Torchy's Tacos
Torchy's Tacos is a fast-casual taco chain founded in Austin, Texas in 2006 by Mike Rypka. Known for creative, handcrafted tacos and a bold devil-mascot brand, the company has grown from a single food truck to over 130 locations across the United States with annual sales exceeding $300 million.
The Story
Torchy's Tacos is a fast-casual taco chain founded in Austin, Texas in 2006 by Mike Rypka.
The company began as a single food truck on a corner in Austin, where Rypka personally delivered tacos on a red Vespa scooter. The brand quickly built a cult following for its creative menu and rebellious devil-mascot identity, anchored by the slogan "Damn Good Tacos."
From that one truck, Torchy's expanded to brick-and-mortar locations across Texas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and beyond. As of 2026, the chain operates more than 130 restaurants nationwide with annual sales topping $300 million. The menu features handcrafted tacos, queso, margaritas, and a popular secret menu, all served in a casual, counter-service format.
In recent years, Torchy's received a significant minority investment from General Atlantic to support further national expansion. Headquartered in Austin, the company remains closely tied to its Texas roots while pursuing aggressive growth across the United States.
Key Facts & Metrics
Classes & Programs
Crispy Beef Taco
Slow-roasted brisket with crispy edges, topped with shredded cheese, avocado, fresh cilantro, and diced onions in a warm flour tortilla.
Breakfast Taco
Fluffy scrambled eggs mixed with home-fried potatoes, loaded with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of fresh salsa on a grilled flour tortilla.
Street Corn
Grilled Mexican street corn (elote) slathered in creamy mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Queso
Torchy's signature creamy queso dip, made with real cheese and served with fresh tortilla chips.
Company Timeline
2006 — Founded
Mike Rypka founded Torchy's Tacos as a single food truck on an Austin street corner.
2010 — First Brick-and-Mortar
Opened the first permanent location in Austin, transitioning from food truck to restaurant.
2016 — Expanded Across Texas
Grew to dozens of locations across Texas, becoming a regional fast-casual favorite.
2021 — National Expansion
Began opening locations outside Texas, entering Colorado, Oklahoma, and other states.
2024 — General Atlantic Investment
Received a significant minority investment from General Atlantic to fund further national growth.
