Dumb ass violates Chipotle taboo
October 15th, 2007 by Cliff Bostock in Restaurants
I guess I’ve been on a Mexican kick lately, having eaten at El Veneno and La Sierra during the last week. Maybe it’s because I have a cold and spicy food opens the sinuses.
My third visit was to Chipotle Mexican Grill on Ponce de Leon Avenue. This chain, which is “green” and uses “naturally raised” meats in its burritos, makes surprisingly good carnitas.
Just so you know, the picture above violates Chipotle’s corporate policy. After I took this picture and another, a young man raced out of the kitchen and demanded that I stop taking pictures. “Why?” I asked.
“It is against corporate policy. Do not take pictures.”
“Well,” I said, “I’ve already taken two.”
“Do not do it again,” he said.
Sheesh. Chipotle’s majority investor used to be McDonald’s and I can’t imagine Ronald MacDonald demanding that nobody take pictures.
Then I got in line and ordered my carnitas burrito. I asked for the tomatillo sauce and the line worker said: “Green or red?”
“Huh?” I replied. “I’ve never heard of a red tomatillo sauce.”
“Red or green?” he repeated.
“I’m confused,” I said.
“Sir, do you want the red tomatillo or the green tomatillo sauce? Both are written in plain English on the board behind me!”
Well, excuuuuuse me. Damn, do I miss Tortillas, where the Emory rock-star wannabes threw attitude with panache.
October 15th, 2007 at 10:56 pm
I got hooked on Chipotle when I lived in Denver, its home market. Quality and attitude vary greatly in the Atlanta. I’ve actually sent a few emails to corporate about the half-assed service and preparation here. When it’s good, it’s really tasty. And when it’s not, well, it’s still better than any of the other burrito joints near us. I’ve never had anyone be rude though. If you want to air your grievance, email jstupp@chipotle.com.
October 17th, 2007 at 12:26 pm
Chipotle has pretty good food, but they are WAY too stingy with the salsa.
I’ll stick to Willy’s and their salsa bar.
October 17th, 2007 at 12:28 pm
Oh, and now that I know about this “corporate policy” there is not a chance I’ll be able to refrain from walking in there and taking pictures.