Fargo, ND – When Trinity Laughlin and Ella Johnson developed an intense craving for Taco John’s, a beloved taco chain, they found themselves facing a dilemma: the nearest Taco John’s restaurant was nearly 60 miles away in Wahpeton, North Dakota. Undeterred, the two friends transformed their taco cravings into a regular road trip, logging nearly 1,000 miles over time to satisfy their fast-food obsession.
A Tradition Born Out of Craving
With no Taco John’s locations remaining in the Fargo-Moorhead area, Trinity and Ella’s love for the fast-food chain led to the creation of a unique tradition. For the past several months, the pair has made it a point to drive to Wahpeton—about an hour’s drive away—for their fix of the popular potato oles, tacos, and signature sauces that Taco John’s is known for.
What began as a spontaneous trip has evolved into a cherished ritual. They’ve made multiple trips, some for just a few items, others for a full taco feast, making the drive a regular part of their lives. According to the friends, the long drive is well worth the satisfaction of biting into their favorite Taco John’s meals.
“It’s just something about the food,” says Trinity Laughlin. “We’ve tried others, but there’s just nothing that compares. The tacos, the potato oles—it’s a whole experience. It’s worth the drive, every time.”
Taco John’s Enthusiasm in Fargo
The absence of Taco John’s in Fargo has left a taco-shaped void in the city, with many fans of the restaurant lamenting its departure. The drive to Wahpeton is one of the few ways taco lovers in the area can access Taco John’s, and Trinity and Ella’s commitment to making the journey has made them something of local legends among fellow taco enthusiasts.
Although Taco John’s has been a staple in the Midwest for decades, it recently closed down its Fargo locations, leaving residents with limited options for its signature items. For those who share Trinity and Ella’s love for Taco John’s, it’s clear that the brand holds a special place in their hearts—and their appetites.
The Return of Fan-Favorite Taco Items
Taco lovers across the country are also rejoicing over the return of fan-favorite items from other chains. Taco Bell, for example, recently brought back its Caramel Apple Empanada after a five-year hiatus, sparking nostalgia for its 2001 debut. Fans have flocked to Taco Bell, eager to relive the taste of the crispy, sweet dessert that once graced the menu during the early 2000s. Similarly, Taco John’s continues to enjoy loyal support, especially from customers like Trinity and Ella who are willing to go the extra mile to enjoy their cherished taco meals.
Taco Road Trips: A Growing Trend?
The long-distance taco pilgrimage has raised some eyebrows, but for taco aficionados like Trinity and Ella, it’s a simple solution to a taco-less dilemma. Their commitment to Taco John’s is a testament to how beloved food can shape friendships, traditions, and road trips.
As the taco journey continues, it seems clear that Fargo’s taco fans will stop at nothing—nearly 1,000 miles and counting—to get their hands on the food they love. For Trinity and Ella, each trip is a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences come from a shared obsession—and a willingness to hit the road for the perfect taco.