• by Teresa Buyikian , June 18, 2024

Most wouldn’t expect a national taco chain to help improve the livelihood of street vendors who don’t sell the chain’s food. But that’s exactly what Taco Bell is doing in Los Angeles.

Taco Bell has announced the relaunch of the Ave 26 Family Night Market in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District for several pop-up events this summer on Taco Tuesdays. (Taco Bell ‘liberated’ the Taco Tuesday name last year). As part of the experience, the chain will donate 26 sidewalk-legal food carts, created by Revolution Carts, to local street vendors.

"Street food creativity and culture continues to inspire us at Taco Bell as we evolve our own menu, and we're excited to continue engaging with these entrepreneurs in more ways,” says Taylor Montgomery, the company’s CMO, in a release.

Los Angeles has had a storied history with its street vendors. At night they are a fundamental part of the post bar and club food experience, and daytime vendors are well-known for their fresh fruit and juices. Yet many have had issues with various bureaucratic agencies. Recently Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass signed a law removing restricted street access for vendors into law, opening up new opportunities for many vendors.

The carts, which are all health-permit compliant, will be individually customized to each vendor. Revolution will also supply the small business owners with access to safe vending locations, as well as support to acquire proper permits and guidance on how to grow their businesses.

The pop-ups will take place in the Downtown Arts District on June 18, July 23 and Aug. 13 from 5 P.M. – 10 P.M. PST. In addition to food vendors, the Ave 26 Family Night Market also features music, art, and additional vendors.