It has been a few years now since Foodtastic, the Montreal-based restaurant franchising powerhouse, acquired the Quesada Burritos & Tacos chain. I have frequently passed by many storefronts, but it was a press release announcing that it had relaunched its Drunken Chicken classic for a limited time that piqued my interest. This flame-grilled chicken cooked with tequila was a big hit and was made available in burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas and nachos.
I did go by to try it. This was my first time stepping through the doors of one of the locations. As I perused the menu, I promised to come back and try something different. And that I did. Mexican food has never really been my cup of tea. However, when I arrived at the franchise at the corner of Côte Ste. Catherine Road and Côte des Neiges, across from the Jewish General Hospital, one of the workers named Ryan Boodia was a huge help. I told him that I was not a fan of spicy items. He made me a delicious grilled chicken burrito with some mild sauce. On the side, I had a bowl of white rice and some crispy nachos with jalapeno cheddar dip.
For dessert, I packed up some churros (light and crispy fried pastries dusted with sugar and cinnamon) and amazing chocolate chip cookies which I brought back to share with my colleagues at the office. I added a fountain drink and thoroughly enjoyed my lunch.
“Quesada is one of the largest Quick Service Restaurant brands in the country, and we are happy to welcome this fast-growing brand into the Foodtastic family,” Peter Mammas, President and CEO of Foodtastic stated when his company purchased in 2022.
Some of my friends love the beef tacos with that Mexican flavor. It contains red onions for that extra zing, topped off with tangy pico de gallo and soured cream. Whether you opt for carne asada or shredded chicken, these tacos are a hit with many. For a Tex-Mex flair, it can be served with black beans and fresh lime juice.
Regulars who are part of the Quesada ‘’Qlub” can collect points and take advantage of different bonuses.
There were 175 locations across eight Canadian provinces when Foodtastic made the purchase. That number now stands at 220, with at least 20 more in the planning stages.
Founded in 2004, Quesada sparked the rise of the burrito category in Canada. From coast to coast, Canadians enjoy Quesada’s delicious burritos, tacos, and salsas. The chain is known for its hand-smashed guacamole and made-daily salsas. Whether you’re a burrito lover, a nacho enthusiast, or a taco traditionalist, the Mexican-inspired menu, fresh ingredients and hand-prepared recipes offer guests a unique opportunity to take their dining experience “To the Mex.”
This is a great place to do a pickup or arrange for delivery via one of the apps. You can also spice up your event with Quesada Catering. From tantalizing taco stations to savory burrito platters, they bring the zest of Mexico to you. Starting at just $11.65 per person, these fresh, customizable options are touted as “perfect for any occasion.”
The Quesada Burritos & Tacos I visited was at 3680 Chem. de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 11 am to 9 pm; Saturday, 11 am to 9 pm; and Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm. The phone number is 514-564-3680.Go to www.quesada.ca where you can check out the latest promos and deals and see the menu and specials.