Chipotle

[JuddL]

My name is Judd, and I have a burrito addiction.

[devincf]

Chipotle is my secret shame. Every time I go there I feel the hypocrisy from my Olive Garden hate.

[Johnny Daywalker]

Chipotle* is decent Baja Fresh is even better but both of those pail in comparision to real Mexican food. Since you're going west side soon Devin you'll get to a few good places around here.

*Did you know McDonalds owns Chipotle?

[DaveB]

I slightly prefer Qdoba, but only slightly.

If it helps matters, Devin, I prefer to think of it in terms of Qdoba, Chipotle, Noodles, etc. being like upscale, tastier, vaguely healthier McDonald's, Taco Bell, or Wendy's-type fast food franchises.

Olive Garden, on the other hand, is an LCD attempt at an actual Italian restaurant, as Red Lobster is an LCD attempt at an actual seafood restaurant, as Chi-Chi's is an LCD attempat at an actual Mexican restaurant. It's all about the aspirations of the given chain.

[Moltisanti]

I also prefer Baggia Fresh, excuse me, I mean Baja Fresh.

[Bill Brasky]

All my mexican friends, who will in fact eat Taco Bell on occassion, refuse to eat Chipotle. Something about rice and beans sharing a tortilla bed with meat being an affront to God.

[Jason P. Thompson]

I love their steak. I sometimes ask just for a big bowl of that.

That and their chips ROCK.

[Matt M]

They lose points for not just giving you a side of chips with your burrito, though.

It's not my favorite burrito place, but the Barbacoa with corn salsa is hard to beat.

[Alan "Nordling" Cerny]

Chipotle is decent. It's hard to compete with the many taquerias around here, though.

[JuddL]

see, when I go to Chipotle I don't think of it as Mexican food. It just is what it is. Something about their synthesis of rice, steak, sour cream, cheese, and hot sauce (their hot is really what sets them apart from Qdoba and others imo), tickles my taste buds in just the right way. My mouth literally starts to water in Pavlovian response when I walk through the door.

[555]

i actually prefer Moe's. It helps that their restuarants, for whatever reason, are adorned with portraits of music legends, and they play amazing music. Or maybe thats just the one over here?

[Matt M]

i actually prefer Moe's.

Gross. Moe's spends all their money on atmosphere, and none on ingredients.

[Jason P. Thompson]

i actually prefer Moe's. It helps that their restuarants, for whatever reason, are adorned with portraits of music legends, and they play amazing music. Or maybe thats just the one over here?
That's just yours.

The one here in Bloomington has gone downhill. When you walk in these days you get a reluctant, "welcome to Moe's" and the current staff is terribly slow.

There was a guy in Moe's the last time I went that was scooping through the steak and then staring over at the woman he was making a quesadilla for like he had just done something to it. After that he just stared down at the nachos he was making for me like he'd just seen a ghost. He looked completely frightened by my dinner.

Let's just say I passed on the steak this time around.

Chipotle is consistently busy the wait is short and the ingredients taste fresh. Plus, you've got to love their huge grill constantly piled with MEAT.

[Tieman]

I'm a big fan of Chipotle for a couple of reasons:
1) They serve beer (two Negro Modelos, please!)
2) The barbacoa tastes really good, especially for non-authentic mexican food
3) Their hot salsa is actually pretty damn hot

My usual order is the fajita burrito with barbacoa and the hot salsa. Yum.

EDIT: Oh, and I just discovered recently that you can order items that are not on the menu, like quesadillas.

[Mattimus]

Not a fan of Chipotle at all. I was so excited when they built one next to my former job, only to be disappointed with their burritos. Now, I don't know how they do it in other parts of the country, but in Vegas the burrito breaks down like this:
50% Rice
20% Beans
20% Steak/Chicken (whatever's your pleasure)
10% Pico de Gallo

That's a horrible meat to rice ratio. For me, it's Tacos Mexico or Felipito's all the way.

[Jason P. Thompson]

Well... being in a place like Vegas... you can't beat the local stuff. Felipito's rocks!

[555]

i must live in burrito bar bizzaro world then cause here the moe's is kick ass and the food is way better than chipotle. and the "welcome to moe's"'s are pretty enthusiastic, if you give a fuck bout that sorta thing. maybe its cause its right next to a big ass university. and they serve beer, too. not like i really care. i prefer to cook at home anyway. but burritos are awesome. man, im stoned.

[Jason P. Thompson]

i must live in burrito bar bizzaro world then cause here the moe's is kick ass and the food is way better than chipotle. and the "welcome to moe's"'s are pretty enthusiastic, if you give a fuck bout that sorta thing. maybe its cause its right next to a big ass university. and they serve beer, too. not like i really care. i prefer to cook at home anyway. but burritos are awesome. man, im stoned.
The Moe's here in Bloomington is near campus, but I wouldn't say it's within walking distance.

The "Welcome to Moes" always gives me an idea on whether or not they give a shit about good service, which isn't the case here. Maybe the atmosphere at your location helps with the customer service a bit.

