Let’s talk tacos—but not just any tacos. Let’s talk about Del Taco, the slightly mysterious, always satisfying, low-key superhero of the fast-food world.
If you’ve ever driven past a Del Taco and thought, “Hmm, maybe next time,” then friend, next time is now. Grab a seat (and maybe some crinkle-cut fries), because this is my deep dive into why I’ve come to crave this delightfully quirky chain more than most others.
A Love Letter to Del Taco
I still remember my first bite. It was one of those spontaneous road trips where hunger meets poor planning. Del Taco was the only place open. I rolled up skeptical, half-expecting a Taco Bell clone. Instead, I got a crunchy taco that was crispy, flavorful, and—dare I say—borderline addictive.
Since that fateful bite, I’ve come to appreciate Del Taco not just for what it serves, but for what it is: a glorious middle ground between authentic and Americanized Mexican food. It’s fast food with a soul, wrapped in a flour tortilla.
Tacos, Burritos, and Everything In-Between
The menu at Del Taco is surprisingly vast. Sure, you’ve got the basics: tacos, burritos, nachos. But then there are surprises like the “Epic Burritos,” loaded fries, and even burgers. (Yes, burgers—and they’re actually good!)
My personal must-haves? The Chicken Soft Taco—tender grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, cheese, and that dreamy creamy white sauce. Also, the Del Beef Burrito is a low-cost legend. Add in a side of their signature crinkle-cut fries, and you’ve got yourself a meal that hits every note.
The Del Taco Secret Menu (Yes, It Exists)
Okay, secret’s out. Del Taco has a low-key secret menu. No, you won’t find it framed on the wall, but frequent visitors and former employees know the tricks. Want a Bun Taco? It’s basically taco fillings on a hamburger bun—don’t knock it till you try it.
My go-to? The unofficial but beloved Stoner Burrito: crinkle fries, red sauce, special sauce, and cheese wrapped in a tortilla. It’s the kind of thing you order when you’re starving and slightly indecisive. And it delivers.
The Price is Always Right
Let’s be real: eating out is expensive these days. But Del Taco still offers value meals that taste like, well, actual food. A couple bucks gets you a taco or burrito that feels made, not mass-produced.
Compared to Taco Bell or even McDonald’s, Del Taco wins more often than not. You can mix and match items, grab a drink, and still spend less than what a single sandwich costs at other chains. I’ve had full meals for under $7—and no regrets.
Freshness You Can Taste (Really!)
I used to think “fresh fast food” was a marketing myth. But Del Taco’s been on the fresh game long before it was cool: fresh-grated cheddar, hand-chopped tomatoes, and slow-cooked beans. You can taste the difference.
And let’s not sleep on the guacamole. It’s not that strange neon green goo you find at some other places. It’s chunky, creamy, and—yes—tastes like actual avocado. A miracle in fast food.
Breakfast at Del Taco: A Hidden Gem
If you’ve never had Del Taco breakfast, fix that immediately. From breakfast tacos to their Epic Scrambler Burritos, the morning menu is surprisingly strong.
My favorite? The Chorizo Scrambler, packed with eggs, potatoes, cheese, and a little spice. And don’t forget the hashbrown sticks. They’re like fast-food French toast sticks, but crispy and savory. You’ll want to eat them by the handful.
My Road Trip Companion
Del Taco has become my unofficial road trip pit stop. It’s everywhere from Southern California to random Nevada towns. One time, I pulled into it in the middle of nowhere just to get out of a rainstorm—and left with three tacos, a burrito, and a great story about losing all my napkins to a desert wind gust.
There’s something deeply comforting about seeing that familiar logo on the highway after hours of driving. It’s my edible safety blanket.
The Vegan & Vegetarian Wins
Del Taco doesn’t just tolerate plant-based eaters—it embraces them. Their Beyond Meat options are seasoned well and actually filling.
I’m not even vegan, but I’ve ordered the Beyond Avocado Taco multiple times. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and doesn’t make you feel like you’re settling for second best. Even my carnivore friends admit it slaps.
Late Night Delights
Del Taco is a godsend for night owls. Whether you’re just getting home from a concert, finishing a shift, or recovering from karaoke shame, this place is open—and it understands.
Fries dipped in queso, soft tacos at 2 AM, and a random strawberry shake? Yes, yes, and yes. The late-night menu hits different.
Comparing Del Taco to Taco Bell (Don’t Hate Me)
This one’s always spicy. But if I had to choose? it wins on quality and freshness. Taco Bell is fun and wild, sure—but Del Taco’s got real cheese, better beef, and more consistent portions.
Taco Bell might win the creativity crown, but it is the reliable one you end up falling for.
The Cult Following You Didn’t Know About
It has fans. Like, real fans. Dive into Reddit or TikTok and you’ll find secret order tips, Del Taco merch hauls, and heated debates over which sauce reigns supreme. There’s even a fan-favorite list of the best drive-thrus by speed and accuracy.
Yes, I proudly own a Del Taco hoodie. No, I’m not ashamed.
Del Taco Rewards App: Is It Worth It?
Oh, 100%. The app gives you points, sneak peeks at deals, and freebies just for checking in. I’ve gotten entire meals for a couple bucks thanks to reward stacking.
And let’s be honest—any app that feeds me tacos and helps me budget is a keeper.
Pro Tips for Your Next Visit
Here are a few tips from a seasoned Del Taco regular:
- Go during off-peak hours to avoid the line.
- Order ahead with the app—life-changing.
- Mix sauces: try combining the Hot and Del Scorcho for a flavor explosion.
- Don’t skip the fries. They’re secretly one of the best things on the menu.
How Del Taco Keeps Evolving
They’re not just riding on nostalgia. Del Taco is innovating with menu items like Crispy Chicken Tacos, Queso Loaded Nachos, and veggie burritos. They’re also introducing more sustainable packaging and working on reducing waste.
It’s a brand that knows where it’s been, but isn’t afraid to evolve.
Final Bite: Why Del Taco Has My Heart
It’s not fancy. It’s not flashy. But Del Taco has carved a special place in my fast-food-loving heart. The food is good. The value is better. And the memories? Priceless.
So if you’ve been sleeping on this underrated gem, consider this your wake-up call. Grab a taco, snag a fry, and join the cult following. Your cravings will thank you.
Bonus: The Best Del Taco Locations in the U.S.
Here are a few legendary Del Taco spots worth visiting:
- Barstow, CA – Iconic pit stop en route to Vegas with stellar views.\n- Yermo, CA – Giant menu board and shockingly clean restrooms.\n- Santa Ana, CA – Fastest drive-thru and the nicest staff ever.
FAQs
1. Does Del Taco use real meat and cheese?
Yes! They use freshly grated cheddar cheese and slow-cooked, seasoned beef daily.
2. What are the best vegetarian items at Del Taco?
Try the Beyond Avocado Taco or the Veggie Fresca Bowl. Plant-based and flavorful.
3. Is the Del Taco app worth downloading?
Absolutely. You get points, promos, and the occasional free food. Win-win.
4. Are there healthy options at Del Taco?
Yes—grilled chicken, Fresca Bowls, and the Beyond Meat line are all great picks.
5. What’s the weirdest but best thing to order?
The “Stoner Burrito” (fries, red sauce, and cheese wrapped in a tortilla). Trust me.
