Qdoba Versus Chipotle

Line Up the High-End Burritos, Side by Side

One of the newer trends in dining out is “high-end” fast food: quickly prepared meals that (usually) cost a little more and taste a bit better. High-end fast food is usually served in more attractive surroundings with better presentation and a presumption of freshness. Occupying the space between traditional fast food giants and full-service restaurants, these high-end fast food establishments are creating all kinds of new rivalries. Now that the McDonalds versus Burger King dialogue is old hat, the new argument is: Qdoba versus Chipotle. Which of these growing high-end fast food chains provides a better burrito experience?

Background

The undisputed champion of fast food Mexican is undoubtedly Taco Bell. While we Americans run for the border regularly, we recognize that Taco Bell’s beef is a bit scary, their cheese is questionable, and their food is meant to be dirt cheap. Just look at how much food you can amass for under $5. By improving the quality and atmosphere of a Taco Bell, along with shortening the menu and increasing the price, we end up with the more palatable Qdobas and Chipotles of the world. While neither Qdoba nor Chipotle is anything like the authentic Tacqueria you may find anchored in a Latino neighborhood, these Americanized burrito centers are far less questionable than Taco Bell and more popular with the business crowd.

With Chipotle owned by McDonalds and Qdoba owned by Jack In the Box, both establishments have the backing of successful corporations that have already made millions flipping burgers. Qdoba and Chipotle offer relatively short menus, with their burritos taking center stage. You can watch your burrito being assembled in roughly the same order at both places: tortilla, rice, beans, meat, salsa, sour cream, and cheese. Following this Subway-style assembly line, you end up with a neatly wrapped burrito at both places. So what are the differences, burrito-related and otherwise?