tacobell is the world's largest Mexican restaurant chain and is part of the Yum! The first taco bell restaurant in Downey, California, was founded by Glen Bell in 1928. The first Taco Bell restaurant in Downey, California, was founded by Glen Bell in March 1962; in 1978, Taco Bell was acquired; and in October 1997, Taco Bell, together with Yum Brands, officially formed the Yum!