08.12.2025
Torchy’s Tacos Appoints Todd Diener as Chairman of the Board
Industry veteran brings more than 40 years of experience growing iconic restaurant brands
AUSTIN, Texas – August 12, 2025 – Torchy’s Tacos (“Torchy’s” or “the Company”), a fast-casual restaurant serving “Damn Good” tacos and other Tex-Mex inspired fare, today announced that industry veteran Todd Diener, a member of the Company’s Board of Directors since October 2017, has been appointed as Chairman of the Board.
Paul Macaluso, Chief Executive Officer of Torchy’s Tacos, said, “We are delighted to announce the elevation of Todd to Chairman of the Board. His decades of proven leadership growing iconic restaurant brands remain integral as we work to advance the Torchy’s mission. Todd has been an instrumental member of the Board to date, and we look forward to his continued contributions in his new role as Board Chair as we unlock bigger opportunities to deliver ‘Damn Good’ food and unforgettable experiences to more guests.”
Mr. Diener commented, “Since joining Torchy’s Board, I have been consistently impressed by the Company’s ability to scale and innovate in the fast-evolving restaurant industry, while remaining true to its differentiated culture and commitment to provide our guests with incredible, authentic, and high-quality food and beverage. I am honored to now serve as Chairman as we support Paul and the Torchy’s team in its upward growth trajectory, bringing the Company to the next level.”
Torchy’s Tacos currently operates in more than 130 locations across 16 states. Today’s announcement follows Mr. Macaluso’s appointment as Chief Executive Officer in February as well as the Company’s recent collaborations with Sports Clips and Brittany Broski, aimed at broadening the brand’s appeal and underscoring its position as a popular fast-casual dining experience.
About Todd Diener
Mr. Diener has more than 40 years of experience leading iconic brands across the restaurant industry and driving long-term growth and business success. He spent 28 years at Brinker International (NYSE: EAT), one of the world’s leading casual dining restaurant companies and owner of Chili’s and Maggiano’s Little Italy. During this time, Mr. Diener held numerous operating roles and became the President of Chili’s in 1998, playing a key role in growing the business from a small restaurant chain into a globally renowned brand. He then became Chief Operating Officer of Brinker International in 2003 overseeing the core brands of the company (Chili’s, Romano’s Macaroni Grill, On The Border, Maggiano’s Little Italy and Corner Bakery). He returned to the role of Chili’s President in 2005 when the brand entered its most ambitious growth phase, building 75-125 new locations per year through the end of 2009 when he retired from the company. Since leaving Brinker, Mr. Diener has been on eight boards, both domestic and international, and is currently a Senior Advisor with General Atlantic.
About Torchy’s Tacos
Torchy’s Tacos is an authentic fast-casual restaurant concept serving “Damn Good” tacos and other Tex-Mex inspired fare. Founded out of an Austin, Texas food truck in 2006 by Mike Rypka, a former executive chef with a passion for innovative and experimental tacos, the concept has grown to over 130 locations across 16 states. Torchy’s commitment to delivering unique and delicious food is steadfast – all the food and drinks are made-to-order, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. For more information, visit www.torchystacos.com.
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