PHILADELPHIA - Iron Chef Jose Garces teamed up with Ballard Brands to expand Buena Onda from Philadelphia to cities across America. The Baja-taqueria will see a major expansion with the launch of its comprehensive national franchise program. With one brick-and-mortar and up to four more on the way, Chef Jose Garces is ready to spread good vibes through this major national expansion.

James Beard Award Winner And Iron Chef Jose Garces Will Expand Buena Onda

The Chef will team up with Ballard Brands, franchise veterans who own award-winning brands PJ's Coffee, WOW American Eats, and New Orleans Roast. Buena Onda franchise opportunities are now available and designed to deliver a unique experience to diners in the fast-casual market with the delicious chef-inspired menu and popular Baja style libations. Interested parties are invited to meet Chef Jose Garces and experience his food and vision at monthly franchise seminars in Philadelphia starting on Thursday, June 16.

Garces has teamed up with existing partners and the industry experts at Ballard Brands, who bring years of experience in the franchise business through WOW American Eats and PJ's Coffee of New Orleans for this major expansion. For Garces and Ballard Brands, the partnership is a win-win that brings the strengths of both parties to the table.

Longtime fans of Buena Onda can expect a stronger nod to the beachside surf shacks that the brand is inspired by, including dune fencing and an authentic "boardwalk" feel as guests queue to order; a lighter, whitewash wood feeling and nods to an "Endless Summer' vibe throughout the interiors; the iconic menu board featuring fish tacos, fresh house-made guacamole, and Salsa Mexicana, quesadillas, churros, and more will hold a prominent place; as well as the addition of a variety of grab and go items like freshly made salsa, salads, and aqua frescas with seasonal flavors.

Garces and Ballard Brands have tapped Styer Associates for interior design and architectural needs for current, pending, and future locations. Styer Associates will offer a one-stop solution that provides design and construction services, allowing for seamless project management. Garces can open new locations as efficiently, minimizing setbacks and delays. Styer Associates has also been tapped to develop the new design for other Garces projects, such as the fresh location footprints for Tinto Pintxo.

For foodies craving Chef's famous Baja-inspired tacos now, Buena Onda is open in Philadelphia at 1901 Callowhill Street, with 1,850 square feet of space with seating inside for 36 people and outdoor seasonal seating. Garces fans in Fairmount can currently enjoy take-out, delivery, and dine-in, plus specials that include Mondays (Two Pork Al Pastor tacos for $5 and add a Tecate for $1), Tuesdays (Half price margaritas, dine-in), and Thursdays ($2 Pollo Tacos). Happy hour currently runs Monday to Friday, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with specials on Pork Al Pastor and Pollo Tacos, Chips and Salsa Mexicana, Draft Beers, and RedWhite Sangria. Fairmount's hours are currently seven days a week, 11:00am to 9:00 pm.