains the majority shareholder, with Whole Foods Market and the co-founders holding minority stakes. The company has enjoyed strong sales growth, with a fiscal 2023 revenue of $220.5 million and a 22% increase in sales.
As the brand grows, it continues to innovate. Recent changes include the introduction of smaller restaurant formats, digital menu boards, and the addition of a drive-thru digital pickup lane in San Diego. Looking ahead, Mendocino Farms plans to enhance its My Mendo loyalty program and continues to build its leadership team with key hires like its first chief marketing officer.
Mendocino Farms is known for its premium, fresh ingredients, offering unique sandwich options like a Vietnamese-style Pork Belly Banh Mi and Peruvian Steak with spicy aji amarillo-marinated steak. As the chain expands, it will focus on increasing brand awareness, especially in new markets like Chicago and Denver. Plans are also underway for expansion into other states, including possibly Arizona in 2026.
As Mendocino Farms continues to grow, it aims to strengthen its presence in the fast-casual market by offering delicious, fresh meals and expanding its reach across the country.
