Taco Tuesday: The Weekly Tradition That Brings America Together

What began as a simple restaurant promotion has grown into a nationwide tradition—Taco Tuesday! Every week, more than 70 million Americans come together to celebrate tacos in all their forms, turning an ordinary Tuesday into a delicious and joyful occasion. From the kitchen table to trendy taco spots, this taco phenomenon unites people across the country in their love for flavorful, customizable bites.

Why Taco Tuesday?
Taco Tuesday is more than just a day of the week; it’s a reason to celebrate. It’s the perfect midweek pick-me-up that combines affordability, flavor, and creativity. The formula is simple but genius: tacos that cater to every palate, from classic to inventive, served up with a side of good vibes.

Whether you’re enjoying street-style carne asada tacos, digging into vegan jackfruit creations, or trying out the latest fusion trends like Korean BBQ tacos, Taco Tuesday promises something new and exciting every week.

A Nation United by Tacos
Across the U.S., Taco Tuesday is celebrated everywhere—from bustling cities to quiet suburbs, in homes, schools, and even office potlucks. Did you know that over 50% of American households plan their Tuesday meals around tacos?

It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cultural connector. Families, friends, and coworkers come together to share plates filled with delicious tacos, proving that food truly has the power to bring people together.

Restaurants Taking Taco Tuesday to the Next Level
Restaurants across the country have embraced Taco Tuesday with open arms—and full menus! Nearly 80% of Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants offer Taco Tuesday deals, drawing in taco enthusiasts week after week.

But it doesn’t stop there! Non-Mexican establishments are joining the fun, creating their own taco-inspired dishes that blend diverse flavors and traditions. Think sushi tacos, lobster tacos, or even brunch-style breakfast tacos. The possibilities are endless, and the competition to wow diners has turned every Tuesday into a culinary adventure.

A Social Media Sensation
Taco Tuesday isn’t just about food anymore—it’s a social media phenomenon. With over 10 million posts using the #TacoTuesday hashtag, the tradition has transformed into a visual celebration.

From DIY taco spreads at home to stunning platters at local eateries, food lovers are sharing their taco creations and inspiring others to join in. Don’t forget to snap a pic of your tacos next Tuesday and join the conversation with #TacoTuesdayOfficial!

More Than a Meal, It’s a Tradition
Taco Tuesday has become a cherished weekly ritual, a moment to relax, connect, and enjoy one of life’s simplest yet greatest pleasures: tacos. It’s more than just food; it’s about creating memories, sharing laughs, and bringing people together over something everyone can agree on—great tacos.

So, next Tuesday, whether you’re making tacos at home, heading to your favorite taco spot, or experimenting with a fun new recipe, join the millions of Americans celebrating this weekly tradition.

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TacoTuesday.com Leads National Taco Day Celebrations on Tuesday, October 1

Millions of taco lovers will turn to TacoTuesday.com to celebrate National Taco Day on Taco Tuesday, October 1st. This year marks the inaugural National Taco Day celebration falling on the first Tuesday of October – a new tradition that will highlight Taco Tuesday during this national holiday for years to come.

TacoTuesday.com’s popularity has skyrocketed in the past year, proving that tacos have the unique ability to bring people together and bring joy to their lives on an otherwise mediocre day of the week.

“Millions of people celebrate Taco Tuesday across the country, in restaurants and at home, so it only makes sense to have National Taco Day fall on our favorite day of the week,” explains Pamela Waitt, Founder of TacoTuesday.com. “Having National Taco Day moved to the first Tuesday of October reinforces our mission to unite taco lovers everywhere!”

TacoTuesday.com reveals the significant impact that Taco Tuesday has on the restaurant industry, which relies on the day as a beloved tradition across the nation with the power to increase business significantly. Beyond being a catchy phrase, “Taco Tuesday” has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, as can be seen by the following statistics:

—Taco Tuesday increases restaurant revenue by an average of 22% – 36%, which helps to keep the local economy and payroll thriving

—The earliest documented advertisement for a Taco Tuesday special was in the classified section of the October 16, 1933 edition of the El Paso Herald-Post, decades before a trademark was filed [Source: Gustavo Arellano, Thrillist]

—58% of Americans are aware of Taco Tuesday, 42% have celebrated it, and 13% of Americans celebrate it every week, which equates well over 30 million people who enjoy Taco Tuesday weekly

—There are nearly 100,000 restaurants in the United States that celebrate Taco Tuesday

TacoTuesday.com represents a world of food, celebration, happiness, and fun. The website is fueled by the belief that restaurants bring joy and celebrate everything good for the soul – and that every Tuesday is an opportunity to eat better, be better and live better. TacoTuesday.com is a community website that unites the country through their love of Tacos – on Tuesday, and beyond.

