THE foundations of the first Taco Bell in Redlands are being laid but there is no word on when the outlet will open.
The Cleveland store, on the site of Sizzler, is one of more than 50 that Australian franchisee Collins Foods will open across the country over the next three years.
A spokesperson cited south-east Queensland as a priority for the expansion.
It is understood Collins Foods is actively seeking sites and locations but there is no word on whether the Redlands could be in for a second Taco Bell.
Demolition got underway at Cleveland’s Sizzler just days after Father’s Day, the restaurant’s last day of trading.
Collins Foods had applied to Redland City Council in June to knock down the restaurant, to build the Mexican fast food outlet. The plans include a drive-through.
Collins also applied for Taco Bell and the next door KFC to trade up to 24 hours a day.
After the announcement of the demise of Sizzler, a Taco Bell Australia spokesman said Collins hoped Redlanders would embrace Taco Bell.
“...We hope that the good people of Cleveland and the Redlands area will greet Taco Bell with open arms and hungry bellies,” he said.
Australia’s first Taco Bell opened at Annerley in November last year.
Taco Bell Asia Pacific managing director Ankush Tuli said there had been an overwhelming response to the outlet’s launch in Brisbane.
“We can’t wait to give our passionate fans in Australia the chance to enjoy Taco Bell in more cities across the country,” Mr Tuli said.
The Mexican outlet is recognised for its open kitchens, customer-curated music playlists, free WIFI, craft beers, frozen margaritas and live music sessions.
