Taco Bell to open first German restaurant in Cologne

American fast-food chain Taco Bell is set to enter the German market with its first regular restaurant opening in Cologne. Located at Hohenzollernring 50, the site is currently undergoing renovations in the former premises of a Sausalitos restaurant, with an expected completion date in late September 2026.

Unlike previous attempts to enter the country that failed due to partnership disputes, the company is now utilizing a new expansion model involving six regional area developers rather than a single large franchisee. For the Cologne and Rhineland region, the Koblenz-based Feel Better Holding, managed by Peter Gries and Lars Krämer, will be responsible.

Expansion plans also include Bavaria, where the Lehmann Hotel und Gaststätten Holding GmbH, led by Christian Lehmann, will manage operations. While earlier speculation suggested Munich might host the first locations, the Cologne opening will serve as the official launch for the brand in Germany.