Growing Mexican Fast Food Chain To Open CT's First Restaurant In Newington

NEWINGTON, CT — A Mexican-inspired fast-food chain with more than 300 restaurants nationwide is preparing to enter Connecticut, choosing Newington for its first location in the state.

Taco John's is slated to open this month at 56B Costello Road.

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The company's location information lists the Newington restaurant as coming in September 2026, though a specific opening date has not been announced.

Recent reporting also identifies it as the chain's first Connecticut restaurant.

The Town of Newington previously reported that a permit had been issued for construction of a quick-service Taco John's restaurant at 56 Costello Road.

The restaurant will introduce Connecticut diners to a chain that traces its history to a small taco stand opened in Cheyenne, Wyo., in 1969.

Two businessmen subsequently purchased the franchise rights and named the business after the original operator, John, according to the company.

Taco John's expanded throughout the Midwest and eventually into other parts of the country.

The chain now has more than 300 restaurants in 21 states. Its menu includes tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and breakfast offerings, along with signature items such as Potato Olés — seasoned, bite-sized potatoes — and the Taco Bravo.

The Newington restaurant will also expand Taco John's presence in New England.

The chain already has locations in Massachusetts, including Leominster, and the Newington opening is part of an East Coast expansion led by Reliance Hospitality Group.

Reliance Hospitality Group CEO Arsal Jaffery grew up in Newington and still lives in town, according to recent reporting about the project.

The Newington restaurant is expected to include 36 seats, a drive-through, and delivery service.

The opening will bring another national restaurant brand to the Costello Road/Berlin Turnpike commercial corridor as Taco John's makes its first move into Connecticut.