Taco Bell has always been a go-to for fast food lovers craving Tex-Mex delights. With an ever-evolving menu, the chain often experiments with new flavors and dishes. However, fans’ hearts have a special place for the discontinued items left behind.
Many Taco Bell enthusiasts still reminisce about favorites like the Double Chalupa and the Waffle Taco, hoping they might one day return.
Well, it looks like Taco Bell is listening! The company is tapping into its nostalgic side, resurrecting five beloved menu items from its history. These returning classics span across five decades of Taco Bell’s existence, celebrating the rich history of this iconic fast-food chain.
The Decades Menu: A Trip Down Memory Lane
The newly introduced Decades Menu features a delightful selection of items that many fans will remember fondly. The lineup includes:
- Tostada
- Green Burrito
- Meximelt
- Beef Gordita Supreme
- Caramel Apple Empanada
Let’s examine these nostalgic items and why they are unique in Taco Bell’s history.
Tostada: A Classic From the ’60s
The Tostada is one of Taco Bell’s original offerings, making its debut when the chain opened its doors in 1962. This simple yet delicious item features a crispy tostada shell topped with refried beans, red sauce, lettuce, and shredded cheese.
The Tostada quickly became a fan favorite and remained on the menu for years before its unfortunate discontinuation in 2020. Its return will surely delight long-time customers who remember its satisfying crunch and vibrant flavors.
Green Burrito: A Taste of the ’70s
Next is the Green Burrito, a creation that gained popularity in the 1970s. Stuffed with refried beans, crunchy onions, Cheddar cheese, and a zesty green sauce made from green chili, tomatillos, jalapeños, and various spices, this burrito has been a nostalgic craving for many.
Over the years, fans have attempted to recreate this tasty burrito using existing Taco Bell items, but nothing quite matched that signature green sauce. With its revival, customers can once again enjoy this flavorful classic, just like they did decades ago.
Meximelt: The ’80s Icon
Moving into the ’80s, the Meximelt captured hearts with its delightful combination of pico de gallo, a three-cheese blend, and seasoned beef, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.
This menu item was a staple for nearly 30 years before disappearing from Taco Bell menus around 2018. The return of the Meximelt is bound to spark nostalgia among fans who loved its cheesy goodness and flavorful filling.
Beef Gordita Supreme: A ’90s Favorite
The Beef Gordita Supreme takes us back to the 1990s. Before the Cheesy Gordita Crunch became a household name, the Beef Gordita Supreme was a beloved choice for many.
This dish featured a warm flatbread packed with seasoned beef, sour cream, lettuce, a three-cheese blend, and diced tomatoes. It perfectly encapsulates the flavors of the era and is sure to please those who remember its satisfying bite.
Caramel Apple Empanada: A Sweet Treat from the 2000s
The Caramel Apple Empanada, a dessert that emerged in the 2000s, is rounding out the nostalgic offerings. This delightful treat consists of a crispy fried dough shell coated with cinnamon sugar and filled with warm apples and creamy caramel.
It was a sweet finish to many meals before being discontinued in 2019. Fans of this dessert will be thrilled to see it return, adding a touch of sweetness to Taco Bell’s lineup.
Availability and Special Promotions
Taco Bell tested the Decades Menu this past summer in California, and the positive feedback from customers has led to a nationwide launch.
Starting on October 31, Taco Bell will officially reintroduce the Tostada, Green Sauce Burrito, Meximelt, and Beef Gordita Supreme for a limited time.
Following that, on November 21, the Caramel Apple Empanada will also be available for fans to enjoy.
Taco Bell is also rolling out some retro-inspired merchandise to celebrate the return of these beloved items. Fans can get their hands on limited-edition Decades Hoodies and Stainless Steel Decades Cups, featuring five unique designs that pay homage to Taco Bell’s 50-year history.
On October 29 at 5 p.m. EST, the first 500 Taco Bell Rewards members to participate will receive one hoodie and one cup. But if you miss the initial drop, you can still enter for a chance to win these exclusive items by taking Taco Bell’s weekly Decades Quiz in the Taco Bell app.
Fun Giveaways and Commemorative Cups
Taco Bell has another treat in store for those who can’t snag the limited-edition merchandise. The chain will give away plastic versions of the Stainless Steel Decades Cups at its restaurants.
When customers order a medium-sized drink, it will come in a random commemorative decades cup while supplies last. This is a great way to celebrate Taco Bell’s history and add a little fun to your meal.
Conclusion: A Nostalgic Return
Taco Bell’s decision to bring back these five nostalgic menu items is a testament to the chain’s ability to listen to its loyal customers.
As fans gear up for the return of the Tostada, Green Burrito, Meximelt, Beef Gordita Supreme, and Caramel Apple Empanada, there’s no doubt that many will be heading to their local Taco Bell to relive the flavors of the past.
Thank you, Taco Bell, for reigniting our fond memories and giving us a reason to celebrate! If only we could see the Double Decker Taco back on the menu for good, we’d be even happier!
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