We’re lucky to have so many amazing small businesses in Arvada, and we want to help you get to know them a little bit better. That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce and highlight ones that make Arvada so special.

By Ryan Hecht, Greater Arvada Chamber VP of Marketing and Communications. Read the full profile at the Arvada Chamber website.

Editor’s note: See bottom of post for details on the Member of the Month selection process and to nominate your business.

Founded by Brad and Tiffani Harris, Renegade Burrito was built on decades of restaurant experience, entrepreneurial determination, and a passion for serving great food with genuine hospitality.

After owning and operating more than 40 franchise restaurants throughout Colorado, Brad and Tiffani launched Renegade Burrito in 2017 with the vision of creating their own fast-casual concept centered around fresh, high-quality ingredients and exceptional customer service. In 2021, they selected Arvada for their newest location after the former Larkburger space became available near 88th & Wadsworth.

“The location was a great fit for our concept due to its size, existing restaurant infrastructure, and price,” Brad shared. “Since opening in Arvada, we have continued to refine and grow the Renegade Burrito brand, earning multiple awards for our food and service and recently expanding into franchising.”

Today, Renegade Burrito has locations in Arvada, Westminster, Thornton, and two Denver locations, along with a licensed location inside Empower Field at Mile High. The company is also preparing to open its first franchise location in Lakewood this July.

The Journey to Restaurant Ownership

Brad’s restaurant career began as a sandwich maker at Subway while attending the University of Northern Colorado. After earning his degree in General Business and Marketing, he was promoted to oversee five Subway locations in the North Metro area. His mentor and former Subway owner, Steve Lauer, later offered Brad the opportunity to purchase those stores, a pivotal moment that launched Brad and Tiffani’s entrepreneurial journey.

“In 1996, we completed the deal, and over the next 30 years, Tiffani and I purchased and sold 35 Subway locations along with 15 additional restaurant franchises across seven regional and national brands,” Brad said.

In 2017, the couple founded Renegade Burrito with the goal of creating something uniquely their own. Today, the restaurant is known for its award-winning breakfast burritos served all day, along with burritos, street tacos, bowls, quesadillas, and more, all made fresh daily in-house.

Investing in People

Their Arvada location employs a team of 15 staff members, many of whom have been with the company for years. Brad and Tiffani credit much of their success to the culture they’ve built around their employees.

“Over the years, we have learned that our people are number one,” they shared. “We treat them like family with respect and dignity, and always go the extra mile for them. In turn, they treat our business like it is their own and operate the locations at the highest level for our guests.”

Like many restaurant owners, the Harris family faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they adapted quickly and embraced new business strategies that continue to support the company’s growth today.

“COVID forced us to dig deep and change the way we do business with the advancement of third-party delivery apps and catering,” Brad explained. “Today, third-party delivery and catering make up a substantial part of our business that did not exist pre-COVID.”

Beyond food and operations, mentorship has become one of the most rewarding parts of their work. Over the years, Renegade Burrito has employed thousands of individuals, many of whom have gone on to succeed in other industries.

“We enjoy mentoring our teams to be the best they can be, whether they stick with us or move on to other careers,” Brad said. “We are proud to say that many of our former staff members have flourished in many industries, and we are proud to know that we played a part in helping them achieve success long after their tenure at Renegade Burrito.”

A Commitment to the Arvada Community

The Arvada community has also played a major role in the company’s success. From participating in Taste of Arvada to receiving grant funding for their new patio, Brad and Tiffani say the local support has been incredible.

“The community and people in Arvada have been amazing,” they shared. “In the five years we have been open at 88th & Wadsworth, we have had some of the greatest times of our careers.”

As members of the Greater Arvada Chamber, Brad and Tiffani say they value the friendships, support, and resources that help local businesses grow and thrive.

“Thank you to the members of Arvada and the Chamber for all the local support you have given us since inception,” they shared. “We are grateful to the community and look forward to serving for many years to come.”

If you have not yet visited Renegade Burrito, Brad and Tiffani encourage the community to stop by and experience what has earned the restaurant more than 15 awards for Best Mexican, Best Breakfast Burrito, Best Burrito, Best Green Chili, Best Street Tacos, and more from organizations including Westword, 5280 Magazine, and Best of Mile High.

The Greater Arvada Chamber Member of the Month is nominated and selected by our Business Services team. The Member of the Month recognizes active members that are deeply engaged in the Chamber’s programs and leadership; celebrating an important milestone, and/or; have a compelling story worthy of a spotlight to our community. Please submit nominations for your business or non-profit at this link.