For as long as Chipotle has existed, patrons of the fast-casual chain have attempted to “hack” its menu. The popularity of unusual burrito orders has only increased since the advent of TikTok, where viral Chipotle hacks have received billions of views.
The chain is now acceding to consumer trends by adding a TikTok-approved hack to its official menu. Customers can now order a “Fajita Quesadilla Hack” with their choice of meat. The dish can also be turned into a “Keithadilla” by adding chipotle-honey vinaigrette and sour cream on the side.
The Fajita Quesadilla hack was popularized by Alexis Frost, who gave high marks to the improvised menu item after sharing it on TikTok last December. Another short-form foodie, Keith Lee, improved upon Frost’s original idea by adding his favorite pairing of Chipotle condiments — and thus, the Keithadilla was born.
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@keith_lee125 #stitch with @alexis.frost “Philly cheesesteak” from Chipotle taste test 💕 Chipotle Sauce hack 👉🏾 @hasaneats 💕 would you try it ? #foodcritic ♬ original sound – Keith Lee
For now, the new menu items will only be available through web and in-app orders. In a press release, Chipotle explained that it is promoting the hacks into official menu items in order to reduce strain on its operations. After the Fajita Quesadilla went viral on TikTok, Chipotle had to update technology at 3,200 restaurant locations and conduct training for more than 100,000 employees in order to meet the sudden demand for an off-menu item.
The impetus behind Chipotle’s decision is not only logistical. The chain is also joining Denny’s on the list of restaurant chains that have released dishes inspired by particular influencers. That menu design has been crucial for creator-led startups like MrBeast Burger as they achieve millions of sales via ghost kitchens, virtual dining concepts, and brick-and-mortar locations.
Chipotle is no stranger to creator collaborations, and the burrito chain has done a good job of staying up-to-date on tech industry trends. Big names from the esports world have competed in the Chipotle-sponsored Challenger Series, and the chain embraced the metaverse by opening a virtual restaurant within Roblox in 2021.
The latest link between Chipotle and TikTok is already drawing reviews from renowned internet food critics. The progenitor of the Fajita Quesadilla Hack has also given her blessing to Chipotle’s new concoction, which she rated a perfect 10 out of 10. “The Fajita Quesadilla has been one of my favorite reviews I’ve done on TikTok,” Frost said. “Collabing with Chipotle and Keith for this launch is a dream, and I’m so excited to play a part in making the Fajita Quesadilla an official menu item.”
