Del Taco, the California-based fast-food Mexican restaurant chain, has made its way to Virginia.

The company signed a deal with the Virginia Beach-based franchise group, Virginia Taco. Franchisees Bharat Patel and Steve Kissel have the go-ahead to open 10 restaurants in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Norfolk, Hampton and Newport News.

Jeff Little, Del Taco’s senior vice president of development, said in a news release that the company wanted to expand into the Southeast region for several years. Founded in 1964, Del Taco currently has 602 locations in 16 states.

A competitor to Taco Bell, Del Taco’s menu includes classic Mexican and American favorites like tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, burgers, fries, bowls and salads. Guacamole is made fresh in-house and they offer choices for vegetarians and vegans, too.

The Hampton Roads franchisees are eager to introduce Del Taco to Virginia, Patel said in the announcement.

“We know that the concept, combined with our expertise in this market, is a great partnership and we look forward to seeing many years of growth ahead,” he said.

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@insidebiz.com