The arrival of Robertito’s at Fresno State’s food court has sparked a constant flow of campus customers, making it top competition for the university’s already established Mexican fast food restaurant, Taco Bell Express.
As part of the food court operation, this summer the University Student Union food court will be open, including Robertito’s, but Taco Bell Express will be closed.
Interim Vice President for Administrative Services Debbie Astone said that The Bucket will remain open for the summer with limited hours for lunch service Monday through Thursday.
Colton Robinson, a Fresno State freshman and DISCOVERe guide, said he is upset to hear that Fresno State’s Taco Bell will be closed over the summer.
“I find it horrifying,” Robinson said. “I for one enjoy Taco Bell very much and eat it almost every day. It’s become a part of my routine.”
Robinson also said that Taco Bell, aside from being the cheapest food substitute on campus, also has a new fresco menu, which is a 350-calorie or less menu, something that Robertito’s does not offer.
“Robertito’s doesn’t have Tapingo, so being the tech guide that I am I’m actually very put off by that,” he said. “I for one prefer Taco Bell because it’s convenient, and the last time I had Robertito’s, there were onions in my burrito, and I found that disgusting.”
A cook at Fresno State’s Robertito’s, Victor Nunez, said that Robertito’s is a family owned business with authentic and freshly prepared Mexican food.
“It’s a better choice than Taco Bell,” Nunez said. “There’s always a rush here with staff and students. We have regulars every morning.”
Nunez said that Tapingo is not yet available for Robertito’s, but thinks that it would be a great idea to have food ready for customers with the convenience of an app.
Fresno State library circulation supervisor Chris Ebert said people coming to the campus over the summer who need a Taco Bell fix, or who don’t have enough money, could take a trip to the Taco Bell located on Cedar Avenue.
“The Taco Bell across the street has more options for less money,” Ebert said. “The cost is going to make it sink or swim, and Robertito’s is way more expensive than your average trip to Taco Bell.”
Ebert said during the summer there aren’t as many students on campus to support Taco Bell to stay open, and there might not be enough summer customers to necessitate all the campus restaurants being open.
“I’m a big believer in cheap,” Ebert said. “College kids are the ones who need cheap stuff. If college students aren’t here, then it’s relative, and it’ll be interesting to see what happens over the summer.”