Ford’s Garage, the vintage auto-themed burger and craft beer restaurant, is entering the New Jersey market through a multi-unit agreement with TIG Franchise Group. The deal calls for three new locations, with the first planned for Middlesex County and additional sites to follow across the state.
TIG Franchise Group is led by Jiger Patel, Pranav Desai, and Raj Mahadevia, operators with deep roots in the restaurant and franchising sectors. Patel has been involved in franchise development since 2001, Desai brings more than 15 years of industry experience, and Mahadevia adds a background in technology and operations. Together, the group has built a diverse portfolio that includes brands such as QDOBA and Dave’s Hot Chicken, with more than 15 restaurants already established in New Jersey.
The partners founded TIG in 2019, combining their expertise to expand into fast-growing and high-demand concepts. Their move to bring Ford’s Garage into the Garden State reflects both the brand’s appeal and New Jersey’s appetite for experiential dining.
Ford’s Garage is distinguished by its vintage décor, modeled after 1920s service stations and automotive culture. Locations feature classic Ford memorabilia alongside a menu of burgers, wings, salads, and desserts, paired with a rotating selection of craft beers. The immersive environment has helped the brand carve out a niche beyond standard casual dining, creating what operators describe as a “community gathering place” for families and friends.
The three upcoming New Jersey restaurants are expected to generate between 450 and 600 jobs. TIG plans to position the locations strategically across Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey, building a statewide presence.
Dave Ragosa, Vice President of Franchise Sales and Development at Ford’s Garage, said the partnership with TIG underscores the company’s growth strategy. “Their operational track record and community-driven approach make them an ideal partner to introduce Ford’s Garage to New Jersey,” he said.
Founded in Florida in 2012 and franchising since 2015, Ford’s Garage now operates more than 30 restaurants across eight states. With an exclusive licensing agreement from Ford Motor Company, the brand has become the only restaurant concept authorized to use the iconic Ford name and logo. The New Jersey expansion marks a step in its broader plan to grow east of the Mississippi and strengthen its national footprint.
