According to a 2019 survey from YouGov, Mexican food ranked as the
second most popular food in the country, falling just behind Italian cuisine.
Because Mexican food has surged in popularity in the United States, more and more restaurants
feature this style of cuisine. According to a 2017 CDHExpert survey, they showed
that approximately "9% of all restaurants" in the country featured Mexican dishes on menus.
And Mexican food falls just behind the burger as the most common menu item in America.
While Americans clearly love Mexican food, they also have their favorite restaurants,
including within the quick-service realm. Whether it's the flavor, the menu value, or something else
entirely, one chain rises above the rest. Even if guacamole costs extra, a new Mashed survey showed
that almost 42% of people prefer Chipotle to other quick-service Mexican restaurants.
The brand's focus on fresh ingredients, its dedication to the environment, and its commitment
to offering more plant-based options, in addition to a variety of meats, have won over diners.
As Chipotle's expansive menu shows, the ability to customize Mexican dishes,
especially with a vegetarian slant, has created a loyal following. And when it comes to the "build
your own meal" option at fast-food restaurants, Chipotle is one of the original creators of
the forward-thinking idea. From burritos to tacos, and bowls, the chain has a lot to offer.
Chipotle founder Steve Ells originally wanted to be a fine-dining chef, CNBC reported in
2017. But he fell into the burrito-making side of the restaurant world and never looked back.
Chipotle is a household name in the quick-service world, and for good reason. Its business model has
inspired countless other restaurants to follow the lead of its customizable meal options.
In addition to offering diners the ability to customize their orders from start to finish,
Chipotle keeps things fresh by adding new menu options from time to time. For instance,
Chipotle recently added pollo asado to its list of protein options,
while still keeping the original chicken adobo on the menu. The spicy marinade
created another menu option for customers who want to add a bit of heat to their meals.
And if you're a cheese lover who's tried to order a quesarito at Chipotle,
the chain hears you, too. Chipotle's quesadillas are now officially off the "secret menu."
Although you can only order them through the chain's website and mobile app.
But the addition of the quesadilla in March 2021 paid off. CNN reported the
following month that 10% of orders included a quesadilla after it was added to the menu.
Listening to its fans and keeping its menu options fresh
have helped make Chipotle one of the most successful quick-service restaurants around.
While Chipotle came in first place in Mashed's poll, it was followed by another fan favorite:
Taco Bell. The fast-food chain placed second in Mashed's poll, with 26% of the votes.
With those late-night hours, menu deals, and other specials, the classic Tex-Mex chain has plenty of
devoted fans. The chain has also been behind some of the most interesting Mexican fast-food items,
including the Waffle Taco, Nacho Fries, and Crunchwrap Supreme. And, of course,
we can't forget the fan-favorite Mexican pizza.
"It's like pizza, but it's different."
Rounding out the list of the best quick-service Mexican food chains were Moe's Southwest Grill
at 14%, Qdoba at around 11%, and Del Taco rounding things out with just under 7%.
While Mashed's survey only took the above five options into account, some people could argue that
other quick-service Mexican restaurants could give the top rankings a run for their money.
From Torchy's Tacos to Taco Cabana, there are plenty of options popping up all over the country.
Because of the growing competition, and America's desire for delicious cuisine, Mexican food may get
more days on the weekly dinner menu than just Tuesday. And we're more than okay with that.