A neatly wrapped flour tortilla stuffed with rice, beans, lettuce, salsa, guacamole, cheese, sour cream, and a favourite meat or vegetable mix – that’s what we call a “burrito” (actually meaning “little donkey” in Spanish). Originating from Northern Mexico or possibly California, the burrito makes for an easy meal anytime of day.
While we don’t exactly have great burritos in Kitsilano (you’ll probably need to venture outside of our neighbourhood boundaries for that, as in, head down to California or Mexico yourself), we do have a choice of some pretty good ones.
1. Las Margaritas
We’re all familiar with Las Margaritas‘ lovely patio during the summer months, sipping on icy-cool strawberry margaritas, but of course their food is quite good too. Baja California-style burritos are on the menu here, plus a few unconventional options such as the Wild Salmon Burrito and the Fajita Burrito. Jarritos (Mexican soft drinks) are available too.
Las Margaritas, 1999 West 4th Avenue, 604-734-7117, Lasmargaritas.com
2. The Naam
A Kitsilano institution for the last several decades, The Naam is well known for its Sesame Fries with Miso Gravy and the Dragon Bowls. They also do some mean veggie burritos, chili burritos, and the healthy Naam Burrito Wrap. Open 24 hours for those late-night burrito cravings, and they have live music from 7pm-10pm.
The Naam, 2724 West 4th Avenue, 604-738-7151, Thenaam.com
3. Topanga Cafe
Originally opened in 1978 by a Los Angeles, California family, the tiny, unassuming Topanga Cafe serves up big portions of California-style homemade Mexican food. And while they have the standard burritos on their menu, they also have a Prawn or Crab Burrito option.
Topanga Cafe, 2904 West 4th Avenue, 604-733-3713, Topangacafe.ca
4. Whole Foods
Yes, it’s a grocery store, but the Austin, Texas-based Whole Foods knows its Tex-Mex cuisine. Try their Burrito Bar where you get your pick of free-range, non-medicated chicken, beef, or pork, plus a whole lot of fresh veggies and all the extras that you’d need. Don’t forget to collect stamps for each burrito bought (the 10th is free!). Oh, and they can do the burrito tortilla-free too.
Whole Foods, West 4th Avenue, 604-739-6676, Wholefoodsmarket.com
Last modified: July 5, 2018
