History of Taco Bell
Taco Bell is a fast-food chain known for its Tex-Mex-inspired menu, particularly its tacos and
burritos. Founded by Glen Bell in 1962 in Downey, California, the restaurant initially served a
limited menu of tacos, tostadas, and burritos. Bell, who had previously owned a hot dog stand and a
hamburger stand, saw potential in the Mexican-inspired food he encountered in nearby San Bernardino
and decided to start his own venture.
By 1964, the first franchise location opened in Torrance,
California, and the brand's growth took off from there. The 1970s saw significant expansion, with
Taco Bell establishing a presence throughout the United States. In 1978, PepsiCo purchased Taco
Bell, which helped to further accelerate its growth through corporate backing and additional
resources. Under PepsiCo's ownership, Taco Bell experimented with new menu items and marketing
strategies, solidifying its position in the fast-food industry.
In the decades since, Taco Bell
has continued to innovate, introducing new menu items like the Doritos Locos Tacos and expanding
globally. Today, Taco Bell operates thousands of locations worldwide and is known for its
affordable, quick-service Mexican-inspired food that appeals to a broad audience.