Exploration of the origin of a franchise brand firsthand is unlike any other.
My trip to Orizaba was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my career
(1888PressRelease) June 23, 2025 - ORIZABA, Mexico – Exploring the origins of a well-established brand can be fascinating but it becomes magical when the inspiration came from the beautiful scenery, amazing food and welcoming people of Orizaba, Mexico. Ori’Zaba’s Scratch Mexican Grill’s Franchise Sales Manager Maria Maciel shares a journey which left her deeply inspired and buzzing.
Growing up in Guanajuato, Mexico, near Mexico City, Maciel is Ori’Zaba’s first bilingual franchise sales manager. On a recent trip back to Mexico, she explored the brand’s origins by visiting the Orizaba region.
As she entered the city, she was immediately struck by its vibrant colors and rich sense of history, which began to unfold before her. The people of Orizaba were incredibly welcoming and eager to share the rich history of their town. The town’s roots trace back to the pre-Hispanic era, through the Spanish conquest and into its growth as a key industrial city—renowned for its deep cultural heritage and natural beauty. After experiencing it firsthand, she could easily see why it has been deemed a ‘Pueblo Mágico.’
Then, it was time to indulge in the food and beverages. She had the chance to try the incredible aguas fresca, savory marinated beef, salsas and flavorful elote, quickly understanding how the Ori’Zaba’s founders were inspired during their visit to the very same region 24 years ago.
“As I tasted each dish, it became clear why the founders of Ori’Zaba’s Scratch Mexican Grill were motivated to bring a piece of Orizaba to the United States,” explained Maciel. “Sampling their dishes truly reminded me of the ones we serve in our own restaurants, with flavors that transport people straight to Orizaba, Mexico.”
Orizaba was the original inspiration for the brand and Maciel discovered firsthand that every detail at the franchise chain reflects the heart and soul of the region. From Ori’Zaba’s daily made-from-scratch dishes, marinated meats and the refreshing agua frescas to the vibrant brand colors and the passionate team honors the true spirit upon which it was founded.
“My trip to this vibrant city was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my career,” added Maciel. “Visiting the region that the brand’s culinary and cultural tradition is rooted in was truly special and something I’ll always treasure.”
In her nine years in franchise development, she says this is the first team that feels like a family who work hard every single day to reflect the brand’s standards. The crew shares genuine drive and passion to show why their food and experience stands out above the rest.
Maciel concluded, “As a proud Mexican, I can honestly say that at Ori’Zaba’s Scratch Mexican Grill, you’ll experience flavors just like you would in Orizaba itself. We don’t just serve food—we embody the culture where it all began. I’m excited about the continued growth and the opportunity to expand our franchise family.”
To learn more about Ori'Zaba's franchising opportunities, contact franchise ( @ ) zabas dot com or visit OriZabasFranchising dot com dot
About Ori’Zaba’s – Ori’Zaba’s Scratch Mexican Grill is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain whose mission is to feed the soul of every guest with old world Mexican flavors, made every day with care in their scratch kitchens, with the finest, freshest ingredients. Originating in Las Vegas in 2001, Ori’Zaba’s multiple locations can now be found in Nevada and is currently expanding throughout the United States. To learn about franchising, visit OriZabasFranchising.com.