LAFAYETTE, CALIFORNIA – It’s the end of an era for fast food in Lafayette. A long-running, somewhat controversial, and certainly architecturally-unique fast food spot in the East Bay city is closing forever on January 1.
Some people will be happy to see a chain restaurant go. Others, though, are sad about the demise of this particular spot, largely because it’s been in the community for decades. Sixty years, to be exact.
Taco Bell in downtown Lafayette, California (3501 Mt. Diablo Blvd) is reportedly closing on January 1st. Locals say that the owner chose not to renew the lease due to low sales.
For years, this Taco Bell has been a minor local lightning rod: an old-school, arched, bell-topped building that looks more like a throwback to 1960s California than a modern fast-food box. That contrast is exactly why some people love it — and why others have joked that it feels wildly out of place in a town known for upscale dining.
McDonald’s down the block has blended in by modernizing. Inside, you’d think you’d stepped into a fancy burger restaurant.
The Taco Bell has resolutely kept its original look and vibe. Again, to some fans of mid-century architecture, that’s a positive thing. SFGATE, for example, has noted how distinctive the chain’s early “mission-style” buildings were, with hallmark arches and a bell-like silhouette that made them instantly recognizable.
And according to the Lafayette Historical Society, this Lafayette outpost is one of only a handful of original Mission-style Taco Bells still standing, which helps explain why the building inspires so much nostalgia.
As the Facebook post above shares, it was the site of high school pranks in the 1970s, and has been a popular spot for cheap eats in the community for generations.
The Taco Bell’s lack of a drive thru may be one reason for its demise. Especially post-pandemic, most fast food diners expect one.
Other upscale towns in the 925 have kept their Taco Bells by making them fancier. In Danville, there’s a Taco Bell Cantina that seems to be doing well, and has kept up with the fancier vibes of the town.
There’s still a day left to grab one last taco. Farewell to this Lafayette icon!
When the Lafayette Taco Bell closes, it’s very likely the building will be repurposed into a new restaurant. That’s what’s happened with most of the iconic Mission style buildings, including a former Taco Bell in Milpitas.
Make sure to join our free 925 News newsletter so we can share as soon as we learn the fate of this classic Lafayette building.
