Chili Shack, a beloved restaurant known for its green chili offerings, has signed its first franchise agreement with entrepreneur Deanna Solano. The deal marks a significant milestone for the brand as it embarks on a national expansion plan. Solano intends to open three locations in southwest Denver, with the first restaurant set to debut in mid-2026.
Solano, a native of Colorado and a mother of seven, expressed her vision for the franchise to reflect “love and happiness” through its food and service. According to QSR Magazine, she is the inaugural franchise partner for Chili Shack, which has recently opened its doors to franchise operations. The founder, Abraham Olivas, welcomed Solano into the franchise family, emphasizing a commitment to local entrepreneurship.
First Location and Expansion Plans
The initial restaurant is planned for Littleton, with Solano exploring additional sites in Englewood, Lakewood, and Columbine Valley. While no leases have yet been signed, Solano aims to open the remaining two locations within three years. This expansion strategy allows her to extend a brand she already enjoys to more areas within her community.
Chili Shack has built a loyal following with its signature smothered burritos, loaded fries, build-your-own tacos, and Southwest-style burgers, all featuring its distinctive green chili. The menu is designed for all-day service, catering to a wide range of customers from breakfast to late-night dining. The popularity of the restaurant’s offerings is particularly significant in a competitive Mexican food market.
Franchise Growth and Financial Insights
The franchising initiative follows a recent expansion that included the opening of Chili Shack’s first out-of-state location in downtown Las Vegas in October 2025. As reported by Fast Casual, the franchise model is designed for scalability, with the potential to grow to approximately 100 locations over time. This expanding footprint provides a solid foundation for prospective franchise operators seeking financing and partnerships.
Chili Shack’s franchise portal outlines an initial investment range for a single unit between $254,500 and $574,600. The brand anticipates an average unit volume of about $910,000. Each restaurant typically accommodates between 25 to 40 guests and employs up to 10 team members, which indicates promising local hiring opportunities as new locations open.
For Solano, this franchise agreement represents a chance to elevate a concept that resonates with her community. Her immediate focus will be to secure leases and finalize site selections. She indicated that opening dates will depend on the completion of permitting and construction processes.
Chili Shack’s franchise portal outlines the steps for future operators, from initial discovery calls to training and pre-opening preparations. The next important milestones include securing the lease in Littleton and obtaining necessary permits, all aimed at achieving the mid-2026 launch target. As Solano works toward these goals, the community is poised to welcome the first of what could become a beloved local chain.
