Taco Bell’s experiment highlights how restaurants are still figuring out where AI works best|Kake|CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Taco Bell is learning that AI has limits—especially when it comes to tacos.

Since last year, the chain has tested voice AI ordering at over 500 drive-through locations. While the system has handled over two million orders, customer reactions remain mixed. Some complain about glitches and delays, while others troll it with pranks like asking for “18,000 cups of water.

Chief Digital and Technology Officer Dane Mathews admitted that he, too, has had inconsistent experiences. He said AI won’t replace humans at every location, noting that busy drive-throughs may still need people to keep things moving smoothly.

Taco Bell’s experiment highlights how restaurants are still figuring out where the tech works best.

Rival chains, such as McDonald’s and Wendy’s, are testing similar systems with mixed outcomes, indicating that voice AI in fast food remains a work in progress.