Denver’s beloved green chili hotspot, Chili Shack, is taking its next big step with its first official franchising agreement. According to QSR Magazine, the locally grown chain has just celebrated the signing of a franchise deal with a local businesswoman to bring three new outposts to the area.
The franchisee is Deanna Solano, a Colorado native, mother of seven, and long-time fan of the brand. She brings a deep connection to the community and years of business experience as the owner of Colorado’s Helping Hand, a home care company supporting families across the metro area for the past eight years.
Solano is scouting for three locations in Southwest Denver, with Littleton already confirmed. Additional spots are being explored in Englewood, Lakewood, and Columbine Valley. The first restaurant is aiming for a mid-2026 opening, with the other two locations expected to roll out within three years.
“I want to spread my love and happiness to others through my food and the hospitality of my restaurants,” she shared with What Now Denver.
Chili Shack serves smothered burritos, loaded fries, customizable tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, burgers, and its signature green chili. Last fall, the company announced its plans to expand from its seven corporate stores and enter the franchising market, 9News reports. It hopes to grow to a triple-digit unit count through the initiative.
