How to Get a Big Burrito at Chipotle: The Expert’s Guide

The quest for the perfectly plump, generously-stuffed Chipotle burrito is a noble one. Achieving “big burrito” status isn’t just about luck; it’s a strategic game of ordering, ingredient awareness, and subtle communication. The secret boils down to maximizing ingredient quantity without violating unwritten Chipotle burrito etiquette and understanding the burrito artist’s limitations.

Decoding the Chipotle Burrito Equation

The fundamental principle is layering and distribution. A balanced, well-distributed burrito feels larger and is less likely to burst. Here’s a breakdown of how to achieve burrito greatness:

The Foundation: Rice and Beans

This is where you lay the groundwork. Ask for half rice and half beans if you want to maximize overall ingredient diversity. If you’re sticking to one of each, ask for extra. This alone will make a noticeable difference. Be specific. “A generous scoop of white rice, please,” is more effective than a vague “extra rice.”

Protein Power: Meat and Beyond

This is often the most expensive part, so maximizing it without seeming greedy is crucial. Ask for a little extra. The key word is “little.” If they seem hesitant, don’t push it. Consider adding vegetarian options like fajita veggies or guacamole (though this costs extra) to bulk up the protein layer.

Flavor Fiesta: Salsas and Toppings

This is your chance to significantly increase volume without additional cost. Ask for all the salsas you want. They’re free! Choose carefully; pico de gallo adds freshness, while corn salsa adds sweetness and volume. Lettuce is your friend. It’s light and fluffy, adding significant volume without altering the flavor profile dramatically.

The Wrap: The Art of the Fold

Even with generous ingredients, a bad fold can ruin everything. If you see the employee struggling to close it, politely suggest, “Maybe just a little less lettuce?” or “Could we try a double wrap?” if you are okay paying extra for the shell. A well-wrapped burrito holds its shape and feels denser.

The Secret Weapon: Polite Persuasion

Be polite and friendly throughout the entire process. Employees are more likely to be generous with customers they like. A simple “please” and “thank you” can go a long way.

Chipotle Burrito: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I really get “double meat” without paying extra if I’m nice?

Highly unlikely. Double meat is a paid upgrade. While being polite can influence ingredient portions within reason, it won’t override official Chipotle policy. Asking directly for double meat without paying is generally frowned upon. However, if you are a regular and build a rapport with the staff, they might be more generous with the standard portion.

2. What are the best combinations of ingredients to maximize burrito size?

Experiment! But here are some solid combinations:

• Classic: Extra rice (half white, half brown), black beans, chicken (a little extra), pico de gallo, corn salsa, lettuce.
• Veggie Power: Extra rice (brown), black beans, fajita veggies, guacamole (extra cost), roasted chili-corn salsa, lettuce.
• Spicy Delight: Extra rice (white), pinto beans, steak (a little extra), hot salsa, sour cream, cheese, lettuce.

Remember to consider flavor profiles you enjoy when making your choices.

3. Does ordering online affect the burrito size?

Ordering online can be a mixed bag. It’s convenient, but you lose the ability to visually guide the employee in assembling your burrito. You can add notes like “generous portion of rice” or “extra salsa,” but there’s no guarantee they’ll be followed. In-person ordering generally allows for more control.

4. What’s the deal with the double wrap? Is it always an extra charge?

Yes, a double wrap is almost always an extra charge. It provides extra structural integrity, especially for heavily loaded burritos. It’s worth considering if you regularly experience burrito explosions. Ask about the extra cost before committing.

5. Is it considered rude to ask for extra of multiple free ingredients?

Asking for extra of everything is pushing it. Prioritize. Focus on the ingredients you genuinely want more of, and be reasonable. Asking for extra rice, one or two salsas, and lettuce is generally acceptable. Asking for extra of every single free item could be seen as trying to game the system.

6. Does the time of day affect burrito size?

Anecdotally, yes. During peak hours (lunch and dinner rushes), employees are often under pressure to move quickly, which might result in slightly smaller portions. Ordering during off-peak hours (mid-afternoon) could potentially lead to more generous portions.

7. Which locations are known for giving bigger burritos?

This varies wildly and is purely anecdotal. There’s no definitive list. Generally, locations with lower customer volume might be more inclined to be generous. Online reviews can sometimes provide clues, but take them with a grain of salt.

8. Are certain Chipotle employees known for making bigger burritos?

Again, this is anecdotal and varies from location to location. If you become a regular, you might start to recognize certain employees who are more generous than others.

9. How do I politely ask for a remade burrito if it’s too small?

Approach the situation with kindness and understanding. Politely explain that the burrito is smaller than you expected and that you’d appreciate it if they could add a bit more of your preferred ingredients. Avoid being accusatory or demanding. A friendly and reasonable request is more likely to be met with a positive response.

10. Is it okay to ask for the ingredients to be mixed before being put in the burrito?

Some people prefer this for better flavor distribution. It’s generally acceptable to ask, but be aware that it might slightly slow down the assembly process. Be polite and understanding if the employee seems hesitant.

11. What is the best salsa to get for maximum flavor and burrito size?

This depends on your spice preference! For volume, corn salsa is a great choice as it adds a good amount of filling. For spice, the hot salsa is the way to go, but it might not add as much volume as the corn salsa. Experiment to find your favorite combination.

12. If they mess up my order and give me a smaller burrito as a result, what should I do?

Politely explain the mistake. For example, “I asked for extra rice, but it looks like I didn’t get any.” Most Chipotle employees are happy to correct mistakes. Remember to be respectful and understanding.

The Art of the Burrito: A Conclusion

Mastering the art of getting a big burrito at Chipotle is a blend of strategic ordering, polite communication, and understanding the limitations of the process. By following these tips and being a considerate customer, you can significantly increase your chances of scoring a truly satisfying and generously sized burrito. Remember, it’s about maximizing value and flavor, not just sheer quantity. Happy burrito hunting!