Cantina Laredo, a renowned Dallas-based Mexican restaurant, signed an agreement to open four locations in Turkey over the next three years, with initial development plans in Istanbul.

The franchisee is Dogus Holding Group, led by visionary businessman Ferit Faik Sahenk. Dogus Group has interests in media, tourism, finance, and construction, and has expanded into the luxury restaurant sector. Under the innovative management styles introduced by Sahenk, Dogus Group has grown and diversified, as well as created partnerships with other international firms such as General Electric. Sahenk is one of Turkey’s leading business innovators, and was named as No. 722 on Forbes list of billionaires in 2016.

While the majority of Cantina Laredo locations are in the U.S., additional international locations can be found in London and Abu Dhabi. 

Sahenk is enthusiastic about bringing Cantina Laredo to Turkey.

“The Turkish diner has a sophisticated, international palate,” explains Sahenk.  “The contemporary flavors of Mexico for which Cantina Laredo is known will be a welcomed addition to the Turkish restaurant environment.” 

CRO chief executive officer John D. Harkey, Jr. says about Cantina Laredo, “Our latest endeavor in Turkey is very exciting, and we are pleased to be partnering with Ferit Faik Sahenk and Dogus. Since its inception in 1984, Cantina Laredo has been an innovator in modern Mexican cuisine.  Now, over three decades later, we are glad to bring the same level of commitment and innovation to the Turkish diner."

Especially for affluent, discriminating, sophisticated adults, Cantina Laredo is the modern Mexican restaurant that rewards guests with extraordinary service and an authentic taste of Mexico. The Cantina Laredo brand is owned by Consolidated Restaurant Operations, Inc. (CRO), a Dallas-based company operating 112 restaurants, including 39 Cantina Laredo locations.

The CRO portfolio includes Black Oak Grill, Cool River Café, El Chico, Silver Fox, Good Eats, Lucky’s, and III Forks brands.