TaKorean, the 12-year-old Korean taco grill that began as a 1985 Ford step van-turned-food truck, is eyeing the Wilmington, Delaware market for its initial franchise expansion, according to 1851 Franchise, an industry media outlet.
In an interview published last Thursday, Sep 8, TaKorean founder and CEO Mike Lenard explained, “Wilmington is right on the I-95 corridor, so it’s really easy to access for vendors, and it’s easy for us to get to provide support,” adding, “Locationally and population-wise, there are some pockets within the area where we could thrive.”
Incidentally, TaKorean was supposed to be opening a location in Philadelphia at The Bourse, but it seems that project is yet to materialize.
Lenard could not be immediately reached for comment.
TaKorean features a build-your-own taco, bowl, or slaw bowl model – a sort of Chipotle meets Bibibop concept – or as Lenard describes it, “a light spin on the Americanized street food take on Korean food,” that “[incorporates] a Latin-American twist.”
TaKorean currently operates two locations in the D.C. area, one in The Yards and another in Union Market. According to 1851 Franchise, the total investment to open a TaKorean franchise ranges from $186,500 to $757,500, depending on whether the franchisee wants to open a standalone restaurant or a food court outlet.
In addition to Wilmington, TaKorean will also be looking at the New Jersey market for future expansion.
