Fast Casual Taco Restaurant in Dubuque Closes… Again

Almost a year to the date of revealing plans to reopen and bring a freshness to a previously struggling Dubuque business, a fast casual taco chain will again close its doors. Unfortunately, the restaurant's reopening didn't even last a full year.

The embattled Rusty Taco location in Dubuque on Asbury Road has closed for the second time in two years. After some speculation on local Dubuque-centric Facebook groups, the news was confirmed by an auction agency, who revealed that the establishment's bar and restaurant equipment will be put up for sale.

The location at 3333 Asbury Road in Dubuque, right near the intersection of JFK Road, was listed by David Sandman of RE/MAX Advantage in January 2023. The asking price was $650,000. In February 2024, it was revealed that new ownership had taken over Rusty Taco, and the path forward appeared promising.

Upon revealing the business would return to Dubuque, the new owners use the Rusty Taco (Dubuque) Facebook page to be steadfast in responding to many comments and questions. They solicited feedback asking what potential patrons would like to see improved upon, and would get them in the restaurant for tacos, margaritas, and other offerings.

They even went as far as to create a survey to formally solicit feedback and recommendations. Rusty Taco would reopen in spring 2024, but unfortunately, didn't last a full year despite what looked to be a concerted effort by the new owner/operators to make an effort to be different.

Rusty Taco has long prided themselves on fresh ingredients made by hand, daily, as inspired by its founder:

Rusty’s commitment to making everything fresh and by hand inspires us daily, but his “little taco stand” is more than just a place to eat and drink. He always wanted it to be a place where everyone would feel welcome. That’s why we make it all with love – from our warm chips to our ice-cold margaritas – so no matter who you are, if you’re hungry, you’re in the right place. - per Rusty Taco's website

Now, the Asbury Road location will again sit dormant. The Dubuque location has even been removed from the corporate website. Perhaps it's about time for potential buyers to consider another restaurant or store concept for the location. For other Rusty Taco locations, visit their website here.