Mexican

Emerging Brands

A taco truck success story and the blessings of birria

So many were attempting food trucks before the pandemic hit. This one survived and now Talkin' Tacos is a 35-unit, $60 million brand with a growth path ahead.

Food

Mexican food is evolving into a favorite with diners around the world

Taco Bell has paved the way to familiarize consumers with Mexican cuisine, but now tastes are branching out beyond tacos and burritos, according to Technomic’s Global Navigator Program.

The fast-food Mexican chain highlighted 19 different menu items, including caffeine-laced eye patches, beverages, drinks and snacks. And it did so in a made-for-streaming event packed with celebrities.

The Bottom Line: The two Mexican chains have long been among the industry’s most consistent performers. But that changed last year, at least for one of them.

Behind the Menu: The Mexican fast-food chain refreshed the format and flavor of its classic Fiesta Taco Salad to launch as part of its new Luxe Value Menu.

One of the fast-food chain’s most-requested items returns to the menu nationwide for a limited time, tied into a legendary NBA draft moment.

The casual-dining Mexican brand will return next week in a Minneapolis suburb with a menu of old favorites and new fare. And yes, there will be deep-fried ice cream.

A Deeper Dive: On this week’s episode of the restaurant finance podcast, the CEO of the fast-food Mexican chain talks about technology, franchising and menu innovation.

The Bottom Line: The fast-casual Mexican chain remains a shockingly good value and its first-quarter sales slowdown was not out of the ordinary.

Behind the Menu: Starting with its new Fiesta sauce and maximizing what’s already stocked in the pantry, the Mexican fast-food chain is driving flavor throughout its platform.

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