Chipotle Used to Be My #1 Burrito Spot, but These 8 Alternatives Are Superior

If you're looking for a quick lunch spot, you might consider heading to Chipotle. This popular restaurant is one of the top choices for burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and many other tasty dishes. However, despite the many perks of ordering at Chipotle, some say it's overrated.

There are many reasons why individuals look for alternatives to Chipotle. In some cases, it's the price, since a standard burrito at Chipotle now typically costs between $9.35 and $11.10 before adding a drink or extras. In other cases, some restaurants just have better quality burritos.

Chipotle used to be my #1 burrito spot, but these 8 alternatives are superior. Whether you love authentic Mexican cuisine or prefer a Tex-Mex style, there's an option on this list to satisfy any burrito fan's taste buds. The restaurants on this list are excellent alternatives to Chipotle.

This post was updated in January 2026 to include updated information about some of the Chipotle alternatives and what they offer.

Moe's Southwest Grill has 566 locations throughout the United States as of June 2025. What's more, this growth has occurred over the last 24 years, demonstrating 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 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 82 locations in America as of January 2025. Originally, this restaurant began in California. With the name, it should come as no surprise that the main focus is on fish tacos and seafood.

Although recently the restaurant has closed several of its locations, its food is still considered top-tier. Its popularity is tied to sustainable sources of seafood and healthy item choices.

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 8,165 restaurants in the United States as of November 2025. It's quick, easy, and doesn't put too much of a dent into 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.

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill has locations in America and has previously operated in Dubai and Singapore. As the name suggests, this restaurant prides itself on having "A Fresh Take" on 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 in 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. This restaurant offers high-quality food and is one of the best alternatives to Chipotle.

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 their loyalty to their customers. This loyalty means they offer their customers perks like 'Kids Eat Free Saturdays and Sundays' and a loyalty program

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

Del Taco has a value menu called 'Del's Real Deal$' featuring 15 items at $2 or less. 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.

Furthermore, 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 superior choices. If you are in the mood 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.