NEW ULM — Taco John’s, 1301 S. Broadway, took advantage of the COVID-19 closing restrictions this year to conduct an extensive interior and exterior restaurant remodeling project which began early last year. The restaurant lobby remains closed but will open soon, as the restaurant is cautious due to COVID-19.

Throughout the remodeling project, customers were able to order through the drive-up window.

There are a number of ways to order and receive Taco John’s food.

The Taco John’s app can be used for mobile ordering. DoorDash will deliver food, and of course, there is the drive through.

Restaurant owner Andy Lilleodden said the remodeling project included new windows and siding, updated rest rooms, new flooring and seating, a self-ordering kiosk, new signage, digital interior and exterior menu boards, a wider drive through, newly landscaped and stamped concrete patios with chairs and tables.

Restaurant hours are 6:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Sundays. When the lobby opens, it will close at 10 p.m. nightly.

Lilleodden said the fountain beverage line up was expanded to include more flavors, Starbuck’s Double-shot and Frappuccino, Rockstar, and Mountain Dew Game Fuel energy drinks, to mention a few.

Daily specials include Taco Tuesday with crispy and soft shell tacos, wake up Wednesday with meat and potato breakfast burritos; scrambler breakfast burritos and spicy breakfast burritos. Taco bravos are featured on Thursday.

More flavor can be had with mild sauce or super hot sauce, pico de gallo, jalapeños, house salsa, and a side of sour cream; house dressing or nacho cheese.

Desserts include Mexican donut bites and churro bites.

New Ulm Taco John’s enjoys offering new, creative menu items from the test kitchen headquarters in Cheyenne, Wy.” said Lilleodden. “This provides a unique, guest experience unlike other restaurants in the chain, in which your feedback contributes to produce success.”

Ten-year local owners Andy and Nancy Lilleodden are excited for 2021, which makes 40 years of Taco John’s in New Ulm. They said they look forward to many more years here.

A re-grand opening is being planned.

“We’re excited to welcome everyone back into the newly-remodeled restaurant,” Andy said.