10 Taco Bell Menu Items From The 1990s You Probably Forgot About

Here are 10 Taco Bell menu items from the 1990s that you probably forgot about—but may still hold a special place in your fast food nostalgia. These quirky, bold, and often short-lived creations captured the experimental spirit of Taco Bell during that decade.

1. Chilito (a.k.a. Chili Cheese Burrito)

The Chilito, later known as the Chili Cheese Burrito, was a fan favorite for those who craved comfort in a fast-food wrapper. This concoction of warm, gooey chili and melted cheese was enveloped in a soft, floury tortilla. The first bite was an avalanche of flavor, a perfect blend of spice and creaminess. Many regions quietly phased it out, leaving fans craving its return. Today, it’s like a secret menu item, whispered in nostalgia. Its limited availability only adds to the thrill of discovering a place that still serves it.

2. Border Bell Menu

The Border Bell Menu was Taco Bell’s ambitious venture into upscale fast food. Introduced in the mid-’90s, it featured items like fajita wraps, steak tacos, and “Baja” rice bowls. These were not your typical Taco Bell offerings; some locations even served them on real plates. The attempt was to elevate the dining experience, blending fast food convenience with a touch of gourmet flair. Although it didn’t last, it remains a fond memory for those who experienced it, a nod to Taco Bell’s adventurous spirit.

3. BLT Soft Taco

Imagine your favorite BLT sandwich, but with a Taco Bell twist. The BLT Soft Taco featured crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato wrapped in a soft tortilla. A creamy sauce tied the flavors together, offering a delightful contrast to the usual taco fare. It was like having a sandwich in taco form, a playful fusion that lip-smackingly satisfied cravings. Though it didn’t stick around long, its unique concept remains cherished by those who appreciated its boldness.

4. Taco Bell Burger (Bell Beefer)

Originating in the ’70s, the Bell Beefer survived into the ’90s in some areas. This creation was Taco Bell’s answer to a burger, featuring seasoned taco beef and sauce nestled in a soft hamburger bun. It was reminiscent of a sloppy Joe, merging the worlds of tacos and burgers. Although it eventually disappeared from the menu, the Bell Beefer remains a nostalgic beacon for those who remember its unique taste. A true nod to Taco Bell’s experimental roots, it’s fondly recalled by fast-food aficionados.

5. Taco Bell Pizza (MexiMelts and Mexican Pizza variations)

Before the Mexican Pizza became a legend, Taco Bell experimented with various spin-offs in the ’90s. Some featured unexpected toppings like bacon or jalapeños, adding a spicy twist. Each bite was a dance of flavors, layered between a crispy crust and gooey cheese. These variations captured the spirit of innovation, as Taco Bell sought to redefine fast-food norms. While not all combinations lasted, they paved the way for the iconic status the Mexican Pizza holds today. A testament to Taco Bell’s creativity, it remains beloved by many.

6. Seafood Salad

Taco Bell’s brief foray into seafood was embodied by the Seafood Salad. This limited-time item featured shrimp and whitefish, nestled in a taco bowl with crisp lettuce and creamy dressing. It was a bold move, venturing into fast-food seafood, a territory mostly avoided by competitors. While many found it intriguing, it didn’t win over the masses and quietly vanished from the menu. The Seafood Salad remains a curious piece of Taco Bell’s history, remembered by those who dared to try its oceanic offering.

7. Enchirito

A beloved creation, the Enchirito was a smothered burrito that brought comfort to many. Filled with seasoned beef, beans, and onions, it was topped with a generous layer of red sauce and melted cheese. Served in a distinctive black tray, it was a staple for those who enjoyed a hearty meal. Phased out in the mid-’90s, the Enchirito’s departure left a void that many fans still feel today. Its rich, savory taste is etched in memory, a classic Taco Bell dish that represented indulgence.

8. 7-Layer Burrito

For those seeking a meatless delight, the 7-Layer Burrito was a beacon of flavor. Launched in the ’90s, it offered a satisfying combination of rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese. Each layer was a flavor adventure, creating a kaleidoscope of textures and tastes. Though it was eventually removed from many menus, it remains a cherished memory, especially for vegetarians. The 7-Layer Burrito was a testament to Taco Bell’s ability to cater to diverse palates with creativity and flair.

9. Santa Fe Chalupa

The Santa Fe Chalupa was part of Taco Bell’s exploration of Southwestern flavors. This variation of the Chalupa included corn and black beans, topped with a zesty dressing. Each bite was a celebration of bold tastes, offering a delightful crunch and vibrant flavor profile. Introduced as a test market item, it was a unique take on traditional Taco Bell offerings. Although it didn’t become a permanent fixture, the Santa Fe Chalupa’s exciting blend of ingredients is fondly remembered by those who had the chance to enjoy it.

10. Taco Bell Fries (Early Version)

Long before Nacho Fries became a sensation, Taco Bell experimented with seasoned fries in the ’90s. These early fries were a departure from the usual taco sidekick, offering a crispy, seasoned alternative. Though they didn’t make a national debut, some fans remember them fondly as a tantalizing glimpse into what could have been. The early version of Taco Bell Fries showed a willingness to innovate, setting the stage for future menu developments. Nostalgic and unique, they hold a special place in fast-food lore.