Restaurant Review: Chipotle Mexican Grill

I was growing extremely tired of the Mexican fast food restaurants that I had been frequenting in the Phoenix area. The bean burrito served on a tasteless tortilla without any condiments, except a plastic packet of taco sauce was becoming very boring to me. Then a good friend invited me to lunch at Chipotle Mexican Grill and my Mexican fast food experience has never been the same! Now I feast on Gourmet Burritos all the time at a fast food price, what could be better?

Chipotle Mexican Grill Locations in the Phoenix Area

That first visit was to the Chipotle Mexican Grill located at 1560 N. Litchfield Rd. in Goodyear, AZ. I frequent this location most often because it is the closest to my home. But I have also visited the Chipotle located at 99^th Ave. and McDowell Rd. across from Costco. This location has a strange restroom issue. They have you ask for a key at the counter, similar to a gas station restroom situation. I didn't like this inconvenience, but I did not ask them why they do this. I have to say this is my only negative remark about this restaurant chain, and not all Chipotle's do this. There are 38 Chipotle locations in the Phoenix area! Check out the Chipotle Website for a location nearest you!

Ambiance of Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle is a chain so all the restaurants have the same motif; a simple, unique, industrial loft theme is how I describe the design. According to their website every Chipotle has original artwork from Bruce Gueswel, a noted sculptor, whose artwork is inspired by the artistic style of the ancient Mayans. The Sculptor also designed the unique chairs that are placed around metal topped tables in the dining areas.

The locations I frequent have outdoor patio seating and I love this opportunity. Especially in Phoenix, with the nice weather we have here, whenever I can sit outside and eat café style I feel like I am on vacation!

"Food With Integrity"

"Food With Integrity" is Chipotle's marketing slogan and is printed above the service counter. It is not a product line but a philosophy they claim so they will strive to serve better tasting food, which comes from better sources and is better for the animals and the environment. Chipotle Mexican Grill also claim that their food does not contain any artificial coloring or flavoring and zero trans fats! How is that for eating healthier?

Food is fresh and prepared right before your eyes and you can customize your order. If you want more of any item...just ask. If you don't want an item, no problem, you get to choose exactly what you want on your gourmet burrito or bowl!

Menu

I love the chicken fajita bowl. It is my favorite because they season the chicken just right and the bell pepper and onions are grilled perfectly. Other meat options include; pork and 2 types of beef. You can customize burritos, tacos and bowls with any meat choice, rice, beans, seasoned corn, salsa, sour cream, cheese, guacamole, and lettuce. Prices start at $5.95 and the serving size is huge, so be prepared to take some food home with you!

The beverages they serve are fountain drinks with free refills. They also serve bottled beer! Can't get that at other Mexican styled fast food restaurants! Click here for a link to the menu.

Ordering Online

You can now order online and also with a new ordering app for your i-phone. Click here for more details.

Sources:
My own experience
http://www.chipotle.com/html/restaurants.aspx#design
http://www.chipotle.com/html/fwi.aspx