QDOBA Bursts into East Bay Scene with New Walnut Creek Opening and

Mr. Satterly, WTFPL, via Wikimedia Commons

On August 21, the long-awaited moment for QDOBA fans in the East Bay area will finally arrive. The popular fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain will be opening its first location in Walnut Creek, at 1815-B Ygnacio Valley Road. As an added celebratory gesture, the first 100 people in line at 10:30 a.m. on opening day will receive one free burrito or bowl per month for an entire year.

The restaurant will be operated by franchisee Karan Gogri, who expressed his excitement for this new undertaking. "I’ve been a fan of QDOBA ever since I was 13, and the brand’s commitment to quality, innovation, and flavorful food resonated with me,” Gogri said in a press release shared with SFGATE. “I’m thrilled to bring QDOBA to Walnut Creek, the Bay Area, and throughout more communities in California.”

QDOBA has over 730 locations across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada, with menu items that include burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, and nachos. While there is technically already a QDOBA in the Bay Area, located at the Travis Air Force Base near Fairfield, it is not considered a traditional store due to its location.

Expanding QDOBA's presence in the Bay Area is a top priority for Gogri, who revealed to SFGATE via email that he is already working on opening two more locations in Hayward and Fairfield. In addition, he is actively exploring opportunities in Fremont, Milpitas, and San Jose. QDOBA's growth in the Bay Area appears to be part of a broader movement to bring more diverse dining options to the area.

In the Ygnacio Plaza Shopping Center, where the new QDOBA will be located, other upcoming businesses include The Breakfast Club restaurant, as well as a Mendocino Farms soup and salad establishment, both of which are set to open soon. The retail center seems to be attracting an increasing number of eateries, allowing for a wider array of choices for local residents.

Launched in 1995 under the name Zuma Fresh Mexican Grill, the chain rebranded to QDOBA in 1999, offering customizable menu options similar to another well-known fast food rival, Chipotle. Throughout its existence, QDOBA has continued to build its brand around the concepts of quality, innovation, and taste, enticing customers with unique flavor combinations and distinctive recipes. With more than 730 locations and counting, it is clear that the winning formula has resonated with fans far and wide.