Unfortunately the subject line does not explain the burrito's usual path along my digestive tract, but rather describes this past May's burrito appreciation month from the eyes of yours truely.
June 1 is always a reflective day as it marks the official end of the most wonderful 31 days of the year, May, in which we celebrate the burrito.
The first half of this month I was carelessly frolicing for burrito stand to burrito stand without a care in the world. Beautiful spanglish flowed from my mouth, and the burrito was the center of my attention. In the second half of May, due to a relentless work and travel schedule, coupled with numerous personal engagements, I was hardly able to make time for my dear old friend the burrito.
Although over the last 2+ weeks I was only able to enjoy 3 burritos, I feel it is my appointed duty to tell you about these burrito experiences:
1. Las Camales #3 -
1500 block of West 18th Street (Pilsen) - On Mothers Day I took a trip to Pilsen to celebrate the other giver of life, the burrito. My sights were set on El Nuevo Leon which I believe to be the best and most authentic Mexican Resturant in Chicago. I could write a novel on the merits of this paradise located on the near south side of Chicago. With its excellence, though, comes a huge following and a 2+ hour wait, mostly consisting of locals from the neighborhood. Strapped for time I went across the street to Las Camales #3 and ordered a Pastor y Carne Asada Burrito. The staff was extremely friendly and the scene was vibrant, however, the burrito was only average...there was no greatness here. Nothing wrong with the burrito, but nothing to pull me back...it was kind of like the neighbor who is nice enough, but doesn't really beckon you in. Average meat and beans, OK veggies. I give it a 5.5 out of 10.
2. Las Asadas - 2000 block of North Western Ave (Bucktown) - This burrito stand is in a brand
new and much upgraded location. It used to be located in a small shack across the street that is now populated by a hot dog stand. Although it is now in a very nice locale, it has not lost its roots, making great burritos. The Las Asadas Burrito is a meat lovers dream. I ordered a carne asada burrito mixed only with cilantro and onions. The meat is delicious, and the burrito was great! Even in the 85-degree mid-day heat, this was an excellent way to top of a nice long run through the neighborhood. The burrito never touched the plate once I picked it up. 8.5 out of 10.
3. The Burrito house - 3500 block of North Lincoln Ave (Northcenter) - There is no reason to even write about this burrito - it is simply the best! 10 out of 10! Get the hell off you computer and go get one (I recommend Al Pastor, but there is no wrong choice here, even for vegetarians)! Go, now!!! Buena, Buena, Buena!!!
June 1 is always a reflective day as it marks the official end of the most wonderful 31 days of the year, May, in which we celebrate the burrito.
The first half of this month I was carelessly frolicing for burrito stand to burrito stand without a care in the world. Beautiful spanglish flowed from my mouth, and the burrito was the center of my attention. In the second half of May, due to a relentless work and travel schedule, coupled with numerous personal engagements, I was hardly able to make time for my dear old friend the burrito.
Although over the last 2+ weeks I was only able to enjoy 3 burritos, I feel it is my appointed duty to tell you about these burrito experiences:
1. Las Camales #3 -
1500 block of West 18th Street (Pilsen) - On Mothers Day I took a trip to Pilsen to celebrate the other giver of life, the burrito. My sights were set on El Nuevo Leon which I believe to be the best and most authentic Mexican Resturant in Chicago. I could write a novel on the merits of this paradise located on the near south side of Chicago. With its excellence, though, comes a huge following and a 2+ hour wait, mostly consisting of locals from the neighborhood. Strapped for time I went across the street to Las Camales #3 and ordered a Pastor y Carne Asada Burrito. The staff was extremely friendly and the scene was vibrant, however, the burrito was only average...there was no greatness here. Nothing wrong with the burrito, but nothing to pull me back...it was kind of like the neighbor who is nice enough, but doesn't really beckon you in. Average meat and beans, OK veggies. I give it a 5.5 out of 10.2. Las Asadas - 2000 block of North Western Ave (Bucktown) - This burrito stand is in a brand
new and much upgraded location. It used to be located in a small shack across the street that is now populated by a hot dog stand. Although it is now in a very nice locale, it has not lost its roots, making great burritos. The Las Asadas Burrito is a meat lovers dream. I ordered a carne asada burrito mixed only with cilantro and onions. The meat is delicious, and the burrito was great! Even in the 85-degree mid-day heat, this was an excellent way to top of a nice long run through the neighborhood. The burrito never touched the plate once I picked it up. 8.5 out of 10.3. The Burrito house - 3500 block of North Lincoln Ave (Northcenter) - There is no reason to even write about this burrito - it is simply the best! 10 out of 10! Get the hell off you computer and go get one (I recommend Al Pastor, but there is no wrong choice here, even for vegetarians)! Go, now!!! Buena, Buena, Buena!!!
With the excitement of May past me, I no longer take joy in stalking the Burritophile. Feelings are simmered and for the next 11 months were are meerely friends who may catch a ball game or golf together.
God is May wonderful! See you all in 2011!
