Founded in 1962 in Downey, CA, by Glen Bell, Taco Bell is one of the giants in the fast-food franchise world. As of 2023, it had reached 8,212 restaurants, serving more than 2 billion customers a year. With two locations already operating in Leander, the chain is now preparing to launch a third.
This week, What Now came across a TDLR filing for a new Taco Bell at 11300 US-183. It’s an $800,000 construction project expected to run from June 22 to September 14. The finished product will be a 2,565-square-foot Taco Bell with a drive-thru.
Behind the planned Taco Bell is franchisee Tacala Companies, a franchise group founded by Dick Reese and Don Ghareeb that launched its first Taco Bell in 1989 in Columbiana, Alabama.
Taco Bell has been in the news recently, announcing that it its 2026 Menu Reveals will be broadcast live on Peacock.
“Premiering March 10 from the Hollywood Palladium, Musical Artist Vince Staples hosts a one-night-only variety special featuring year-defining Taco Bell reveals, fan-inspired moments, and celebrity appearances by Ariana Madix, Benson Boone, Doja Cat, Fernando Mendoza, and more,” says a press release. “Taped live from Hollywood and premiering exclusively on Peacock March 10, the one-night special will deliver an award-show spectacle, complete with a star-studded Purple Carpet and exclusive surprises for viewers at home.”
“Taco Bell has some of the most passionate fan bases and I’ve been a fan of the brand since I was young,” host Vince Staples said in the press release. “I’m excited to partner with them on something that feels true to who they are and how people actually connect with their brand.”
That’s the nature of a concept this big: on one hand, there’s the massive spectacle of fandom; on the other, business continues with simple work in brick and mortar.
Stay tuned for more details on the new Taco Bell planned for Leander.
You can keep up with all things Taco Bell by following @tacobell on Instagram.
