Mark Walter owns two Salsarita’s Mexican restaurants — one in Fredericksburg and one in Glen Allen — with another scheduled to open in Manassas by Thanksgiving. Walter hails from just outside Philadelphia and lives in Spotsylvania County, where he’s been since 1992. Salsarita’s, founded in 2000, was No. 1 on Restaurant Business’ 2007 list of fastest-growing restaurant chains in America.
How did you get into the business? What did you do before?
I had spent the bulk of my career as a sales marketing executive … traveling 100, 120 nights a year. Worked for two companies — the owners sold the company, took the check and moved to the Cayman Islands. I was tired of working for someone else with long hours, and I didn’t [want to] have to travel. My previous company was based in Knoxville — I ran across Salsarita’s, loved the concept and became a regular customer there.
What sets Salsarita’s apart from other similar restaurants?
The quality of our food. Everything is made fresh — that really sets our food apart. The second aspect is the level of hospitality we provide. We’re unique in that not only do we offer the massive, two-pound burrito, we also do a regular-size burrito more in line with people of a smaller appetite (women and children). We’re very much into offering a menu that’s more diversified. It’s also family-friendly — we offer free kids’ meals on Sunday and Monday nights. We also have a cantina bar with margaritas, beer and other tropical concoctions.
How and why did you decide to expand the business into Manassas?
When I came on board, I purchased an area development agreement that included Prince William County. Manassas is obviously a growing area, like Fredericksburg. It’s a great niche — there are similar demographics, and it was a good fit.
What’s it like during lunch hour? What’s a typical day like for you?
Preparing the store to open at around 8 or 8:30. We make everything fresh, in-house — the morning is spent preparing the store. A lot goes into opening the store every day at 11.
What’s next for Salsarita’s? Where else are you planning to expand?
We’re definitely looking to add locations in Prince William County. We’re committed to doing a minimum of six locations. Got a couple letters of intent, no final leases.
What’s the best item on the menu?
We’re famous for our burritos, but quesadilas run a real strong second.
