If you’re in the mood for a quick meal with a Mexican theme, you might try Chipolte’s Mexican Grill, which has locations throughout the Greater Boston area including Watertown’s Arsenal Mall. The Burrito Bowl is all the fixings in a large burrito, without the wrapping; instead it’s served in a bowl.
You get to decide at the long ordering counter what goes into the bowl, but the basics are a choice of grilled meat (chicken, pork or beef), cilantro-lime rice (white or brown), beans (black or pinto), salsa (hot, medium or mild) and a dozen or so add-ins, including sour cream, cheese, lettuce and grilled pepper and onions. It’s substantial, fresh, well-seasoned and a bargain at under $7.
Chipolte’s website also has a lot of information about diet and nutrition, sustainable design, community, the treatment of animals and more.
The vibe: The restaurant is clean and modern, with plenty of seating options. It’s often busy with customers, but the service is fast, even with a line.
Cool factor No. 1: A sign says that the chicken, pork and beef are raised without antibiotics or hormones, and that some of the vegetables are organic.
Cool factor No. 2: A side-counter holds containers of fresh lemon wedges.
Cool factor No. 3: There’s a kid’s menu with tacos and quesadillas.