Popular Taco Chain Del Taco Announces Five New Locations in Louisville

Louisville, KY – June 20, 2025 – Del Taco, the nation’s second-largest Mexican quick-service restaurant, is set to make its Louisville debut with a five-store development agreement, bringing its acclaimed menu and innovative restaurant design to the city for the first time. The expansion is led by local franchisee and seasoned restaurant operator Karan Pandher, who will oversee the development and management of all five locations across the Louisville metropolitan area.

Del Taco’s entry into Louisville marks a significant milestone for the brand as part of its broader Midwest expansion strategy. The new restaurants will feature Del Taco’s latest “Fresh Flex” layout, a modernized design that includes dual drive-thru lanes and pick-up lockers for mobile and third-party orders, aiming to enhance convenience and streamline service for both customers and delivery drivers. The contemporary and colorful interiors reflect the brand’s commitment to freshness and quality.

The menu will showcase Del Taco’s signature offerings, including award-winning crinkle-cut fries, Epic Burritos, and a variety of Mexican and American favorites. Each dish is prepared fresh in-house, using high-quality ingredients such as freshly grilled chicken and carne asada steak, house-grated cheddar cheese, slow-cooked beans, creamy Queso Blanco, hand-chopped pico de gallo, and fresh house-made guacamole.

Franchisee Karan Pandher expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “As someone deeply invested in this city, I’m proud to introduce a concept that doesn’t just serve great food but also creates jobs, builds connections, and adds something new to Louisville’s vibrant food scene”. Del Taco’s director of franchise development, Dustin Thompson, highlighted the significance of the agreement, noting that it represents a key step in the company’s strategic growth across the Midwest and builds upon recent expansion efforts in nearby Indianapolis.

While specific addresses for the new Louisville locations have yet to be announced, the first restaurant is expected to open within the next 18 to 24 months, with additional openings to follow through 2027. Del Taco currently operates nearly 600 locations in 17 states and was recently ranked #1 for Best Fast-Food Restaurant in the USA Today 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards.

The arrival of Del Taco is generating excitement among local food enthusiasts, who anticipate the addition of fresh and vibrant dining options to Louisville’s culinary landscape.