Taco Bell Takes More AI Orders -- WSJ

By Heather Haddon

Taco Bell is letting more AI agents take its drive-through orders. Chain parent Yum Brands said Tuesday that the technology in 900 Taco Bell restaurants is leading to bigger checks, improved customer satisfaction and better employee retention. It plans to fire up AI ordering in more than 1,500 Taco Bells by year-end.

Restaurants have been divided over AI order taking, with some operators concerned customers may recoil at talking to a bot. Others, including McDonald's, are further testing it.

Taco Bell's third-quarter U.S. same-store sales declined 4%, a rare slip as the chain dealt with the Cyclospora outbreak tied to one of its suppliers. Executives said the company's recovery has since accelerated.

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(END) Dow Jones Newswires

November 03, 2026 11:09 ET (16:09 GMT)