[EdHocken]

Chipotle* is decent Baja Fresh is even better but both of those pail in comparision to real Mexican food. Since you're going west side soon Devin you'll get to a few good places around here.

*Did you know McDonalds owns Chipotle?

Actually they spun them out a while ago and it's back to being it's own company. You could buy stock in them.

I like Chipotle more than Baja Fresh simply because Chipotle doesn't drown everything in onions.

Plus their carnitas are good and ya can't beat the chips especially how it's contained. In a neatly folded brown paper bag labeled "Chips". Brilliant!

[Matt M]

Atlanta is Moe's Ground Zero. And they're always enthusiastic. Doesn't change the fact that their ingredients are all prepackaged, their meat is tough as nails, and their salsa is bland, at best.

My understanding is that the guys who founded Moe's were turned down for a franchise of a local chain (the always-excellent Willy's), and so turned around and started their own.

[555]

Maybe the atmosphere at your location helps with the customer service a bit.

maybe. there are tons of fine ass ladies around there too, along with the tanning place and starbucks in the same lil plaza. its honey heaven. so that might help too.

[Kevin Matchstick]

I get the burrito bowl. Always. With that corn topping.

[Jason P. Thompson]

I get the burrito bowl. Always. With that corn topping.
Burrito bowls are good if you don't want to have to play rocket science with the wrapper and burrito, especially when you're in a hurry.

[Tieman]

the burrito breaks down like this:
50% Rice
20% Beans
20% Steak/Chicken (whatever's your pleasure)
10% Pico de Gallo

That's a horrible meat to rice ratio.

You need to get the fajita burrito. No beans, so you can taste the lime rice, marinated meat, sauteed veggies, & salsa.

Damn, I wish I had seen this thread before I went to lunch.

[Pop Zeus]

Like Dave, I prefer Qdoba to Chipolte. But as a rule, I tend to avoid them because its not terribly good for you, and if I want to eat unhealthy Mexican food, my options in Chicago are wide open. But the Qdoba in my work building gets my business a couple times a month. Is there nothing greater than a mini breakfast burrito?

[Alex Augustine]

Indeed the best $5 bucks you can spend on food. however the number of calories in one burrito is frightening

[Mattimus]

You need to get the fajita burrito. No beans, so you can taste the lime rice, marinated meat, sauteed veggies, & salsa.

I will have to try that. It's been a few years. Maybe things have changed.

And nice to see some fellow love for Felipito's, Jason.

[Jason P. Thompson]

And nice to see some fellow love for Felipito's, Jason.I try to get over there everytime I visit Vegas. I recommend it to everyone I know.

[Matt Goldberg]

i actually prefer Moe's.

You can go straight to hell.

But I prefer Willy's, who actually makes good tasting food. Chipotle's beef is a little too spicy for my taste (but then again, so is mild salsa because my tongue is actually an ice swan).

[Alan "Nordling" Cerny]

When all this is said and done, everyone here should form some sort of farting orchestra.

[Sherm]

I really like Chipotle and all, but Cbus used to have this place called Burritos as Big as Your Head. Man now that was a tasty burrito. I think when we got Chipotle it kinda ran them out of business. My usual Chipotle order goes rice, steak, lettuce and cheese. Unless I am feeling froggy and add some corn salsa.

[Pop Zeus]

I don't think Mexicans hate Chipotle as much as Italians hate Olive Garden. Then again, having never eaten at Olive Garden, I don't know if they should.

[Sister Gracie Lou]

Next time you find yourself in Southern California, find the nearest Roberto's/Roy-berto's/Filiberto's and get yourself a carne asada burrito. It doesn't matter where you go, as long as the place ends in -berto's and has a walk up window and concrete benches out front.

[Patrick Ripoll]

I'm conflicted. I'm Irish, so my bland bland taste buds should flock to shit like Olive Garden, but I've recently been co-opted into the Italian community, so I wouldn't be caught dead there.

Tricky, this one.

[Sherm]

BTW I heard somewhere that Chipotle has free burritos day, and if you go there dressed like a burrito you get a free one. Anyone know if this is true? Cuz I will freaking do it man.

[Jason P. Thompson]

BTW I heard somewhere that Chipotle has free burritos day, and if you go there dressed like a burrito you get a free one. Anyone know if this is true? Cuz I will freaking do it man.
They did it here sometime last year. College kids will do anything for free food.

[Matt Goldberg]

But how much does the Burrito outfit cost?

[Mattimus]

Next time you find yourself in Southern California, find the nearest Roberto's/Roy-berto's/Filiberto's and get yourself a carne asada burrito. It doesn't matter where you go, as long as the place ends in -berto's and has a walk up window and concrete benches out front.

Honestly, I'm not that big a fan of Roberto's. I don't mind their combination plates because they are a pretty good value, but for me, their carne asada burritos just aren't that great. Portion size is no problem. Maybe I got a bum deal because I went to the one across from UNLV.

[Jason P. Thompson]

But how much does the Burrito outfit cost?
Exactly.

