The Quest for the Original Taco Bell: A Deep Dive into Taco History

The scent of seasoned beef, crispy tortillas, and that unmistakable Taco Bell hot sauce. It’s a culinary memory for millions, but where did it all begin? The answer is: The original Taco Bell, affectionately known as “Numero Uno,” was located at 7112 Firestone Boulevard in Downey, California. While that specific location isn’t currently a Taco Bell – more on that later – its legacy remains deeply embedded in the fast-food landscape.

The Birth of a Fast-Food Empire: Numero Uno

It all started with Glen Bell, a visionary entrepreneur with a penchant for Mexican-inspired cuisine. Bell already had experience with fast-food, having successfully operated Bell’s Burgers and Bell’s Drive-In in the San Bernardino area. He noticed the popularity of Mexican food, particularly tacos, and saw an opportunity to streamline the process and make it accessible to the masses.

He opened the doors to Numero Uno on March 21, 1962. The menu was simple and affordable: tacos, tostadas, and chili burgers were the stars of the show, priced at just 19 cents each! This affordability, coupled with the novelty of fast-food tacos, proved to be a winning formula. The restaurant quickly gained popularity, drawing long lines of hungry customers.

The design of Numero Uno was also significant. It was a small, unassuming building with a distinct Mission Revival style, featuring red-tiled roofing and stucco walls. This look would become a hallmark of early Taco Bell restaurants, contributing to the brand’s recognizable identity. The success of Numero Uno paved the way for further expansion, with Bell franchising the concept and opening new locations across Southern California and beyond.

From Downey to the Nation: Franchising and Growth

Following the initial success, Glen Bell recognized the potential for exponential growth through franchising. He began selling franchises in 1964, allowing other entrepreneurs to replicate the Taco Bell model. This decision proved to be pivotal in the company’s rapid expansion.

The franchise model allowed Taco Bell to quickly establish a nationwide presence, bringing its signature tacos and other Mexican-inspired items to communities across the United States. The affordability and convenience of Taco Bell, coupled with its consistent quality, made it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.

The Demise and Resurrection of Numero Uno

Unfortunately, the original Taco Bell in Downey did not survive the test of time as a corporate-owned entity. The building eventually housed other restaurants and businesses, falling into disrepair. However, the story doesn’t end there.

In 2015, Taco Bell made the unprecedented decision to move the entire original building to Taco Bell headquarters in Irvine, California. This monumental undertaking involved carefully dismantling the building and transporting it in pieces to its new location.

The reason? To preserve a crucial piece of Taco Bell history and create a tangible connection to the company’s origins for employees, customers, and future generations. Though it isn’t open to the public daily, it serves as a historical landmark and a reminder of Glen Bell’s vision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Original Taco Bell

Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the history and significance of the original Taco Bell:

1. What made the original Taco Bell’s tacos so special?

The original Taco Bell tacos were characterized by their simplicity and affordability. They were made with seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, and cheddar cheese, all encased in a crispy, pre-formed tortilla shell. The key was the consistent quality and quick preparation, making them an ideal fast-food option. Glen Bell focused on streamlining the taco-making process to ensure efficiency and uniformity.

2. When was Taco Bell officially founded?

Taco Bell was officially founded in 1962 with the opening of the first restaurant in Downey, California. While Glen Bell had previous experience in the fast-food industry, this was the first location specifically branded and focused on Mexican-inspired cuisine.

3. Why was Downey, California, chosen as the location for the first Taco Bell?

Downey was strategically chosen due to its demographics and location. It was a growing suburban community with a large population of working-class families who were receptive to affordable and convenient dining options. Its proximity to major highways also made it easily accessible to a wider audience.

4. How many original Taco Bell locations are still operating today?

While the original Numero Uno is no longer operating as a public restaurant, many of the early franchised Taco Bell locations are still in business. These restaurants, often recognizable by their original Mission Revival architecture, serve as a testament to the enduring popularity of the brand. Finding an “original” in terms of design is a treasure hunt for Taco Bell aficionados.

5. What other menu items were offered at the original Taco Bell?

Besides tacos, the original Taco Bell menu also included tostadas, chili burgers, and other Mexican-inspired items. The focus was on providing a variety of affordable and flavorful options that appealed to a broad range of customers. They kept the menu simple and focused on items that could be quickly and efficiently prepared.

6. How did Glen Bell come up with the name “Taco Bell”?

The name “Taco Bell” was a straightforward and descriptive choice. “Taco” clearly identified the restaurant’s primary product, and “Bell” was simply Glen Bell’s last name. It was a simple, memorable, and effective way to brand the new fast-food concept.

7. Did Glen Bell have any other successful food ventures before Taco Bell?

Yes, Glen Bell had previous experience in the fast-food industry. He operated Bell’s Burgers and Bell’s Drive-In in the San Bernardino area before focusing on Mexican-inspired cuisine. This experience provided him with valuable insights into the fast-food business and helped him develop the operational efficiencies that would contribute to Taco Bell’s success.

8. What is the historical significance of the original Taco Bell building being moved to Irvine?

Moving the original Taco Bell building to Taco Bell headquarters in Irvine was a significant act of preservation. It ensured that a crucial piece of the company’s history would be protected and accessible to employees and visitors. It also served as a reminder of Glen Bell’s entrepreneurial spirit and the company’s humble beginnings.

9. Can the public visit the original Taco Bell building in Irvine?

While not generally open to the public on a daily basis, the original Taco Bell building in Irvine is sometimes accessible for special events and employee functions. Taco Bell occasionally opens the building for limited tours or celebrations, offering fans a chance to step back in time and experience a piece of fast-food history.

10. How did the design of the original Taco Bell influence the design of future locations?

The Mission Revival style of the original Taco Bell, with its red-tiled roofing and stucco walls, became a recognizable hallmark of the brand. This architectural style was replicated in many early Taco Bell locations, contributing to the company’s visual identity and creating a sense of familiarity for customers.

11. What impact did Taco Bell have on the popularization of Mexican food in the United States?

Taco Bell played a significant role in popularizing Mexican food in the United States. By offering affordable and accessible tacos and other Mexican-inspired items, Taco Bell introduced these flavors to a wider audience, particularly in areas where Mexican cuisine was not previously prevalent. It helped normalize and mainstream Mexican food as a convenient and delicious fast-food option.

12. What happened to Glen Bell after selling Taco Bell?

Glen Bell sold Taco Bell to PepsiCo in 1978 for $125 million. He continued to be involved in the restaurant industry, exploring new concepts and providing consulting services. He remained a respected figure in the fast-food world until his death in 2010, leaving behind a legacy as a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the culinary landscape.