The History Of Taco Bell Starts With An Entirely Different Type Of Fast Food

The controversy over Taco Bell's tacos

How did Bell come to the conclusion that tacos would be the key item to distinguish him from his rivals? This narrative traces back to Bell's initial burger stand in San Bernardino, situated in a predominantly Latino area. He observed that a nearby Mexican restaurant was consistently bustling with customers, prompting him to adopt their concept while adding his own modifications to the sauce and fillings.

The inception of one of Taco Bell's hallmark products can be viewed as contentious, as the non-Mexican Bell seemingly borrowed — or, depending on your perspective, appropriated — the idea from a restaurant named Mitla Café. Mitla was famous for its "tacos dorados," or golden tacos, which consisted of fried, crispy tortillas stuffed with meat, cheese, and tomato. However, it's important to note that Mitla did not originate this style of hard-shelled taco. Although often regarded as an Americanized version of Mexican cuisine, these tacos have their roots in Mexico (even though Taco Bell has twice attempted to establish restaurants in Mexico). Mitla Café continues to operate, but unlike Taco Bell, it has not evolved into a massive international franchise. Nevertheless, it remains an often overlooked yet essential part of Taco Bell's history, much like the rise and fall of the Taco Bell Chihuahua.