TacoTuesday.com will always be free and accessible to restaurants and community members.

Jarritos® Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with ‘Los Sabores De Mi México’

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Jarritos® proudly presents the second edition of Los Sabores De Mi México—a cultural experience that highlights the rich flavors and vibrant heritage of Mexico. This event will take place from October 3rd to 6th, 2024, at Ovation Hollywood, running daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Los Sabores De Mi México will bring to life the magic of Mexican cuisine with a special focus on the recipes of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo (1907-1954). Attendees will embark on a sensory journey through food and art, with a showcase that includes a replica of the Kahlo family home and kitchen. This experience allows visitors to connect deeply with Frida Kahlo’s world, discovering not only her artistic genius but also the culinary traditions that shaped her life.

Kahlo family home and kitchen

A highlight of the event is the presentation of an exclusive book featuring treasured Kahlo family recipes. “It is a great honor to share a part of our heritage and our family’s history with the world,” said Mara Romeo Kahlo, Frida Kahlo’s grandniece. “We believe the kitchen is the heart of the home, and through this book, we are presenting a collection of gastronomic art and cultural pieces from Frida’s time in a simple, everyday, and fun way.” Chef Mónica Patiño, who curated the recipes, adds, “This book connects us with the woman and the family, offering a glimpse into daily life at Fridas home in Coyoacán. It brings her handwritten recipes to life, reflecting her deep connection with traditional Mexican cuisine.”

The exhibition will also feature previously unseen photographs that capture intimate moments of the Kahlo family, allowing visitors to delve into the personal life of this cultural icon. In addition, ten monumental Frida sculptures, created by contemporary Mexican artists, will pay tribute to her enduring influence in both the art and culinary worlds.

Frida Monumental

Jarritos® representative, Salvador Vargas shared his excitement about the event, stating “Jarritos has always celebrated the vibrant flavors of Mexico, and we are thrilled to bring Los Sabores De Mi México to Hollywood during Hispanic Heritage Month. This event is a beautiful blend of art, culture and cuisine, everything that makes Mexico so special.”

Families and children are invited to participate in the interactive Pinta tu Frida workshop, where they can paint miniature replicas of the Frida sculptures on display. This hands-on activity offers a creative and educational experience for attendees of all ages.

Pinta tu Frida workshop

Los Sabores De Mi México not only celebrates Mexico’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage but also pays homage to Frida Kahlo’s legacy in an unprecedented way. The event will culminate with a live sculpture intervention by a local Mexican artist at the press conference hosted by the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles.

For more information about Los Sabores De Mi México and upcoming events, please visit: www.saboresdemimexico.com/Eventos.

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Cinco de Mayo 2024 LA & OC Celebrations

Downtown Santa Monica (DTSM, Inc.)

Join Downtown Santa Monica (DTSM, Inc.) and celebrate Cinco de Mayo on the 1200 block of the Third Street Promenade on Sunday, May 5 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Attendees will enjoy performances by UCLA’s Mariachi de Uclatlán, Academia de Danza BFFM and recording artist Danny Muñoz. Guests will also enjoy outdoor dining from local favorites including Casa Martin, Cabo Cantina, 1212 and Ugo Trattoria. 

1200 block of Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Catalina Museum for Art & History | Avalon, Catalina Island 

Join art and culture enthusiasts for the biggest celebration of Mexican heritage and pride on Catalina Island, as Catalina Museum presents its annual  Cinco de Mayo Celebration on Sunday, May 5 from 6 to 9 p.m.! Enjoy live music by island favorites Sin Frontera, captivating traditional dance performances by Ballet Folklorico Quetzal, and savor popular Mexican dishes from local food vendors. Engage in an exciting art project and raise a toast with margaritas, wine, beer and more. Come together with the community to honor the spirit of Cinco de Mayo. 

