Taco Bell's menu has undergone a remarkable evolution since its inception in 1962, transforming from a limited selection of burritos to a diverse array of dishes. In the 1970s, the chain focused on fresh, high-quality ingredients, positioning itself as 'The Fresh Food Place'. This era saw the introduction of several iconic items that still hold a special place in the hearts of customers. Here's a look at some of the standout menu items from the '70s:
Green Burrito
A classic bean burrito with onion, shredded cheese, and green sauce, along with fresh chili strips. This dish showcased Taco Bell's commitment to fresh, flavorful ingredients, setting it apart from traditional fast-food offerings.
Red Burrito
Initially sold as a distinct menu item, the Red Burrito was a Bean Burrito with the chain's signature red sauce, made with crushed chili peppers. While it's now just a standard burrito, its distinct identity in the '70s made it a memorable choice.
Burrito Supreme
Introduced in 1975, the Burrito Supreme was a game-changer. It featured beans, onion, cheese, and red sauce, topped with seasoned beef, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream. The inclusion of sliced olives added a unique touch, and the 'Supreme' label has since become synonymous with a premium burrito experience.
Enchirito
A unique blend of enchilada and burrito, the Enchirito was trademarked by Taco Bell in 1971. It consisted of beef, beans, and onions wrapped in a tortilla, covered in sauce, cheese, and olives. Despite its discontinuation in the early '90s, it remains a beloved memory for many fans.
Tostada
A flat, crispy tortilla topped with beans, lettuce, cheese, and red sauce, the Tostada was a simple yet satisfying dish. Its discontinuation in 2020, along with a dozen other items, was a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it briefly returned as part of the retro 'Decades' Menu in 2024.
Frijoles (Pintos N Cheese)
This side dish, made with refried beans, cheese, and red sauce, was a testament to Taco Bell's focus on fresh, in-house preparation. The modern version, however, uses dehydrated beans, a shift from the original, more labor-intensive method.
RC Cola
In the '70s, Taco Bell offered Royal Crown Cola, a refreshing alternative to the ubiquitous Coca-Cola and Pepsi products. The drink's availability was short-lived, as PepsiCo bought the chain in 1978, replacing RC with Pepsi products. RC Cola remains a nostalgic favorite for those who remember it.
Chili Burger/Bellburger
Taco Bell experimented with a burger-like sandwich, offering a Mexican-seasoned beef patty with lettuce and red sauce on a hamburger bun. The 'Chili Burger' or 'Bellburger' was a unique take on fast-food, and a Surf and Turf Deluxe version, with shrimp and tuna, was rumored but never officially released.
Cinnamon Crispas
A dessert item, Cinnamon Crispas were deep-fried flour tortilla chips heavily dusted in cinnamon and sugar. This sweet and savory treat was a precursor to the modern Cinnamon Twists, and fans on social media have expressed a preference for the original version.
Bellringing Special
This limited-time offer in 1974 provided a Tostada, a Bean Burrito, and a large drink for just $0.59. It was a fantastic deal that showcased Taco Bell's ability to offer high-quality food at affordable prices.
Crunchy Taco
One of the original menu items, the Crunchy Taco was a '70s staple. Filled with seasoned beef, cheese, and lettuce, it was a simple yet satisfying taco experience. Unlike today, it was sauced with Taco Bell red sauce, adding a unique flavor profile.
The '70s Taco Bell menu was a testament to the chain's early focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and innovative dishes. While some items have come and gone, the memories and flavors of this era continue to resonate with customers, shaping the brand's identity and menu offerings.