[DaveB]

I don't think Mexicans hate Chipotle as much as Italians hate Olive Garden. Then again, having never eaten at Olive Garden, I don't know if they should.

Like I said above, I think it comes down to expectations. It doesn't make much sense to hate on a fast food place (and a far superior one to Taco Bell) where you're only paying $5 for a giant burrito. The decor of these places generally doesn't even have a Mexican vibe. Plus, most good Mexican places don't make their name on pre-fab, assembly-line burritos that could just as easily be filled with turkey, swiss, and mayo with a slight change to the order counter, so it's not like Chipotle is directly stealing their business in most cases.

Olive Garden, on the other hand, tries to play up its Italian-ness in its commercials and charges about as much as you'd pay at a decent mom'n'pop Italian place. Thus more people have the misconception that Olive Garden food is "good" Italian.

[Patrick Ripoll]

I like Chipotle's stainless steel tables. Makes me feel like I'm eating burritos in the future.

[JuddL]

Like I said above, I think it comes down to expectations. It doesn't make much sense to hate on a fast food place (and a far superior one to Taco Bell) where you're only paying $5 for a giant burrito. The decor of these places generally doesn't even have a Mexican vibe. Plus, most good Mexican places don't make their name on pre-fab, assembly-line burritos that could just as easily be filled with turkey, swiss, and mayo with a slight change to the order counter, so it's not like Chipotle is directly stealing their business in most cases.

Olive Garden, on the other hand, tries to play up its Italian-ness in its commercials and charges about as much as you'd pay at a decent mom'n'pop Italian place. Thus more people have the misconception that Olive Garden food is "good" Italian.

There's also the fact that Olive Garden is nearly inedible. I ate there once years ago and I remember the noodles being undercooked, the sauce flavorless, and even the salad dressing blew. I honestly don't understand how they're still in business.

[Sherm]

Not to mention the weird, burrito eating abstract art. It took me 20 minutes to figure out what the fuck it was.

[Chowyunfrag]

This hefty girl at my work always comes in with chipolte and makes fun of us eating our tuperwear filled homemade lunch. I laid this on her abotu a month ago.


Chipotle Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Burrito (1 fixin from each item)
Amount Per Serving: 1

Calories 1424
Calories from Fat 570
Total Fat 63g
Saturated Fat 20.5g
Cholesterol 166mg
Sodium 3339mg
Total Carbohydrate 149g
Dietary Fiber 17.5g
Sugars 7g
Protein 65g



Now the calorie count on a Big Mac/ Medium Fry AND a Medium Coke is:


Calories:1140
Calories from Fat: 490
Total Fat: 53g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 1270
Total Carbohydrate:150
Dietery Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 68g (Coke!)
Protien: 28g

Personally I dont eat either but I hate the fact that alot of people think their are eating healthy at Chipolte,when they really have no clue what they are putting into there body. Well, that bothers me.

[Sharpel007]

plus here in Ohio its the only place to get fresh good Guac for a reasonable price

[Chris Allen]

BTW I heard somewhere that Chipotle has free burritos day, and if you go there dressed like a burrito you get a free one. Anyone know if this is true? Cuz I will freaking do it man.I went to Chipotle a couple of days before tax day this year, and they gave me a "Chipotle Tax Form" to fill out, and return with my receipt on April 15th for a free burrito. I couldn't make it back though, dammit.

[Tieman]

You can greatly reduce the unhealthiness of the burrito (is there really such a thing as a "healthy" burrito?) by dropping the sour cream (which, as far as I'm concerned only waters down the flavor of the spices), cheese, and guacamole.

Of course, you could also go to Fatburger and get a gardenburger, but what's the point of either endeavor? It's not like either is meant to be eaten on a daily basis.

[Jeremy Jochman]

My wife has done WeightWatchers points in the past and she learned that the average burrito is around 16 points (based on a daily 24 points). Removing the tortilla (i.e. get the burrito bowl) cuts it down to something like 7 points.

[Chris Wood]

There's also the fact that Olive Garden is nearly inedible. I ate there once years ago and I remember the noodles being undercooked, the sauce flavorless, and even the salad dressing blew. I honestly don't understand how they're still in business.

Then again it's rare to get properly cooked pasta in the U.S. It's usually overcooked.

[Pop Zeus]

Olive Garden, on the other hand, tries to play up its Italian-ness in its commercials and charges about as much as you'd pay at a decent mom'n'pop Italian place. Thus more people have the misconception that Olive Garden food is "good" Italian.

If the food's as bad as people say it is, then they're pulling the great spaghetti & meatball swindle on dumbass Americans.

[Micah Robinson]

Plus their carnitas are good...

Good ain't the word. While a lot of their other stuff is par for the course Tex-Mex, the carnitas are above even a lot of local authentic taquerias around here. They have all of the flavor and texture, but none of the fat.

[Chris Miller]

Thanks Chow, for ruining the fun. Around here I have access to a Chipotle, a Moe's, a Qdoba, a Baggia Fresh (that's all I'll call it now), and a nice local place called Frisco Burritoes.

