Boston’s already diverse and dynamic food scene just got a bold upgrade. Taco John’s®, the Mexican quick-service restaurant known for its “bigger, bolder, better” flavor experience, has officially opened its first metro Boston location at 77 Summer Street. This downtown debut marks a significant milestone in the brand’s aggressive East Coast expansion plan and the appetite for flavor-packed favorites like Potato Olés® and Taco Bravo® Combo has never been stronger.
Leading the charge is Reliance Hospitality Group, a development team spearheaded by CEO and Co-founder Arsal Jaffery and Co-founder Deven Jadav. The duo signed a 22-unit development agreement with Taco John’s in 2021, targeting the Boston and Connecticut markets. With this latest opening, they are making impressive strides, adding to two existing Massachusetts locations in Lawrence and Leominster, and already prepping a fourth unit for Q3 2025.
“We’re thrilled to bring Taco John’s to the heart of Boston and introduce even more guests to our signature bold flavors and quality ingredients,” said Jaffery. “When we first experienced Taco John’s, we knew it was special – the brand’s dedication to bold, innovative flavors and fresh ingredients stood out in the quick-service space. The enthusiasm and loyalty of Taco John’s fans across the country spoke volumes, and we saw a clear opportunity to bring that same energy to Boston.”
Boston, with its thriving economy and ever-evolving culinary culture, offers fertile ground for this fast-growing franchise. Reliance Hospitality Group is actively scouting locations for the next five units in metro Boston. They view Greater Boston as a city with steady population growth and insatiable demand for distinctive dining options. In turn, a perfect place to build a Taco John’s empire.
Growth Fueled by Expertise and Innovation
Jaffery, who brings nearly a decade of quick-service restaurant experience operating Wendy’s locations, teams up with Jadav, a hospitality veteran with 22 years of hotel development. This experience spans brands like Wyndham, IHG, and Choice Hotels. Together, their combined expertise in operations, development, and guest satisfaction positions them as ideal franchisees for Taco John’s East Coast ambitions.
“Deven and Arsal’s dedication and expertise have been instrumental in introducing Taco John’s to the East Coast,” said Shannon Iverson, VP of Development at Taco John’s. “Their strategic approach and passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences align perfectly with our brand’s growth vision.”
The company’s broader national growth strategy includes innovations like the Path to Ownership program and a streamlined business model. All are designed to help new and existing franchisees scale effectively. Taco John’s supports franchise partners with resources in real estate, construction, training, and technology. This culmination of tech, tools, and support is underpinned by the goal to boost profitability and long-term success.
Currently boasting nearly 350 restaurants in 22 states, Taco John’s has become a sought-after franchise opportunity. With this new Boston location, Taco John’s is not just serving up tacos—it’s serving notice that its East Coast footprint is growing fast and bolder.
