Why Does Only a Sucker Order a Burrito Instead of a Bowl?
If Chipotle burritos have a flaw, it’s their size. One burrito is too big for one meal, but not always enough for another, depending on your appetite and interest in cold leftovers. There is a simple solution: instead, order a bowl with an extra tortilla or two on the side.
The only Chipotle trick worth knowing
This trick has probably been around for as long as Chipotle, and if you didn’t already know about it, you are missing it. Bowls at Chipotle and other restaurants usually cost about the same as burritos, but they can hold much more: more meat, more beans, more rice, and significantly more salsa. The tortilla side easily stretches the contents of the bowl into two (or more) smaller burritos and costs less than a dollar. It used to be free, but as of October 2020, Chipotle is charging 25 cents for an extra tortilla, which is hardly a violation of the deal if you ask me.
When it comes to fast food, it is effective and ineffective, which makes it a winner. You don’t change the entire ordering system (and become a huge pain in the ass ) just to save a couple of dollars on food – you order a regular menu item with a different one on the side. Everyone gets what they want: an extra meal or two from your Chipotle order for you, and a stress-free customer experience for the person behind the counter.
The only possible drawback of this method – if it can be called one at all – is the surcharge for extra flatbread. Paying less than a dollar more for two or four burritos is still a good idea, but if you don’t feel like it, just bring a bowl with you and use your own tortillas at home. You will still get all the benefits of a burrito bowl without spending any extra money.