A new drive-thru Taco Bell may soon be established in North Quincy, Massachusetts. D.E. Foods, a Norwell-based company, has proposed the construction of a 2,120-square-foot fast-food restaurant at the western corner of the Stop & Shop parking lot, located at 65 Newport Ave. The project, reported by The Patriot Ledger, would include seating for 20 guests and is part of a larger development plan.
The overall development encompasses 21,540 square feet and aims to enhance the existing Stop & Shop property. Plans submitted to the city outline the addition of 19 parking spaces for customers and employees, increasing the total parking at the site from 393 to 412 spaces. Construction is anticipated to commence in April 2026 and conclude by August 2026, with the total project cost estimated at $2.2 million, of which approximately $900,000 is earmarked for construction.
Site Improvements and Requirements
The Taco Bell proposal includes several site improvements. These enhancements feature new landscaping, updated utility connections, and upgrades to the stormwater management system designed to effectively capture and treat runoff.
Since the Stop & Shop was originally established under a Planned Unit Development approved by the city council in 1994, the Taco Bell project necessitates an amendment to that original approval. Additionally, obtaining a special permit from the zoning board is essential due to the property’s location within a floodplain overlay district.
Employment and Operational Plans
Currently, Quincy hosts one combined Taco Bell and KFC location in Wollaston Center. If the new standalone Taco Bell is approved, it is expected to create approximately 25 jobs, with around seven employees scheduled per shift. The proposed hours of operation are set from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., catering to late-night customers.
D.E. Foods has a longstanding history in the fast-food industry, operating as a family-run KFC franchise for over 30 years. The company manages more than 50 KFC and KFC/Taco Bell locations across the Northeast. Attempts to reach husband-and-wife owners Dave and Mary Ann Evans for comment were unsuccessful.
The proposal for a Taco Bell in Quincy marks a significant addition to the local dining scene, reflecting ongoing trends in fast food and community development. As discussions progress, many residents will be watching closely to see how this project unfolds.
