Barberitos is an American franchise restaurant chain of Mission burrito-inspired restaurants based in Athens, Georgia, United States. As of August 2023[update], 46 Barberitos restaurants are operating in seven southeastern United States.[1] The company name is a portmanteau of Downing Barber, company founder, and burrito, a signature item at Barberitos restaurants.[2] The company mascot is Pepe, a grinning chili pepper wearing dark glasses and clutching a burrito.
The idea of the restaurant developed when Barber tried eating a healthy diet without a budget, while noticing a restaurant in Aspen, Colorado serving fresh food to customers. After realizing his dissatisfaction with working in a corporate career, he decided to pursue building a restaurant in Athens. At first, the business struggled, then skyrocketed after a football game between University of Georgia and University of Tennessee. On February 20, 2020, Barberitos celebrated its 20th anniversary.[3]
The original Barberitos in downtown Athens opened in 2000. Franchising for the company began in 2002.[1] In 2019, NFL player and UGA alum David Pollack joined Barberitos as the brand's ambassador.[4]