Catalina Museum for Art & History

217 Metropole Avenue, Avalon, CA 90704

Descanso I Costa Mesa

Descanso Restaurant invites you to a Cinco de Mayo celebration on May 4-5. Enjoy a fiesta brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with dishes like Heuvos con Bistec and Francesca Toast, plus $32 Margarita Pitchers and bottomless Bloody Marias. On May 5th only, get complimentary Chef Angulo’s Mango Morita Chile Chicken Wings with $10 margaritas and $5 Modelo drafts. For those without reservations, the Street Taco Lounge is available for walk-ins, featuring gourmet tacos and specialty margaritas. Live music on May 4 at 12 p.m. and 7 p.m., and May 5 at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. Join the modern taqueria for the ultimate modern Mexican fiesta!

Address: 1555 Adams Ave #103, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: (714) 486-3798

Miguel’s Jr. I Orange County & Inland Empire

In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, Miguel’s Jr., the beloved family-owned California Mexican quick-service restaurant in OC and IE, is offering their iconic Bean, Rice & Cheese and Bean & Cheese Burritos for only $1.99 all day. Available at all Miguel’s Jr. locations, patrons can enjoy these flavorful options through dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, online ordering, or delivery.

San Pedro Fish Market | San Pedro, Long Beach and Wilmington

Discover a Cinco de Mayo fiesta at San Pedro Market’s three locations across SoCal! At San Pedro Fish Market Long Beach, indulge in the flavors of Grilled Shrimp or Baja Tacos Plates and enjoy a refreshing 16oz Draft Beer for just $4. Over at the Landing located in San Pedro, CA, entice your taste buds with Rockfish or Shrimp Tacos Plates and savor on $4 draft beers. In Wilmington, feast on any Two Tacos or Taco Plate and delight in a 16oz draft beer for just $4. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style with this irresistible offer available at all locations!

2ND & PCH

Shop over 20 local businesses and enjoy entertainment at the Cinco de Mayo Unidos Vendor Market on Sunday, May 5th from 12 – 5 pm. The curated open-air market celebrates the holiday with folklórico dancers, a mariachi band, photo opportunities, drinks by Beachwood Brewing and special crafts for visitors to shop.

E 2nd St & Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach, CA 90803

Captain Dave’s I Dana Point Harbor

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with friends and family on an unforgettable 2-hour cruise in picturesque Dana Point Harbor. On the main deck, you will enjoy a delicious catered lunch with tacos, margaritas and panoramic views of the beautiful harbor. Head upstairs to the second deck to enjoy the sunshine, refreshing ocean breeze and stunning sights while live mariachi musicians play. 

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629

949-577-8403

Descanso Restaurant Celebrates 5th Anniversary

Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa, is celebrating five years on Thursday, November 16, and is inviting the community to join in a day of festivities with live music, all-day drink specials, featured menu items, giveaways and more. The first concept of its kind, Descanso’s unique and award-winning Plancha dining experience catapulted the Mexican eatery to the top of Orange County’s dining scene shortly after opening in the fall of 2018. To commemorate the occasion, Descanso Executive Chef Jose Angulo and Mixologist Krys Modawell will introduce new menu items that will be featured throughout the month of November.

“Five years ago we started Descanso with the idea of bringing people together to commune over great food and a memorable experience,” said Rob Arellano, Owner of Descanso, SoCal’s only full-service Mexican restaurant known for preparing authentic cuisine a la minute in front of the guest on a traditional Plancha. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone with our community, and we look forward to our most exciting year yet as we prepare to expand to Los Angeles in 2024.”

Chicken Enchiladas - with guajillo sauce, tomatillo sauce, melted 3 quesos, sour cream, queso fresco, red onion 

Photo courtesy of Descanso Restaurant.

Join Descanso in celebrating five years of authentic Mexican flavors. Enjoy complimentary bites, half-off margaritas, beers, tequila flights and wine bottles. Vibe to live music on Descanso’s spacious patio and savor a rotating collection of special menu items and cocktails which will be featured through November 30. 

