Barberitos chooses Birmingham and Tuscaloosa for five new Alabama locations

The Alabama food scene is getting a fresh injection of Southwestern flavor. Barberitos, a fast-casual burrito brand known for its health-conscious customizable menu, has officially signed a five-unit franchise agreement to enter the Birmingham and Tuscaloosa markets.

Barberitos is an Athens, Georgia-based, fast-casual Southwestern grill centered around a “better burrito.” Founded in 2000, the chain offers a fully customizable menu of burritos, tacos, bowls and salads built to order with fresh ingredients.

The chain already has some locations in Alabama in four cities:

• Auburn
• Dothan
• Prattville
• Wetumpka

New Barberitos locations coming to Birmingham + Tuscaloosa

The expansion is spearheaded by franchisee Kevin Gessert, a University of Georgia alumnus who first encountered the brand during his college days in Athens.

After moving away, Gessert realized nothing else quite matched the fresh burrito concept he fell in love with as a student, prompting him to partner with the brand for this multi-unit expansion.

“Birmingham is a city that appreciates quality food and strong hospitality, and we’re excited to introduce Barberitos to a completely new market. The response we’ve already received from fellow Bulldogs and local residents has been incredibly encouraging.”

Kevin Gessert, franchisee

Barberitos expanding footprint across the Southeast

The announcement comes after Barberitos secured a spot on “Fast Casual’s” 2026 Top 100 Movers & Shakers list.

The chain, which is owned by parent platform WOWorks, currently operates 45 restaurants across the Southeast. The five incoming Alabama spots are part of a massive development pipeline that includes 32 upcoming restaurants sold and in progress.

Specific addresses and opening timelines for the Birmingham and Tuscaloosa storefronts have not yet been released.

What to expect on Barberitos’ menu

• Customizable Southwestern classics: Burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, salads + quesadillas
• Made-from-scratch ingredients: Ingredients prepared daily, featuring hand-smashed guacamole, house-made salsas + proteins marinated and grilled fresh in-store
• Health-conscious and dietary options: Menu includes dedicated high-protein recipes, vegetable-forward options + specialized selections curated for GLP-1 wellness plans
• Seasonal menu innovations: Limited-time offerings include Birria Tacos, fresh Mango Salsa + strategic co-branded menu items from sister brand Frutta Bowls

For news, events and more happening around Birmingham, sign up for our FREE newsletter.