Taco John's — Restaurant in Brainerd

Update 7/11/2025:

Updated Review for Taco John’s – Brainerd, MN

I want to update my original review based on a follow-up conversation I had with the General Manager, Paula, not Cassie as I had originally written.

I had visited the restaurant on July 2nd around 9:50 p.m. and was in the lobby on the phone, preparing to place a to-go order. Around 10:03 p.m., I approached the counter and was told the lobby was closed and I’d need to use the drive-thru. At the time, I felt caught off guard — not because of the closing time itself, but more so in how the situation was handled.

After speaking with Paula directly, I have a much clearer picture. She explained that due to recent fire marshal guidance, they are no longer allowed to lock customers inside the building past closing — even just to finish ordering or eating — which I completely understand. Safety has to come first, and it sounds like this was a relatively new and unexpected shift for the team as well.

What I appreciated most was Paula’s openness, professionalism, and empathy in our conversation. She took time to explain, listen, and validate the moment — even offering to make it right (which I respectfully declined). It reminded me that what matters most in these moments isn’t policy alone, but how we talk to each other as people.

With over 25 years in guest service myself, I live by the BLAST model — Believe, Listen, Apologize, Solve, and Thank. Paula absolutely embodied that on the call. While the original exchange in the store felt off to me at the time, I now understand it in a broader context.

My updated review isn’t a complaint — it’s an appreciation for leadership that takes time to listen. I still believe there’s room in policies like these to leave space for discretion and compassion, especially when guests are already inside and just needing a moment. But I’m grateful for the follow-up and the opportunity to clarify.

Thanks again, Paula — and to your team — for your time and...

It's been yrs since I ate at any Taco johns. I don't know if it's the economy and the price of things, but I will tell you this.. they definitely are not made like they used to be- when I would order my fav, which is the chicken potato burrito, it was stuffed so full. Now I could wrap the burrito around the filling twice. For the price of actually what you get, I can't say I'm impressed. The flavor, still the same. Tastes like Taco johns. Employees at this place were kind. Seating area was clean. So, they weren't the stand and lean kind. Over all for a quick bite, yes. Like I said, the prices have gone up, bit I am sure that's for most places,...

Taco John's is an addiction for me only because I absolutely love their Potato Oles and churos. 😂 I mean how can anyone not? Aside from the fact they're greasy, salty and unhealthy that's the entire reason they're so addicting and so wonderful. Now I want Potato Ole's. And I usually only use the drive thru on my way hm from town. Usually quick friendly service. Greeted with a smile. Not to mention the TJ rewards app I just discovered now. Omg what's that about? Another reason to get addicted to Taco John's. Sorry to say guys youay lose me as a customer for a few months though. I'll be back though. I promise. 😁😂 Loyal Taco...