World's First Taco Bell Building May Face Demolition

DOWNEY (CBSLA.com) — The building that housed the world's first Taco Bell restaurant is in danger of being demolished, a Downey-based preservation group announced this week.

A chain-link fence surrounds the building at 7112 Firestone Blvd.

The fast-food landmark is under "imminent threat of demolition" due to lack of use, the Downey Conservancy told The Downey Patriot Newspaper.

The restaurant was first opened in 1962 by founder Glen Bell. The space was taken over later by an independent fast-food restaurant, Seafood & Taco's Raul, which closed in December, according the newspaper.

Preservationists have suggested moving the building and opening it as a tourist attraction.

Downey is also home to the oldest operating McDonald's.