Newly renovated KFC and Taco Bell opens for dine-in

The new facade of KFC/Taco Bell in Chalan Kanoa. (DONNA RIVERA)

After several months of repair work and extensive renovations, both KFC and Taco Bell have reopened on Saipan, this time with an expansive dining area that is more than adequate to comply with current social distancing rules.

The two iconic fast food chains on Saipan officially opened their doors for dine-in customers in Chalan Kanoa last week, ensuring customers a clean and safe environment amid the pandemic and providing customers a much enjoyable dining experience every time.

The renovated restaurant is divided into two areas. First, the queuing area where the counter is located and orders are taken. The area is spacious, complimented by bright KFC/Taco Bell colors and complete with floor markings or arrows to guide customers where to go and encourage social distancing. The queuing area aims to give customers a convenient space and organized system to place their orders.

Second, both the queuing and dining area can accommodate close to 200 customers but currently implementing 50% capacity—a maximum of 68 people for the whole restaurant and—due to the social distancing protocol—a seating capacity is 40.

The pandemic has been a challenge for many businesses and KFC/Taco Bell lives up to the challenge, going with the mantra “Responding to COVID-19 together.”

The new dining area of KFC/Taco Bell has reserved seating for 40. (BEA CABRERA)

Store manager Yole Aldan said that they adhere to the health and safety protocols set by Yum! (the worldwide operator of KFC/Taco Bell), and guidelines set by the CNMI government, the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp., and CNMI COVID-19 Task Force.

KFC/Taco Bell assures a spotless restaurant where all surfaces like counters, door handles, chairs, tables and restaurants are sanitized every 30 minutes. Safety mode is always on as they require customers to wear masks and, for employees, a mask and a face shield.

Hand sanitizers are available inside, temperature checks for both employees and customers are done every day and expect the food in take-away boxes and not in trays when dining in to minimize risk of contact and spread of virus.

As part of welcoming its customers back, KFC has an ongoing promo called “Fourth meal on us!” Buy any three of the KFC boxed meals and get a special chicken meal for free. Box 1 includes 3 pc. chicken, 2 small sides and medium drink for only $10.29. Box 2 includes 2 pc. chicken, 2 small sides and medium drink for only $8.09. Box 3 includes 3 pc. strips, 2 small sides and medium drink for only $8.19 and the fourth and free meal includes 1 pc. chicken, 2 small sides and medium drink. Promo starts today, July 24, and will run up to July 31.

Another promo called “KFC-Niners” gives customers a special treat if their receipt numbers end with No. 9. It’s a KFC with a rice bowl on July 24, an XXL Twister on July 25, and a Double Crunch on July 26.

KFC will also launch its “Chomp Hour Deal” from July 31 to Aug. 7. For every $25 single receipt purchase, get a free KFC gift voucher worth $5. Chomp hours run everyday from 11am to 2pm and 6pm to 8pm.

Store manager Yole Aldan, center, with the staff and crew of KFC/Taco Bell Saipan located in Chalan Kanoa. (BEA CABRERA)

Promos never end as KFC has a “Snack Attack” that changes menu every week. For this week, from 3pm to 5pm, enjoy options of 1 pc. chicken with 2 sides, a small popcorn chicken with 1 side and famous bowl with masked potato rice bowl with small side for only $4.49 each.

KFC Contactless Delivery is available for a a minimum purchase of $20 plus $5 delivery charge every day from 10am to 7pm. Call (670) 234-6523 or (670) 989-6110.

Jones & Guerrero, is the local franchisee of KFC and Taco Bell on Saipan and they are always committed to giving the community the best meals and deals. “We are excited to welcome you back. Have you KFC way: dine-in, take-out or delivery,” said Ramona Jones, Jones & Guerrero/KFC and Taco Bell CEO.