Panchero's Mexican Grill

Pancheros Mexican Grill is a chain of fast casual Tex 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 62 units throughout the country.^[2] Pancheros is known for making their tortillas on site, at the time the order is placed.^[3] In 2006, Sports Illustrated voted Panchero's the most popular place to eat when bars in Iowa City close.^[4]

Pancheros serves burritos, tacos, quesadillas, burrito bowls, and salads. The salsas, guacamole, and queso dips are made on-site, daily. The restaurant fits into the quick-serve category, offering both quick service and a higher quality of food than typical fast-food restaurants. Customers start their order by selecting a menu item. Next, the tortilla is pressed fresh on a tortilla press. 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.^[5]

History

Panchero's Ann Arbor, Michigan

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 University of Iowa 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.

Decor

Pancheros 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. Some stores do have patios.^[7]

Menu

Main entrées:

• Burritos
• Tacos
• Quesadillas
• Burrito bowls
• Salads

Any of the following can be added:

• Mild Ancho Salsa
• Hot Tomatillo Salsa
• Corn Salsa
• Pico de Gallo
• Cholula hot sauce
• Black Beans
• Pinto Beans
• Cilantro Lime Rice
• Guacamole
• Sour Cream
• Shredded Cheese
• Jalapeños
• Extra Meat
• Extra Grilled Veggies
• Fuego Sauce (house hot sauce)
• Caliente Verde Sauce (house hot sauce)

Sides:

• Chips & Queso
• Chips & Guacamole

Beverages: Various soft drinks, Pibb Xtra, fresh brewed iced tea, bottled water, sparkling juices and beer are offered.^[5]

iBurrito

On December 24, 2009, Panchero's released iBurrito, their first app for the iPhone and iPod touch platform. iBurrito lets users see and create their own virtual Panchero's burrito. Users begin by pressing their tortillas and then customizing their burrito with fresh meats and veggies, guacamole, salsa, queso and more. They then use "Bob the Tool" to mix up all of the ingredients so they get every ingredient in every bite before rolling up their burrito. Users are then able to post their creations on their Facebook wall or Twitter feed showing off what they made. The app also includes a store locator both by state and using the GPS for nearby locations allowing them to view maps and call stores directly.

iBurrito was created for Panchero's by Nolasoft Development with graphic design by The Runway Company.

References

External links

• Panchero's Mexican Grill website
• iBurrito info on the Panchero's website
• Panchero's Blog
• Panchero's on Twitter
• Panchero's on Facebook