As a Chipotle crew member, I know a thing or two about creating an extraordinary restaurant experience. At Chipotle, we thrive to change the way people think and eat fast food. Since 1993, we've done a pretty great job, and we're becoming more popular by the minute. However, there are a few setbacks we, unfortunately, can't help (guac being extra, tortillas breaking, etc.). Here are a few tips and tricks to help our loyal guests out in the future.
"I want guac but I don't want to pay the extra $2.25."
Because the avocados are expensive to buy, we, unfortunately, have to charge guests extra for guacamole. HOWEVER, if you want guacamole without paying for it, you can always get a veggie bowl. Getting a veggie bowl gets you everything you ever wanted (minus the meat) with ~free~ guac on top. And if you don't want it on top, you can always ask for it on the side.
"I prefer burritos over bowls, but they keep ripping/falling apart."
Recently, Chipotle has changed out the old tortillas with new ones with no preservatives. This is healthier and more beneficial to your diet, but the downside is that they are slightly smaller than the previous tortillas. This is the likely cause of your burrito bursting at its seams. To prevent this you can do one of three things:
1. Ask for smaller portions. (It may not be your favorite option, but it's an idea)
2. Don't get as many things in your burrito. (Again, not the fan favorite.)
3. Ask your crew member for a double wrapped burrito. Getting a double wrapped burrito is just two tortillas layered over each other to make your burrito. It's free of charge and it prevents your burrito from breaking and gives you more space for deliciousness.
"I don't like the cilantro-lime rice."
No worries. At Chipotle, we make all the rice ourselves, so we have regular rice in the kitchen prepped and ready. If you prefer rice without cilantro, just let your crew member know and they'll be happy to get it for you.
"I'm tired of biting into my burrito and only tasting one thing at a time."
When making your burritos, we layer everything one on top of the other. Usually, we don't ask if you would like it mixed up, but don't be afraid to speak up! Us crew members would be happy to mix the ingredients of your perfect meal before we roll it up.
"I want Chipotle, but it's a little expensive."
Get the kid's meal if you're feeling a little frugal. You have the choice of a kid's quesadilla or Build-Your-Own taco kit (2 tacos). The meal comes with chips or a clementine and a drink, all for $5.50. If that's not something you're interested in, you can always as a grandma for gift cards.
"I want a quesarito, but it's not on the menu. Does it exist?"
IT DOES EXIST. The quesarito is a quesadilla/burrito hybrid with the melted cheese of a quesadilla, but the look and ingredients of a burrito. It's delicious, and probably my favorite thing to eat. We make them very often, but do keep in mind that it is an additional $3.50 on top of your burrito price.
"I have a very long order, but I don't want to be the guy to hold up the line."
Chipotle offers the option to place your order online or call in. You can even pay online, too. Once you make your order, it is sent to us and we do our best to make it before you arrive to pick it up. Online ordering comes in handy when you have several orders to be placed.
And finally,
"I have a severe allergy."
At Chipotle, we do our best to customize each and every guest experience. We have a list of all possible allergy-related ingredients in our food. If you have an allergy and let us know, we will wash our hands, switch out or gloves, and pull fresh ingredients out of the walk-in to avoid any cross contamination. We want our guests to be happy AND healthy and we have no problem catering to our guests' needs.
I hope this information was helpful to all new, old, and potential Chipotle guests. I hope you enjoy your next time with us and maybe use a few of my tips and tricks next time you're hungry!