Qdoba Mexican Grill is a quaint spot on the corner of the shopping center in front of Kroger in Mansfield. Though it has been compared to Chipotle and Freebirds with the signature stuffed burritos and simple Mexican cuisines, Qdoba has its own special touch.

The restaurant has a really modern look with dim lighting and metal furniture. Customers walk up to the front where they see a long, open bar with a glass closure to show off all of the toppings and food options. It is convenient, because you can see everything available and point to exactly what you want. They also have two TVs hanging up which are on sports channels.

Qdoba’s menu offers burritos, quesadillas, nachos, salads, tacos, chips and dips and even kids meals. I recommend the burrito because it is their most well known item on the menu and the easiest to personalize.

When making a burrito you have multiple options for what you do or do not want. First, you choose between a flour tortilla, corn tortilla or no tortilla at all for a healthier approach. Second, you choose between cilantro-lime rice and brown rice. I really like the cilantro-lime rice because the cilantro is strong enough to add a nice taste to what could be plain rice.

Next, you can choose between black beans and pinto beans. Then you decide what type of meat. They offer grilled chicken and steak, pulled pork, shredded and seasoned ground beef. After selecting all the must-haves, you can move on to the more personalized additions. With nine different sauces, you have a nice selection to choose from and then there is lettuce, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole or fajita vegetables to add.

The only issue I have with Qdoba is that only some locations offer breakfast food and the one in Mansfield does not. I would love to have a breakfast burrito with chorizo or egg and potatoes, but I don’t want to drive all the way to Littleton, Colorado to get it. Let’s hope they add that option.

The workers were very friendly when taking orders and putting the food together. I’m the type of customer that has difficult orders, and I made it clear when I wanted more or less of something. The workers still kept a kind smile on their faces and asked me what I wanted next.

Overall, Qdoba, located at 1401 E Debbie Lane, is a great restaurant that has a positive vibe. The best time to go is on Tuesday afternoons, when the restaurant offers half off with a student ID. If you ever want a soft, stuffed burrito, cheesy tacos or just a great place to hangout, then you should go check it out.