Every time Taco Bell introduces a new menu item I am the first to try it. I love the chain’s Grilled Cheese Burrito, and also tried its twist on the chicken sandwich.
Taco Bell is a part of my life. I’ve even been known to spend $60 on midnight delivery. Excessive? Probably. Crunchwrap Supremes with a Party Pack are the perfect way to end a night out.
When I discovered that my childhood home was just an hour from the best Taco Bell in the World, I knew I had got to go.
This Taco Bell is located right at Pacifica State Beach and is known for its beautiful outdoor patio. In 2019, it was transformed into a Cantina restaurant with new features such as a fireplace, and parking for surfboards.
The Pacifica Taco Bell TikTok made it viral last yearWhen a fan offered her followers a tour, she did. One couple paid $4,000 to hold their wedding reception there.
My family and I decided to trek to Pacifica the day before Thanksgiving. It was time for me to find out if it was possible. “world’s most beautiful Taco Bell”It lived up to its name.
It was a sunny day in Pacifica. This is a small community that lies just a few minutes from San Francisco, and shares its fogginess.
On Thanksgiving eve, the sky was brilliant blue and the surfboards were in full force at the restaurant. As soon as I got out the car, I could see the surfers in full force. I was also greeted by the salt-tinged smell and the sound of breaking waves. Ah, paradise.
Taco Bell’s backyard was full of fellow Bay Area residents enjoying the sunshine and watching the surfers conquer the ocean. The view from the cliff was stunning and reminded me of Malibu.
For a split second, I forgot that I was in a fast-food place.
Taco Bell Pacifica is characterized by a crisp white background and a beautiful turquoise color, which is used as the main counter.
Despite being on holiday, the location was packed for Wednesday lunch.
I had the Mountain Dew Baja Blast with Cantina Margarita and Sangria. The Baja Blast and Margarita can be ordered with vodka or tequila. You can also specify whether you want the top-shelf or regular liquor.
And, in true ”Live Más”spirit, You can add more shots to your drink or use a large, Fat Tuesday-style reusable mug (more details in a bit).
The sangria was my favorite. It tasted a bit like frosé, with just a hint of sweetness. It was also my favorite drink, as I could actually taste the alcohol.
Baja Blast was another favorite, which I ordered with vodka. Although I didn’t know it was Mountain Dew-based, the drink was very refreshing and had a good balance of sweet and tart.
The Cantina Margarita I ordered with Tequila had a bright green color, but it tasted artificial to me. It was the type of drink I would have enjoyed as a 20 year-old while partying in Cabo on Squid Roe during Spring Break.
I haven’t been super impressed with the chain’s new tacos in the past — I always go for the burritos or a Crunchwrap — so I was shocked by how much I loved the Cantina Crispy Melt. The seasoned beef had tons of flavor, the veggies didn’t taste stale, and the taco was super juicy — even without any Taco Bell hot sauce. Each bite was a delight thanks to the crispy white-corn shell.
This taco was a hit with my sister and parents. They each ordered another.
Double Steak is just like the Grilled Cheese Burrito. It’s full of delicious goodness. The cheese isn’t too dominant in the burrito. The seasoned rice is delicious. You get a good amount of steak so that you can enjoy every bite. The chipotle sauce gives it a nice kick.
My dad tried the steak and the original burritos during lunch in Pacifica. He preferred the new burrito.
“The meat shines more in the steak one than the beef one,”He told me. “It reminds me of a Philly Cheesesteak — but in a burrito.”
The spicy Double Steak Grilled Cheese Burrito has actual jalapeños grilled into it, providing even more heat and crunch to each bite.
It’s a nice touch and adds more flavor and texture. Both versions would be great, even if it was after midnight.
My sister actually had Taco Bell for the first time (I know, how can we be related?). It was a great experience for her.
“This view makes it feel less like fast food,”She spoke. “How will I ever be able to eat at another Taco Bell again?”
“Everything tastes better with this view,”My mom also agreed.
I didn’t know this was a mega-drink existed until I saw someone sipping it on the outside patio. I was determined to try it.
Because I thought it was the most appropriate flavor for a big plastic container, I ordered the Cantina Margarita. It came with premium Tequila ($21).
After a few more sips, it was clear that I wished I had ordered the sangria. I felt stronger from the artificial taste of my margarita. It wasn’t for my taste, despite the Vegas vibes. However, I will definitely use the cup again.
My family enjoyed their experience at Taco Bell Pacifica. We loved everything about it, from watching the surfers and listening for the waves to enjoying delicious burritos while taking in the ocean breeze. We’ll definitely be back when I return to the Bay Area for Christmas — but next time, I’m definitely getting the big sangria instead.
I was also impressed by how much fun it is to visit unique fast-food restaurants. Taco Bell sells a dozen different varieties.
Stay tuned…