Founded in 1960 in Pasadena, California, Acapulco has developed a loyal guest following and is a leading brand in the Mexican casual dining segment. Acapulco is currently the third largest Mexican casual dining restaurant brand in the state in terms of number of restaurants behind El Torito and Chevys. Known as a casual, neighborhood restaurant offering generous portions of California-Mexican cuisine at attractive prices, the concept can best be described by the phrase "mi casa es su casa" which translates to "my house is your house". Acapulco is known for providing its guests with a compelling value proposition, providing a great meal at a great price. While known for value, Acapulco has successfully reduced its discounting programs over the past several years.

Located primarily in Southern California, Acapulco offers guests a festive, upbeat and energetic atmosphere focused on serving fresh, California-Mexican dishes. Operating 36 locations, Acapulco's menu features a variety of typical Mexican dishes, including tacos and enchiladas, as well as several soup and salad options, all of which are served in generous portions by an upbeat and friendly staff. One point of differentiation of Acapulco's menu is the selection of seafood dishes, including shrimp, halibut and crab entrees. In addition to the regular menu items, Acapulco routinely offers specials which combine or expand selections already on the menu. Complementing its extensive food offerings, the concept also features a host of specialty drinks, including signature house margaritas made with premium Jose Cuervo Gold Tequila, as well as a variety of Mexican beers and other spirits. Acapulco offers catering and in-restaurant banquet services, as well as take-out and delivery service.

Acapulco offers a lunch, dinner and kid's menu. The menu is characterized by California influenced Mexican food. While not a seafood restaurant, Acapulco is known for its appealing shrimp dishes including shrimp fajitas and enchiladas. The menu also offers a variety of fajitas, enchiladas, tacos and burritos, as well as a variety of combinations of items. In addition, the menu offers soups and entrée salads as well as a selection of desserts. Real Mex Foods provides Acapulco with certain high volume items including soups, baked goods and sauce bases, in addition to serving as its primary supplier. The drink menu includes a wide variety of American and Mexican beers, in addition to a core selection of traditional margaritas. Acapulco also offers catering for a range of events in addition to its in-house banquet services.

Acapulco restaurants are primarily free-standing and located in high-traffic urban and suburban destinations. The concept currently utilizes three models for restaurant décor, including Hacienda, Aztec and Resort that resemble a neighborhood cantina best characterized as a relaxed environment. In addition, most Acapulco locations offer attractive outdoor patios enabling guests to comfortably dine outside.

Similar to El Torito, Acapulco restaurants benefit from long standing, value oriented day-part programs designed to drive incremental traffic during slow periods. Beginning with Sunday brunch, guests can indulge in a champagne brunch with a variety of fresh soups, chilled salads and a taco bar with traditional Mexican favorites. Weekday value promotions include Happy Hour, Margarita Mondays and a Mexican-style lunch buffet, which is unique amongst the Real Mex concepts.