Update: Del Taco operated 19 locations in Colorado. One restaurant in Grand Junction is still open.

Del Taco closes most Colorado locations
Del Taco closes most Colorado locations

The closures, which took place in late February 2025, have left many fans of the brand wondering about the reasons behind the decision and what the future holds for these shuttered restaurants.

The Sudden Closure

On February 27, 2025, Del Taco announced the temporary closure of all its Colorado locations, with the exception of its Grand Junction restaurant. The company stated that the Denver and Colorado Springs franchise locations are "temporarily closed" and are expected to reopen "as soon as possible." However, Del Taco has not provided specific details regarding the reasons for the closures, leading to speculation among customers and industry analysts alike.

The Grand Junction location, notably, remains open because it is owned and operated by a different franchisee. This exception adds a layer of complexity to the situation, suggesting that the closures may be related to issues with the particular franchisee responsible for the other locations or broader operational challenges.

Possible Reasons Behind the Closures

While Del Taco has not disclosed an official reason, several potential factors could have contributed to this decision:

  1. Operational Challenges: Running a large number of franchises across a state involves logistical and operational hurdles. Supply chain issues, staffing shortages, or management difficulties could be possible reasons.

  2. Financial Performance: Underperformance of these locations might have prompted Del Taco to temporarily close and reassess its strategy in Colorado.

  3. Franchisee Issues: Since the Grand Junction location remains open under a different franchisee, it is possible that disagreements or challenges with the primary franchise owner led to this outcome.

  4. Renovations and Rebranding: There is also a possibility that Del Taco might be planning a rebranding or significant renovations, leading to temporary closures.

Impact on Employees and Customers

The sudden closure has impacted not only loyal customers but also employees who are now left in a state of uncertainty. Many of the staff members have reportedly not received clear communication regarding their employment status or potential re-hiring opportunities when the locations reopen.

Customers, especially those who frequented Del Taco for its value-driven menu items like tacos, burritos, and crinkle-cut fries, have expressed disappointment on social media. Some have even speculated about whether Del Taco will return to Colorado at all.

List of Closed Locations

Below is a comprehensive list of the temporarily closed Del Taco locations in Colorado:

  • Aurora: 24023 E. Prospect Ave., 14400 E. Colfax Ave., 3465 N. Salida St.

  • Brighton: 570 E. Bromley Ln.

  • Castle Rock: 6383 Promenade Pkwy.

  • Colorado Springs: 8020 N. Academy Blvd., 4455 Integrity Center Pt., 7125 Mesa Ridge Pkwy.

  • Firestone: 11300 E. I-25 Frontage Rd.

  • Fort Collins: 125 W. Troutman Pkwy.

  • Fountain: 7010 Mesa Ridge Pkwy.

  • Greeley: 2805 35th Ave.

  • Highlands Ranch: 945 Sgt. Jon Stiles Dr.

  • Lakewood: 14255 W. Colfax Ave.

  • Littleton: 11747 W. Ken Caryl Ave.

  • Longmont: 2055 N. Main St.

  • Loveland: 1371 Sculptor Dr.

  • Parker: 11215 S. Parker Rd.

  • Thornton: 550 E. 144th Ave.

  • Westminster: 7235 Federal Blvd.

What’s Next for Del Taco in Colorado?

Del Taco has expressed gratitude for the continued support of its loyal customers and promised to share updates regarding the reopening of these locations as soon as they become available. However, until an official statement clarifies the reasons behind the closures and a timeline for reopening, uncertainty remains.

For now, Del Taco enthusiasts in Colorado will either have to travel to Grand Junction or wait patiently for their favorite fast-food chain to return to their neighborhoods. The unfolding situation serves as a reminder of the complexities of franchise operations and the challenges fast-food brands can face in specific markets.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.