In the summer of 1961, a small taco shop opened its doors on Easton Boulevard in Des Moines, Iowa, setting the stage for a culinary legacy that would resonate through the decades. Tasty Tacos was founded by Richard and Antonia Mosqueda, a couple with a dream, a family recipe, and just a $500 loan to get them started. They were determined to bring something special to the community—a taco unlike any other, made with fluffy flour shells and filled with seasoned meats, lettuce, and cheese.
In those early days, Tasty Tacos was a modest takeout operation. Antonia ran the kitchen while Richard juggled his day job as a barber. Each evening, he would join her, and together they poured their hearts into every taco served. The couple’s philosophy, captured in their motto “Nada Es Imposible” (Nothing Is Impossible), was evident in their hard work and dedication. Their homemade tacos quickly gained a reputation for quality, drawing in local patrons who appreciated the personal touch that came with each meal.
As word of mouth spread, so did the business. By the late 1960s, Tasty Tacos had opened a second location with dining options, marking its transformation from a single shop to a beloved local chain. The Mosquedas were not just building a restaurant; they were creating a gathering place for families and friends, a spot where the community could come together over great food…