Evanston, IL – Taco Bell is set to return to downtown Evanston with the opening of a new Taco Bell Cantina at 1737 Sherman Ave. The franchise, which previously operated a location next door that closed in 2018, is expected to open in 40-45 days according to property manager Gordon Magill.
The city has lacked fast food options, a staple for many college towns, since Taco Bell’s departure. The old Burger King on Orrington Ave. also closed its doors in 2020, leaving few late-night dining options for residents and Northwestern University students.
“I’ve heard from a number of Northwestern students that they really liked the Taco Bell that was in the area in the past, and I know students are very excited for it to come back,” said Andy Vick, the executive director of Downtown Evanston. “It’s got a good price point for students who are trying to watch their budget.”
The new Taco Bell Cantina will feature an open kitchen and serve alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, sangria and alcoholic Taco Bell Freezes, in addition to the chain’s signature menu items. This will fill a niche that has yet to be addressed by other restaurants in the area, according to Magill.
“There aren’t many places where people can have a drink in Evanston, especially that are open late,” said Weinberg senior Serena Mehta. “So as someone who is 21 plus, I think it’s exciting to have that option. Plus a good fast food restaurant nearby.”
While some may be concerned about the impact on local Mexican restaurants, Tania Ruiz, the manager of Tomate Fresh Kitchen, sees it as healthy competition. “All Mexican restaurants have their own unique flavors,” Ruiz said. “I think it’s great there will be a new one, a little bit of something for everyone.”
The return of Taco Bell is expected to contribute to the redevelopment of downtown Evanston following the challenges posed by the pandemic. “But hopefully, for every business that closes, we’ll open two new ones and eventually we’ll be back to a full downtown,” Vick said.
The property is currently pending inspections, according to the City Manager’s Report. Weinberg sophomore Eshaan Chandani, who has been counting down the days until Taco Bell’s return, is eager for the opening. “If I’m up super late and I get hungry, I have to order DoorDash, which is really terrible for my wallet because of delivery fees and tipping the driver,” he said.
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