Pancheros expands Cedar Rapids presence

CEDAR RAPIDS - A Coralville-based fast-casual Mexican restaurant franchise has expanded its presence in the Cedar Rapids market.

Pancheros Mexican Grill opened a restaurant Tuesday at 5350 Kirkwood Blvd. SW near Kirkwood Community College. The company also has locations at 2315 Edgewood Rd. SW, 5300 Edgewood Rd. NE and 4701 First Ave. SE.

Pancheros specializes in made-to-order burritos, with the help of 'Bob the Tool,” a plastic spatula used to mix ingredients before wrapping up the burritos. The chain's menu also includes quesadillas, tacos, burrito bowls and salads.

'We are always looking to expand our reach in our backyards here in Iowa,” said Rodney Anderson, president of Pancheros Mexican Grill. 'Our Cedar Rapids locations have done such a great job of surpassing the demands of our loyal fans, and we wanted to keep the positive momentum going with a fourth Cedar Rapids restaurant.”

Founded in 1992 by Anderson, Pancheros has 65 locations in the United States. The company plans to have 75 restaurants open by the end of this year.