Chipotle- Good burritoes, the corn salsa is a nice touch, Chips are waaayy too salty, and there's no queso to dip them in
Moe's- I actually like their ground beef in a quesadilla a lot, and their salsa is very garlicky and good, plus it's the closest to my apartment.
Baggia Fresh - I'm not a fan, I think everything is absolutely drenched in lime and onions, and the first time I had it I was happy to be near a bathroom.
Qdoba- Not bad, again on the salty chips. Good queso dip and good barbacoa.
Frisco-I love the Frisco burrito, they have their own barbeque sauce that tastes awesome.
The town half an hour to my north has a nice authentic mexican restaurant that has great combo platters, but when I go there, I tend to get enchiladas rather than a burrito.

[El Gray]

Word. Those of you who visit Chipotle and have NOT tried the carnitas as your meat of choice are MISSING OUT. It's their best offering (with the barbacoa coming in second), and I will call you a FOOL for ordering the chicken or steak.

In case you want to spoil any fun you may have going to Chipotle, here's the Chipotle Nutrition Facts Calculator. FEAR IT.

http://www.chipotlefan.com/index.php?id=nutrition_calculator

Also, Moe's blows in comparison.

[Belethedheliel]

Freebirds (http://www.freebirds.com/) World Burrito.

[Phil]

When I'm hungry, I send the kid out for Baggia Fresh (Jesus, what has Paulie Walnuts done). I enjoy the option of dumping an assload of cilantro onto my food.

We don't have Chipotle in Philly, but there's a copy of it called El Fuego that people are addicted to. Ass-piss, every time. And I'd prefer to spend a few more dollars on an actual Mexican restaraunt if I'm going to be eating that badly.

[El Gray]

Freebirds (http://www.freebirds.com/) World Burrito.
Oh, I know it and love it, but I don't get back to TX that often!
THE BEST.

I have two Freebirds tshirts.

[Chavez]

Chipotle Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Burrito (1 fixin from each item)
Amount Per Serving: 1

Calories 1424
Calories from Fat 570
Total Fat 63g
Saturated Fat 20.5g
Cholesterol 166mg
Sodium 3339mg


Dammit.

Look at that sodium - you might as well mainline tomato juice.

[Joe LeFors]

God, I love Chipotle so much. It's 9am and this thread is making me hungry...But Chipotle doesn't open for another 2 hours.

[Alan "Nordling" Cerny]

Freebirds (http://www.freebirds.com/) World Burrito.

THERE ya go. I had forgotten about Freebird's.

[The LD]

I really like Chipotle and all, but Cbus used to have this place called Burritos as Big as Your Head. Man now that was a tasty burrito. I think when we got Chipotle it kinda ran them out of business. My usual Chipotle order goes rice, steak, lettuce and cheese. Unless I am feeling froggy and add some corn salsa.

LA BAMBA WENT OUT OF BUSINESS????

[Doug]

We just had a Baja Fresh open in my area. Never heard of Chipoltes, but it must taste like warmed over dog shit if you're telling me Baja is better. I've never had blander mexican food.

[D. Richard]

But how much does the Burrito outfit cost?
It's on Halloween, at least in Minneapolis, and the locations get so lackadaisical that all you have to wear is a smidgen of aluminum foil. I made a crown which promptly made me look like a fuckhead. The young'ns wore even less (around their wrists or around the neck) but we all got free burritos goddammit.

And on voting day, you get a free burrito with your "I voted" sticker which they then confiscate upon purchase so that you don't just walk right back in.

I heard they do something for Valentine's Day too, but I can't remember what it was. Wearing red or pink or something. All of this depends upon participating locations I suppose.

But still, two days a year where you get free food is two days more than most places.

[Bailey]

BTW I heard somewhere that Chipotle has free burritos day, and if you go there dressed like a burrito you get a free one. Anyone know if this is true? Cuz I will freaking do it man.


I think they still do that. At my brother's store you had to make an effort, though. Once a guy came in with some tinfoil wrapped around his wrist and said "look, I'm a burrito." He said "No, you're not." and made him pay.

[Mattimus]

Well, thanks to this thread, I just got back from Felipito's after having a craving for it like a pregnant woman. It's been a good two years or so since I have been there (I no longer live anywhere near one) and it was like Christmas morning when you were a kid. That nice, warm feeling of stuffing my face with something I know is much worse than a McDonald's value meal, but loving every minute of it.

I washed it all down with a large horchata. Later, I plan on cracking my porcelain toilet with the fire of a thousand suns.

[swedish miyagi]

Can you give me directions to that place for the next time I go to Vegas?

Chipotle is better than Baja Fresh in my book. BF is a little too greasy and boring. And their salsa tastes like a fucking ashtray. I think the recipe might be tomatoes and cigarette butts. At Chipotle I recommend the burrito bowl, I'm sorry bol, to avoid bites full of nothing but rice.

