Allendale-based Doherty Enterprises on Friday announced a landmark development agreement with QDOBA Mexican Eats®, America’s rapidly-growing No. 2 Mexican fast-casual brand.
The exclusive partnership grants Doherty Enterprises the rights to develop 27 new QDOBA locations over the next several years across key markets in New Jersey and select counties in New York. The deal represents a major strategic expansion, further strengthening Doherty’s extensive regional presence.
“We are thrilled to welcome QDOBA restaurants into the Doherty Enterprises family,” Timothy Doherty, president and COO, Doherty Enterprises said. “QDOBA is an exceptional brand with impressive momentum, strong unit economics, and a menu that truly resonates with today’s guests. This partnership reflects our disciplined approach to growth, aligning with best-in-class brands that complement our portfolio.”
QDOBA marks the eighth brand in Doherty’s diverse portfolio, which currently includes 158 restaurants such spanning Applebee’s, Panera Bread, Wendy’s and JINYA Ramen Bars, among others.
QDOBA selected Doherty Enterprises due to the company’s decades-long track record of successfully scaling national restaurant brands, operational excellence, and deep experience operating within the highly competitive New Jersey and New York market.
The move capitalizes on the fast-casual Mexican category, which continues to outpace broader restaurant sector growth, driven by shifting consumer preferences for menu customization and digital convenience.
“We’re excited to work together with Doherty Enterprises to bring QDOBA’s craveable, customizable Mexican fast-casual experience to more communities across New York and New Jersey,” Jeremy Vitaro, chief development officer, QDOBA Mexican Eats said.
The QDOBA partnership arrives during a period of aggressive expansion for Doherty Enterprises, which plans to open new locations for Wendy’s, Panera Bread, Applebee’s, and JINYA Ramen Bar, alongside completing more than 15 Applebee’s remodels across the region in the year ahead.
