Jack in the Box Revives the Hot Mess Burger for 75th Anniversary

Jack in the Box is relaunching its iconic Hot Mess Burger as part of its 75th anniversary celebrations, starting February 16 at participating locations nationwide and through the Jack in the Box app. Originally introduced in 2013, the burger quickly became a fan favorite, leading to its return after years of requests from customers. The Hot Mess Burger features a seasoned 100% beef jumbo patty topped with white cheese sauce, shredded pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, and crispy onion rings, all served on toasted sourdough bread. Alongside the Hot Mess Burger, the chain will also offer a Hot Mess Double Cheeseburger and a Hot Mess Munchie Meal, which includes the burger, two tacos, curly fries, a drink, and a limited-edition collectible.

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The Hot Mess Burger will be available until April 5, 2026, although the exact duration has not been officially confirmed by the company. As part of the promotional campaign, Jack in the Box is also reviving its collectible antenna balls, featuring the brand's mascot, Jack Box, in a nostalgic nod to its past advertising campaigns. The company plans to recreate an advertisement featuring Jack as the lead singer of the fictional 80s rock band, Meat Riot, to accompany the burger's return.

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In addition to the menu changes, Jack in the Box is launching a Hot Mess Anniversary Tour, which kicks off in San Diego on February 13 and includes a limited-time installation by the LA-based streetwear brand The Hundreds in Los Angeles. The tour will conclude on February 21 in Austin, Texas, coinciding with the brand's official anniversary.

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The return of the Hot Mess Burger has generated significant excitement among fans, with many expressing their eagerness to try the burger again after its long absence. Social media platforms, particularly Reddit, have seen threads dedicated to the burger's comeback, with users reminiscing about their previous experiences and expressing their anticipation for its return.

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Lance Tucker, Chief Executive Officer of Jack in the Box, stated, “As we celebrate Jack's 75th anniversary and bring back some of our customer fan favorites for a limited time, we will be ramping up our innovation and quality improvements that position us to exit 2026 in a much stronger place than we entered.”

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• “I can’t believe they brought it back. Definitely need to get it again.” — Reddit User

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• “I love this 75th anniversary.” — Reddit User

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The revival of the Hot Mess Burger and associated promotional activities reflect a broader trend in the fast-food industry, where nostalgia plays a significant role in attracting customers. As Jack in the Box celebrates its milestone anniversary, it aims to leverage this nostalgia while enhancing its menu offerings.

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