SAN DIEGO Pat & Oscar’s Restaurants said Thursday it has signed agreements with its first two franchisees, who will take over three of the fast-casual chain's 19 locations.
The agreements mark the beginning of what Pat & Oscar’s officials hope will be growth through franchising.
Industry veteran Steve Gratz has agreed to assume operations of Pat & Oscar’s locations in Glendale, Calif., and Buena Park, Calif. Gratz has worked previously with Wolfgang Puck Worldwide, The Cheesecake Factory and Koo Koo Roo.
Ron Mehrens and his sons Ron Mehrens Jr. and Kevin Mehrens have agreed to take on the operations of a Pat & Oscar’s in Palm Desert, Calif., as well as a potential second location that was not disclosed. The family also owns franchise units of the Baja Fresh Mexican Grill brand.
In January, the San Diego-based Pat & Oscar’s was acquired by management, including chief executive John Kaufman and executive vice president Tim Foley as majority partners.
Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].
