August 20, 2026 // Franchising.com // WALL, N.J. – Bubbakoo’s Burritos is building on strong momentum in 2026, marked by restaurant growth, menu innovation and key organizational investments to support its expanding franchise system.
As Bubbakoo's Burritos scales its national presence, the company continues investing in the people and systems that will support its long-term success. This summer, Bubbakoo's welcomed Todd Barto as Vice President of Operations and Michael Lassen as Vice President of Franchise Development. Barto brings more than 15 years of franchise operations experience from Arby’s and Friendly’s Ice Cream and will focus on strengthening operational performance and consistency across the system. With more than two decades in the franchise industry, Lassen has led franchise sales for national brands including The Spice & Tea Exchange and Steak n Shake. In his new role, he will lead efforts to identify new growth opportunities and expand the brand's network of franchise partners.
“Bubbakoo's has built a lot of momentum in 2026, from new restaurants to the introduction of new flavors and menu innovations across the system,” said Chris Ives, CEO of Bubbakoo’s Burritos. “We're intentional about how we grow, and bringing Todd and Michael onto our leadership team reflects our commitment to building the right team to support where Bubbakoo’s is headed next.”
Bubbakoo's has further established itself as one of the nation's fastest-growing Mexican-fusion concepts. After opening eight new restaurants since the beginning of 2026, the Mexican-fusion concept is on pace to open at least 10 additional locations by year-end. The brand also introduced a series of limited-time menu offerings, including the Birria Crunch Stack, Verde Chicken Empanadas, Plant-Based Chorizo and Crispy Jalapeño Ranch Burrito, reinforcing its commitment to delivering bold, differentiated options and giving guests new reasons to visit.
With an expanded leadership team, a growing restaurant pipeline and continued commitment to innovation, Bubbakoo's is positioned to build on its momentum and strengthen its presence in new and existing markets through the end of the year.
“Bubbakoo’s has built a strong foundation and a concept that has proven it can resonate across a wide range of markets,” said Lassen, Vice President of Franchise Development at Bubbakoo’s Burritos. “As we look ahead, we have the opportunity to build on that foundation by connecting with franchise partners who understand their local communities and see the potential to grow with Bubbakoo’s. We look forward to introducing the brand to new markets and driving the next stage of development.”
Since its inception in 2008, Bubbakoo’s Burritos has established a prominent U.S. presence across the country, creating a dedicated legion of fans. Since its inception in 2008, Bubbakoo’s has grown from its Jersey Shore roots to more than 140 locations across 16 states. The brand has been recognized among Franchise Times’ Top 40 Smartest-Growing Franchises, Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, QSR Magazine’s Top 50 Contenders, and the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.
Bubbakoo’s Burritos was founded by Paul Altero and Bill Hart in 2008. Their first store opened in Point Pleasant, NJ and they now have locations across 16 states and have served thousands of their legendary burritos to very loyal customers. As opportunities arise, they continue to open new restaurants in neighborhoods where they can build bridges with residents. Across all 140+ locations, Bubbakoo’s Burritos is proud to be a member of communities where people work, eat, and gather as a family. For more information go to bubbakoos.com.
To learn more about Bubbakoo’s Burritos franchise opportunities, e-mail franchise@bubbakoos.com or call (732) 691-0848.
SOURCE Bubbakoo’s Burritos
Born on the banks of the Jersey Shore in Point Pleasant, N.J., the fast casual eatery fusing Mexican and American tastes that create an innovative menu.