Burritos, burritos, burritos, burritos ... What can I say, I love burritos! My love affair/addiction has taken me to some of the many burrito bars that are in Dublin. Burrito bars are by no means a fine dining experience (or date food) but what you will get is great value for money and a plentiful supply of relatively healthy ingredients. You will easily spend the same or more for a sandwich in a cafe.
For those who've been hiding under a rock a burrito consists of a large tortilla filled with rice, choice of black beans or pinto beans, salsa, cheese, sour cream and meat filling of your choice. Jalapeños and guacamole are, in my opinion, must have accompaniments although most places charge extra for them.
As we are spoiled for choice of burrito establishments in the city center it begs the question, where is the best burrito bar in Dublin? I have come to the conclusion that there is no definitive answer! From research that consisted of chatting, internet searches and gorging my face off, I've surmised that the best burrito is down to personal preference. There are so many burrito bars in Dublin that everyone will always have their own personal favorite. My advice would be to try as many as you can, you will always return to your favourites.
I like the smaller scale burrito bars not the ones that make you feel like you’re in a cafeteria. When it comes to ingredients my preference is for a salsa with a rich flavor and sometimes a bit of umph. I want good quality and well marinated meat and the freshest of ingredients.
My top four burrito bars are listed below in no particular order.
Pablo Picantes
The Pablo in question is a fictitious character, an ex luchador, created to be the brand ambassador for Ireland's first real burrito outlet. They have 3 locations in Dublin, some serve beer, the one in temple bar that I frequent does not. Pablo Picantes range and quality of salsa is what sets them apart from all the rest, the Smokie and Super Picante are my favourites. The Señor ‘Slim’ Delgado, marinated chicken breast, and Cali Carnitas, slow cooked pork, stand out on the menu. Burritos Para Todos (Burritos For All) proclaims the wooden plaque outside, what is left to say?
Pablo Picante
22 Temple Bar
Dublin 2
Boojum
Inspired by the no-nonsense taquerias of Mexico, Boojum first opened in Belfast and now have branches in Dublin and Galway. The idea is fast food with fresh ingredients, great flavor and good value. This very popular burrito bar located on the Millennium Walkway has indoor and outdoor seating. On a number of occasions I have gone to Boojum and the queue has been out the door. They have a good range of beers, Dos Equis Pale Lager or two X's for non Spanish speakers is my favorite. They have four kinds of salsa ranging from mild to eye watering! The chicken marinated in Boojum's blend of spices is my preferred choice on the menu.
Boojum Millennium WalkwayDublin 1
Little Ass Burrito Bar
The word burrito means "little donkey" in Spanish, the name burrito as applied to the food item possibly derives from the appearance of a rolled up wheat tortilla, which vaguely resembles bedrolls and packs that donkeys carried. With this in mind we come to the aptly named Little Ass Burrito Bar. “Want some ass?” says the placard outside this Dawson Street establishment. Well yes, yes I do, and lots of it! I love this little place, and when I say little I mean little, it can intimately sit two inside and four outside and are a stone’s throw away from St Stephen’s Green which is a perfect place for a burrito picnic. The Sancho Panza which is slow cooked marinated pork is my favorite. They have six different kinds of salsa to choose from. If you don't like coriander then this may not be the place for you, it's in everything.
Little Ass Burrito Bar
32a Dawson Street
Dublin 2
Mama's Revenge
When I heard of Mama's Revenge I was immediately intrigued by the name, who is she avenging and why? Regardless, they offer a variety of burritos, enchiladas and other Mexican style food. The chorizo pork is my favorite here. There is a good homely atmosphere and they have great value and service. If upstairs is full they have extra seating downstairs. They do very good student offers and are just a few doors down from the National Gallery.
Mama's Revenge
12 Leinster Street South
Dublin 2
There are so many other burrito bars in Dublin here are some other places to try and although they didn't make my top four they are still all very good. So when are you off for your burrito?
Cafe Azteca, Lord Edward Street.
Burritos & Blues, Wexford Street, South Anne Street and Mayor Street.
Tolteca, Suffolk Street and Baggot Street.
Burritos & Orange, Upper Abbey Street.
Saburritos, North Earl Street and Liffey Street Lower.
TUZO Mexican Kitchen, Dawson