Meritage Hospitality Group, Inc. is a seasoned multi-unit franchise operator operating restaurants in 16 states and 365 restaurants. Brands in the company’s portfolio include Wendy’s, Taco John’s, Morning Belle, and Stan’s Tacos.
Meritage opened three Taco John’s restaurants in the Grand Rapids area last February. According to information on Meritage’s website, the company holds an exclusive 55-store development agreement with Taco John’s that includes additional, exclusive rights to develop more than 200 restaurants. And it appears the company’s next West Michigan Taco John’s will be coming to 2518 Alpine Ave. NW. The space is across the street from Meijer and was formerly occupied by Goodyear Tire and Auto Service.
Construction began last July and continues to make progress. Meritage required the Walker Planning Commission to rezone the property from highway commercial use to local commercial use, and the plans were approved under conditions last May. City records show the new 2,263-square-foot restaurant will have a drive-through. The location was originally anticipated by the end of 2023, but now it looks like the opening won’t happen until early or mid 2024.
While the Walker location is under construction, Meritage did open another Michigan Taco John’s store at 424 N. Telegraph Road in Monroe, MI, in November 2023.
