Taco Bell’s Latest Restaurant Has a Fire Pit and Cornhole, Just in Time for Summer

You might love Taco Bell because it’s one of the healthiest fast-food chains. Or maybe because of the iconic Mexican Pizza, an endangered menu staple. But you might not think of Taco Bell when you want to chill around a fire pit with a cocktail in hand. Think again, because Taco Bell has rolled out a new location with an outdoor gaming area and a full bar. Score!

What makes this Taco Bell unique?

A few years back, Taco Bell introduced its Cantina concept to urban locations that saw lots of foot traffic (read: no drive-thrus). The style featured tech innovations like digital menu boards, ordering kiosks, plus another added bonus: alcohol. This new buzzy location in Danville, CA brings the Cantina concept to the suburbs, but is “technology-forward and social-oriented,” said Mike Grams, Taco Bell’s President and Global COO, in a press release. In a departure from the regular Cantina design, it also incorporates a drive-thru!

The pandemic changed the way we dine out and socialize, and these new designs reflect our current reality. What that translates to are restaurants that prioritize drive-thru, which saw a huge surge during the pandemic, with added social elements like patios for outdoor dining, fire pits and game areas for added social-distanced fun. Not to mention, a full bar inside when it’s time to dine-in again. Taco Bell Frosé, anyone?

Can you expect this at your local Taco Bell?

The first-ever hybrid Cantina restaurant in Danville, CA opened earlier this year and joins the small list of destination Taco Bell Cantina locations like the flagship in Las Vegas. While Taco Bell announced it would be focusing on similar destination restaurants this year, they didn’t mention specific locations slated for roll-outs. But who knows? A Taco Bell that’s perfect for outdoor entertaining might be heading your way!