Keon Williams, 32, has achieved a significant milestone as the youngest and first Black franchisee of the popular Tacos 4 Life chain. On January 7, he opened the chain’s newest location in Charlotte, North Carolina, specifically in the vibrant Dilworth neighborhood. Williams aims to bring not only delicious food but also a positive change to the historic community.
Bringing Diversity to Dilworth
Williams’ decision to open his Tacos 4 Life location in Dilworth wasn’t just about business; it was about making a statement. “I wanted to come here. I know that there aren’t any Black businesses or food businesses in this area,” he said. “I wanted to be that beacon of change and that beacon of light.”
As the first Black-owned food business in the upscale area, his location adds much-needed diversity to the community. The 3,000-square-foot restaurant offers a unique dining experience while upholding Tacos 4 Life’s commitment to “craft tacos for a cause.”
A Mission Beyond Food
What sets Tacos 4 Life apart is its Meal 4 Meal program. For every meal purchased, the restaurant donates the cost of a MannaPack Rice meal to Feed My Starving Children, an organization that provides food to families in over 70 countries.
“We have the opportunity to be a part of the solution of bringing these necessities to communities,” Williams explained. “Our Meal 4 Meal program has already served over 38,000,000 meals, and with our new location in Dilworth, I wait with an expectant heart to see the impact that we all have together.”
The donated meals consist of rice, vitamins, soy, and vegetables and are distributed to feeding centers, schools, orphanages, and refugee camps across 90 countries. This mission aligns closely with Williams’ values as a Christian and his desire to make a difference.
Bold Flavors with a Purpose
Under the culinary expertise of Chef Tommi Davis, the Dilworth location offers an exciting menu featuring items like Korean BBQ, crab cakes, blackened mahi-mahi, and fried chicken burritos. The restaurant aims to cater to diverse tastes while creating a sense of community.
“Food brings fellowship; food brings community,” Williams shared. His passion for food and its power to bring people together stems from his family’s legacy. His grandfather ran a hoagie shop, and his father owned a sub shop called Chat and Chew, a beloved spot in Charlotte’s westside.
A Legacy of Service and Impact
Williams’ entrepreneurial journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Growing up, he worked in his family’s food businesses, learning about both the challenges and rewards of the industry. Those experiences shaped his belief in the transformative power of food.
The new Tacos 4 Life location is open Monday through Saturday and is already making waves in the Charlotte community. In addition to serving up craft tacos, the restaurant will host its first meal-packing event in March 2025, furthering its commitment to feeding the world.
A Bright Future for Tacos 4 Life in Charlotte
Williams’ Dilworth location marks a significant step forward for Tacos 4 Life and the Charlotte community. By combining bold flavors with a global mission, Williams is not only building a successful business but also inspiring others to create meaningful change.
“I want this to be more than just a restaurant. I want it to be a beacon of hope,” he said. With his determination and passion, there’s no doubt that Williams’ impact will extend far beyond the walls of his restaurant.
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