Taco John’s Celebrates 50 Years of Business
New Logo, New Food Truck Unveiled in Celebration
What started as a taco shack in Cheyenne has grown into a nation-wide Mexican food franchise with a cult following, and today they celebrated 50 years in business. A large crowd of community members and dignitaries were on hand as Taco John’s CEO Jim Creel recounted the founding of the popular fast-food restaurant and offered a glimpse of what the future holds for the company.
“It’s hard to believe that Taco John’s has been around for 50 years,” said Creel. “There have been a lot of changes, but one thing has always stayed the same – we started in Cheyenne and we are still in Cheyenne and I’m really proud of that. We are now one of the largest quick serve Mexican restaurants in the country with 400 restaurants over 25 states. And we have the most fanatical Mexican food customers in the Country.”
As part of the festivities, Taco John’s unveiled a new logo, debuted their new mobile Taco John’s food truck and during his remarks Creel unveiled plans for a new look restaurant located on South Greeley Highway. During the construction on South Greeley Highway, the new food truck will be positioned across the street for breakfast and lunch. They will also have it downtown for “Friday’s on the Plaza” and will utilize it at various other events throughout the region.
“The food truck is a great addition for us,” added Creel. “It will feature a limited menu but will include all the favorites including potato ole’s, tacos and burritos.”
Mayor Marian Orr was on hand to address the crowd and congratulate the Taco John’s contingency. She was joined by Secretary of State Ed Buchanan, Ward 1 City Councilmen Scott Roybal, Pete Layborn and Jeff White and former Cheyenne Mayors Bill Nation and Don Erickson, all of whom shared their own Taco John’s memories. In closing remarks, Mayor Orr presented Creel a “Key to the City” and in cooperation with City Council members, renamed 20th St. that runs alongside the Taco John’s Headquarters as “Ole Way”.
“I love their food, give me a bean burrito and I am happy,” said Mayor Orr. “But what I love most about Taco John’s, outside of their food, is what all of you do to give back to the community. You care about Cheyenne. You have donated millions of dollars to Cheyenne charities. You invest and take pride in our community and it’s not just the organization but your employees sit on many boards and volunteer in our community. You make Cheyenne better.”