Sure, we all like going to tiny little authentic Mexican restaurants run by an elderly couple straight from Puebla, but with such a proliferation of “fresh Mexican” chains out there, more often I find myself giving into a nationally marketed meal. But trust me, that doesn’t mean I’m at running to Taco Bell – some of these chain restaurants are actually pretty tasty, and some are even (gasp!) healthy for you, too. Here’s your guide to the best of the “fresh” in our area:
Chipotle Mexican Grill (Coming to Exton soon; 4030 City Avenue, Bala Cynwyd; 133 West Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore; 101 Turner Lane, West Chester)
As a restaurant with a reputation based on its food-with-integrity menu, the made-to-order chain offers on-the-go diners mindful creations with ingredients sourced from local and organic family farms. Notorious for their ginormous burrito blends and bowls, booming with everything from cilantro-lime rice, black beans, salsa, house-made guacamole, sour cream and your choice of meat (consider the spicy, slow-roasted, shredded beef), Chipotle may be one of your better choices for conscious and affordable burrito bites.
Mesa Fresh Mexican Grill (215 Lancaster Ave, Frazer; 239 Swedesford Road, Berwyn)
No, this isn’t Bobby Flay’s flagship restaurant in New York, but this chain did once grab Fox Philly’s “Best Burrito” title. My personal favorite is the Burrito El Norte with Mexican rice, guacamole, jack & cheddar cheeses, fresh pico de gallo, salsa, beans and choice of chicken, steak, pork carnitas or vegetables. On the lighter side, try the Mango Tango Salad, with fresh organic greens, grilled chicken breast, fresh mango salsa, almonds and mango dressing.
On The Border (Main Street, Exton)
For a chain restaurant located in the middle of a shopping center parking lot, this place is pretty great. Upbeat atmosphere, surprisingly friendly waiters, and enormous margaritas make this one of my favorite spots to unwind after work. “Fresh Grill” items like Jalapeno BBQ Salmon and Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp and Steak Medallions are less likely to induce a heart attack, while their Combo platters offer a ton of food at recession-friendly prices.
Qdoba (717 S. Trooper Road, Audubon; 1103 West Chester Pike, West Chester)
Picky about what you eat? At Qdoba, you tell them how to make your meal. Unique items like Ancho Chile BBQ Burrito or Poblano Pesto Burrito are way more intriguing than your usual fast food selections. Plus, sometimes it’s nice to watch your food prepared in front of you (y’know, just to make sure no one spits in it or anything).
