A Love Letter to Chipotle

I love Chipotle. I mean that from the very bottom of my heart. This love, however, isn’t superficial; it truly stems from the bottom of my heart. Through difficult times, I eat Chipotle. Through joyful times, I eat Chipotle. Through confusing times, I eat Chipotle. I sincerely love eating Chipotle. Now, this may seem like a one-sided relationship with Chipotle not reciprocating back, but I see it differently when Chipotle hands me a bowl piled high with food.

Chipotle isn’t like the other fast-food places. It’s different. It’s unique. It’s special. Their ingredients are fresh, real, and vibrant – a sanctuary from the typical processed ingredients of other “fast-food” chains. My bowl consists of brown rice, fajita veggies, chicken, mild salsa, corn, cheese, and a vinaigrette with sour cream on the side. Simple but elegant. Rice, simmered with bay leaves and seasoned with lime juices and cilantro. Fajita veggies, grilled with oregano. Chicken, marinated and cooked to provide a smoky, spicy, and tangy taste (although it’s a bit rubbery sometimes). And salsa to balance and compliment the bowl with an acidic and fresh taste. Chipotle’s ingredients are fresh and refreshing, just like Chipotle itself.

Chipotle isn’t cheap; that isn’t a nice word to use. Instead, I would say inexpensive. A filling, nutritious meal for only $13 is something you often can’t pass up on. If you want some creamy guacamole and chips on the side, it’ll likely only reach $18, which, to me, is an absolute bargain. When you’re broke, you can eat Chipotle. When you’re rich, you can eat Chipotle. You can eat Chipotle any time or in any situation you want; it won’t judge.

The only issue that’s present is Chipotle’s constant mood switches. In one location, the employees are a bundle of joy; the food is perfectly cooked, and your bowl is piled with ingredients without you asking for a “tiny bit more.” The other, the employees are grumpy, the chicken is stale, and they somehow manage to give you less when you ask for more. Why? I’m really not sure. But don’t worry; I’m sure that with time, this issue can be mended relatively simply. How? That’s a problem for the future.

I really do have a profound appreciation for Chipotle. If you don’t, well, too bad, you’re missing out – Chipotle’s mine anyway. To many more bowls and experiences in the future.

Love, Fred.

P.S. Merry Christmas, everyone! Especially Chipotle.