Taco Bell is telling its vegetarian fans it wants a fresh start in 2021.
After significantly cutting back its menu in 2020, the fast-food chain drew criticism from vegetarian customers who lost some of their favorite meal options, such as the Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes. However, to make amends and to live up to its promise of expanding its options for those on plant-based diets, Taco Bell is bringing potatoes back to its menu.
The news was first announced on Taco Bell’s Twitter account with a fun video featuring CEO Mark King making the big announcement while using a filter that made him look like a potato.
https://twitter.com/tacobell/status/1349702816156282883
“It’s a new year with new possibilities,” King said. “And we’re working hard to make things right.”
The potato will return to Taco Bell’s menu on March 11, according to the announcement.
Liz Matthews, Taco Bell’s global chief food innovation officer, echoed her boss’s sentiments about the importance of bringing potatoes back to the chain’s menu.
“The return of our beloved potatoes is just the first step in showing our fans the strong continued commitment to vegetarian we are making this year,” Matthews said in a statement. “We have long been a leader in the vegetarian space, but this year, we have more meatless options in store that vegetarians, veggie-curious and even meat-eaters will love.”
Potato Options
First, Taco Bell fans will be happy to know that the Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes are on the comeback list. This little bowl of happiness is filled with golden-fried potatoes topped with yummy melted cheese and sour cream. These will cost $1.49 at most Taco Bell locations, according to the company.
In addition to Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes, diners will also be able to pick up a Spicy Potato Soft Taco. In this offering, the crispy potatoes are tucked into a warm flour tortilla and the rest is prepared just like a traditional taco, with lettuce, cheese and your choice of sauce. At $1 each at most Taco Bell locations, this option is a steal and might be a perfect addition to a family drive-thru run.
The potato bites served at Taco Bell are certified by the American Vegetarian Association as vegan, so customers can order confidently and know their dietary preferences are being met.
In addition to the return of the potato, Taco Bell said it plans to expand its vegetarian food options by partnering with Beyond Meat for more upcoming menu additions. It will be the restaurant chain’s first time offering a new vegetable-based protein option for its customers. No date has been released yet by Taco Bell officials for its new Beyond Meat dishes.