Taco Bell never really slows down, but this week hit differently. While fans were focused on four nationally released items, the chain quietly slipped eight more into the mix. The catch is simple but painful: most people can’t order them. These new items are locked inside a handful of test markets, leaving the rest of the country watching from afar. Still, what’s being tested offers a pretty clear hint at where Taco Bell is headed next.
Eight New Items, Barely Announced
Taco Bell quietly released eight additional menu items on November 20, the same day its bigger launches went live. Unlike the national items, these were dropped without much fanfare. There were no splashy announcements or nationwide promotions attached. Instead, the items appeared only in select test markets. If you didn’t live in the right city, you probably never knew they existed.
Test Markets Decide Who Eats
The biggest catch with these new releases is location. Taco Bell limited the items to just three test markets across the country. Phoenix, Oklahoma City, and Knoxville each received different parts of the rollout. That means no single city has access to all eight items. Everyone else is left waiting for possible future updates.
Mexican Pizza Gets an Empanada Upgrade
One of the most talked-about tests is the Mexican Pizza Empanada. Taco Bell transformed the fan-favorite Mexican Pizza into a crispy, handheld pocket. It’s filled with seasoned beef, a three-cheese blend, and zesty sauce. Each empanada comes fried golden brown with Mexican Pizza sauce on the side. It’s currently being tested only in Phoenix, Arizona.
Multiple Ways to Order the Empanadas
Taco Bell didn’t stop at just one format for the empanadas. Customers can order them in a 3-pack or a 4-pack. They’re also included in a $9 Discovery Luxe Cravings Box at select locations. That box includes Cinnamon Twists, a fountain drink, and a rotating combo of other Taco Bell favorites. Availability depends on the specific restaurant.
Crunchadilla Test Brings a Crispy Twist
Taco Bell is testing the Crunchadilla in Oklahoma City, offering a crunchy take on the classic quesadilla with a folded, grilled tortilla and layered fillings. The $2 item comes in two versions: the Classic Chicken with creamy jalapeño sauce, cheeses, and sour cream, and the Sriracha Chicken, which adds Taco Bell’s new Sriracha sauce for extra heat.
Taco Bell’s Beverage Push Continues
Food isn’t the only focus of these menu tests. Taco Bell is continuing to expand its drink offerings through its Live Más Cafés. Two entirely new beverage lines are now being tested. These drinks lean into trends already popular with fast-food fans. Knoxville, Tennessee, is where the beverage experiments are happening.
Dream Refrescas Tap Into Dirty Soda Trends
The Dream Refrescas put a Taco Bell spin on the dirty soda craze. These drinks start with lemonade and add a splash of vanilla creamer. The result is sweet, creamy, and refreshing. They’re available in Strawberry and Pineapple Mango flavors. For now, they’re exclusive to the Knoxville test market.
Limonada Refrescas Feel Café-Inspired
The Limonada Refrescas aim for a lighter, fruit-forward vibe. They mix freeze-dried fruit pieces with lemonade for a bright, refreshing drink. The flavors include Strawberry Passionfruit, Mango Peach, and Dragonfruit Strawberry. These drinks resemble popular refreshers from major coffee chains. Like the Dream Refrescas, they’re only available in Knoxville for now.
Why Taco Bell Loves Menu Testing
Menu testing lets Taco Bell experiment without committing nationwide. Successful items often move from test markets to full releases. The Caramel Apple Empanada’s past success helped inspire the new savory empanada test. Testing also helps fine-tune pricing, portions, and flavors. These quiet rollouts often hint at what could be coming next.
Four Items Everyone Can Actually Order
Even if you’re outside the test markets, not all hope is lost. Taco Bell did release four new menu items nationwide on the same day. These include the Steak & Poblano Rolled Quesadilla and the fan-created Fan Style Menu. The national rollout offers plenty to try while waiting for updates. Still, it’s hard not to feel left out.
Waiting on the Next Big Drop
Taco Bell’s quiet menu test proves the chain is always experimenting behind the scenes. From crispy empanadas to creamy lemonades, these items show just how wide the menu could grow. For now, only a few cities get the full experience. If you’ve tried any of these test items, was it worth the hype? Let us know which one you’re hoping goes nationwide next.
