NEWMAN—The drive-thru window at Newman’s Taco Bell has closed for good, leaving residents with mixed feelings about the fast-food shift in town. After opening in July 2020, following numerous land-use hurdles and construction delays, Taco Bell officially ceased operations on April 30, 2025. While city officials confirmed that a Starbucks will take its place, details on when the remodel will begin and when the coffee shop will officially open remain hazy—perhaps fitting for a company known for its small cup sizes and long wait times for caffeine lovers.
Taco Bell’s opening nearly five years ago marked the first step in the second phase of the West Side Marketplace Shopping Center, a development that began in the mid-1990s. Owned by Livermore-based Ghai Management Services, which also operates the adjacent Burger King, the restaurant enjoyed an initial wave of popularity. “It was welcomed wholeheartedly with long lines,” one resident recalled. But as time passed, Taco Bell wasn’t always the go-to choice for locals and visitors, ultimately leading to its quiet departure.
The news of the fast-food swap sparked lively debates online. Some residents lamented the loss of a quick, affordable bite, while others embraced the arrival of a new coffee destination.
Community Weighs In
Social media was abuzz with opinions on the closure, ranging from disappointment to excitement.
“I don’t think they should touch Taco Bell for an overpriced cup of coffee,” Rick Rangel wrote.
“If the rumors are true and my sources aren’t lying to me that Taco Bell is closing, Newman has failed me as a community. Going to buy nacho fries before it closes its gates,” Don Pingo posted.
“That’s too bad!! I love Taco Bell, and it was nice having one close to home,” Donna Corgiat commented.
Others took a broader stance on the issue, considering what the shift means for the city’s businesses and economy.
“I’m so sorry to hear that news. It’s hard for new businesses to make it in a small community such as ours. It’s a huge investment loss for the owners, and the young people are losing their jobs. Nothing to celebrate here, folks,” wrote Norma Saavedra, offering her best wishes to Taco Bell employees affected by the closure.
“We need to keep large businesses and corporations out of Newman, or we will end up like Patterson,” Brianna Anthieny warned. She urged residents to support locally owned restaurants, noting that Newman already has two coffee shops and multiple dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For some, the Starbucks arrival signals positive change.
“That’ll provide a lot more jobs around here for people/kids. How about they finish off that intersection by AutoZone with a stoplight first, though?” suggested Diana Rosa.
“It’s exciting, but I will miss my Taco Bell! Why replace it when they can just add it?” asked Samantha Dias.
Others took a pragmatic approach to the transition.
“I have lived in Newman almost my whole life. It’s growing so fast, and people nowadays want name-brand places. That’s why people go to Patterson and other places to shop. Change is good,” Rosemarie Cruz-Burton wrote, acknowledging the reality of shifting commercial landscapes.
What’s Next?
City planning officials confirmed Starbucks has received a remodel permit, allowing work on the building to begin, but the timeline remains unclear. Permits allow a full year for construction, though city officials say it’s unlikely to take that long.
As residents wait for further updates, one thing is certain: change is brewing in Newman. Whether residents crave coffee or crunchwraps, the city’s evolving business scene is sure to keep locals talking.
