By Kristi Spencer
For the past 50 years, Taco Town has been a tasty part of Carthage’s history. Behind the counter, you’ll find Melissa and Richard McCune, the heart and soul of the restaurant since they took over 15 years ago. Their journey to being the proud owners of Taco Town was filled with twists, turns and a deep connection to the community that rallied behind them when they needed it most.
Founded in 1974 by Tony and Montine Ness, Taco Town started in a small former gas station and quickly became a local treasure. Melissa had worked for Tony on and off, so when he decided it was time to pass the torch, she and Richard jumped at the opportunity. “We shook hands on the deal that same day,” Melissa recalls. But the path to ownership wasn’t that simple. The bank wasn’t as sure about the couple’s dream or the loan needed to make it come true.
When Taco Town had to close during the sale temporarily, the McCunes were hit with some frustrating news from the bank. They weren’t convinced the restaurant would succeed. Melissa says the bank went so far as to suggest that if their customers love Taco Town so much, the McCunes should ask them for a loan. They decided to go for it, and to their surprise, people started pitching in right away. Not only did fans send donations, but they also flooded the bank with calls, demanding that Taco Town get the loan it needed. Eventually, all that support worked. The McCunes got the loan, and Taco Town’s doors were back open.
Taco Town reopened on a snowy January day. Even though schools were closed due to the weather, that didn’t stop loyal fans from lining up at 7 a.m., waiting hours in the cold for the doors to open at 11:00. And it wasn’t just a one-day event; this scene repeated for weeks, a testament to the deep connection between Taco Town and its customers.
Taco Town has built a loyal fanbase, ranging from local families to out-of-town travelers. Even a soldier who used to visit while on leave once shipped 100 burritos to his unit in Germany. Despite its small size, the restaurant has made a big impact.
Keep an eye on Taco Town’s Facebook page for their weekly specials and seasonal offerings. The pulled pork tacos are a summer favorite, and the holiday season brings turkey tacos and sweet potato fries. In the spring, you’ll see fish tacos and sandwiches added. Everything, from the chili to their famous cheese dip, is made in-house and seasoned with a secret blend that’s become Taco Town’s signature.
Melissa is proud of their loyal customer base, many of whom stop by daily. “We love our customers, and they keep our doors open,” she says. The homemade syrups for drinks and what Melissa calls “the best tea in town” are just a few reasons customers come back again and again.
Taco Town’s legacy is more than just about tacos—it’s a story of family, flavor and a community that loves its Taco Town.