U.S. quick service chain Del Taco has launched an 18-month turnaround strategy aimed at improving menu quality, rebuilding customer trust and reigniting growth across its restaurant network.
The initiative, called Project Sunrise, comes just months after restaurant operator Yadav Enterprises completed its acquisition of the Mexican American fast-food brand from Jack in the Box. The chain operates and franchises more than 550 restaurants across the United States.
The roadmap focuses on strengthening core menu items, accelerating product innovation to drive trial, expanding catering and improving the brand’s loyalty ecosystem. The company has been under pressure after several quarters of declining same store sales and a shrinking store footprint in recent years.
As part of the plan, Del Taco is returning to the preparation methods and names of several of its classic burritos. The revived Classic Burrito platform includes the Del Combo Burrito, Del Classic Chicken Burrito, Del Beef Burrito and the 8 Layer Veggie Burrito, each weighing more than half a pound. The company is also bringing back its spicy “Jack’d Up” menu line, including items such as Spicy Jack Quesadilla and Jack’d Up Bean, Rice & Cheese Burrito.
“We’re taking action based on the feedback of our guests and implementing product and ingredient improvements for core items while expanding into new territories with innovation,” said Chief Marketing Officer Noah Chillingworth.
To support the transformation, Del Taco has strengthened its leadership team in recent months, appointing Ulyses Camacho as chief transformation officer and bringing back Ellen Sasada as vice president of supply chain, food safety and quality assurance.
The turnaround effort comes at a time when the brand has faced operational challenges across parts of its franchise system. The chain’s footprint has declined from about 594 restaurants in 2024 to roughly 558 locations across 18 U.S. states, following a series of franchisee bankruptcies and closures.
In early 2026, all 11 Del Taco locations in Georgia shut down after franchisee Matadoor Restaurant Group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Similar disruptions previously led to the closure of multiple locations in Colorado as well.
The brand’s ownership has also changed hands recently. Jack in the Box sold Del Taco to Yadav Enterprises in a deal valued at around $115 million as part of a broader restructuring designed to reduce debt and refocus on its core business.
Despite recent closures, Del Taco said it intends to maintain unit growth momentum, using menu innovation, operational improvements and stronger franchise support as part of its broader recovery strategy.
