Panchero's Mexican Grill

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Panchero's Mexican Grill is a chain of fast casual Fresh Mex restaurants in the United States serving Mexican-style cuisine. The chain was founded in 1992 by Rodney Anderson when he opened two units: one in Iowa City, Iowa (near the University of Iowa campus), and one in East Lansing, Michigan (near the Michigan State University campus). There are currently 55 units throughout the country. ^[1] Panchero's is known for making their tortillas on site, at the time the order is placed. ^[2] In 2006, Sports Illustrated voted Panchero's the most popular place to eat when the bars close. ^[3]

Panchero's serves burritos, tacos, quesadillas, burrito bowls, and salads. The salsas, guacamole, and queso dips are made on-site, daily. The restaurant fits into the "fast casual" category, offering both quick service and a higher quality of food than typical fast-food restaurants. Customers start their order by selecting an entrée. Next, the tortilla is pressed fresh on a tortilla presser (this is why their logo states: "It's all about the tortilla"). The customers then choose from the ingredients to be added. Pancheros' main national rivals are Chipotle Mexican Grill, Moe's Southwest Grill, and Qdoba Mexican Grill. ^[4]

1 History
2 Decor
3 Menu
4 References
5 External links

[edit] History

In 1992, Anderson, fresh out of business school from the University of Chicago opened the first Panchero's with capital made from the stock market. The first store was opened in Iowa City, next to the Iowa University campus. His next 10 locations were similar in that they were all in midwestern college towns. It wasn't until 1998 that Panchero's was revamped to include the addition of a dough press, and an updated decor. In 2003 its first non-corporate store opened in Minneapolis. ^[5]

[edit] Decor

Panchero's stores have a warm, industrial look. Exposed ductwork, track lighting and metal accents are softened with warm tones, colorful tile and padded booths ^[6] Panchero's average seating capacity is 70, and no units have drive-thrus, which would not fit the made-to-order concept. ^[7]