Milwaukee’s Gypsy Taco, Gypsy Burger change names after controversy arises over the word ‘gypsy’

On Friday, Chef Mitch Ciohon revealed the name change for two of his restaurants after controversy arose over the term “gypsy.” Gypsy Taco and Gypsy Burger are now going by the names Taco Moto and Burger Moto respectively.

Ciohon’s food trucks, named Gypsy Burger and Gypsy Taco, were criticized last month for having the word “gypsy” in their names. The word has been deemed a racial slur for people of Romani or Roma descent.

Last month on his Instagram account, Ciohon addressed the reasoning for his use of the word, as well as expressing a sincere apology to the public.

“It has come to my attention that the name around which I have created a brand is offensive to the people from which it stems,” Ciohon said in a statement. “While not my intent, the name I chose to represent me as a chef was founded upon an inaccurate definition that disregarded the long history and plight of the Romany people.”

Ciohon responded to the controversy in a timely and effective manner, and even released a separate statement asking for people to stop defending his use of the word.

“I willingly accept the blame for my lack of education on the matter at hand, and absolutely wish to use that which I have learned to reimagine my company as one that is inclusive to all.”

It only took Ciohon a month to take the necessary steps to rebrand his restaurants, a very busy month for Ciohon considering that the chef just opened his third restaurant, Snack Boys, with Boone & Crockett owner John Revord and ex-Vanguard chef Shay Linkus on January 19.

The response to Ciohon’s name change has been mostly positive, with only a few people criticizing Ciohon for giving in to political correctness.

“I was Gypsy Taco’s #1 fan and now I’m excited to become Taco Moto’s #1,” Facebook user Richard Steven commented on a picture of Taco Moto’s logo. “Really proud of you for listening to the community and following your heart.”

Moto Burger is located on the patio of Rogues Gallery & Art at 134 E. Juneau Ave. and Moto Taco is located behind Boone & Crockett at 2151 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., although Boone & Crocket will soon be moving to a new location on Water St.