SCOTTSDALE, Arizona, is about to lose a piece of fast-food history.
The city’s beloved Taco Bell on the corner of Hayden and McDowell is preparing to serve its final Crunchwrap, and it’s one of the last remaining original mission-style locations.
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The retro-style restaurant closed its doors for good on April 12, and loyal fans flocked to the destination to say goodbye.
A RICH HISTORY
Known officially as ‘Store No. 31,’ the unassuming building had been wrapping up burritos and slinging tacos since the 1960s.
As the 31st Taco Bell location ever opened, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals and devoted Taco Bell fans across the country.
The charming restaurant with only three indoor tables and a tight drive-thru has now served its final order.
But it’s not all bad, as a newer, larger location will be opening just across the street.
FAN LOVE
News of the closure has caused a stir on social media.
Nostalgic fans have even poured in to see the building in the flesh one last time.
“We found out this store was closing, and as a Taco Bell fan, you can’t miss it,” said Stephanie Soriano, a self-proclaimed superfan.
She traveled all the way from Ann Arbor, Michigan, to visit the site before it closed.
For some, the mission-style architecture, which is now a rare sight across the country, is what amde the location so special.
“They don’t exist like this anymore,” Soriano added.
The small structure, retro signage, and authentic vibe have turned the restaurant into a cult favorite.
According to some, the restaurant is a candidate for preservation.
Actor and comedian Joel McHale even suggested it should be placed in the Smithsonian, brick by brick.
Others paid tribute in their own way.
On Reddit, one person posted: “I decided to go through the drive-thru again a month ago for the first time in at least a decade after hearing it would be closing.
“Then stopped by to eat in one last time today. Couldn’t see this place close down without one last visit.”
Users were quick to comment, with one replying: “What a unique-looking Taco Bell.
“I’m very familiar with that design but have never seen one with the patio like that!
“What a shame that all these nostalgic buildings are closing or being torn down to be rebuilt into the sterile-looking modern designs. Buildings just don’t have personality anymore.”
Others snapped photos of even the most mundane details like trash cans and drink dispensers.
“It just seems like if we have one last opportunity to take in this retro vibe, we should take advantage of it,” said Nicole Anderson, visiting with her daughter.
A spokesperson shared that there are currently no definitive plans for the building, its furniture, or its iconic signage.
While the move may make sense for operational growth, many fans are mourning the end of an era.
Fast Food meal deals
Here are some of the current value meals offered by popular fast food joints.
Taco Bell’s $7 Luxe Cravings Box:
- Chalupa Supreme
- Beefy Five-Layer Burrito
- Double Stacked Taco
- Chips and nacho cheese sauce
- Medium drink
McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal:
- McDouble or McChicken sandwich
- Four-piece Chicken McNuggets
- Small fries
- Small soft drink
Wendy’s $5 Biggie Bag:
- Junior Bacon Cheeseburger or Crispy Chicken Sandwich
- Four-piece chicken nuggets
- Junior fries
- Small soft drink
Burger King’s $5 Your Way Meal:
- Whopper Junior, Chicken Junior, or Bacon Cheeseburger
- Fries
- Four-piece chicken nuggets
- Soft drink