Del Taco Abruptly Closes Doors in Columbus and Phenix City
Columbus, Georgia, and Phenix City, Alabama – Del Taco has once again departed the Chattahoochee Valley, leaving local fast-food enthusiasts disappointed. Both locations, situated on Hamilton Road in Columbus and Highway 280 in Phenix City, shuttered their doors permanently on Tuesday, marking the latest chapter in the brand’s fluctuating fortunes.
Notices announcing the closures were prominently displayed at both restaurants, and the company swiftly removed all Georgia locations from its official website, confirming the permanent nature of the decision. This isn’t the first time Del Taco has left the area; the West Coast-based chain previously operated in both cities decades ago before a re-entry nearly 12 years ago.
A History of Expansion and Contraction
The Columbus restaurant first opened its doors in August 2014, quickly becoming a popular spot for Mexican fast food. The Phenix City location followed in November 2019, further expanding Del Taco’s presence in the region. However, the recent closures highlight a pattern of expansion followed by contraction, raising questions about the brand’s long-term viability.
Financial Challenges and Ownership Changes
Del Taco has faced significant financial headwinds in recent years. Declining sales figures and a series of franchisee bankruptcies have contributed to the company’s struggles. The Opelika, Alabama location, which opened in February 2024, serves as a recent example, having closed just last summer. These challenges underscore the competitive nature of the fast-food industry.
The ownership of Del Taco has also undergone changes. In March 2022, Jack in the Box acquired Del Taco for approximately $585 million. However, just over three years later, in December 2025, Jack in the Box sold the brand to Yadav Enterprises for roughly $119 million – a significant decrease in valuation.
Lack of Comment from Del Taco
Despite multiple attempts to obtain a statement, Del Taco has remained silent regarding the latest closures. This lack of transparency has fueled speculation and left customers wondering about the future of the brand. For more information on the fast-food industry, you can visit Nation’s Restaurant News.
The sudden departure of Del Taco from Columbus and Phenix City serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by even established fast-food chains in a dynamic and competitive market. The future of the brand remains uncertain as it navigates these ongoing difficulties.
