Georgia-based Mexican chain expanding into Birmingham and Tuscaloosa

Get ready for a fresh flavor injection in the Magic City and the Druid City. Barberitos, the fast-casual chain famous for its fully customizable Mexican menu, is officially heading to Alabama with plans to open new locations in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa.

Expansion Plans

This major move comes after entrepreneur Kevin Gessert signed a five-unit franchise agreement to bring the Athens, Georgia-based brand to the area. While specific addresses and official opening dates have yet to be confirmed, the chain is pushing for a rollout sometime this year. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the company, as it will establish the very first Barberitos presence in the Tuscaloosa market.

A Familiar Taste

For Gessert, a University of Georgia graduate, bringing the brand to Alabama is a personal mission. He first discovered his affinity for the restaurant while attending school in Athens. As noted by 205focus.com, Gessert explained that he never found a substitute for the experience after leaving college. "I fell in love with Barberitos as a student at UGA and never found anything quite like it after leaving Athens," Gessert said in a release. "Birmingham is a city that appreciates quality food and strong hospitality, and we’re excited to introduce Barberitos to a completely new market."

What to Expect

Barberitos currently maintains 45 locations throughout the Southeast, including existing Alabama storefronts in Prattville and Wetumpka. Fans can look forward to a diverse, customizable menu that features:

• Burritos
• Tacos
• Bowls
• Quesadillas
• Salads

To view the full original report, you can visit AL.com.