Chipotle set to open in Fairfield

Up until recently, Chipotle Mexican Grill seemed like a myth to Fairfield County. We heard about it, maybe we listened to people rave about "How good it is" or "Aw man, you've never had Chipotle?" That last one became especially annoying after a while. Finally, Connecticut must have won some type of foodie sweepstakes when the Mexican inspired chain opened a location in Darien, and almost one year later, we won again since another is set to open in Fairfield on November 17.

Chipotle is set to open in the brand new Kings Crossing Shopping Center, already home to Whole Foods, and the ever growing burger joint Five Guys to follow. This particular location should strive since it is in the vicinity of three major colleges; The University of Bridgeport, Sacred Heart, and Fairfield University.  And if you have been to one, the lines can get a bit hectic during lunch and dinner hours, so be sure to set aside some time, especially for the newer locations.

The menu here is straightforward; burritos, tacos (soft and hard), burrito bowls, salads, and chips & guacamole. The small menu is deceiving since the combinations for each item are endless with Chipotle's toppings. With meats like steak, chicken, barbacoa (spicy shredded beef), carnitas (seasoned pork), and multiple veggie, sauce, salsa, and rice choices, knowing what you want is imperative. Otherwise you will make the rookie mistake of ordering a "burrito with a little bit of everything." Do that and you end up with something that resembles a five pound baby. Plan ahead, and if you dig the food, you will go enough times to find out what works for you.

For the health freaks, Chipotle practices the use of organic, locally grown produce free of chemicals and animals that are treated in a humane fashion without the addition of added hormones or antibiotics. Chipotle even lists the ingredients used in their menu items and all nutritional information on its website.

If you are looking for a drink, as in an alcoholic beverage, Chipotle serves bottled beer, as well as fountain drinks, including the elusive Mr. Pibb soda, and the soft drink brand Izze.

The best part, nothing here will set back your wallet. An average meal for one person is in the $10-$12 range.

The question with Chipotle is not IF you will go, but WHEN? It's not too early to start thinking about what you plan to stuff in that burrito.  

Chipotle Mexican Grill

340 Grasmere Avenue

Fairfield, CT 06824

(203) 255-7665

www.chipotle.com

Hours: Monday-Sunday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.