Rasta Taco
 | |
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Restaurants- Fast Casual |
| Founded | Orange County, California (2006) |
| Founder | Mario Melendez |
| Headquarters | |
Area served | Southern California |
| Products | Tacos,Quesadillas, |
| Services | Taco Cart Catering, Dine In, To Go |
| Owner | DBA Rasta Taco |
| Divisions | Laguna Beach (Brick & Mortar Shop) |
| Website | www.RastaTaco.com |
Rasta Taco[1] is a unique restaurant and taco catering business founded by Mario "Maji" Melendez in 2006. Inspired by a lack of tacos at local jerk chicken stands in Negril, Jamaica, Melendez combined Mexican and Jamaican cuisine into a mobile taco catering concept. The company is based in Laguna Beach, California, and has expanded to various locations, including Jamaica and a high desert venue.
Rasta Taco Restaurant
Opened in 2016, the restaurant in downtown Laguna Beach is known for its small size (220 sq. ft.) and reggae-inspired décor. It offers a fusion of Mexican street tacos and Jamaican influences, along with craft beers and Jamaican-inspired dishes like Jamaican Jerk Chicken Tacos and the One Love Vegan option.
Taco Catering
Rasta Taco revolutionized taco catering by using mobile carts that serve fusion dishes at events like weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. The menu includes Caribbean Carne Asada, Jamaican Chicken, and signature salsas and sauces.
Rasta Rita Beverage Catering
In 2012, Melendez expanded the business by launching Rasta Rita, a mobile margarita and specialty cocktail service, utilizing restored vintage trucks. The business gained a cult following on social media, with photos of the trucks being widely shared.
Rasta Taco Jamaica
In 2020, Melendez acquired and renovated a historic USMC building in Twentynine Palms, California, transforming it into a venue for private events, weddings, and gatherings.
Rasta Rita Cantina and Venue
In 2020, Melendez acquired and renovated a historic USMC building in Twentynine Palms, California, transforming it into a venue for private events, weddings, and gatherings.
Conclusion
Rasta Taco has successfully combined the flavors of Mexico and Jamaica to create a unique catering and restaurant experience. Its expansion into mobile food and beverage services, and its international presence in Jamaica, shows the brand’s versatility and growth. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, Rasta Taco’s distinct concept continues to draw a loyal following.