Next time you order guacamole on your burrito at Qdoba Mexican Grill, there's one thing you won't get: dinged.
One of its most popular "extras," which previously cost customers $1.19 to $1.50 per serving when ordered with a burrito, taco or quesadilla, guacamole will now be free, effective Oct. 14.
Ditto for the rest of the "extras" at Qdoba, the nation's second-largest fast-casual Mexican chain.
The move, to be announced on Friday, is certain to be watched by the rest of the dining industry — from fast-casual chains to some fancy steakhouses that like to tack on charges for every item beyond the steak itself.
A 638-unit chain in the midst of a growth spurt and under new leadership, Qdoba says it recognizes that the surcharges that can make dinner checks swell can make customers steam.
Some other Qdoba "extras" that will be free: queso (a hot three-cheese dip) that used to cost $1; fajita vegetables that went for 69 cents; and chile BBQ sauce that also cost 69 cents.
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