Qdoba Mexican Grill, which opened its doors Sept. 1, is not only adding spice to the corner of Forsyth Street and Huntington Avenue, but also to the Northeastern Athletics Department and the university community.
“When we selected this location, one of the primary things brought to us was establishing a relationship with Northeastern,” said Scott Bernstein, the president of TRP Sports Entertainment marketing, the marketing and public relations ageny for Qdoba.
In addition to sponsorship and signage promotions, Qdoba also plans to host Husky Football Weekly with Coach Rocky Hager, where the coach will review game footage, have chalkboard-talk and participate in question and answer sessions, Bernstein said.
Qdoba’s relationship with Northeastern expands beyond athletics by accepting the Husky card, Bernstein said. The restaurant will accept the Husky Card for everything but alcohol.
At a taste test before the official opening, held on Tuesday, Aug. 31, faculty, administrators and ResLife staff mingled while enjoying the complimentary cuisine.
“I think it’s great to have things like this where students and faculty can go to eat, drink and be merry,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Ed Klotzbier. “It helps to build community.”
Adding to Qdoba’s atmosphere is the design and layout of the space. The restaurant utilizes warm earth tones, soft materials and Mexican-influenced architecture to enhance its ambiance, said Gad Liwerant, a manager of Chair 5 Restaurants, a franchisee of Qdoba.
“I’m surprised with how many seats there are,” said Jessica Arthus, a middler architecture major. “I can see this place constantly busy during the year.”
Besides Qdoba’s welcoming atmosphere and Northeastern-friendly environment, the restaurant sports a unique and tantalizing menu which includes burritos, tacos, quesadillas, taco salads and nachos. Also available are 10 Qdoba signature sauces and salsas as well as their cilantro and lime flavored rice.
“This is better than Taco Bell,” said Ally Hatfield, a middler accounting major.
Another aspect of Qdoba’s selection that is sure to win over patrons is its full-kitchen countertop, which allows customers to customize their order while they are being made right in front of them. As the food comes down the line of burrito assembly persons, the customer has the opportunity to choose black or pinto beans, which salsa they would prefer and if they want cheese or sour cream.
Liwerant also stressed that all of Qdoba’s food is made fresh everyday, nothing is pre-made or reheated.
Attendants of the pre-opening taste test said they were impressed with the food.
“[This burrito] is slammin’,” said Selina DeBarros, a middler criminal justice major, while sinking her teeth into a fajita ranchera burrito.
With ideas as fresh as its food, Qdoba has the possibility to bring a whole new flavor to the neighborhood.
