Taco Bell removes 12 items from menu

Taco Bell’s offerings just shrank by 12 items.

The restaurant chain said Friday the move is a part of a plan to revamp its menu, saying it’s “clearing space on [the] menu to create a more efficient Taco Bell experience.”

Beginning Aug. 13, customers will no longer see the following items on menuboards:

• Grilled Steak Soft Taco
• 7-Layer Burrito
• Nachos Supreme
• Beefy Fritos Burrito
• Spicy Tostada
• Triple Layer Nachos
• Spicy Potato Soft Taco
• Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes
• Loaded Grillers (Cheesy Potato, Beefy Nacho)
• Mini Skillet Breakfast Bowl
• chips and dips

“This evolved menu approach comes after months of analyzing the new way we are running our restaurants. We want to ensure an easy and fast ordering experience for our guests and team members, while simultaneously opening up opportunities for even more innovation,” the company wrote in a press release.

Taco Bell said the coronavirus pandemic has forced the company to shift from in-person product testing in a central test kitchen and focus groups to more virtual brainstorms, kitchen simulations and contactless drive-thru tastings. The company suggested these new processes have the potential to lead to more new products and developments.

“A simplified menu and innovation process will leave room for new fan favorites, continued progress in categories such as plant-based diets, and even opportunities for the return of some classics on a limited time basis,” Taco Bell said of the change.

This week, Chipotle, another Mexican-inspired chain, announced it’s testing cilantro-lime cauliflower rice, a grain-free option that’s compliant with Keto, Whole30, paleo, vegan and vegetarian diets, in select stores.

Cox Media Group