“Developing healthier menu options continues to be one of our top priorities. However, we refuse to sacrifice taste in our creations,” says Ted Stoner, Qdoba’s head chef and director of strategic product development. “Our new brown rice was inspired by popular flavors from Mexico like fire-roasted tomatoes and two types of red chiles, which complement our adobo marinated steak and chicken, our slow-simmered pork, and many other menu items.” 

 

According to a May 2011 Harris Interactive poll, three in four consumers surveyed say they would choose a lower-calorie item if taste and portion size were comparable. In addition, Qdoba’s own guest research shows that diners continually seek new flavors and enjoy a variety of choices that allow them to personalize and be involved in the creation of their meals. 

 

“In addition to offering vital nutrients such as iron and several vitamins and minerals, Qdoba’s brown rice is lower in sodium and calories and higher in fiber than our cilantro-lime rice to help fit our guests’ wide variety of taste and dietary preferences,” says Stoner. 

 

Guest can choose to add Qdoba’s classic cilantro-lime rice or new, savory brown rice to a wide variety of entrees, including burritos, Naked Burritos, and Mexican Gumbo. All of Qdoba’s meals are handmade in front of the guest and topped with personally selected fresh ingredients to fit his/her own nutritional needs, taste, and dietary preferences.