Duane Beckett
Chipotle is testing a new afternoon taco deal called Power Up at Chipotle. It gives customers a single taco for $2.50. The catch? It’s only in select markets and for a limited time.
The deal is open to either a soft or crispy taco with any protein, including the returning Chipotle Honey Chicken. It runs Monday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. local time through June 2, but only at participating locations in Kansas City, Orlando, and Tampa.
Delish reported that the test is Chipotle’s version of a happy hour, only with tacos instead of drinks. The outlet stated that the deal is not available through the app, website, or third-party delivery, so customers have to go inside the restaurant to get it.
People reported that premium extras will cost more. That includes guacamole, Queso Blanco, extra protein, and other add-ons. So, the $2.50 price is real, but it’s for the basic taco build, not a loaded-up version with everything piled on.
Why Chipotle is testing it now
According to Chipotle’s announcement, 90% of consumers eat outside traditional mealtimes, and 52% say 2 to 5 p.m. is their peak snack window. This helps explain why the company is aiming the deal at students, workers, and anyone looking for a smaller bite before dinner.
Also in the announcement, the company says it plans to “listen, test and learn” from customer feedback before deciding whether Power Up gets a wider launch. In other words, Kansas City, Orlando, and Tampa are the test audience for now.
How to order
To get the deal, visit a participating Chipotle location in one of the test markets between 2 and 5 p.m. on a weekday. Order in the restaurant. Choose a soft or crispy taco. Pick your protein. Keep in mind that guacamole, queso, extra protein, and other premium add-ons cost extra.
Chipotle’s Power Up page adds that the purchase is eligible for Chipotle Rewards points, but it can’t be combined with other coupons, promotions, or special offers.
As for the idea of a fast-food happy hour, the timing makes sense. That 2 to 5 p.m. stretch can be rough, especially when lunch is gone, dinner is still hours away, and you’re trying not to grab something that wrecks the rest of your day.