Taco Bell is digging deep into the vault and pulling out some serious nostalgia. The chain just announced its Decades Y2K Menu, packed with five throwback favorites that fans have been begging to see again. All priced at $3 or less, these menu items hit right at the sweet spot of memory and affordability. From long-lost tacos to fan-tracked burritos, the lineup proves that the early 2000s are officially back in more ways than one. Here’s a look at every blast-from-the-past item making its big return this September.
The Legendary 7-Layer Burrito Returns
Vegetarians and nostalgic eaters alike have been waiting for this one since 2020. Packed inside a flour tortilla, the 7-Layer Burrito combines refried beans, seasoned rice, guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a three-cheese blend. For years, fans tried to recreate it by hacking the Beefy 5-Layer Burrito, but it was never quite the same. Now, the real deal is back where it belongs—on the menu. This burrito is proof that not all icons wear meat.
Caramel Apple Empanadas Are Back for Fall
Sweet tooths, rejoice—this fan favorite is hitting the menu just in time for autumn. The golden, fried empanada is stuffed with warm apple chunks and creamy caramel, making it the perfect cold-weather dessert. It was last seen in Taco Bell’s Decades Menu in 2024, but this year, rewards members can snag it even earlier. Think of it as Taco Bell’s way of ushering in fall flavor season. Crispy, gooey, and comforting, it’s a classic worth the hype.
Chili Cheese Burrito Goes Nationwide
This one hasn’t been seen nationally since the mid-’90s, making it the most elusive of the lineup. Known for its gooey chili-and-cheese filling wrapped in a soft tortilla, the Chili Cheese Burrito has been a cult favorite. In fact, diehard fans even created an online tracker to hunt down rare locations that still carried it. For the first time in decades, no tracker is needed—everyone gets access. It’s the ultimate comeback story for Taco Bell loyalists.
Cool Ranch Doritos Locos Tacos Returns
This taco is the comeback fans have been shouting about since 2019. The tangy Cool Ranch Doritos shell wraps around seasoned beef, lettuce, and cheddar, delivering that crunchy-cool combo that disappeared far too soon. It’s the sibling of the famous Nacho Cheese Doritos taco, but with its own bold kick. For years, petitions and social media campaigns begged Taco Bell to bring it back. Finally, the Cool Ranch Doritos Locos Taco is here to answer the call.
Double Decker Taco Makes Its Comeback
First launched in 1995, the Double Decker Taco became a Y2K-era staple in the mid-2000s. The structure is simple but genius: a crunchy taco wrapped in a soft tortilla smeared with beans. Filled with beef, lettuce, and shredded cheese, it delivers layers of texture in every bite. Although it briefly returned in 2024, Taco Bell is making sure fans get another shot. This is comfort food for anyone who grew up in the early aughts.
Every Item Costs $3 or Less
Not only is this menu built for nostalgia, it’s also built for budgets. Each of the five Y2K throwbacks is priced at $3 or less, making them accessible for anyone looking to relive their Taco Bell glory days. That means you can pick up a taco and a dessert without breaking a five-dollar bill. Affordable indulgence has always been part of Taco Bell’s appeal. Now, they’re doubling down on it with this throwback lineup.
Y2K Merch Drops with the Menu
The nostalgia isn’t stopping at the food. Alongside the Y2K menu launch, Taco Bell is rolling out themed merch through its Tuesday Drops program. Expect throwback-inspired gear that taps into the same late ’90s, early ’00s energy as the food lineup. It’s more than just tacos—it’s a full-on lifestyle revival. Fans who live for the retro vibe will want to scoop up the limited pieces before they’re gone.
Meet Crunchkin, Taco Bell’s Digital Pet
In the spirit of Tamagotchis and other Y2K fads, Taco Bell is introducing Crunchkin. This digital pet grows as rewards members buy menu items, unlocking mini-games and special rewards. It’s the brand’s cheeky way of combining nostalgia with modern loyalty perks. Crunchkin keeps the fun going long after the food is gone. It’s Taco Bell’s nod to the playful, quirky side of the 2000s.
Rewards Members Get Early Access
Taco Bell’s loyalty program is paying off in big ways with this menu launch. Rewards members can snag the Caramel Apple Empanadas starting Sept. 2, a full week before everyone else. The official full menu release drops on Sept. 9. Exclusive perks like these keep fans hooked on the rewards program. For longtime Taco Bell lovers, early access feels like the VIP treatment.
