“When we started Taco Nation in a school bus, we wanted to take our kitchen on the road,” Taco Nation Founder Tim Ulrich said. “Now we are excited to simply plant our kitchen in the middle of the city in Wheeler District.”
Taco Nation has been a part of the Wheeler District vision since 2018. As OKC locals may know, the company existed first as a food truck – a food bus that is.
The History
Taco Nation drew a crowd each time the bus served tacos at the Wheeler District Ferris Wheel. The Summer Concert series, July 4th, and other events at the Wheel were each a great opportunity for the community to gather at the new Wheeler District plaza, experience a Ferris wheel ride on the river, and enjoy great local food and company.
In November 2020, Taco Nation announced their plan to “sling tacos” next to The Big Friendly brewery in Wheeler District – a moment they had been waiting for.
The location was a hit!
Wheeler District visitors, Taco Nation enthusiasts and Big Friendly fanatics alike came together to enjoy a night of local favorites. The bus opened at the same location the very next night… and the following weekend… and the weekend after that!
From then on, Taco Nation deemed the Big Friendly pavilion a perfect spot for set-up.
The Announcement
November 2021, one year after the food truck’s first Wheeler District Facebook post, Taco Nation announced to their followers that their vision of being “a little more rooted” would soon come to life in the form of a brick and mortar restaurant right in the heart of Wheeler District.
The announcement went on to read that the historical airpark terminal building, after some renovation and added personal touches, would soon be Taco Nation’s new home. The owner’s were excited for their location to stay close to their Wheeler District complement and companion, The Big Friendly.
“We are so thankful for the love and support we have received from all of you, and we can’t wait for this next part of our adventure!”
– Taco Nation Facebook Page
The Future
Taco Nation’s future in the Wheeler District is looking bright.
Wheeler District Vice President of Development Ashley Terry said Taco Nation is a fantastic addition.
“Having Taco Nation’s first brick-and-mortar location is the perfect addition to our community,” Terry said. “Taco Nation’s food truck regularly parks outside of The Big Friendly and draws a large crowd every time. We’re elated to officially welcome them to a permanent home in the Wheeler District.”
The new location opened to the public March 2022 offering a great dinner menu and great company.
Check it out!