[El Gray]

At Chipotle I recommend the burrito bowl, I'm sorry bol, to avoid bites full of nothing but rice.
This brings up a quirk of mine-- When I get a burrito at Chipotle (or anywhere that prepares them in front of you like that), I have them mix everything up before they wrap it. Some Burrito Artists do this readily, while others look at me like I just asked them to wipe their ass with my tortilla, then reassemble it. It's not that strange an idea-- I would ideally like to have some meat, cheese, rice and salsa in every bite.

Anyway, I recommend this practice to others, and I don't see why it isn't the default, aside from the fact that it takes them an extra 10 seconds.

[swedish miyagi]

That is a really excellent idea El Gray. The burrito artists who look at you like they have a problem with it should be put in jail for five years.

[Casey Moore]

Freebirds was one of my wife's cravings when she was pregnant. Yeah, we got a t-shirt during those 9 months.

We have a place here in New Orleans that does decent burritos:

http://www.juansflyingburrito.com/

Also, thanks to the influx of hispanic workers we have mobile taqueria stands everywhere. Sadly we still have nothing like a Freebirds.

[Mattimus]

Can you give me directions to that place for the next time I go to Vegas?

The main cross streets are Tropicana Ave. and Maryland Parkway. Strangely enough, it is right next to a sit down Mexican restaurant called Macayo's, which isn't that great when it comes to authentic food. On a boiling hot Vegas day, there really is nothing like get a honkin' cup of horchata to cool you down.

Felipito's info & directions (http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&btnG=Google+Search&um=1&q=felipito's&near=Las+Vegas,+NV&fb=1&latlng=36100913,-115135067,13236404127731663825)

[swedish miyagi]

thanks.

[Belethedheliel]

Oh, I know it and love it, but I don't get back to TX that often!
THE BEST.

I have two Freebirds tshirts.

I have only been back once in the last 3 years, and there wasn't a Freebirds where I went. A friend is coming to visit and I think I shall demand that a Freebirds be brought on the flight. Even cold leftover Freebirds is better than anything in this state.

[erik myers]

BEGINS AS: Crunchy tacos barbacoa, with cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, and red chili.

ENDS AS: Firey poo.

The burning is so worth it, though. It's just a bit disconcerting when I realize that it smells exactly the same coming out as it did going in.

[Martianman]

Chipotle is goodness. I usually opt for a bowl, but from time to time get the soft tacos. Here's another fun tip for you salsa lovers out there: ask them to mix the corn salsa and the green salsa on your dish. It is close to a masterpiece of condiment delight.

[EdHocken]

Speaking of free deals, the Chipotle I went to near my school had a thing where if you showed your college ID you would get a free drink.

[Pop Zeus]

So, a Pollo Loco just opened up in my old hood, and the new kid on the Mexican-fast food block is quite tasty. The old guard need to watch out.

[Graynadian]

Wow, America has fucking shitloads of chain restaurants. It's amazing how you're all familiar with the dozens that get brought up. We only have the American classics (McD's, Wendys, KFC, Pizza Hut) in Canada.

I'm quite jealous of the apparaent burrito availability. There is literally one cheap taco joint in downtown Montreal, and it's only good after the bar. Toronto only has a couple of Taco bells that I know of, and that's it.

[Martin Savage]

Wow, America has fucking shitloads of chain restaurants. It's amazing how you're all familiar with the dozens that get brought up. We only have the American classics (McD's, Wendys, KFC, Pizza Hut) in Canada.

I'm quite jealous of the apparaent burrito availability. There is literally one cheap taco joint in downtown Montreal, and it's only good after the bar. Toronto only has a couple of Taco bells that I know of, and that's it.

ATTENTION FELLOW MONTREALER,

There's a Taco Bell in Pierrefond. And apparently, it's the first of many upcoming of them.

But still, there's a lack of Tex-Mex crap in here.

[4496 aka Joe Sixpack]

i must live in burrito bar bizzaro world then cause here the moe's is kick ass and the food is way better than chipotle. and the "welcome to moe's"'s are pretty enthusiastic, if you give a fuck bout that sorta thing. maybe its cause its right next to a big ass university. and they serve beer, too. not like i really care. i prefer to cook at home anyway. but burritos are awesome. man, im stoned.

There are several Moe's down this way too that are really good. I like a burrito that's bigger than a shoe box.

[swedish miyagi]

So, a Pollo Loco just opened up in my old hood, and the new kid on the Mexican-fast food block is quite tasty. The old guard need to watch out.

Really, I thought Pollo Loco blew. I am comparing that to some non franchised rotisserie chicken spots. But even franchise wise Chicken Out blows away Pollo loco in that department. I was really disappointed in Pollo Loco the time I went.

[EdHocken]

I always liked Pollo Loco (They're everywhere here) although they used to have this one item a "Chicken Salad" bowl that's no longer on the menu. But good roasted chicken and mashed potatoes.

Although the cole slaw sucks.

[moovyphreak]

No Chipotle or Qdoba around these parts, though I am fairly certain they having franchises in Atlanta and I wouldn't be surprised if they were in Charlotte or Raleigh (the other closest big cities) either.

