We’re taking a trip down Memory Lane in this week’s bonus newsletter with a special Throwback Thursday edition! Tucked away in old albums and dusty boxes are the stories that shaped who we are today, and nobody tells them better than the one’s who have been here from the start. Join us as we flip through decades-old photos, share a few laughs, and relive the moments, big and small, that helped build our Happy Day family!
Lewiston Taco Time- Est. 1969 (Moved to current location in 1984)
Lewiston Taco Time was Happy Day’s very first restaurant, opening its doors in 1969. The building was constructed with the help of Bruce’s father, Charles, a local contractor. At the time, there was no drive-thru and no back prep area, everything was made by hand and fully visible to guests. The lobby was always buzzing. Tamales were a big hit, burritos came before soft tacos, and menu favorites like The Outlaw quickly gained a following. Opening day even included donkey rides in the parking lot! The restaurant continued to grow and added a drive-thru in 1984. Today, the original building still stands and is now home to Thai Taste, a lasting piece of Happy Day history.
Did you know?
In the early days of Taco Time, franchise founder, Ron Fraedrick, famously used a cement mixer to blend the brand’s secret spices. This commitment to large-batch consistency became a defining tradition and helped Idaho locations thrive from the very beginning!
Pullman Taco Time- Est. 1970. Closed in 2009.
Pullman Taco Time became Happy Day’s second restaurant when it opened in 1970. From the start, it was incredibly busy and quickly stood out as one of the top-performing Taco Time locations in the chain. Locals still remember its European-style drive-thru, often described as “flipped” or “unusual,” but unmistakably memorable. In its prime, the restaurant was a favorite hangout for teenagers and a popular stop for locals heading out on cruises. During the 1970s and ’80s, the legendary “three tacos for a dollar” deal made it even more iconic.
Over time, downtown Pullman saw less traffic due to repeated Palouse River flooding and attractions moving to other areas. Combined with the challenges of the unique drive-thru, the restaurant ultimately closed in 2009. Even so, the memories made there continue to live on.
Did you know?
There’s a moment in Taco Time history known as the “Great Taco Time Divide.” This marked the split between Taco Time Northwest (an independent brand popular throughout Washington) and the larger Taco Time (now owned by Kahala Corp with an international presence). The separation led to different menus, recipes, and operating styles, creating two closely related yet distinct Taco Time experiences!
Moscow Taco Time- Est. 1973.
Founded in 1973, Moscow Taco Time quickly made a name for itself with an abstract drive-thru mural by local artist Jon Dawley. Over the years, it became known for something even more unexpected; beer on tap, a true rarity in fast food. It’s growing reputation as a favorite late-night stop for college students keeps it busy as well. Staying open until 1 a.m. brought in the after-bar crowd, and with it, a few growing pains. Late nights sometimes got a little too lively, leading to some memorable (and challenging) moments for the team. Even so, Moscow Taco Time carved out a unique place in Happy Day history and remains one of its most talked-about locations.
Did you know?
Taco Time operates in Canada and Kuwait, with past locations in Greece and The Netherlands antilles. There are currently over 300 locations!
Clarkston Taco Time- Est. 1979 in the old KFC building.
Clarkston Taco Time opened in 1979 in what was once a KFC building along the river. In the early years, guests enjoyed an outdoor patio and playground; features that eventually evolved into the solarium so many love today. After a fire in 1996, the restaurant underwent a major remodel that shaped the space we know now. Even during construction, the kitchen and drive-thru stayed open, continuing to serve hot, fresh food to loyal guests. Strong, dedicated teams were always a priority, and that focus helped carry the restaurant forward. Today, Clarkston Taco Time is recognized as one of the best in the region, known for its bright, airy atmosphere and stunning river views.
Wanna see more? We couldn’t fit them all in one email…
So we made a view-only photo folder with even more throwbacks! Click, scroll, smile 🙂
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