Del Taco, an iconic brand that changed hands last October and has experienced some store closings due to franchisee problems, is attempting a turn-around with a new framework called Project Sunrise. Among the changes is a return to its open-end burrito fold, prompted by negative guest feedback.
Project Sunrise is an 18-month roadmap to inspire innovation and improve guest engagement, according to a press release from Yadev Enterprises, which acquired the chain last fall. The initiative prioritizes consistency and quality in its menu, introduces innovation, and aims to improve incremental growth through stronger check-building platforms, catering expansion and a more impactful loyalty strategy.
“Project Sunrise is about getting back to what makes Del Taco special and positioning the brand for future growth with a roadmap that gives us the focus and accountability to deliver to guests a new brand promise, while strengthening our foundation and creating meaningful momentum for a successful and sustainable future,” said Anil Yadav, CEO of Yadav Enterprises.
The press release stated that addressing negative guest feedback on changes made to products and ingredients over the past two years is one priority under Project Sunrise. As a result, Del Taco is returning its Classic Burrito line to both the original preparation methods with the signature Del Taco open-end burrito fold as well as to the original product names. As a result of these changes, guests will see the return of:
- Del Combo™ Burrito (formerly Combo Beef & Bean)
- Del Classic Chicken Burrito (formerly Grilled Chicken)
- Del Beef™ Burrito (formerly Beef & Cheddar)
- 8 Layer Veggie Burrito
“Project Sunrise gives us the structure to move simultaneously with urgency and discipline,” said Noah Chillingworth, chief marketing officer of Del Taco. “We’re taking action based on the feedback of our guests and implementing product and ingredient improvements for core items, better leveraging our five dayparts and expanding into new territories with innovation.”
Del Taco plans continued unit growth with an expected seven new locations in 2026 including two units in South Carolina. Additional future expansion to new states includes already announced deals to open 10 locations in Indiana and five locations in Kentucky. The brand also is actively exploring the reopening of recently closed restaurants in Georgia.