San Antonio-based Taco Cabana celebrated the opening of a new location in Allen, Texas, with the chain's from-the-ground-up redesign.

Taco Cabana's New Exterior DesignDecorative metal "estrella" lights hang from the ceiling, creating a more authentic, festive feel along with cut paper flags symbolizing Mexican celebrations and large photos by San Antonio photographer Rick Hunter showing Mexican street-life. String lights extend from outside into the dining room and bi-fold doors separate both planes, bringing the patio experience indoors.

Inspired by renowned Mexican minimalist architects Ricardo Legorreta and Luis Barragan, the new prototype marks a departure from previous restaurant locations to refocus on Mexican culture and a cleaner, simplified design balanced with splashes of bold colors.

Other major changes include the addition of table service and complimentary tortilla chips offered to each guest with selections from the fresh salsa bar. The chain, which opened as a small taco joint in 1978, now has more than 156 restaurants in three states.