The internet loves a good debate, and one of the hottest topics is whether a hot dog is a sandwich. People are pretty divided on that one! But there’s another question stirring up some confusion: is a taco a sandwich?
You might have never thought of tacos and sandwiches as the same thing, but now people are starting to wonder. So, let’s dive in and settle this once and for all: is a taco a sandwich?
First of all, to answer any questions…yes, that picture is AI and it’s a taco morphed into a sandwich. Yes, we know it’s weird so let’s move along. So, back to our topic, who is really asking this question? Seriously, who’s confused enough to wonder if a taco is a sandwich? Here at Tacos Tacuba, we’ve never asked ourselves that! But the question is out there: is a taco a sandwich too? According to one Indiana judge, they might be. Before we pick sides, let’s look at the story.
Martin Quintana, a restaurateur in Fort Wayne, wanted to open the Famous Taco in a local strip mall. Back in 2019, while getting zoning approvals, he made a written agreement with a nearby neighborhood association that any restaurant in the mall would only sell “made-to-order or subway style sandwiches.” This rule was meant to keep certain fast food chains out.
Fast forward to 2022, Quintana tried to let The Famous Taco open a second location in his mall. Nearby residents objected, arguing it didn’t fit the sandwich-only rule. Quintana asked the city planning commission to change the agreement to allow the taco shop, but they refused. Quintana then sued in December 2022, and the case went to court. This brings us back to the question: is a taco a sandwich?
A year and a half later, Judge Craig Bobay ruled in favor of Quintana, stating that “tacos and burritos are Mexican-style sandwiches, and the original agreement doesn’t limit restaurants to only American-style sandwiches.” The judge also mentioned that places selling Greek gyros, Indian naan wraps, or Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches could qualify too.
Just because tacos were called sandwiches in this court case doesn’t mean it’s a universal law. For many, a sandwich means two pieces of bread with something in between, as per Merriam-Webster’s definition. Also, someone should tell Judge Bobay that “Mexican-style sandwiches” actually do exist and that they are called Tortas. But if this means that more taco places can exist, then name tacos our favorite sandwiches!
In the end, the question “is a taco a sandwich” might seem a bit silly, but it’s sparked some interesting conversations. Whether you consider a taco a sandwich or not, what really matters is the deliciousness of the food. At Tacos Tacuba, we’re all about celebrating the authentic flavors of Mexico, no matter what you call it. So, next time you’re in the mood for something tasty, come visit us and enjoy some of the best tacos around. After all, great food transcends labels.
And remember, whether it’s a taco, a sandwich, or anything in between, food brings us together and creates wonderful memories. So let’s keep enjoying our favorite dishes and sharing the love for amazing flavors. See you at Tacos Tacuba!
