Listo! Fresh Mexican Grill

Walking into Listo! Fresh Mexican Grill for the first time, I immediately noticed how smoothly everything runs. The counter staff moves with purpose, the open kitchen keeps things transparent, and the smell of grilled proteins and warm tortillas hits you before you even glance at the menu. Located at 1730 New Brighton Blvd #100, Minneapolis, MN 55413, United States, this spot fits right into the fast-casual rhythm of the city without feeling rushed or impersonal.

I’ve eaten here multiple times during lunch hours, which is often the real test for any grill-style restaurant. Each visit follows the same efficient process: you choose your base, layer in proteins, add fresh toppings, and finish with sauces made in-house. This assembly-line approach isn’t just about speed. It actually reduces food waste and keeps ingredients rotating quickly, which aligns with findings from the National Restaurant Association showing that streamlined prep improves freshness and consistency in fast-casual kitchens. You can taste that difference here, especially in the cilantro-lime rice and grilled chicken, which never comes across as dry or over-seasoned.

The menu strikes a balance between simplicity and flexibility. Burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads cover the essentials, while customization allows people with different dietary preferences to eat comfortably. Plant-based diners often lean toward the sofritas-style seasoned veggies, while regulars I’ve chatted with usually swear by the steak paired with roasted corn salsa. According to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, meals built around fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and controlled portions tend to support better energy levels during the workday, which probably explains why this place stays busy with nearby office workers.

What stands out most is consistency. I once ordered the same burrito bowl three weeks apart just to see if anything changed. Same portion size, same flavor balance, same temperature. That kind of repeatability doesn’t happen by accident. It reflects strong kitchen training and clear prep standards, something culinary educators from the Culinary Institute of America often emphasize as the backbone of reliable dining experiences.

Reviews from locals echo this reliability. Many mention quick service, clean seating areas, and food that tastes fresh even during peak hours. One reviewer I spoke with in line said they drive past other locations just to eat here because they trust what they’ll get every time. That trust matters, especially in a city with so many dining options competing for attention.

From a broader perspective, fast-casual Mexican grills have grown steadily over the last decade, with industry data showing continued demand for customizable, fresh meals. This restaurant fits that trend while still feeling local and grounded. The only limitation worth noting is seating during lunch rush, which can feel tight if you’re hoping to linger. Ordering ahead or visiting slightly off-peak solves that easily.

Between thoughtful preparation, ingredient transparency, and a menu that adapts to different tastes, this grill has earned its reputation. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, reading through reviews before your first visit, or scouting reliable locations for weekday meals, it delivers exactly what it promises without overcomplicating the experience.