LACKAWANNA COUNTY, Pa. — There's a bit extra spice this Taco Tuesday, as it's National Taco Day! The national day was initially celebrated on October 4th every year, but it will always align with Taco Tuesday on the first Tuesday in October.
Every Tuesday is Taco Tuesday at Taco Bandido in Scranton. But today, they're turning up the heat with a special anniversary.
"Today, all of our tacos, soft and crunch, are $1.50 each, and all of our daily specials are being honored today, too," said Owner Dave Wagner.
Taco Bandido has been a Scranton staple for decades.
"47 years. It started out in Clarks Summit, moved to the University of Scranton, and moved here about 20-some years ago," said Wagner.
A year ago, Wagner took over the shop with his wife, Dawn.
"My wife worked here before, and it's been like a retirement job. M: has it been like a retirement for you? No, no, not at all," he added.
The days of retirement aren't so easy when you're turning out more than 100 tacos an hour. The couple took on the challenge after 30 years of marriage.
"That's why I send him home," Dawn laughs when asked if it helps keep the marriage going.
It's that Taco Tuesday rush that keeps customers coming back.
"I work down the street, and they have the best tacos in the area, so I usually come for lunch every Tuesday," says Dan Cook of Carbondale.
It also keeps Wagner's love strong.
"All the jobs I've ever had, I was always at work. We never saw each other. So, now we spend a lot more time together," he added.
It is a taco tradition, bringing families together in many ways in Lackawanna County.
"Everybody loves a taco. Everybody. Kids. I love that when the kids come in, we have coloring pages for them. We try to make it a family environment," said Wagner.