Technology

Qdoba makes Austin debut via ghost kitchens

Provided

September 9, 2022

Qdoba is serving customers in Austin, Texas via the first of two ghost kitchens in a partnership with national ghost kitchen operator Reef Technology.

"Austin is well-known for its lively and flavorful food scene, making it the natural choice for our Reef ghost kitchen launch. It opens the doors to consumers to enjoy our unique spin on Mexican food who haven't had access to Qdoba previously," Karin Silk, CMO of Qdoba, said in a company press release. "Our partnership with Reef means bringing Qdoba's signature flavors, including our well-loved three-cheese queso, salsas and cremas, and handmade guacamole, to Austinites. While this is our first venture into the virtual restaurant space, we can't wait to share the flavor with additional markets.

The global ghost kitchen market is projected to be worth over $71 billion by 2027, according to Statista. The market outlook inspired Qdoba's interest in off-premise innovations.

"As a leader in the commercial kitchen space, Reef is expertly ready to fulfill the growing demand of Qdoba's flavor-forward meals and menu offerings to those without access to an in-dining experience," Kenneth Rourke, president of kitchens and retail at Reef, said in the release. "Austin is a perfect landscape to expand Qdoba's off-premises presence and we commend the brand for its continued off-premise innovation to bring its signature flavors to connected communities throughout Austin neighborhoods."

Austin's Reef ghost kitchens will be available exclusively on Uber Eats, Grub Hub, Postmates, Deliveroo and DoorDash.

Qdoba has over 740 locations in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.