Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Uncle Turk]

I looked on both websites and couldn't find if they have a location in Korea. Is there a location here that I don't know about?

If not, is there anything comparable to these places? I have been to On the Border, not too bad. But looking for a quick fix place.

On a side note, which one is better? Qdoba or Chipotle?

[Konglishman]

To the best of knowledge, neither franchise is located in Korea. Of course, I would love to be proven wrong as Chipotle and Qdoba were among my favorite places to eat out at in the USA.

[redaxe]

Nope, we have neither in Korea. There are a few passable Mexican places in Hongdae and Itaewon, but they're not as good as back home. Koreans don't seem to like Mexican food very much. Not sure why, perhaps because they are disgusted by the smell of cilantro. The last few times I ate at On the Border, I don't think they put any cilantro in the food.

It makes little sense to me why they LOVE Italian food SO MUCH, on the other hand. (Minus the basil, mind you!) There seems to be an Italian restaurant on every block in Seoul. I guess it's because Italian food is more "romantic."

[roadwork]

[Steelrails]

Qdoba, easy. The thing about Chipotle is that they have nothing going for it compared to Panchero's, Qdoba, Salsarita's, and Moe's.

Panchero's is a classic and has size- El Gordo. Qdoba has the freshest taste. Salsarita's has great options and good quality. Moe's has spanish rice for its burritos and fish.

Chipotle is alright, but its #2 or lower in every category.

[greasypeanut]

qdoba is better than chipotle because it has the "queso" burrito.

and thanks alot op. u gave me another thing to miss about home

[Micelf]

Chipotle all the way. Wayyyyyyy better ingredients, period.

[Uncle Turk]

[definitely maybe]

[definitely maybe]

i have no idea why my post was so large, but i like it.

[definitely maybe]

[roadwork]

[SpicySteve]

Been in Korea quite a long time now...and i'd have to agree with Definitely Maybe..Tomatillo's is hands down the best "Fresh Mex" style burrito slingin' place this side of the 38th Parallel.

Ok, tons of places out there. Some good, some better. O.T.B--gotta give them credit--in terms of bringing the same flavor from the US. Authentic Tex mex...heavy on the cheese and sour cream...and watch out for the Calories and Fat content aka. delicious goodness. Not that easy on the pocketbook. I went for lunch a few months ago and spent 30,000won. I was stuffed! Buzzed (2 Margaritas later)...and definitely satisfied.

But if you're looking for the food in that Fresh Mex category of restaurants...getting burritos and tacos any way you want them...then you gotta head to Tomatillo. (they just opened their 3rd store, so quite a few access points)

Remember...Tomatillo is a Fresh Mex, fast casual restaurant...don't expect to find Tamales and Chile Rellenos on the menu. They do specials each week, sometimes with enchiladas, flautas, etc...

I'd say they are a solid choice and clear category winner in the Korean Mexican food market.

But, you know...everyone has their different tastes....and i think Mexican food is a good example of that. Everyone is used to something different in their hometowns. i've heard of people raving on and on about a mex restaurant back home...and i'd try it and it wasn't good at all...to each his own, i guess.

Eat what makes you happy!

Note: I'm from San Diego and Mexican...so, when it comes to Mex food...i'm pretty picky.

[roadwork]

Fresh ingredients is about the only thing Tomatillo's can claim. Sure as hell isn't flavor.

[smurfystew]

I actually emailed Chipotle a few months ago requesting they open a franchise in Seoul. Here is what they said when they replied back to me.

Hi ******,
Thank you for your nice email. Unfortunately, we have no plans to expand overseas for quite a while. We're still pretty busy on this side. But someday maybe.
Thanks for writing in.

Sincerely,
Lyn Jenkins
Department of Gripes and Happiness
Chipotle