Del Taco Reverses Classic Burrito Change and Thanks Fans for ‘Calling Them Out’
It started with a bite.
In late 2025, Del Taco fans began noticing something different about their Classic Burritos. Instead of the familiar open-ended fold, both sides were tucked in. The change looked small, but fans quickly pointed out that the first bite now hit plain tortilla instead of the seasoned filling they expected.
By early March 2026, the company confirmed the reversal. Starting March 3, Del Taco returned to the open-ended burrito style at all 600 locations nationwide.
Customers Spoke Up Loudly
At first, fans wondered if the double-fold was just a local mistake. Several posts on Reddit’s r/DelTaco subreddit questioned whether certain locations were experimenting or if the company had quietly made a permanent change. One user called out the “weird” new folding style, pointing out that the restaurant had always left one end open in the past.
Some customers were not bothered. Others were frustrated. A few speculated that the change was tied to ownership shifts or portion adjustments. The online discussion quickly grew beyond the fold itself, with debates about consistency, value and whether the brand felt different than it once did.
Del Taco eventually addressed the backlash. In an Instagram post, the company admitted it had tried to be “neat” by folding both ends but ended up giving customers a first bite of plain tortilla instead of the flavorful filling they expected. The message ended with a candid “Thanks for calling us out,” a nod to the fans who were vocal and honest about what they did not like.
Resetting the Classics
The apology came with a clear fix. On their Instagram post, Del Taco summarized the decision plainly: “TL;DR: We’re unfolding the end of our Classic Burritos, and we’re sorry.”
The company also used the moment to relaunch its Classic Burrito platform. The Beef & Cheddar is now Del Beef. The Grilled Chicken becomes Del Classic Chicken. The Combo Beef & Bean is now Del Combo. The lineup returns to original preparation methods and the signature open-end fold.
Industry reporting described the move as part of a larger brand reset focused on restoring consistency and rebuilding trust with guests. The burrito change may seem minor, but internally it marked a return to core menu basics.
Part of a Broader Turnaround Strategy
The burrito decision is one piece of Del Taco’s 18-month recovery roadmap, known as Project Sunrise. After several quarters of same-store sales declines, the chain outlined a plan to improve menu quality, strengthen operations and respond directly to guest feedback.
Executives said the initiative specifically targets menu adjustments from the past two years that drew criticism. As part of that reset, the Classic Burritos now weigh over half a pound, and the brand is leaning into original recipes and preparation methods to reinforce value and consistency.
To support the relaunch, Del Taco paired the return with loyalty promotions for members, aiming to drive traffic and trial.
