A mixed bag when it comes to service, for certain.
For some inexplicable reason, I keep giving this new Chipotle multiple chances. I usually wouldn't do that, but at this point, I'm glad that I did give them another chance to turn it around after so many miserable attempts at eating here. Because of those previous experiences, I'm torn between giving them three or four stars, but I'll give them the benefit of the doubt because they were rather new at the time.
For whatever reason, I decided to give this Chipotle another shot this week. I don't know why since every other opportunity I've given them over the past 11 months has descended into frustration and me usually walking out the door empty-handed or starving after a ungodly long wait only to receive mediocre food that didn't look presentable and tasted about as good.
I've walked out of here sans food at least twice before, swearing I'd never return, after hanging out in line for 20 minutes with no hope of ever getting to the front of the line. I thought this was supposed to be considered "fast casual?" That kind of poor service in the past didn't denote anything "fast" in my opinion. It felt as if I was standing in line for an attraction at the Magic Kingdom.
I walked in with zero expectations and managed to get served immediately. Wow, that was a first. The ordering process was quick and painless, unlike every other experience I've had at this Chipotle up until now, and our order was ready within minutes. I had the veggie burrito and my husband ordered the chorizo burrito advertised on special, plus a side of chips and salsa. The guy making the order did seem a little distracted and asked me what kind of meat I wanted on my veggie burrito (hey, dude, it's a veggie burrito. I don't want any meat on it, okay?), but I chalked it up to the fact that they probably don't get a lot of requests for vegetarian options here. No big deal.
We sat down and found a spot at one of the large high top tables in the center. I noticed the place was clean- much cleaner than the last two times I was here. At least there was no trash spilling onto the floor or tables that needed cleaning this time.
As we ate, I noticed the line fill up, extending back to the entrance again. Nonetheless, the line moved quickly. That was a first, at least based on what I've seen here. Usually, the service here is notoriously slow. Maybe they're finally getting their act together? One can hope!
The food was pretty solid and consistent this time. Unlike before, my order wasn't messy and didn't like it was thrown together by a pre-schooler. It looked and tasted the way it should, with an enviable topping of fresh veggies, cheese and sauce. I opted for the wheat burrito this time and actually thought it was pretty good. I'll probably order it the same way again. It was decent Tex Mex food, better than fast food and less expensive than a traditional sit-down restaurant with wait service.
My husband commented that his burrito was good, seemed very filling, and that at least it didn't look like it was smashed together and tossed into a bag like before. I have to say my burrito, for the bargain price of about $6.50 (most are priced around that mark), definitely quelled my hunger for the rest of the day, so I'd say it was a quick, hearty meal worth its price.
I can't wait for this Chipotle location to have it's liquor license approved. You heard me- they're on the waiting list to get a liquor license to serve beer and both Sauza and Patron margaritas. They're already on the menu, but a sign below it says "liquor license pending." I asked the girl at the counter about it and she said they're still awaiting approval until the liquor commission checks out their outdoor patio structure to ensure that it's up to code to allow customers to drink alcohol on it. Now, that will be a happy day, indeed! Until then, I'll have to settle for iced tea or bottled water. read more