Taco Bell is one of the most popular fast-food chains in the world, and it’s easy to see why with its quick service and creative menu. But like any restaurant, it’s not without its downsides. With help from customer experiences and expert opinions, this article highlights some reasons you might want to think twice before making it your go-to spot. It’s not about giving it up completely — just about knowing what you’re getting before you order.
Note: The content of this article does not reflect the Writer's personal beliefs.
No kids menu
Every parent knows the struggle of accommodating kids whenever they go out to eat. While Taco Bell had a kid's menu, it was discontinued about ten years ago.
Although Taco Bell doesn’t have a specific kids' menu, some parents easily order kid-friendly items off the general menu. But seeing a big restaurant chain refusing to cater to kids is quite disheartening.
Rough on The Diet
Taco Bell claims to be diet-friendly, but it offers limited dietary accommodations, which can ruin customers' experiences.
Taco Bell has a vegetarian menu, but it is disappointingly meager, so there’s not much to choose from.
Restricted customization
According to Taco Bell, its menu is diverse and open to modification. While many Taco Bell menu items can be modified, it will be up to the specific workers to deny your request or let you go ahead and order. Those who modify are often given extra charges so you may also want to keep that in mind.
Inflation
With inflation at an all-time high, it makes sense for Taco Bell to take the financial hit too. However, many customers are saying it has taken it too far.
Over the past few years, Taco Bell has ridiculously increased its prices. The food that was once affordable for everyone is quite expensive, so many are forced to look for a cheaper alternative.
Reduced portions
The portion size of Taco Bell food is prompting customers to question the eatery’s priorities, and it’s also the reason why people hate inflation.
When Taco Bell saw a price hike, instead of complying with customer satisfaction, it decided to reduce portion sizes. If you order a single item, you're forced to order something else because, despite the high price, you’re not full.
Bland food
Taco Bell was one of the few chains that was known for its extremely flavorful food. Its spicy and intense flavor was why many chose to eat there.
But, Taco Bell seems to have reduced its seasoning, making its food too bland. Many customers have complained the eatery has reduced its quality, which has put them off. If you’re eating for spice, you might have to seek elsewhere.
Removed popular items
You already know the pain if you’ve lost a beloved menu item. Many customers are upset about Taco Bell removing some of its most successful foods.
The classic chicken burrito was once the most popular choice but no longer exists on the menu despite the ingredients being there. Taco Bell also removed the Fiesta Veggie Burrito across some branches, which is a popular vegetarian-friendly option.
Quality control
We have to admit, Taco Bell doesn’t taste as good as it did before. Taco Bell has lost its quality over the years, thanks to poor quality control and management. Its choice to serve low-priced ingredients has led to a bad quality that is evident even in the taste.
Removed cheaper options
One of Taco Bell's biggest failures is its decision to remove menu items marketed toward the poor.
The $5 chalupa box and the $5 nacho box were catered toward people who wanted a full meal but couldn’t afford it. However, most branches of Taco Bell removed the item completely, while those still serving have hiked up the prices. However, they have brought back the cravings box, which is exciting! Hopefully, all chains have it soon.
Poor customer service
It’s always off-putting to eat somewhere that isn’t considerate toward its customers. Sadly, Taco Bell's service has drastically decreased over the years.
Many customers have complained about rude servers at Taco Bell. Some have also complained about being shamed when choosing low-price options or customizing the order to their liking. Taco Bell’s non-existent response only worsens the situation. But, this doesn't apply to all the branches of Taco Bell.
Super Slow Food
Taco Bell is supposed to be fast food, but it is anything but quick. Taco Bell has one of the slowest drive-through lines out of all the fast-food restaurants in the country. People often complain about the extremely long wait times, even when you order through the app. Do not go to Taco Bell if you actually want fast food.
Not Authentic
Taco Bell is supposed to be Mexican food. That is what the brand was founded on. However, many of the items on Taco Bell's menu are extremely Americanized. They may have tacos, but they don't taste anything like Tacos from Mexico. If you were hoping for real, authentic, Mexican food, you should definitely skip Taco Bell.
Seriously Unhealthy
You may think that a little taco is a healthy food choice. However, some of those Taco Bell tacos are seriously bad. Doritos Cheesy Gordita Crunch has about 500 calories and 900 mg of sodium.
Those statistics are insane, especially for one simple taco. Make sure you take a good look at the nutritional content of the foods you order at Taco Bell. They may shock you.
Bad Chips
Lots of people claim that their Taco Bell chips taste like chemicals. This is likely from bad fryer oil which makes the chips taste rancid. Besides the terrible taste, the chips are often reported as being stale or old. Since fried tortillas are one of Taco Bell's main items, you would think they would be able to get this right.
This article was first published at Spatula Desserts.
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