Fan-favorite burgers, brats and brews brand marks international expansion with flagship debut in Mérida, Yucatán, ahead of global soccer tournament
Pasadena, CA (RestaurantNews.com) Dog Haus is taking its biggest step onto the global stage yet, officially expanding beyond the U.S. and into Mexico for the first time in brand history. In partnership with HAK Capital & Brand Management, the Los Angeles-born, fan-favorite concept will open at least 20 locations across the country over the next several years – marking a major international milestone as the brand accelerates its global growth strategy.
The partnership will kick off with the opening of a flagship Dog Haus restaurant this summer in Mérida, Yucatán, aligning with heightened global excitement around international soccer events being hosted across North America. A fast-growing culinary and cultural hub located near Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Mérida is known for its vibrant food scene, strong tourism and high quality of life – making it an ideal entry point for the brand in Mexico.
Following the debut, Dog Haus plans to expand into Mexico City, the country’s cultural and economic center; Tijuana, a dynamic, binational market with strong cross-border dining influence; the Riviera Maya, a globally recognized tourism destination; and Monterrey, one of Mexico’s leading industrial and business hubs.
“Expanding into Mexico marks a major milestone for Dog Haus as we take the brand into a new country for the first time,” said Michael Montagano, CEO of Dog Haus. “We’re excited to partner with HAK Capital as we introduce the Dog Haus experience to a new market and take the next step in our international growth.”
HAK Capital & Brand Management is led by Hiram Alarid, a seasoned executive with a background spanning private equity, capital markets and senior leadership roles across Mexico’s food and beverage sector. The firm discovered Dog Haus in March of last year and was immediately drawn to the brand’s bold flavors, disruptive personality and cultural relevance.
“From the moment we discovered Dog Haus, we knew it was a brand Mexico needed to experience,” said Hiram Alarid, CEO of HAK Capital & Brand Management. “The product quality, the brand energy and the guest experience all stand out. This partnership allows us to combine our financial and operational experience to build a strong, lasting presence for Dog Haus.”
HAK Capital’s leadership brings a unique blend of financial expertise and food-and-beverage know-how. With a background spanning private equity, commercial banking and capital markets, combined with years leading restaurant groups and franchise operations in Mexico, HAK Capital is positioned to build on Dog Haus’ continued momentum.
The Mexico agreement comes as Dog Haus enters its 15th year of operation with its largest development pipeline to date. Since opening its first location in Pasadena, California, in 2010, the brand has grown to more than 50 locations nationwide and continues to accelerate both domestic and international expansion.
For up-to-date location and brand information, visit DogHaus.com.
About Dog Haus
Since launching in 2010, Dog Haus has built a fiercely loyal nationwide following. Founded by longtime friends Hagop Giragossian, Quasim Riaz and André Vener, the brand got its start in Pasadena, Calif., and has since grown to 50+ locations across the U.S. Dog Haus is known for its craveable all-beef hot dogs and handcrafted sausages made with no added nitrates, alongside 100% Black Angus beef burgers from Creekstone Farms® – all hormone- and antibiotic-free and served on grilled King’s Hawaiian rolls. Driven by a mission to sustainably feed everyone who walks through its doors, Dog Haus also delivers an enticing lineup of plant-based burgers, sausage and chicken creations. In 2024, the brand leveled up with its biggest partnership yet, welcoming YouTuber and professional boxer Jake Paul as a franchisee and board member. Beloved by foodies and critics alike, Dog Haus has earned top industry honors, including Nation’s Restaurant News’ MenuMasters Award, Fast Casual’s Top 25 Movers and Shakers, and Franchise Times’ Zor Award as a “Top Brand to Buy.” The Dog Haus mobile app, Haus Rewards, brings together Dog Haus and Bad-Ass Breakfast Burritos in one seamless digital ordering and loyalty experience. For up-to-date location and brand information, visit at DogHaus.com or follow Dog Haus on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.
Contact:
Paul Donahie
Champion
908-239-8679
pdonahie@championmgt.com
