In 1968, a small taco stand opened in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The “Taco House” was an instant success with the locals because of the distinctive seasonings in the tasty tacos and generously sized burritos. In 1969, the franchise rights were purchased by two local businessmen, Harold Holmes and James Woodson. The pair decided to name the franchise after the man who opened the first store—John.

Holmes and Woodson began selling franchises right away, but unlike other fast food chains, their focus was not on large urban areas. The first three franchised restaurants were opened in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, Torrington, Wyoming, and Rapid City, South Dakota. The restaurants began to quickly evolve, with the introduction of drive-thrus and interior seating in 1973. Many of the restaurants that followed set up shop in the small rural communities that other food chains disregarded. The then-unique concept of Mexican fast food first brought in the curious and adventurous customer. Just imagine being one of those bold individuals who tried Potato Olés® back in 1979 when they were first introduced! Over time, these satisfied customers came back to Taco John’s for great food, fast service and fair prices.

Today we operate and franchise more than 400 quick-service restaurants in 25 states, making Taco John’s among the largest Mexican restaurant brands in America. Taco John’s is now celebrated for our unforgettable value deals like Taco Tuesday®, a promotion which started back in 1982, and for menu items like the Meat and Potato Burrito, which debuted back in 1994. Our stores are located in “Taco John’s Country,” which is primarily the central and north central section of the United States. We continue to focus growth efforts in America’s heartland.

Despite all of the progress and innovation we have made in the last four decades, the fundamentals that made Taco John’s a success over the years have not changed. Great-tasting West-Mex® food served quickly and pleasantly and for a fair price—that’s what Taco John’s is all about.