Food & Beverage

Australian QSR Zambrero launches country's 1st air-fried hot chips

Photo: Zambrero

August 19, 2026

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Zambrero has become the first major fast-food chain in Australia to serve air-fried hot chips, according to a press release.

The nation's largest Mexican food franchise rolled out the menu item nationwide in early August following a small-scale trial last year. The chips are air-fried rather than deep-fried, seasoned with Zambrero's signature zesty chicken salt, and are available in regular and big sizes at select restaurants starting at $4.

"We didn't want to just join the chip game — we wanted to change it. Australians are some of the world's toughest chip critics, so an 'us-too' chip was never going to cut it," Daryl McCormick, Zambrero CEO, said. "Ours are an Australian fast-food first — air-fried, never deep-fried — so you get all the golden crunch with less of the oil. We think we've nailed our hot chips and it's great to see from the early reactions that Aussies feel the same too."

The chips are available on their own or inside the chain's new Cali Burrito, a twist on the California classic that swaps traditional rice for chips and guacamole.

According to the company, social media reactions to first-taste experiences garnered thousands of views prior to the official announcement.

Founded in 2005 by Dr. Sam Prince, Zambrero ties its sales to a Plate 4 Plate initiative, which provides a meal to someone in need for every regular or big burrito, bowl, Zam Box or retail item sold. The company has donated more than 100 million meals globally to date.