ChronoFive
Play today’s puzzle
Setting the scene
Glen Bell had sold hot dogs and tacos from San Bernardino stands competing with McDonald's neighbors; he studied Mitla Cafe's taco recipes and aimed for franchisable Mexican-American fast food with crunchy shells and mild sauce.
What happened
Taco Bell was founded in 1962 in Downey, California, with a mission-style arch and menu priced for suburban drivers seeking quick south-of-the-border flavors without sit-down service.
Why it still matters
Fast Mexican-American food spread nationwide after PepsiCo acquisition in 1978; Taco Bell's Doritos Locos Tacos and '$1 menu' debates mirror how chains Americanized regional cuisine while employing tens of thousands in late-night drive-through culture.
Background
Fast Mexican-American food spread nationwide.