Taco Bell to introduce more-upscale menu items

Associated Press

LOUISVILLE, Ky.

Taco Bell, often a late-night indulgence with its inexpensive fare, is going more upscale.

The chain said Wednesday it plans an early July rollout of a menu addition created by celebrity chef Lorena Garcia for its nearly 5,600 U.S. restaurants. New items feature such ingredients as black beans, cilantro rice, citrus- and herb- marinated chicken and cilantro dressing.

The introduction of items that Taco Bell executive Brian Niccol described as “gourmet Mexican,” is a venture onto the turf of casual-dining chains such as Chipotle Mexican Grill, known for higher-quality ingredients.

It’s a departure from such standards as tacos, burritos and chalupas that Taco Bell’s core young-adult customers crave and that will remain mainstays on menu boards.

Introduction of the new items is part of the Irvine, Calif.-based chain’s transformation as its customers look for more than a quick bite on the go, said Niccol, Taco Bell’s chief marketing and innovation officer.