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| Burrito Bros. Taco Company Gainesville, Florida |
This place had to be one of my first reviews. My now-husband used to bring me here on our periodic trips to Gainesville as a top pick among his nostalgic culinary tours, and it was pretty clear why: fresh food (including guacamole - but only when fresh avocados are available) prepared to order, fast and friendly but with an indie vibe. Think Chipotle or any other one of the many burrito chains, but local and with soul.
A little hard to find, tucked away behind a church's building on university avenue, you enter through a gate into a little courtyard, and all orders are essentially take-away from the window. You have the option to eat in the courtyard, which is surprisingly nice for being situated just off of University Avenue, or within the little building. Even in a light rain, we've preferred the courtyard, with its metal tables and chairs and a few umbrellas.
When we moved to Gainesville last year, Burrito Bros. became a common stop, especially with friends.
Of course, I used to get the burrito. They have quite a few options, including many for vegetarians and possibly for vegans, but I never got through the whole list or possible combinations with the different bean (black or pinto) options before learning I have Celiac.
Immediately frustrated with the prospect of having to grill every server I encountered about food content, I chose email as a way to get some inside info on a few favorite local places. I got a quick and helpful response, fully cementing my love of the place.
Janet wrote, in part, that I should avoid "burritos, red rice, chipotle salsa, caldo gallego, and gazpacho." She said that the "spice mix is made at BBTC and the spices don't have anything but the actual spice on the label. Cayenne pepper is just cayenne pepper. The meat is safe on all counts and the only things in the pinto beans are beans and spice mix. Black beans are ok too. The red sauces are also ok. Tacos and enchiladas are fine."
Wonderful news!!
Even better... the tacos are better than the burritos. I admit, this is a controversial assertion, and my husband still hasn't had the tacos, always opting for a burrito. But, not only do I think the tacos are better, three tacos are cheaper than the burritos (hardly a huge point, as everything is very reasonable), and one usually fills me up, so I no longer leave feeling like I've overeaten plus I have a couple of snacks or a meal for later.
Thus far I've had beef and black bean, pork and black bean, and black bean tacos. All are delicious.
