San Diego, February 11, 2026
In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Jack in the Box is bringing back the Hot Mess Burger, a fan favorite that was last available in 2013. Set to launch on February 16, 2026, the burger features a seasoned beef patty topped with cheese sauces, jalapeños, and onion rings, served on toasted sourdough. Alongside the burger, customers can enjoy the Hot Mess Munchie Meal and a special pop-up event in Los Angeles, marking a nostalgic return for the brand’s fans and a variety of promotional offers throughout the year.
San Diego, California – As Jack in the Box commemorates its 75th anniversary, the fast-food giant is reviving the beloved Hot Mess Burger, a menu item that last appeared in 2013. From February 16, 2026, the Hot Mess Burger will be available for a limited time at participating locations nationwide and through the Jack in the Box app, catering to fans eager for a taste of nostalgia.
At the heart of the Hot Mess Burger is a seasoned beef jumbo patty, adorned with white cheese sauce, shredded pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, and crispy onion rings, all nestled inside toasted sourdough bread. For those looking for a more substantial option, the Hot Mess Double Cheeseburger will also be offered, featuring two jumbo patties.
In celebration of this iconic offering’s return, Jack in the Box is rolling out a variety of promotions, including the Hot Mess Munchie Meal. This meal combines the revived burger with two classic tacos, curly fries, a beverage, and a limited-edition Meat Riot Antenna Ball, all available while supplies last. To further mark the occasion, a one-day pop-up event will take place in Los Angeles on February 14, 2026, where attendees can enjoy the Hot Mess Burger and purchase exclusive merchandise.
Originally introduced in 2013 amidst a vibrant marketing campaign, the Hot Mess Burger was highlighted by a fictional 80s rock band called Meat Riot, led by the character Jack Box. This strategy, tapping into the growing trend of 80s nostalgia, included music videos and themed media channels that resonated with various consumer demographics.
The revival of the Hot Mess Burger aligns seamlessly with the company’s year-long 75th anniversary celebration, which also promises the return of other classic menu items and collectible items aimed at engaging the customer base. Moreover, Jack in the Box aims to sustain this momentum of nostalgia throughout the year, fostering connections with both long-time customers and newer fans.
Founded in 1951 and headquartered right here in San Diego, Jack in the Box operates roughly 2,135 restaurants across 21 states. The brand has built a reputation for innovative menu offerings and a commitment to customer satisfaction, continuously adapting to consumer preferences to enhance their dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the Hot Mess Burger be available?
The Hot Mess Burger will be available starting February 16, 2026, at participating Jack in the Box locations nationwide and through the Jack in the Box app. It will be offered for a limited time.
What is included in the Hot Mess Munchie Meal?
The Hot Mess Munchie Meal includes the Hot Mess Burger, two classic tacos, curly fries, a drink, and an exclusive Meat Riot Antenna Ball, available while supplies last.
Where is the one-day pop-up event taking place?
The one-day pop-up event will be held in Los Angeles on February 14, 2026, where fans can enjoy the Hot Mess Burger and limited-edition merchandise.
What is the history of the Hot Mess Burger?
The Hot Mess Burger was originally introduced in 2013, featuring Jack Box as the frontman of the fictional 80s rock band Meat Riot.
What other promotions are part of the 75th anniversary celebration?
The 75th anniversary celebration includes the return of other classic menu items and exclusive collectibles. The company plans to continue engaging customers with nostalgic offerings throughout the year.
Key Features of the Hot Mess Burger Return
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Availability | Starting February 16, 2026, at participating locations nationwide and through the Jack in the Box app, for a limited time. |
| Ingredients | Seasoned beef jumbo patty, white cheese sauce, shredded pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, crispy onion rings, toasted sourdough bread. |
| Promotions | Hot Mess Munchie Meal includes the burger, two classic tacos, curly fries, a drink, and an exclusive Meat Riot Antenna Ball. One-day pop-up event in Los Angeles on February 14, 2026. |
| Historical Context | Originally introduced in 2013, featuring Jack Box as the frontman of the fictional 80s rock band Meat Riot. |
| Anniversary Celebration | Part of Jack in the Box’s year-long 75th anniversary celebration, including the return of other classic menu items and exclusive collectibles. |
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