Roberto’s Taco Shop, a popular Mexican restaurant chain that started in California, has recently been at the center of controversy as some people have called for a boycott. The backlash began after a 2020 photo of CEO Reynaldo Robledo with U.S. President Donald Trump resurfaced, sparking criticism that the popular chain is aligned with the MAGA political movement.
The controversy started on TikTok, and several right-wing-aligned figures, including San Diego’s Amy Reichert, later amplified the issue on X.
In a video shared by Reichert, she argues that Roberto’s Taco Shop is “under attack” by “left-wing influencers” and encourages San Diego locals to visit the restaurant and support it during these trying times.
Roberto’s Taco Shop was founded by Roberto and Dolores Robledo in San Diego in 1964. The couple immigrated from Mexico to California in the 1950s, and Roberto often worked multiple jobs to support his 13 children before opening the restaurant. Today, Roberto’s Taco Shop operates in multiple states beyond California, including Texas and Nevada.
The chain commented on the controversy on Instagram: “Roberto’s Taco Shop is proud to be a Latino-owned and operated franchise that serves diverse communities across Nevada. While our CEO may hold personal political beliefs, it is important to note that each of our 49 franchisees operates their stores independently.”
Internet Reacts to Plans to Boycott Roberto’s Taco Shop
Many social media users reacted to Amy Reichert’s video by criticizing the left for trying to boycott the classic restaurant, as some blamed the “woke mob” for the controversy. “The left doesn’t love or care for immigrants. They only care about immigrants who will vote their way on the politicians and the woke issues they actually care about,” one person wrote.
Some also shared their experiences with the restaurant. “That’s awful. Roberto’s is a long-time staple in San Diego neighborhoods. You can disagree with the owner, but many hard-working people behind the business make Roberto’s great. Cancel culture has lost its mind,” one user wrote. Another noted that “the food is excellent and reasonably priced. Roberto’s has been one of my favorite fast-food places for over a decade.”
Overall, the boycott of the popular Mexican restaurant seems to have sparked the opposite reaction, as multiple users vowed to “stand up and support this small business.” One San Diego local even said, “I’ve never been to one before, but I’m making it a point to find one and make it my go-to spot for Mexican food!”
It remains to be seen how the controversy will affect Roberto’s Taco Shop, as public opinion appears deeply divided.