Featured Anniversary Menu Items

Cocktail

Quinta Fiesta – Cazadores Blanco, crème de cassis, lime juice, ginger beer, morita chili salt rim, edible flower garnish, lime wheel.

November 12 -18 

Lunch special 

Hamachi En Leche de Tigre – sashimi grade hamachi, leche de tigre, pomegranate

Dinner Special

Braised Lamb Shank – butternut squash mash, black olive juice, gremolata

November 19-25 

Lunch special 

Chicken Enchiladas – with guajillo sauce, tomatillo sauce, melted 3 quesos, sour cream, queso fresco, red onion 

Dinner special

Beef Cheek Agnolotti – slow braised beef cheeks, root vegetables, ancho chili beef reduction, black garlic, chanterelle mushrooms

November 26-30 

Lunch special 

Crispy Lobster Tacos – butter poached fresh Maine lobster, morita aioli, mango relish, red cabbage, crispy blue corn tortilla 

Dinner special  

Seared Sea Bass – pistachio crust, poblano sauce, garlic spinach  

Descanso Restaurant is located at 1555 Adams Ave. Ste. 103, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.

Hours of operation are Monday from 3–9 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Weekly happenings include Weekend Brunch from 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 3–6 p.m., Taquero Tuesdays in the Plancha Room from 5 p.m. to close, and Wine Wednesday with live music beginning at 6 p.m.For more information and to make a reservation visit DescansoRestaurant.com or call 714.486.3798.  

Taco Tuesday Triumphs: The Emergence of a Nationwide Trend Post Trademark Removal

By Pamela Waitt

As spicy, tangy salsa drips over the brim of a crispy shell filled with mouthwatering fillings, one can only be grateful for the culinary marvel that is a taco. From food trucks to fine dining, tacos have stolen the hearts of millions across the nation. But one phenomenon has truly cemented tacos in American food culture: Taco Tuesday.

This beloved tradition involves restaurants and eateries offering discounted tacos or special taco-centric menus every Tuesday. It has gained such popularity that an estimated 30 million people across the United States partake in the weekly celebration. However, the celebration of Taco Tuesday has not always been an easy path.

Once hampered by trademark restrictions, the term “Taco Tuesday” was legally tethered to a Wyoming-based franchise, Taco John’s, who held the trademark since 1989. Any restaurant outside of this franchise using the term could potentially face legal action, making it a risky proposition to advertise their own Taco Tuesday promotions.

However, the tides have turned in favor of taco enthusiasts nationwide. Recent developments saw the removal of the restrictive “Taco Tuesday” trademark, opening up a new era of gastronomic opportunity.

The lifting of the trademark has seen an explosion in the number of restaurants embracing the Taco Tuesday tradition. According to recent data, close to 100,000 restaurants in the United States now serve Taco Tuesday promotions. From local diners to multinational chains, establishments of all sizes are jumping on the taco train, eager to offer their own unique spins on the tradition.

As more restaurants adopt the Taco Tuesday tradition, variety and innovation are flourishing. You’ll find fusion tacos, gourmet tacos, and vegetarian tacos now more than ever. The competition between establishments has driven the creation of unique and flavorful offerings, making the tradition even more exciting for consumers.

This surge in participation is not just good for business; it’s also impacting community dynamics. Restaurants are local gathering spots where friends and family convene every week, fostering a sense of community. Meanwhile, consumers are relishing the opportunity to try out different tacos each week, turning a simple dinner choice into an exciting break in the week.

With the trademark hurdle removed, the phenomenon of Taco Tuesday is set to grow exponentially. The tradition has turned into a win-win scenario for both consumers and restaurateurs. For diners, it’s an invitation to eat tacos and enjoy life on Tuesday. For restaurateurs, it’s an opportunity to showcase their culinary skills, attract a steady stream of customers, and partake in a nationwide trend.

The continued growth and success of Taco Tuesday are undeniable. With more restaurants than ever participating and millions of consumers joining in, this tradition promises to keep our Tuesdays exciting for many years to come. As the United States continues to embrace the culture of Taco Tuesday, we can only anticipate even more creativity, camaraderie, and, of course, irresistible tacos in the future. At TacoTuesday.com our goal is simple, to make a have a fun site for taco lovers to find restaurants, tacos, Taco Tuesdays and Happiness.