Former Johnson County Taco Bell will soon become a different Mexican restaurant
A former Johnson County Taco Bell will soon take on a second life, though patrons will still be able to grab drive-thru tacos.
Iowa-based TNT’s Tacos ‘N Tortas will open at 16600 W. 135th St. in Olathe.
Eddy Plascencia said his family’s quick-service, authentic Mexican spot aims to open by the end of the month. He encouraged customers to stop by and try the “explosion of flavor” that TNT’s is known for (and is their slogan).
“We want something that’s fresh, quality ingredients,” Plascencia said in a recent interview with The Star. “We want to bring flavors that aren’t here right now.”
TNT’s menu includes al pastor tortas, carnitas, lengua tacos, build-your-own burrito bowls and desserts like tres leches cake and sopapillas.
Its best-selling item, outselling the No. 2 contender by twice as much, is its quesabirria tacos.
“They have been extremely well received,” Plascencia said.
Plascencia’s parents have long been in the food industry, first opening a Mexican restaurant in Iowa called Agave.
When TNT’s started in Waukee, Iowa, in 2023, Plascencia’s family closed Agave to focus on the new concept. Today, Plascencia and his sister assist his parents in the business.
TNT’s other Iowa locations include Urbandale and Ankeny. The Olathe restaurant will be TNT’s first out of state, though the family hopes to open several more in the metro soon.
The spot will offer dine-in, takeout and drive-thru service. Customers can also order through TNT’s mobile app, available for IOS and Android.
Though the cuisine may be convenient, Plascencia wants prospective customers to know they won’t be missing out on taste.
“We’re a quick-service restaurant, but not sacrificing any quality,” he said.
Taco Bell closed the soon-to-be TNT’s spot more than a year ago.
Nearby, a former Lion’s Choice at 14189 W. 135th St. is now a Taco Bell.