How an American Entrepreneur Built a Burrito Empire in India
NRI PULSE STAFF FEATURE
Over a decade ago, American entrepreneur Bert Mueller packed his bags and made a bold move—leaving behind the comfort of home in the U.S. to introduce Mexican-inspired cuisine to Indian palates. Today, that leap of faith has grown into a thriving food empire. His brainchild, California Burrito, now boasts 103 outlets across India and an annual revenue of close to $24 million (as of 2024), making it one of the most successful fast-casual dining chains in the country.
It all began in Bengaluru in 2012. Inspired by his experience working at Moe’s, a casual restaurant chain in the U.S., and a love for San Francisco’s iconic Mission-style burritos, Mueller partnered with two friends and a chef from San Francisco to launch the first California Burrito outlet at Embassy Golf Links Tech Park. The goal was simple yet ambitious: bring the bold flavors of Mexican food—spicy, hearty, and wholesome—to Indian customers who, he believed, would appreciate the similarities between the two cuisines.
“We realized that Indian and Mexican flavors share a love for spice, vibrant ingredients, and freshness,” Mueller noted in an interview. “It wasn’t about introducing something foreign—it was about making it feel familiar in the best way possible.”
Photos courtesy: Bert Mueller/IG.
California Burrito’s journey has been marked by steady growth and thoughtful adaptation. By 2018, the brand had grown to 26 stores, expanding into Delhi-NCR and Hyderabad. Even the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced temporary closures, couldn’t derail its momentum. By March 2020, the brand had reached 37 outlets, and by early 2025, it celebrated the grand opening of its 100th store in Bengaluru.
With plans to triple the number of stores to 300 by 2030, including expansion into Mumbai and Pune, Mueller’s vision is far from complete. Yet, what has kept the brand thriving is not just expansion but a deep commitment to quality and sustainability. California Burrito proudly sources fresh, authentic ingredients—think Hass avocados, tomatillos, and slow-cooked beans—and customizes meals in real-time, ensuring a balance between flavor and health.
“Building a business in India takes patience,” says Mueller. “But the energy, diversity, and appetite for innovation here are unmatched. Understanding local customs and preferences has been the key to our success.”
His journey from an American dreamer to a beloved name in India’s food scene is not just a business story—it’s a cultural bridge served with a side of guacamole. And as California Burrito continues to expand, Bert Mueller remains at the helm, innovating, adapting, and proving that sometimes, all it takes is one bold burrito to change the flavor of a nation.
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