Torchy’s Tacos was founded in Austin, Texas in 2006 by former corporate chef Michael Rypka, who was inspired by a love for tacos and a passion for experimenting with food to bring an untraditional taco experience to the people of Texas. The City of Lakewood is the fifth-largest city in the state of Colorado, situated within the Denver metropolitan area. Home to the W light rail line, Lakewood offers numerous opportunities for commercial and residential development with easy access to several major freeways.