The Boston Licensing Board next week hears a proposal for a Taco Bell Cantina at 449 West Broadway in Perkins Square - a long vacant gap between two other buildings.
Taco Bell Cantina is an attempt by the chain, long noted for its discount offerings, to compete with Chipotle, Qdoba and similar chains that feature dining areas with art-like wall hangings. Don't worry, though: Other Taco Bell Cantinas feature the same "Mexican inspired food" as the more Taco Bells, such as the Crunchwrap Supreme.
Unlike the existing fancy-shmancy Taco Bell Cantina on Comm. Ave. near BU, however, the proposed South Boston location would not serve alcohol, at least not initially - its franchisee is seeking only a food-serving license for what would be a 14-seat restaurant. It is seeking a closing time of 2 a.m., which would give many patrons of nearby bars a shot at getting a taco-ish food item for the ride or walk home.
The licensing board's hearings begin at 10 a.m. on Wednesday.