The landscape of fast-casual dining in the Valley is about to get a boost from an old favorite. QDOBA, a brand known for its build-your-own Mexican fare, has announced the opening of two new standalone restaurants in the Phoenix area. The first, located in Ahwatukee at 50th Street and Ray Road, and the second, in Scottsdale near Scottsdale and Chaparral roads, are slated to open their doors on January 13, with formal grand openings scheduled for January 24, according to Phoenix New Times.
These new additions to the QDOBA family are part of a larger plan unveiled by the Mexican eatery, revealing intentions to open up to 10 new locations in the "Arizona southwest" over the coming two years. This move marks the return of QDOBA's standalone presence in the state, after several years of operating exclusively through campus locations at Grand Canyon University, Arizona State University, and others. "QDOBA is an exceptionally well-positioned brand in one of the most attractive restaurant categories with the greater Phoenix area offering significant growth potential," Jeremy Vitaro, QDOBA's chief development officer, said in a statement obtained by Phoenix New Times.
The company currently operates about 800 locations throughout North America, with the new Valley outposts standing as the only solo-run QDOBA restaurants in Arizona, outside of the educational institutions. QDOBA's signature offering includes a range of customizable burritos, tacos, and bowls with inclusive premium toppings like queso and guacamole. This model caters well to the fast-casual market, where flexibility and customization are often key draws for the younger, on-the-go demographic, as per ABC15.
With the imminent opening of these locations, QDOBA will join a wave of other out-of-state fast-casual chains that are venturing into, or expanding within, the Phoenix market. Notable names include Sweetgreen, Velvet Taco, and Fazoli’s, each bringing a distinct flavor, and culinary culture, to the local dining scene. The Phoenix and Scottsdale QDOBA establishments will feature ample indoor and outdoor seating, with the Scottsdale location additionally boasting of a fireplace. The exact addresses of the new locales are 4901 E. Ray Road, #100 in Phoenix, and 4821 N. Scottsdale Road, #100 in Scottsdale.
