C.O. Jones hires expansion consultant

NEW HAVEN, Conn. — C.O. Jones Mexican Restaurant has retained Indianapolis-based MZD Restaurant and Retail Development to assist with the expansion of new locations.

The fast-casual concept features an extensive Cal-Mex menu and offers more than 75 varieties of premium tequila, with more than 25 margaritas and freshly prepared lemon and lime mixers.

The original C. O. Jones opened in 2000 on the fringe of the Yale University campus in New Haven.

"It's a grown-up version of some of the category growth leaders like Moe's Southwest Grill, Chipolte or Baja Fresh," said Bob Potter, C. O. Jones founder.

The company currently is developing new locations in Saint Louis, Mo., and Raleigh and Charlotte, N.C.