We have Moe's, which is good, though I prefer a local taqueria called Taco Dog (in addition to burritos, quesdillas, tacos and more, they also serve a variety of regionally-themed grilled hot dogs and homemade corn dogs, hence the name).

[Jonathan Banks is my hero]

This brings up a quirk of mine-- When I get a burrito at Chipotle (or anywhere that prepares them in front of you like that), I have them mix everything up before they wrap it. Some Burrito Artists do this readily, while others look at me like I just asked them to wipe their ass with my tortilla, then reassemble it. It's not that strange an idea-- I would ideally like to have some meat, cheese, rice and salsa in every bite.

Anyway, I recommend this practice to others, and I don't see why it isn't the default, aside from the fact that it takes them an extra 10 seconds.

I love doing this as well, and one of the fun collateral perks is that as soon as other people in line hear you do it, they think it's the best idea ever and they want in. This happens without fail; once I do it, I'll hear the three or four people behind me ask them to mix it up. They give that nasty look to each one. Awesome.

[DJ HiPPiE]

This hefty girl at my work always comes in with chipolte and makes fun of us eating our tuperwear filled homemade lunch. I laid this on her abotu a month ago.


Chipotle Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Burrito (1 fixin from each item)
Amount Per Serving: 1

Calories 1424
Calories from Fat 570
Total Fat 63g
Saturated Fat 20.5g
Cholesterol 166mg
Sodium 3339mg
Total Carbohydrate 149g
Dietary Fiber 17.5g
Sugars 7g
Protein 65g



Now the calorie count on a Big Mac/ Medium Fry AND a Medium Coke is:


Calories:1140
Calories from Fat: 490
Total Fat: 53g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 1270
Total Carbohydrate:150
Dietery Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 68g (Coke!)
Protien: 28g

Personally I dont eat either but I hate the fact that alot of people think their are eating healthy at Chipolte,when they really have no clue what they are putting into there body. Well, that bothers me.

HOLYFUCKING SHIT!!!! That's as bad as eating a double whataburger.

I have never seen how anyone could think they could eat a burrito so big it could star in it's own porno and think that since it's got lettuce and some salsa on it that it was good for you.

[moovyphreak]

Good idea on the mixing up. I'll try it the next time I get a burrito.

The last time I went to hang out with billylove in Atlanta, we went to a local burrito chain, but I don't believe it was Chipotle and it certainly wasn't any of the other places mentioned above. Nevertheless, it was good, but a lot of these places are so similar to me in terms of burrito taste, it's hard to tell them apart.

Anyway, about 7 years ago, when I was still a college student and living in the Atlanta area (before Moe's was around), I found a place called Maui Tacos in the town nearest my college. It was quite good from what I remember, but since I don't eat burritos continuously and don't have multiple places to sample from, it's kind of hard to compare. I just looked them up and they'd closed all their locations in the Atlanta area and it seems they are mostly located in airports and on university campuses now.

[Dr Vivisector]

This hefty girl at my work always comes in with chipolte and makes fun of us eating our tuperwear filled homemade lunch. I laid this on her abotu a month ago.


Chipotle Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Burrito (1 fixin from each item)
Amount Per Serving: 1

Calories 1424
Calories from Fat 570
Total Fat 63g
Saturated Fat 20.5g
Cholesterol 166mg
Sodium 3339mg
Total Carbohydrate 149g
Dietary Fiber 17.5g
Sugars 7g
Protein 65g



Now the calorie count on a Big Mac/ Medium Fry AND a Medium Coke is:


Calories:1140
Calories from Fat: 490
Total Fat: 53g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 1270
Total Carbohydrate:150
Dietery Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 68g (Coke!)
Protien: 28g

Personally I dont eat either but I hate the fact that alot of people think their are eating healthy at Chipolte,when they really have no clue what they are putting into there body. Well, that bothers me.

Don't worry. In a few years when we're out of oil and water, and having to eat Soylent Green I can look back on these days and sigh happily.

Geez, I'm starting to feel like Edward G Robinson right about now.....

[Matt M]

The last time I went to hang out with billylove in Atlanta, we went to a local burrito chain, but I don't believe it was Chipotle and it certainly wasn't any of the other places mentioned above.


It wasn't Willy's (http://www.willysmexicanagrill.com/)?

[DJ HiPPiE]

Just for shits and giggles I went and looked this up.

Here are the stats that Chowyunfrag gave on the Chipotle burrito

Chipotle Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Burrito (1 fixin from each item)
Amount Per Serving: 1

Calories 1424
Calories from Fat 570
Total Fat 63g
Saturated Fat 20.5g
Cholesterol 166mg
Sodium 3339mg
Total Carbohydrate 149g
Dietary Fiber 17.5g
Sugars 7g
Protein 65g

and here are the stats on a beef grilled stuffed burrito from taco bell.

Calories 680
Total Fat 30g
Saturated Fat 1g
Cholesterol 55mg
Sodium 2120mg
Total Carbohydrate 76g
Dietary Fiber 9g
Sugars 6g
Protein 27g


Wow.

