From Local Favorite to National Stage: Alumnus’ Taco Restaurants in Super Bowl Halftime
Nazarian College alum Victor Villa, founder of Villa’s Tacos, appeared during the Super Bowl 2026 halftime show, putting his popular taqueria and local culture in the national spotlight.
Villa’s Tacos appeared as part of Bad Bunny’s halftime performance, which paid tribute to Latin culture and small businesses rooted in Los Angeles. The moment quickly drew national attention with coverage from the Los Angeles Times and other major media outlets as well as recognition across social media from public figures, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Governor of Michoacan Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla.
“This was a powerful moment celebrating local entrepreneurship, culture and community on one of the world’s biggest stages,” says Chandra Subramaniam, dean of Nazarian College. “Mr. Villa’s achievement reflects the drive and innovation which we encourage at our college.”
A graduate of the David Nazarian College of Business and Economics, Villa has built Villa’s Tacos from humble beginnings into one of LA’s most celebrated food destinations. Known for its handmade blue-corn tortillas and bold flavors, Villa’s Tacos has grown from a neighborhood operation into a cultural staple, earning accolades from food critics and loyal customers alike.
In a recent Instagram post, Villa wrote that it was an honor to “represent all the taqueros of the world by bringing my taco cart” to the halftime show. He added:
“I couldn’t have sold that 1st taco, if my parents didn’t make the difficult decision to leave their homeland for a better life & immigrate to the U.S. This one is for all the immigrants who paved the way before us to make this moment possible.”
Beyond his success as a restaurateur, Villa has remained closely connected to the Nazarian College through his involvement with its Center for Social and Technology Entrepreneurship. Over the years, he has collaborated with the center to share his real-world experience with students, offering insight into the challenges and opportunities of building a business from the ground up. His engagement reflects a commitment to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.
“Villa’s Super Bowl feature represents more than a personal milestone; it underscores the broader impact of local entrepreneurs who combine cultural authenticity, resilience and business innovation,” says Subramaniam. “For Nazarian College, it also highlights the meaningful paths alumni can forge after graduation, applying what they learned in the classroom to real-world success.”