Photo Credit: Megan Mendoza, Arizona Republic
Taco Bell: the fast-food joint that while may be considered authentic Mexican food in a state like Nebraska, is much maligned in a state like Arizona, where actual Mexicans live and can make actual Mexican food. Yes, it may be a bit of a joke in our state, but one particular location in Scottsdale has been more than just a Taco Bell.
In a move that’s sure to tug at the heartstrings of late-night drive-thru aficionados and vintage fast-food architecture enthusiasts alike, Scottsdale’s iconic Taco Bell, store number 31, is set to close its doors after nearly six decades of service. This establishment, one of the oldest in the chain, has been serving up crunchy tacos and bean burritos since the 1960s, all while sporting its original mission-style design—a rare sight in today’s world of cookie-cutter fast-food joints.
This legendary location at the corner of Hayden and McDowell was a throwback to a different era, with only three tables in its unusually small dining room. The signage also resisted the pressures of the modern age, with a throwback look that no doubt is nostalgic for those of us old enough to remember the past Taco Bell. The owner/operators of the location are directing fans to a more modernized location on McDowell.
While it’s undeniably the end of an era, let’s take a moment to put things into perspective. Yes, this Taco Bell has history. But in a city like Scottsdale, where authentic Mexican cuisine is as abundant as sunshine, mourning the loss of a fast-food chain feels a tad melodramatic.
In fact, Taco Bell fandom was often a point of derision for those of us who have lived in the Valley long enough, an indicator that you were probably new here and probably arrived from a place that has precious few options when it came to Mexican food. After all, we all know that Filiberto’s is far superior, right? Although we won’t deny the appeal of crunchy gorditas and whatever else it passes off as Mexican food but which has never actually been consumed in Mexico, real Mexican food is one of the legitimate pleasures of living where we do.
So, while we bid adieu to the nostalgic Taco Bell, let’s not forget that Scottsdale’s culinary scene is brimming with authentic Mexican restaurants that offer more than just a quick bite—they offer a taste of history and culture. Perhaps it’s time to trade in that fast-food taco for a plate of something truly special.