Del Taco Vs Taco Bell: Which Is Supreme?

Quick Links :

The debate between Del Taco and Taco Bell has been a longstanding one, with fans on both sides passionately arguing for their favorite Mexican-inspired fast food chain. But which one truly reigns supreme? In this article, we'll dive into the history, menu offerings, pricing, and nutritional content of both chains to help you decide.

History of Del Taco and Taco Bell

Del Taco was founded in 1964 by Ed Hackbarth and David Jameson in Yermo, California. The chain quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of Mexican and American flavors at affordable prices. Today, Del Taco has over 580 locations across the United States.

Taco Bell, on the other hand, was founded in 1962 by Glen Bell in Downey, California. The chain was initially called Bell's Drive-In and served burgers and hot dogs. However, Bell soon realized the potential of Mexican food and transformed his restaurant into Taco Bell. Today, Taco Bell is one of the largest fast-food chains in the world, with over 7,500 locations across the globe.

Menu Offerings

Both Del Taco and Taco Bell offer a wide range of Mexican-inspired menu items, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos. However, there are some key differences in their menu offerings.

Del Taco is known for its Buck and Under menu, which features a variety of items for just $1 or less. This includes tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious customers. Del Taco also offers a range of combo meals, including the popular Macho Combo, which features a burrito, taco, and drink.

Taco Bell, on the other hand, is famous for its Doritos Locos Tacos (DLT) and the Crunchwrap Supreme. The DLT features a taco shell made from Doritos chips, while the Crunchwrap Supreme is a tortilla wrapped around a beef or chicken filling, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream. Taco Bell also offers a range of burritos, quesadillas, and nachos, as well as a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

Pricing

When it comes to pricing, Del Taco is generally the more affordable option. The chain's Buck and Under menu is a major draw for customers on a budget, with most items priced at just $1 or less. Combo meals at Del Taco typically range from $5 to $7, making it an attractive option for those looking for a filling meal at a low price.

Taco Bell, on the other hand, tends to be slightly pricier. The chain's individual menu items typically range from $2 to $5, while combo meals can cost anywhere from $6 to $10. However, Taco Bell often offers promotions and discounts, making it possible to score a deal.

Nutritional Content

When it comes to nutritional content, both Del Taco and Taco Bell have their strengths and weaknesses. Del Taco's menu items tend to be higher in calories, fat, and sodium, but the chain also offers a range of lower-calorie options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.

Taco Bell, on the other hand, has made a concerted effort to offer healthier options in recent years. The chain's menu features a range of lower-calorie and lower-fat options, including the popular Fresco line, which features menu items with fewer than 350 calories and 10 grams of fat.

Here's a comparison of the nutritional content of some popular menu items at Del Taco and Taco Bell:

• Del Taco's Macho Combo: 740 calories, 34g fat, 1340mg sodium
• Taco Bell's Crunchwrap Supreme: 530 calories, 26g fat, 1040mg sodium
• Del Taco's Chicken Soft Taco: 350 calories, 19g fat, 620mg sodium
• Taco Bell's Chicken Soft Taco: 170 calories, 9g fat, 350mg sodium

Conclusion

So, which is supreme? Ultimately, the decision between Del Taco and Taco Bell comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a wide range of menu items, Del Taco may be the way to go. However, if you're looking for a chain with a more extensive range of healthier options and a wider range of promotions, Taco Bell may be the better choice.

Regardless of which chain you prefer, one thing is certain: both Del Taco and Taco Bell offer delicious and convenient Mexican-inspired food at affordable prices.