Comments on: CHIPOTLE, Paris, C- And if You Think This is a Burrito, Then I’m the Mad Empress Carlotta

By: Alexander Lobrano

Alexander Lobrano — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 15:35:46 +0000

I agree that Paris could definitely use a couple of seriously good Mexican restaurants, Alexis. I had high hopes for Chipotle, but it just didn't come anywhere near the Mexican food that you can get for half the price in cities like LA or Chicago. Best, Alec

By: Alexis

Alexis — Sun, 27 Oct 2013 14:31:30 +0000

I've lived in Provence for nearly four years now and I have been known to detour to Marseille airport just for Starbucks. On my latest trip to Paris, I kept asking myself 'where is the next Starbucks' and needless to say there was one on nearly every corner. I am not a fan of chains – fast food – casual , but I just don't have any affinity for tiny sips of 'sock water' called espressos served throughout France and sold for nearly 2€. Starbucks is exorbitantly expensive, but at least I get a 'coffee experience.'
Chipotle is also pricey for Mexican food, but it's a great concept. I must agree – my Mexican food experience was a bit disappointing at this Chipotle in Paris – with poor stare value and an overly stuffed burrito which kept opening consequently dripping my 'extra harissa' all over me. Also, the drinks are displayed out of sight for the customer…I ended up drinking a sparkling lemon water made and bottled in Turkey which tasted much like toilet water…
That said – it was the closest to really yummy Mexican food I've had in ages…
There is a serious shortage of food Mexican in this part of the world…

By: Alexander Lobrano

Alexander Lobrano — Sat, 25 Aug 2012 17:36:40 +0000

You know Wellfedfred, if I could get ahold of some Fritos in Paris, I'd almost be tempted to give your recipe a try! Best, Alec

By: wellfedfred

wellfedfred — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 14:56:38 +0000

thank you.
for that kind of munchy it is cheaper and easier to mix equal parts salt and old cooking fat, sprinkly lightly with pre-made chili powder, and spread on a Frito.

By: Alexander Lobrano

Alexander Lobrano — Sun, 19 Aug 2012 14:24:17 +0000

Thanks, Meg!

Michel, The arrival of Starbuck's at the airport in Marseilles is of no interest to me whatsoever, but the first Chipotle in Paris did interest me, because 1) I love Mexican food, and the Mexican offer in Paris is mediocre at best, and 2) The chain is such a huge success in America--mostly for trying to use decent quality produce, and I'd never been to one before. But if I'm really in a hurry in Paris, I'd go with a nice steak tartare anyday! Best, Alec

By: Michel

Michel — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 11:49:53 +0000

I have never been to a Chipotle. I am constantly surpried how many expats bloggers have mentioned this Paris outlet or their excitement over the arrival of Starbucks at the Marseille airport. I don't get it.

By: Meg

Meg — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 10:05:37 +0000

C-?! Wow. Interesting! But by default I love love love Chipotle and what they stand for, but I'm from Colorado. :) Great review! It is indeed a bit pricy, but I wouldn't call it fast food. In the 303 we call Chipotle and the links fast casual.

Really enjoyed reading this. And I love your comment about Olive Garden & Red Lobster at the end. Brilliant.