#7: Taco Bell

In 1954, Glen Bell saw an opportunity beyond burgers. Inspired by the long lines outside a local Mexican restaurant, he shifted gears, determined to bring fast, affordable Mexican flavors to the masses.

After years of perfecting his approach, he launched the first Taco Bell in Downey, California, in 1962. His game-changing idea? The Crunchy Taco—an instant hit that set Taco Bell apart. What started as one small eatery quickly grew into a fast-food empire, proving that sometimes, the right twist on tradition can create a revolution.