Taco John's vs. Taco Bell

Outside a Taco John's Restaurant (RoadTour.Net Photo)

To our surprise, Taco John's has been around for decades, establishing itself as a beloved fixture in the fast-food landscape. Founded in 1969 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, this taco joint chain has a rich history that reflects the evolution of American fast food and the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine across the nation. Over the years, Taco John's has experienced significant growth, expanding its footprint with numerous locations throughout the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Western regions. This expansion is a testament to the brand's ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences while maintaining its core values and offerings.

The extensive menu at Taco John's is one of its standout features, showcasing a wide variety of delicious options that cater to diverse tastes. From their signature tacos, which come in various styles and fillings, to hearty nachos loaded with toppings, each item is designed to be both flavorful and satisfying. Additionally, they offer burritos, a four cheese quesadillas, and a selection of sides that include crispy potato ole's, which have become a fan favorite.

Taco John's Crispy Taco (RoadTour.Net Photo)

The location we went to had great customer service, which is always a welcoming aspect when visiting a new establishment. The cashier was friendly and attentive, greeting us with warm smiles. However, despite the positive interaction with the employee, the problem arose with the wait time in the drive-thru. It was at least a 10-minute wait at the pickup window, which felt a bit excessive considering the generally efficient service we had encountered up to that point. While we appreciated the quality of the food being prepared, the lengthy wait detracted from the overall experience, making us wonder if there could be improvements in the drive-thru process to enhance efficiency. This situation highlighted the balance that establishments must strike between providing excellent service and managing wait times effectively.

Taco John's Restaurant Drive Thru (RoadTour.Net Photo)

The food tasted remarkably fresh and was undeniably better than what Taco Bell has ever provided in terms of flavor and quality. Each ingredient seemed to be sourced with care, contributing to a vibrant and satisfying taste experience. However, the cost was steep and might give some diners pause. For just one person, the total bill came to an exact amount of $19.61, which included tax. This total encompassed a variety of items: two tacos, a serving of potato ole's, a side of nacho cheese for dipping, a medium-sized drink, a bean burrito, and a churro for dessert. The two taco meal alone was priced at $13.35, which is quite significant for a fast-food meal. While the quality was undoubtedly high, the price point may limit accessibility for some customers who are used to more budget-friendly options. The potato ole's offered a delightful twist on traditional fries, providing a crispy texture and flavorful seasoning that complemented the tacos beautifully. The nacho cheese served as a rich and creamy addition, perfect for dipping over the potatoes.

Taco John's Receipt (RoadTour.Net Photo)

We definitely recommend going to Taco John's over Taco Bell, but be prepared to drain your wallet. While the experience was enjoyable and the food was of high quality, the pricing may warrant consideration for those who are budget-conscious or looking for a quick meal without a hefty price tag.