Taco Bell steps into the time machine for nostalgic menu reboot

Taco Bell fans are a loyal group. When a favorite food falls off the menu, people petition and even beg for its triumphant return. With the latest Taco Bell announcement, five favorite menu items, across five decades, are back. But, you might have to drive a distance to satisfy that craving.

According to a recent Taco Bell announcement, the quick service restaurant is bringing back the Tostada, Green Burrito, Meximelt, Beef Gordita Supreme, and Caramel Apple Empanada. Each food item was popular in their respective decade, 60s through the 00s.

As Taylor Montgomery, Chief Marketing Officer said, “Thanks to our rich history, we have a vault of craveable products our fans have become passionate about and we continuously explore ways to reintroduce the ones that deliver on the comfort and value they are looking for. Now, we’re thrilled to unite two groups of fans: those who fondly remember these menu items and those who have yet to experience the delight of a Caramel Apple Empanada or savor their first bite of a Meximelt with this menu.”

To be clear, the five nostalgic menu items will be available at three Southern California locations only. The restaurants are: Barranca (2222 Barranca Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92606) and Brea restaurant (303 W Imperial Hwy, Brea, CA 92821). These locations will have the menu available August 15 through August 21. The Fullerton restaurant (31 E Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92832) will offer the specialty food from August 15 through August 19. All items are available while supplies last.

Ready to take the time machine back to these Taco Bell nostalgic menu items?

While Taco Bell fans have successfully petitioned the return of the Mexican Pizza. The beloved Baja Blast has had its moment this summer. Even other favorite food items have returned to the menu.

In some ways, that taste from the past is vital for Taco Bell to invigorate its fan base. While food innovation is always smart, blending that familiar and new is key to keeping people excited about that Live Mas connection.

The nostalgic menu features a fan favorite item from five different decades. While some people might not have any recollection of the food, others will already be able to remember that first bite.

The Tostada was an original menu item going back to the first location in 1962. While the Tostada has had a Cheez-it makeover, this one is all about the classic. The crispy corn tostada shell is topped with beans, red sauce, and more.

For the 70s item, the Green Burrito brings the subtle spice to the table. The green sauce is made with green chili, tomatillos, jalapenos and more. It smothers that bean burrito. It would take a lot of sauce packets to mimic this offering. Maybe there is a calling for more sauced topped menu items at Taco Bell.

The iconic 80s Meximelt is one that many people will remember. The triple cheese offering with pico de gallo was always a popular choice. Maybe someone needs to start a Change.org petition to get this food item back permanently.

With all the 90s fanfare, the Beef Gordita Supreme will have people saying you had me at hello. It is all the beefy goodness that people remember.

Lastly, the Caramel Apple Empanada is the sweet ending to this food travel event. That crispy, sweet treat might be the best Taco Bell dessert, ever.

Could any of these menu items get a wider Taco Bell rollout? Only time will tell. Until then, it’s time to get into the car and head out to the West Coast to satisfy those cravings.