Pass the Tacos

Journal Inquirer (CT)

09-15-2007

A Seattle-based Mexican-style restaurant chain, Taco Del Mar, is expanding into New~E"nglaniTand plans several locations ' in Connecticut, opening its first East Coast eatery in Groton sometime this spring, company officials said Friday. Other locations will follow including in the Hartford area according to Brcnda Bohinc, vice president for franchise development and operations al franchisee TDM of South Shore New England. "While we cannot specify exact locations and opening dates, 1 can tell you (hat we are actively explor ing sites right now iu bast Hartford, Manchester, and West Hartford," Bohinc said. “We also have open franchise opportunities in these markets and are following-up on franchise discussions." The chain's business develop ment plan is targeting the area as priority. "Therefore, we expect to see locations open in the areas within the year." Bohinc said " In a company news release, Taco Del Mar officials describe Bohinc and husband, Tom, as "seasoned restaurateurs,” and it bills itself as providing "fresh, wholesome Mexican food in a quick-casual format." Bohinc said the "quick-serve Mexican category continues to gain popularity," adding what she called "relatively small competition is good for us and our franchisees."

Bohinc's territory includes the Hartford and New Haven areas, as well as Rhode Island locations around Providence, and Massachusetts sites around New Bedford. There will be about 100 Taco Del Mar locations across New England eventually, according to Bohinc. Doing business as TDM of South Shore New England, the company is screening prospects and has first location in Groton, on Long Hill Road, which is to open in the spring of 2008, she said.