The Choco Taco Is Revived Thanks To Taco Bell
After a two-year hiatus, the Choco Taco, a classic frozen treat that had won the hearts of many, is making a grand return. This summer, fans can rejoice as Taco Bell, in partnership with the renowned Portland-based ice cream company Salt & Straw, reintroduces the Choco Taco with a gourmet spin.
The Original Choco Taco
The Choco Taco first made its debut in 1983, conceptualized by Klondike. It quickly became a staple in ice cream trucks and convenience stores, adored for its unique combination of a chocolate-coated, peanut-flecked waffle cone filled with creamy, fudge-swirled ice cream. However, in the summer of 2022, Klondike announced its discontinuation, leading to a wave of nostalgia and disappointment among its fans.
The Revival by Taco Bell and Salt & Straw
Taco Bell’s move to bring back the Choco Taco aligns with their history of creative and bold menu choices. The partnership with Salt & Straw, known for its innovative and high-quality ice cream, signifies a step towards offering a more artisanal version of this beloved treat.
The newly envisioned Ice Cream Chocolate Taco features a base of waffle cones, filled with cinnamon ancho ice cream, dipped in rich chocolate, and finished with a sprinkling of toasted brown rice for added crunch. This gourmet version is designed to enhance the textural experience and introduce a more sophisticated flavor profile, blending sweet, spicy, and crunchy elements.
A Collaboration Rooted in Innovation
Sean Tresvant, Taco Bell’s newly appointed CEO, played a pivotal role in this collaboration. Having previously encountered Salt & Straw’s creativity in Portland, Tresvant was familiar with their version of the Choco Taco, the “Chocolate Tacolate”. This existing product, coupled with Salt & Straw’s reputation for quality, laid the foundation for the collaboration.
Tyler Malek, head chef and co-founder of Salt & Straw, expressed excitement about bringing their specialized recipe to a broader audience through Taco Bell’s platform. The visit to Taco Bell’s test kitchen sparked a blend of expertise and passion, culminating in the new Ice Cream Chocolate Taco.
Sweet and Spicy: The Emerging Trend
Incorporating one of the most significant current trends in the food industry, the sweet and spicy (or “swicy”) flavor profile, Taco Bell and Salt & Straw have developed sweet hot sauces for dipping, enhancing the overall experience of the Ice Cream Chocolate Taco.
Nostalgia Meets Gourmet
For fans of the original Choco Taco, this new version aims to evoke the same sense of nostalgia while delivering a more refined and indulgent experience. Malek assures that while the new Choco Taco offers a gourmet twist, it retains the essence of the classic treat that many have loved for decades.
This collaboration between Taco Bell and Salt & Straw not only marks the return of a nostalgic favorite but also represents a fusion of fast food innovation and artisanal craftsmanship. The Ice Cream Chocolate Taco is set to be a testament to how classic treats can be reinvented for the modern palate.
As summer approaches, the return of the Choco Taco in its new gourmet form is eagerly anticipated, promising to offer a unique and delightful experience to new fans and old alike
