I Used to Love Chipotle, But Now My Family Goes to These Alternatives Instead

Mexican food is one of the most popular cuisines in the United States, and when it comes to finding restaurants with quick and delicious offerings, there is no shortage across the country. One of the more well-known locations is Chipotle, which is ranked as one of the best places if you're looking for a great burrito – but it's not the only option.

Whether you love authentic Mexican cuisine or prefer a Tex-Mex style, there are several superior burrito alternatives besides Chipotle to satisfy your cravings. There's a lot to love about Chipotle, but when it comes to preferences of my family, we've started visiting some of these excellent alternatives instead.

This post was updated in June 2025 to include the most recent information about restaurants and menu options.

Moe's Southwest Grill has about 600 locations throughout the United States. Most of 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.

Another reason that Moe's Southwest Grill is so popular is its casual environment, which is similar to Chipotle. 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 has been around since 1983 and now has about 82 locations in America. Originally, this restaurant began in California. With the name, it should come as no surprise that the main focus is fish tacos and seafood.

Although in June 2024, the restaurant abruptly closed nearly 50 locations in California, its food is still considered top-tier. The popularity of this restaurant is tied to sustainable sources of seafood and healthy item choices. Rubio's Coastal Grill offers a variety of Baja-inspired fish tacos and more.

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 8,100 restaurants. It's quick, easy, and doesn't put too much of a dent in a person's wallet. Taco Bell is often one of the go-to alternatives to Chipotle.

Although Taco Bell is popular, some may argue that the quality of food has diminished over the years. But Taco Bell remains one of Chipotle's top competitors. Many customers remain loyal due to the value of meals and the array of choices on the menu, including tasty items like the Mexican Pizza, which made a comeback in 2022.

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill has locations in America 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 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.

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

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.

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

Freebirds is popular for several reasons, including the quality of the food, but also for its loyalty to its customers. This loyalty means they offer their customers perks like "Kids Eat Free every Saturday and Sunday," as well as a loyalty program.

Del Taco, although less popular than Taco Bell, is a fast-food chain that has grown to 594 locations as of June 2025. One of the reasons Del Taco is popular with customers is its decision to offer vegan and vegetarian options.

In addition to their vegan and vegetarian options, Del Taco has a value menu featuring numerous items for $2 and under, branded as Del's Real Deal$. 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 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 focuses on Tex-Mex-type options. This means that instead of staying authentic to Mexican-style cuisine, it blends American Texan flavors and ingredients 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.

While Chipotle is a casual and delicious restaurant, there are so many other excellent restaurants to choose from. If you want 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.