POWELL, Ohio — Del Taco has launched a new restaurant in the Columbus metro area, taking over a former White Castle site as part of its push to expand the Mexican chain’s presence in Ohio following the closure of its Circleville location last year.
The new eatery at 8787 Owenfield Drive, between Powell and Lewis Center, opened its doors this week after the White Castle closed in June 2023. Del Taco announced the transformation last fall, repainting the building in the brand’s signature grey, green, and white colors. The Powell location features a drive-thru and operates daily from 7 a.m. to 4 a.m., offering menu staples like tacos, burritos, burgers, and crinkle-cut fries.
“We’re thrilled to be part of the Powell community,” said Kayla Hutton, local operating partner. “From our craveable tacos to late-night bites, this location is all about serving up bold flavors with fresh ingredients.”
The opening comes after Del Taco shuttered its Circleville restaurant on U.S. 23 South in December 2023, less than three years after its March 2021 debut. That site has since been replaced by Huey Magoo’s, a southern chain specializing in chicken tenders. Del Taco’s shift to the more populous Columbus metro area signals a strategic move to tap into larger markets.
“This Powell storefront continues our statewide expansion,” said Brandi Joseph, an Ohio franchisee operating partner. “We’re gearing up to grow the Del Taco footprint in Ohio over the next few years.”
Founded in 1964, Del Taco operates nearly 600 restaurants across 15 states. In Ohio, the chain also maintains locations in Whitehall and Marion, the latter opened in 2023. The Powell restaurant introduces the brand’s Fresh Flex Design and seasonal seafood specials, aiming to become a local favorite for round-the-clock dining.