Indulge in Nostalgia: A Flavorful Review of Salt & Straw’s Tacolate Collaboration with Taco Bell

Have you been feeling the loss of the Choco Taco since Klondike pulled it from shelves? If you’re craving something similar, there’s good news! Salt & Straw has teamed up with Taco Bell to create a new treat called the “Tacolate.”

This isn’t Salt & Straw’s first attempt at an ice cream taco. Back in 2016, they played with the idea at their Wiz Bang Bar. In 2022, they launched the “Tacolates,” which were a hit and sold out fast. This new Tacolate features cinnamon ancho chili ice cream, along with some exciting toppings and sauces.

On launch day, I visited my local Salt & Straw in Portland, Oregon. I was eager to see if this modern twist on a nostalgic favorite would hit the mark.

Pricing and Availability

You can find Tacolates at participating Salt & Straw locations, or you can order a pack online for $65 (plus shipping). In-store, each Tacolate costs about $6.95. Each treat has around 420 calories and includes allergens like milk, wheat, soy, and tree nuts. Interestingly, it also comes with sachets of Mango Jalapeño Sauce and Wildberry Cinnamon Sauce—a unique addition that adds layers of flavor.

Taste Test

As I took my first bite, I felt mixed emotions. At nearly $7, I thought the Tacolate was on the smaller side, but food prices have been rising lately, so it didn’t come as a huge shock. The flavors took some time to process; there’s a lot happening all at once.

The ancho chili ice cream surprised me. I didn’t notice it until my second bite, but once I did, it was delightful. However, the chocolate topping and sauces overwhelmed the flavor a bit, especially since I used them generously. I hoped the ice cream would be thicker, but the sauces’ contrast was cleverly executed. The Wildberry Cinnamon and Mango Jalapeño worked well together, creating a spicy-sweet blend that lingered after each bite.

The waffle cone shell held up perfectly without becoming soggy, making the whole experience enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

If you have a Salt & Straw nearby, I recommend trying the Tacolate quickly. On the day I visited, a line formed outside before the doors even opened, and customers were eager to grab multiple boxes. While I wouldn’t spend nearly $70 on shipping just for these treats, they are definitely worth trying at least once.

With just a bit more ice cream, the Tacolate could have been exceptional. As it is, it’s a solid option for anyone nostalgic for the Choco Taco. It stands out as a creative addition to the ice cream taco craze.

Broader Context

Interestingly, the ice cream taco trend reflects a larger movement in food, where companies are reinventing classics to draw in both new and nostalgic customers. In 2022, food innovation surged, with 67% of consumers rating unique flavor combinations as highly appealing, according to a Mintel study. This marriage of familiar and innovative flavors may be the future of desserts!

If you’re curious about what’s cooking in the culinary world, check out trusted sources like the FDA or Mintel for more insights.

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Taco Bell, Salt & Straw, ice cream, Choco Taco, ancho chili