Before the first Rusty Taco opened its doors, there were family taco runs around Dallas. Rusty Fenton and his family would pick up tacos from local gas stations and enjoy them in the back of their Suburban. Those simple meals became some of the family’s favorite memories—and helped inspire the neighborhood taco stand Rusty dreamed of opening with his wife, Denise.

A gas station became the first Rusty Taco

In 2010, Rusty and Denise turned that dream into a restaurant, converting a gas station on Greenville Avenue in Dallas into the very first Rusty Taco.

The idea was simple: bring together fresh, flavorful food, cold drinks, and genuine hospitality in a place that felt like part of the neighborhood. Mexican street food inspired the recipes, and a laid-back atmosphere made room for friends, families, and neighbors to gather.

Good food and a place to gather

Rusty believed great tacos didn’t need to be complicated. Fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and handcrafted preparation were at the heart of the menu—from breakfast and street tacos to queso, salsa, and margaritas.

He also wanted guests to feel welcome staying awhile. Lunch with coworkers, a game on the patio, or time catching up with friends could all happen over tacos. The restaurant grew out of the same pleasure the Fenton family had found in those early meals together.

The neighborhood spirit continues

That first Greenville Avenue restaurant established the values that continue to guide Rusty Taco: freshly prepared food, friendly service, and a welcoming place to come together. Denise remains an integral part of the brand’s leadership, carrying forward the vision she and Rusty shared.

As Rusty put it, “Tacos are the Most Important Meal of the Day.”

Read more about Rusty’s story or find your neighborhood Rusty Taco.