Chipotle suffered another series of setback this summer thanks to more reports of food sickness and a norovirus that affected over 100 people, as well as rats literally falling from the ceiling at one location. Now, it appears as if Taco Bell is coming for their customer base, if these new menu items the fast food chain is testing are any indication.
For a very limited time at a single franchise location in Southern California, the ‘Bell is trying out the “Forbidden Bowl and Burrito,” featuring “Forbidden” black rice, choice of protein and fresh veggies, crispy avocados, and an all new, “ultra-flavorful Forbidden sauce.” It’s unclear what the Forbidden sauce consists of, but right off the bat I’ll admit that it looks a bit neon orange for my liking. The crispy (read: fried) avocados also seem like overkill, but fresh, custom ingredients are definitely a step in the right direction if Taco Bell wants to chase down health-conscious consumers.
Here’s a look at the bowl option, which can ostensibly be made vegetarian for non-carnivores:
Both the Forbidden Bowl and Burrito will currently set you back $3.49 or $3.99, depending on choice of protein (or in a $5.00 Box including a Doritos Locos Taco, a Crunchy Taco and a medium drink) at the 2222 Barranca Parkway Taco Bell in Irvine from September 14 to 21 — and possibly to a Taco Bell near you in the not so distant future!
