Starbird is spreading its wings well beyond its home state of California 10 years after it was founded in San Francisco. The company has announced a new franchise deal with Mehta Investment Group to develop 17 locations across Washington state.
The expansion will be led by Vin Mehta and his son Rohit through Mehta Investment Group, a family-owned enterprise with experience across multiple industries. Its restaurant portfolio includes Jack in the Box, fine dining Mexican restaurants, and East India Co Grill & Bar. Vin Mehta, president of Mehta Investment Group, will guide the strategic direction of its Starbird restaurants, while Rohit Mehta will oversee day-to-day operations and support the brand’s growth throughout Washington.
In a statement, they said Starbird has “built something truly special by reimagining what a chicken restaurant can be, from the bold flavors and hospitable, modern restaurant design to the overall guest experience.”
The Washington deal comes just months after Starbird inked its largest franchise agreement with a 36-unit target to expand in Texas with Mac Haik Restaurant Group.
Starbird’s growth is supported by longtime partner Dollarhyde Investment Group and investment firm KarpReilly. In addition to expanding to Washington and Texas, the company recently signed new franchise development agreements in Salt Lake City, Chicago, and Denver.
Greg Levin was appointed CEO of the brand in February and is tasked with leading the chain’s national expansion. Upon his hire, Founder Aaron Noveshen moved fully into the role of chairman of the board. In May, Starbird added Stefanie Lee as its chief financial officer.
The company ended 2025 with $59.4 million in sales, marking a 28.2% year-over-year increase, according to Technomic. It had 17 locations at the end of the year, or 13.3% more than in 2024. There are now 20 locations open.
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