Despite the recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by Tijuana Flats, the Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola locations will remain open, according to franchisee owners Jenna and Brian Burger.

• The two locations are independently owned and operated by the Burgers and will not be affected by the corporate bankruptcy filing.

The Central Florida-based restaurant chain Tijuana Flats announced on April 19, 2024, that it had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and would be closing 11 of its restaurants.

However, the Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola locations, which have been serving the local communities for 20 years, will continue to operate as usual.

“We’ve been here 20 years. I do this every day and we’re going to be here for a lot longer. We’re here for this community and we’re here to serve tacos and burritos,” said Brian Burger, emphasizing the couple’s commitment to their customers and the local community.

The Burgers have been actively involved in various community organizations, including the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, all of the schools, and local sports teams.

• They want to assure their customers that the recent news about Tijuana Flats’ bankruptcy filing will not impact their locations.

“OUR Tijuana Flats isn’t going anywhere- and we could not be happier. Brian and Jenna have been involved in the Fort Walton Beach Community for 20 years,” said Ted Corcoran, President/CEO Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce. “Everyone in our Chamber loves their restaurant and we are so pleased to hear that they will continue offering their incredible services for years to come.”

The corporate press release from Tijuana Flats stated that the company had been acquired by a new ownership group, Flatheads, LLC, which plans to revitalize the restaurants and reinvigorate the customer experience. The bankruptcy filing and closure of 11 restaurants were part of a strategic review that began in November 2023.

While the news of Tijuana Flats’ bankruptcy filing may raise concerns among customers, the Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola locations will continue to serve their communities.

For Brian, it’s business as usual.

“We’ve been here 20 years. I do this every day and we’re going to be here for a lot longer,” added Brian. “We’re here for this community and we’re here to serve tacos and burritos.”