Iconic Chicago-based fast-casual chain known for its legendary hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, Portillo's is believed to be setting its sights on San Diego County as part of a bold national expansion plan.
In 1963, Dick Portillo invested $1,100 in a small trailer to open the first Portillo's hot dog stand, "The Dog House," in Villa Park, IL. Six decades later, Portillo's has grown into a rapidly expanding fast-casual restaurant chain with over 80 locations across 10 states. The brand is renowned for its craveable Chicago street food, including Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, char-grilled burgers, fresh salads, and its famous chocolate cake.
As part of an aggressive growth strategy to add 920 restaurants across the country in the next 20 years, Portillo's is rumored to be eyeing an expansion into San Diego County. Portillo's executives likely identified San Diego as a strategic market that aligns with their broader vision of becoming a household name nationwide due to the region's affinity for fast-casual dining combined with its status as a major tourist destination.
Currently, the closest Portillo's location to San Diego is sited in Buena Park, CA, with another located in the Morena Valley area of Riverside County. Portillo's has been steadily increasing its footprint in other regions, including recent openings in Florida, Arizona, and Texas. The fast-casual concept will continue to expand in coming years with plans to open additional outposts in Las Vegas and Southern California. The company intends to incorporate pick-up and drive-thru-only locations into its growth strategy due to an increasing demand for quick, easy dining options.
Portillo’s locations are all wholly company owned. It is believed the brand is looking for the perfect site to open their first San Diego County branch.
For more information about Portillo’s, visit portillos.com.
