SALT LAKE CITY — Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican, one of the industry’s most iconic Mexican restaurant concepts, announced the appointment of restaurant industry veteran Mike Burns as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant step in the brand’s next chapter of growth. Known for strengthening operations, revitalizing brand culture and leading high-performing teams, Burns will guide the beloved fast-casual Mexican brand as it builds toward its 30th anniversary in 2027.
Founded in 1997 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Cafe Rio has built a passionate following with its bold, authentic Mexican flavors, made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients and never with freezers or microwaves. From its iconic Sweet Pork Barbacoa and Creamy Tomatillo dressing to its scratch-made Tortillas and Horchata, the brand has become known for craveable menu items that guests can’t stop talking about and competitors can’t stop chasing. Cafe Rio partnered with private equity firm, Freeman Spogli, in 2017 and since then, has grown to nearly 150 restaurants across 11 states.
“Mike brings exactly the kind of leadership Cafe Rio needs for this next chapter,” said Christian Johnson, Partner, Freeman Spogli. “He has built a reputation as one of the most effective leaders in fast casual and has an uncanny ability to align teams around a clear vision and translate that vision into operational excellence and meaningful results. We’re excited to welcome Mike as Cafe Rio’s new Chief Executive Officer and are confident and excited on the opportunities ahead with him at the helm.”
Burns joins Cafe Rio having recently served as Chief Executive Officer of Latitude Food Group, parent company of fast casual concepts &pizza and Tijuana Flats. Burns’ fast-casual and quick-service experience also includes time with RAVE Restaurant Group, where he held the role of Chief Operating Officer, as well as roles with Pei Wei Asian Kitchen and Bojangles.
“I’ve been watching Cafe Rio for a long time – and eating my way through plenty of Sweet Pork in the process – so to say I’m thrilled to join as its next CEO is very much an understatement,” said Mike Burns, Chief Executive Officer of Cafe Rio. “Cafe Rio didn’t build this kind of following by blending in. For nearly 30 years, this brand has led with freshness, quality and authentic Mexican food people flat-out crave. We’re done being quiet. We’re going to bring the energy back, make some noise and put Cafe Rio firmly back where it belongs – leading the conversation instead of just being part of it.”
Taking inspiration from Mexico’s Northern Rio Grande region, as well as flavors from southern Texas and New Mexico, Cafe Rio’s dishes are rooted in authenticity and more importantly, customization. Across its enchilada style burritos, towering salads, bowls, tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas, guests are in control, choosing from a variety of flavorful proteins including famous Sweet Pork Barbacoa, Beef Barbacoa, Fire Gilled Steak, Fire Grilled Chicken, Slow Braised Chicken and Pollo Asado, along with sauces and toppings, like its Creamy Tomatillo dressing. Cafe Rio’s Famous Tres Leches and new Churro Cookies pair perfectly with scratch made Horchata or Mint Limeade for a sweet and refreshing finish.
For additional information regarding Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican, please visit www.caferio.com
About Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican
Since serving up the original Sweet Pork Barbacoa in St. George, Utah in 1997, Cafe Rio has built a loyal following for its chef-inspired, made-from-scratch recipes and bold approach to fresh, authentic Mexican flavor. The brand believes ingredients should be real, flavor should be big, and every meal should feel worth gathering for. Inspired by the traditions of Southwest kitchens where meats are grilled over open flames, food is crafted by hand, and recipes are passed down from generation to generation, Cafe Rio is committed to delivering craveable meals with no shortcuts and no compromise. To find your nearest location and start crafting your creation, visit www.caferio.com.
About Freeman Spogli
Freeman Spogli is a private equity firm dedicated to investing in and partnering with management in consumer and distribution companies in the United States. Since its founding in 1983, Freeman Spogli has invested over $6 billion of private equity capital in 72 companies and 250+ add-on acquisitions with an aggregate transaction value of $32 billion. Freeman Spogli is currently making investments from its most recent fund and has offices in Los Angeles and New York. For additional information, please visit www.freemanspogli.com.
