Yum Brands Inc. is testing if Chinese consumers are up for some quesadillas and tacos, as it plans to open the first Taco Bell in China this year, the company announced on Tuesday during an investor meeting.

Known for its Mexican theme and taste, the American fast food chain is reportedly adjusting its menu to suit the palates of the locals. And this also includes adjusting the temperature of the food when served.

Like Us on Facebook

"Having food that's incredibly warm is very important in Chinese culture," Shivram Vaideeswaran, Taco Bell's global marketing and innovation director, told Bloomberg. "It's warm, it's melty, and it's really good."

He further noted that a tepid taco might be okay for Americans but would never fly in China.

However, even though nacho cheese is never seen as part of the Chinese culture, the Tex-Mex favorite was seen as more palatable to locals, as the approach was honed through a focus group in China, Vaideeswaran said.

Taco Bell is set to open its first location in Shanghai late in December, making it an early test of the company's plan to separate its Chinese operations, Vaideeswaran said. However, the opening could slip until next year, he noted.

Although increasing its presence globally is something new for Taco Bell, the Mexican-themed chain is committed to expand quickly.

Currently, Taco Bell has 300 restaurants outside the United States in 22 countries. But over the next six years, the chain is expected to establish its presence in 40 countries with more than 1,000 restaurants.

Earlier this week, Yum executives said the chain can attain a $15 billion systemwide sales by 2022, up from the current $9 billion plus.

TagsTaco Bell, Yum! Brands, Taco Bell China, food industry, China food industry, fast-food chain