TACO JOHN'S EXPANDS OPERATION

Taco John's has expanded its Cape Girardeau operations.

"We've added more than 1,000 square feet to the building and can now seat about 120 customers," said Scott Coleman, general manager of the restaurant at 111 N. Kingshighway.

The interior of the restaurant was completely remodeled in June 1990, a few months after it changed ownership from Mike Halvorson to his brother, Pat Halvorson.

Taco John's was founded here by Mike Halvorson in 1981. He later opened operations in Poplar Bluff and Sikeston.

Pat Halvorson, of Halvorson Management Co., headquartered in Mayfield, Ill., purchased the three restaurants when Mike Halvorson move to Montana in October 1989. Halvorson Management owns Taco John's restaurants in Western Kentucky and Northwest Tennessee.

"The building has been expanded and remodeled to adapt to the new Taco John's look," said Coleman. "We have also added a second lane to our drive-up service and are offering a new product a chicken sierra sandwich."

A new entrance has also been added off Kingshighway, "making for easier access and exits," noted Coleman.

"About half of the new space is being utilized for storage and office space," said Coleman.

The Taco John's Mexican fast-food chain, which was founded more than 20 years ago, is located in more than 30 states and Canada.