Warm Up #2

As I start this post, I should clarify that it has nothing to do with taking a #2, or the "warming" effects that a burrito can have on a #2, but rather is just the second in a series of Warm-ups.

Today I took a departure from my typical burrito shack routine and decided to try a different type of venue. I went to the cafeteria in the basement of the Chase Tower in Chicago (10S. Dearborn, loop) which I later learned is named Plaza Market Bistro.

Plaza Market Bistro is a great place to go when you are with a group of people that can’t decide on what they want. The cafeteria offers a cornucopia of styles and ethnicities of food. Everything is represented, Asian, Mediterranean, Italian, Stir Fry, Traditional American, New York Deli, etc… While variety may be the spice of life for some, I was able to quickly hunker down to the only thing that mattered to me, the Mexican Stand.

It appeared that the burrito choices were some sort of beef, chicken, and chorizo. When in doubt, I always say ‘go pig’, so chorizo it was. The burrito initially comes with chorizo and shredded cheese that is placed on the soft shell and is warmed on a skillet, toasting the shell and melting the cheese. Once properly toasted, there are a variety of toppings available. I went for cilantro, jalapenos, black olives, sour cream, and rojo and verde salsas. Normally, I am a much bigger fan of burrito places that exude confidence and just make the burritos as they will, instead of using what I call the ‘Subway Style’ where you need to point out what toppings you would like. In this instance, however, the ‘Subway Style’ was welcoming because my direction kept lettuce and a very sickly looking sweet pepper off my burrito.

The burrito was light on the stomach and had a nice flavor to it. The Chrizo was well seasoned, but did not have that overpowering, give you heart burn quality that is often encountered. The toppings nicely complemented the meat and cheese, but in retrospect, of course they should have, I picked them out myself.

Overall, this establishment provided me an enjoyable burrito experience. Being the multi-ethnic cafeteria style place it was, though, I feel that it lacked the integrity that could make it a true power hitter or go to burrito place. To summarize, it was a perfect venue for a warm up during the preseason/spring training, but it would NOT cut it once the real season (May) is here. I’ll give it 5 out of 10.

Until Next Time…..

Looking Foreward to a Freedom Burrito

Friends,

Good tidings to you all from the confines of the Suffolk County Jail! Needless to say its been an interesting 10 months for me. Who knew there was fine print on a restraining order? But rest assured loyal readers, I will be out on the streets and eating burritos come May 1. I look forward to conversing with you soon.

Inmate 946578,
Burritophile

p.s. if anyone has the latest SI Swimsuit issue, could you send it to me C/O Suffolk County Jail? I believe I can trade it for some much needed toiletry items. Thanks!

Time for March Burrito Warm-up

Last Monday, March 21, marked the first full day of spring. With the passing of the Vernal Equinox, we are reminded that Burrito Appreciation Month is quickly approaching.

As the northern latitudes awake from their winter coma, there are many tasks that must be undertaken to properly prepare ourselves for the sunlight, warmth, and longer days that are forthcoming. Spring cleaning, removing snow tires, tuning up outdoor equipment, and unpacking the golf clubs are all examples of how we make ourselves ready for the spring. While these tasks are very important, I ask you not to forget what is possibly the most important of all spring rituals, having the first Spring Burrito!

Today I had my first Spring Burrito at LaConia (45N Wells, Loop). The steak burrito squizo was wonderful; I, however, was not. My lack burrito shape can be currently witnessed in the form or a huge stain on my dress shirt. After a winter in hibernation, it is almost like I forgot how to eat a burrito. SHAME ON ME! I must now pay the price for my lack of shape by wearing this stain around work for the rest of the day. It's OK, though, I'll just call it my little "grease colored badge of courage".

Just like you probably wouldn't go to the beach without going to the gym at least once, don't go into burrito appreciation month without at least a few warm-up burritos. Personally, I wouldn't recommend going to the gym or the beach without first having a burrito either.

Until next time....