[Pop Zeus]

The thing that's misleading about these nutrition facts is that a Chipotle burrito weighs as much as a newborn, but more realistically at least twice as much as a Taco Bell burrito.

Everytime I've had one, its actually been a chore to finish.

[DJ HiPPiE]

Taco bell's Grilled stuffed burrito is pretty hefty as well....But probably not as heavy as chipotle's.

After my health scare last week I have no intention on eating either.

[DaveB]

The thing that's misleading about these nutrition facts is that a Chipotle burrito weighs as much as a newborn, but more realistically at least twice as much as a Taco Bell burrito.

Everytime I've had one, its actually been a chore to finish.

Very good point. I admit that I've usually finished a Chipotle or Qdoba burrito when I've ordered one, but I probably didn't need to finish it to have a pretty filling, satisfying meal. I could probably eat about half (with a bottle of water) and be as full as I would have been had I eaten a Big Mac, fries, and a Coke, and far more full than I would have been had I eaten one of Taco Bell's comparatively dinky offerings.

Sure, these deluxe burrito places aren't great for you, but McDonald's and Taco Bell are more insidious because you don't get full as easily. It's the Krispy Kreme conundrum - one doughnut barely registers, so you think you want another until you realize that the nutritional information is roughly the same as that of a three-tiered wedding cake.

[Jonathan Banks is my hero]

Another thing to remember is that the Chipotle calculating includes everything on the table. It's basically a worst case scenario (beans, meat, cheese, SC, guac, etc.) I don't know many folks who get all that stuff. You can scale back on the fixings and get a reasonably nutritious meal. Still high on sodium regardless, but you could do a hell of a lot worse.

[Guttenberg Fan Club]

Another thing to remember is that the Chipotle calculating includes everything on the table. It's basically a worst case scenario (beans, meat, cheese, SC, guac, etc.) I don't know many folks who get all that stuff. You can scale back on the fixings and get a reasonably nutritious meal. Still high on sodium regardless, but you could do a hell of a lot worse.

Not according to that calculator someone posted earlier. Basically, you can get a 'not going to kill you' meal if you have rice, veggies and beans plopped in a 25% post-consumer waste bowl.

It's still goddamn delicious, especially the carnitas. It's just so damn juicy.

[DaveB]

Another thing to remember is that the Chipotle calculating includes everything on the table. It's basically a worst case scenario (beans, meat, cheese, SC, guac, etc.) I don't know many folks who get all that stuff. You can scale back on the fixings and get a reasonably nutritious meal. Still high on sodium regardless, but you could do a hell of a lot worse.

True. I was experimenting with the calculator El Gray linked to above and figured out that I can get a fairly satisfying Chipotle meal (any of the meats, any of the salsas, with rice, faquita veggies, and cheese in a bowl) that's less than half the calories than the stats that Chowyunfrag posted. Eliminating the tortilla takes off a lot, as does eliminating sour cream or cheese (or both, though that's not a sacrifice I'm willing to make).

And, again, no one says you have to finish your meal. I'd be pretty content with about 3/4s (maybe even half) of a 684-calorie (312 calories from fat) chicken burrito bol with fajita vegetables and cheese.

Or you can get tacos, which eliminates rice, beans, and fajita veggies, and puts you in the more reasonable 5, 6, or 700s right off the bat (depending on cheese, sour cream, and guacamole).

You don't get these kinds of options at McDonald's or Taco Bell, and the portions there are small enough that you're damn near guaranteed to finish and possibly even still be hungry in a couple hours. Plus, even on a bad day, Chipotle or Qdoba still tastes way better than Taco Bell.

[Guttenberg Fan Club]

Playing with the calculator more, here's a question I have - why the fuck do their tortillas have 9 grams of fat?

[DaveB]

Playing with the calculator more, here's a question I have - why the fuck do their tortillas have 9 grams of fat?

You wouldn't think it, but I believe that's about standard. I double-checked here (http://www.nutritiondata.com/facts-C00001-01c21Ka.html). Flour tortillas are just generally pretty high in fat.

[Pop Zeus]

Corn tortillas (the un refried kind) are low in fat since they're just made of corn and water, but flour tortillas are made with mutherfuckin' lard. S'why I always request corn tortillas at the taqueria.

[Guttenberg Fan Club]

That's still a big leap. I was seeing 4.5 grams for burrito-size tortillas from other brands, and to double that just seems odd. More power to them if they're actually using lard, though.

[swedish miyagi]

Zeus, "S'why"...really? What was the other thing you said a few days ago that somebody said "really?" too?

Tortilla's have oil in them too. But I agree that the notion that Chipotle is unhealthy and especially that is unhealthy compared to Mcdonalds is really dumb. Especially if you get a bowl with chicken as your meat, and don't get sour cream. Then you can't go wrong, cheese is no big deal, the fat in avacados/guacamole is good fat and sure rice is simple sugars but fuck it's not a problem. Beans are healthy, the salsas are not unhealthy. It's just sour cream and the barbacoa has a decent amount of fat to the level of a burger probably. And of course the portions are big. People don't usually go to taco bell and order only one item, they order like 3 tacos and a burrito. I've never seen anyone order two chipotle burritos.

