Torchy’s Tacos names CEO

Fast-casual restaurant Torchy’s Tacos' Board of Directors is appointing Paul Macaluso as chief executive officer, effective Feb. 24, 2025. He succeeds founder Mike Rypka, who will transition into a new role as chief innovation officer.

Macaluso has more than 30 years of experience building brands and driving business success across the restaurant industry. Most recently, he served as president and CEO of Another Broken Egg Cafe, a high-growth daytime-only restaurant concept, overseeing significant business and footprint expansion. He also previously held progressive marketing and leadership roles at GoTo Foods (formerly FOCUS Brands), a developer of global multichannel foodservice brands, including president of McAlister’s Deli, as well as senior vice president leading brand marketing strategy for Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, McAlister’s Deli, Moe’s Southwest Grill and Schlotzsky’s. Macaluso has also served in senior brand and marketing positions at Sonic Drive-In and Burger King Corp.

The Torchy’s Board of Directors commented, “After an in-depth search, we are thrilled to welcome Paul to Torchy’s. His long track record of delivering growth across iconic large-scale and up-and-coming restaurant brands makes him uniquely suited to lead Torchy’s through its next chapter ... We are also grateful to Mike for his dedicated leadership over the years and look forward to his continued contributions.”

Macaluso said, “I have long admired Torchy’s for its authentic culture and differentiated concept. I believe the business has significant potential for growth, and I look forward to partnering with the talented Torchy’s team to bring continued excitement and innovation to our guests.”

Rypka said, “Since founding Torchy’s in 2006, we have always strived to deliver the best of the best. As we look ahead to our next phase of development, Paul is an enthusiastic, results-driven leader who shares our commitment to originality and guest experience. I am excited to work alongside him to grow the Torchy’s brand and continue building our ever-growing base of Taco Junkies.”

Macaluso began his career as a restaurant general manager with the Taco Bell Corp. in 1992 and went on to serve in various operations and marketing roles within the company over 10 years. Macaluso holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration from Florida State University.

Source: Torchy's Tacos