Chipotle Used to Be My #1 Burrito Spot, but These 8 Alternatives Are Superior

Chipotle used to be my #1 burrito spot, but these 8 alternatives are superior. Whether you love authentic Mexican cuisine or prefer a Tex-Mex style, there’s an option on this list to satisfy any burrito fan’s taste buds. The restaurants on this list are excellent alternatives to Chipotle.

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Moe’s Southwest Grill has over 681 locations throughout the United States. What’s more, this growth has happened in the last 24 years, which shows just how popular this restaurant is. One reason for the immense popularity is the ability to order a take-home kit, allowing you to create your own version of Moe’s Southwest Grill. When it comes to alternatives to Chipotle, Moe’s is right at the top of the list.

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Another reason that Moe’s Southwest Grill is so popular is its casual environment, which is similar to Chipotle. However, it has surpassed Chipotle in popularity. The name MOE was an acronym for “Musicians, Outlaws, and Entertainers.” What’s even more fun is the fact that many items on the menu reference pop culture, like Art Vandelay which references “Seinfeld,” and Alright Alright Alright, which references “Dazed and Confused.”

Rubio’s Coastal Grill

Rubio’s Coastal Grill has been around since 1983 and now has around 85 locations in America. Originally, this restaurant began in California. With the name, it should come as no surprise that the main focus is on fish tacos and seafood.

Rubio’s Coastal Grill

Although recently the restaurant has closed several of its locations, its food is still considered top-tier. Its popularity is tied to sustainable sources of seafood and healthy item choices.

Taco Bell

Sometimes when one hears the word Mexican food, Taco Bell is the first restaurant that pops into mind. That is because, since its start in 1962, Taco Bell has grown to over 7,000 restaurants. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t put too much of a dent into a person’s wallet. Taco Bell is often one of the go-to alternatives to Chipotle.

Taco Bell

Although Taco Bell is popular, some may argue that the quality of food has diminished throughout the years. But Taco Bell remains one of Chipotle’s top competitors. Many customers remain loyal due to the value of meals, PesiCo collaboration, and the array of choices on the menu.

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill has locations in America, Dubai, and Singapore. As the name suggests, this restaurant prides itself on having “A Fresh Take” to its meals. This means they will always provide fresh ingredients that are of high quality.

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill states that they “believe in real Mexican food by real people, for real people.” This philosophy puts their menu items on the top-quality tier. With a wide variety of options to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

Qdoba Mexican Eats

Although Qdoba Mexican Eats has changed its name twice, it still promotes its original purpose. Serving authentic Mexican food to customers.

Qdoba Mexican Eats

Qdoba Mexican Eats is pricier than say Taco Bell, but customers love the quality of their choices. This in itself makes the price worth it for many.

Freebirds

It should come as no surprise that Freebirds was first founded in California (The name alone is clue enough.) However, the restaurant headquarters eventually settled in Texas, and with it came the Texan influence on ingredients.

Freebirds

Freebirds is popular for several reasons, these include the quality of the food but also their loyalty to their customers. This loyalty means they offer their customers perks like “Kids Eat Free Sundays” and a loyalty program.

Del Taco

Del Taco, although less popular than Taco Bell, is a fast-food chain that has grown to around 595 locations. One of the reasons Del Taco is popular with customers is their decision to offer vegan and vegetarian options.

Del Taco

Additionally, Del Taco has a 20 under $2 value menu option. This allows customers to choose their favorites for a quick and low price. Another perk, if your child doesn’t love tacos as much as you, they offer items like fries and burgers. Win-win for parents of picky eaters.

Taco Bueno

Taco Bueno was founded in Abilene, Texas, in 1967. Its popularity is maintained somewhat in the southern states. Taco Bueno promotes freshness and quality ingredients.

Taco Bueno

Furthermore, Taco Bueno focuses on Tex-Mex-type options. This means that instead of staying authentic to Mexican-style cuisine, it blends American Texan flavors and ingredients together with Mexican cuisine. (Much like Taco Bell is an Americanized style of Mexican cuisine.) Therefore, if you love the combination of the two styles, Taco Bueno is worth the trip.

In Conclusion

While Chipotle is a casual and delicious restaurant, there are so many other choices that are superior. If you are in the mood to expand your taste buds and explore different flavors and styles of Mexican cuisine, any restaurant on this list should make it to the top of your must-try list.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©z0 / Flickr.