As a serious foodie, especially one with a constant craving for Mexican food, I pride myself on knowing some of the best locations for a kick-butt burrito bowl. Moe's? I've been there. Chipotle? I've tried that. Qdoba? I've eaten it. Granted, the big three leaders are titled as such primarily because of the insane number of locations around the country, but it’s undeniable that Moe's, Chipotle, and Qdoba, are the three best tasting restaurants in this category. In fact, we can narrow this down even further; it's a scientific fact, Chipotle and Qdoba are just better than Moe's. Period point blank. Of the two, though, which one is better?
The answer is obvious:
Qdoba.
Okay, okay. I hear you. Chipotle has tremendous brand loyalty and so a lot of you are probably all cringing in your seats. To this I must respond: WHY? While Chipotle is seemingly everywhere, it just can’t beat the flavor punch Qdoba has to offer. I know this probably hasn’t convinced any of you yet, but not to worry, in this burrito-battle-breakdown you’ll soon see why I’m placing my bets on Qdoba to be the winner. So ding ding ding, lets get this burrito battle started.
1. Queso Options
Qdoba has queso (options ranging from mild to "diablo"- what a selection, am I right?) and Chipotle does not. Chipotle doesn't even serve as a contender in this category.
Round One? Qdoba.
2. Guac Price
Qdoba's guac is free while at Chipotle you have to pay an outrageous price for it. On top of that, at Chipotle, they make you feel bad about ordering that heaven found in mashed avocados.
"Guacamole costs extra. Is this okay?"
Yes, ma'am. I know it costs extra. I'm worth it okay? Just give me my guac...and please call it guac. There's no need to be so formal.
At least at Qdoba they're proud of me. Heap on the guac, my dudes! And yes! I would like extra!
Round Two? Qdoba.
3. Guac Flavor
Few things beat free guac, but I will admit, flavor is one of them. I wouldn't mind dishing out the extra cash for guac at Chipotle if it tasted better.
Sad news Chipotle-lovers: it doesn't.
Round Three? Qdoba.
4. Tortilla Strips
"Does Chipotle have tortilla strips?"
"No?"
"Okay."
" :( "
C'mon guys. Tortilla strips are just worth it.
Round Four? Qdoba.
5. To-Go Top
Granted, Chipotle's design is sleek. The all aluminium lid looks nice. It really does! But when all heck breaks loose, when it hits the fan, or you drop the ball- scratch that- you drop your burrito bowl, that fancy aluminum top won't keep much in. Don't worry. Qdoba's got you. Qdoba's got resealable plastic lids for their burritos bowls and as someone who can personally identify with the adjective "accident prone", I can't tell you how many times this has saved me.
Round Five? Qdoba.
Qdoba: 5
Chipotle: 0
With all of this knowledge in your brain, a new hunger in your stomach, and five wins under Qdoba's belt, its difficult to see why anyone would ever want something different. Qdoba is just better than Chipotle. It just is. Period point blank.