[Jason P. Thompson]

I've never seen anyone order two chipotle burritos.*whistles*

[Pop Zeus]

Zeus, "S'why"...really? What was the other thing you said a few days ago that somebody said "really?" too?

Huh?

[Vader]

I was visiting a friend in Santa Barbara last year and near the university campus is a place called Freebirds, I don't know if it's the same one that was mentioned here but goddamn was it delicious.

It's where all the drunk and high college kids end up at odd hours of the evening. AND it's open 24hrs.

But being Mexican...I hate arguing how "Homemade Mexican food is better." Well, I know lots of Mexican's who make really shitty meals so some of you are probably better off with Baja Fresh and Chipotle.

[kungfumonkeyMike]

Yeah, like many have said, Chipotle is step up from a typical fast food place health-wise... unless you have high blood pressure and are trying to watch your sodium intake.

Dear God, a bare bones burrito has over 100% of your daily allowance, and with fixings you can easily near enough sodium for 2 days. Spectacular!

[Scott]

Love their shit. I shot an ad for some contest they had in school. Got two lousy t-shirts, four free meal coupons, free lunch, four free chips and guac, and some other swag. Better than getting paid.

And being able to buy domestic and imported beer there is great.

[EdHocken]

Corn tortillas (the un refried kind) are low in fat since they're just made of corn and water, but flour tortillas are made with mutherfuckin' lard. S'why I always request corn tortillas at the taqueria.

Which is also why flour tortillas taste a helluva lot better than corn tortillas. Not to mention corn tortillas can dry out pretty damn quick.

[swedish miyagi]

Huh?

I was refering to when you called Jack's father on Lost "Xtian" instead of Christian. Along with "S'why" you're terminology is semi revolutionary.

[Guttenberg Fan Club]

Which is also why flour tortillas taste a helluva lot better than corn tortillas. Not to mention corn tortillas can dry out pretty damn quick.

This isn't remotely true. Flour tortillas are flavorless unless made with lard (and even then, it's not a lot of flavor), while corn tortillas are goddamn delicious. It's like saying Wonder bread is better than cornbread.

[EdHocken]

That maybe true Guttenberg but you still haven't responded to the other half my statement aboud which tortilla dries out faster.

[DaveB]

That's still a big leap. I was seeing 4.5 grams for burrito-size tortillas from other brands, and to double that just seems odd. More power to them if they're actually using lard, though.

I'm not sure which brand(s) they're using for the data on that site I linked to, but if you switch the size with the dropdown menu at the top, it checks out. The 12" tortilla is listed as having 9 grams of fat. Chipotle apparently uses 13" tortillas.

[Guttenberg Fan Club]

That maybe true Guttenberg but you still haven't responded to the other half my statement aboud which tortilla dries out faster.

Corn tortillas dry out faster. Of course, I've never had an issue with eating tacos so slowly that the shells dry out before I can eat them. If I'm eating something like fajitas where I'm going to be adding meat and toppings myself, I fully expect a tortilla warmer to be at my side to halt the drying process.

The fact that something dries out faster is actually a positive for me, anyways. Foods that stay moist for long periods of time have had shitloads of processing.

[Jonathan Banks is my hero]

Flour tortillas shouldn't be compared to corn tortillas in terms of flavor anyway. They're just there as a fajita delivery vehicle. They're designed to be bland, so as not to get in the way of the Explosion of Taste. Corn tortillas, meanwhile, are meant to sit at their own table at the Flavor Dance. They bring their own luggage on the Flavor Travel Adventure.

(Sorry, I was just posting in the Dane Cook thread)

I don't much care for the taste of corn tortillas so I prefer flour, but there's certainly room for both. It's like comparing cheap beer and good wine.

[EdHocken]

I can completley agree with what Banks is saying in relation to the tortilla issue.

[Matt M]

Corn tortillas dry out faster. Of course, I've never had an issue with eating tacos so slowly that the shells dry out before I can eat them.

I think the relative dryness of a corn tortilla also makes them unfeasible for a burrito, as they'll tear easily in the wrapping process.

[Guttenberg Fan Club]

They're impossible for burritos. They don't even make corn tortillas big enough for such a process. I was merely refuting the claim of flour tasting better than corn.

[Mattioli]

I've only seen one Chipotle in my life. Oh, it was a grand thing, calling to me like some beautiful siren of refried beans and salsa. I remember it was unseasonably warm that day, as though summer was giving one last struggle against the dying of the light. That was in Chantilly, Virginia. September 30, 2006. My wife said we had no time to stop, had to get home. I protested, but she was inexhorable. And I shed a single, solitary tear as I watched, via my rearview mirror, Chipotle recede into the distance. I lost something that day. I believe it was my innocence.

Now, I'm back in Pennsylvania, surrounded by Taco Bells. And that, my friends, is cold comfort, indeed.

[swedish miyagi]

I hate to pour salt on your wound, but there was a Chipotle in Herdon and Dulles too.