Chipotle Mexican Grill has become a fast-casual phenomenon, renowned for its customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads. But beyond the familiar menu board lies a realm of culinary possibilities, whispered about in online forums and shared amongst Chipotle aficionados: the secret menu. The best thing at Chipotle often isn’t what’s plastered on the wall, but rather the creative combinations and off-menu hacks that unlock a whole new level of flavor. This article will delve into the exciting world of the Chipotle secret menu, providing detailed instructions and step-by-step guides to crafting some of the most popular and delicious hidden gems. Get ready to elevate your Chipotle experience!
**Why a Secret Menu?**
Chipotle’s success hinges on its build-your-own model. Customers choose their protein, rice, beans, salsa, and toppings, creating a personalized meal. This flexibility naturally lends itself to experimentation and the discovery of unique combinations. Employees are generally accommodating to customer requests, even if those requests aren’t explicitly listed on the menu. The ‘secret menu’ isn’t a formally recognized list by Chipotle corporate; it’s more of a collection of customer-created hacks and variations that have gained popularity through word-of-mouth and online sharing.
**Understanding the Chipotle Foundation: The Ingredients**
Before diving into specific secret menu items, it’s crucial to understand the core ingredients that make up a Chipotle meal. This knowledge will allow you to improvise and create your own secret menu masterpieces.
* **Proteins:**
* **Chicken:** Grilled adobo chicken, a classic choice.
* **Steak:** Marinated and grilled steak, known for its rich flavor.
* **Carnitas:** Slow-cooked, shredded pork, tender and flavorful.
* **Barbacoa:** Slow-cooked, shredded beef, seasoned with aromatic spices.
* **Sofritas:** Organic tofu braised with peppers, onions, and spices, a vegan-friendly option.
* **Rice:**
* **White Rice:** Cilantro-lime rice, a light and refreshing base.
* **Brown Rice:** Cilantro-lime rice, a whole-grain alternative.
* **Beans:**
* **Black Beans:** A staple in many Chipotle meals, offering a hearty and earthy flavor.
* **Pinto Beans:** Another popular choice, slightly sweeter and creamier than black beans.
* **Salsas:**
* **Mild Tomato Salsa (Pico de Gallo):** Freshly diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños.
* **Medium Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa:** A sweet and spicy combination of corn, peppers, and spices.
* **Medium Tomatillo-Green Chili Salsa:** A tangy and slightly spicy salsa made with tomatillos and green chilies.
* **Hot Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa:** A fiery salsa made with tomatillos and red chilies.
* **Chili-Chipotle Salsa (Roasted):** Smoky and spicy, made with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
* **Toppings:**
* **Sour Cream:** Adds a creamy tanginess.
* **Cheese:** Monterey Jack cheese, shredded.
* **Guacamole:** Made with fresh avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and onions (usually an extra charge).
* **Lettuce:** Shredded romaine lettuce for a crisp texture.
* **Fajita Vegetables:** Sautéed bell peppers and onions.
**Unlocking the Secrets: Top Chipotle Secret Menu Items**
Now, let’s explore some of the most popular and delicious Chipotle secret menu items, with detailed instructions on how to order them:
1. **The Quesarito:**
* **Description:** A burrito wrapped in a quesadilla. This is a classic secret menu item that combines the best of both worlds.
* **How to Order:**
1. Order a quesadilla with your choice of cheese (Monterey Jack is standard).
2. Ask them to grill the quesadilla.
3. While the quesadilla is grilling, order a burrito with your desired fillings (rice, beans, protein, salsa, etc.).
4. Once the quesadilla is ready, ask them to wrap the burrito inside the quesadilla. Be prepared for a slightly messy, but incredibly delicious, experience.
5. **Pro Tip**: Order online for carryout for much better success. Trying to get the Quesarito during peak hours can be frustrating for employees and lead to a long wait.
* **Customization Options:** Experiment with different proteins and salsa combinations. Carnitas and the Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa pair particularly well.
2. **The Burritodilla:**
* **Description:** Similar to the Quesarito, but with a slightly different approach. Instead of wrapping the burrito inside the quesadilla, the quesadilla is added *inside* the burrito.
* **How to Order:**
1. Order a burrito with your desired fillings.
2. Order a quesadilla with just cheese.
3. Ask the employee to open the burrito and carefully place the entire quesadilla inside.
4. They will need to fold the burrito closed around the quesadilla.
* **Customization Options:** This works well with smaller burritos. Avoid overstuffing the burrito, as it can become difficult to close.
3. **Double Wrapped Burrito:**
* **Description:** A simple yet effective way to prevent your burrito from falling apart. It involves using two tortillas instead of one.
* **How to Order:** Simply ask for a double-wrapped burrito when placing your order.
* **Benefits:** Provides extra support and prevents the fillings from spilling out. Ideal for those who like their burritos extra-large or heavily sauced.
4. **The Nachos:**
* **Description:** While Chipotle doesn’t officially offer nachos, you can easily create your own.
* **How to Order:**
1. Order a bowl.
2. Ask for chips at the bottom of the bowl.
3. Add your desired toppings: beans, protein, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.
4. Enjoy your customized Chipotle nachos!
* **Customization Options:** Get creative with your toppings. Consider adding fajita vegetables and a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
5. **The Single Taco:**
* **Description:** Chipotle typically only sells tacos in sets of three, but you can request a single taco if you only want a small snack.
* **How to Order:** Ask for a single taco and specify your desired fillings.
* **Benefits:** A great option for a light meal or a quick taste of your favorite Chipotle flavors.
6. **The Extra Crispy Tacos:**
* **Description:** Adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to your tacos.
* **How to Order:** Request that your taco shells be cooked to be extra crispy.
* **Considerations:** Not all locations may be willing to do this. Be polite and understand if they cannot accommodate your request.
7. **The Secret Menu Salsa – The Chipotle Vinaigrette Dressing:**
* **Description:** This is a well-known secret among Chipotle employees. They will occasionally use the ingredients that comprise the vinaigrette for salads and mix it in small blending containers. Some locations might even give it to you on request, but you need to be polite.
* **How to Order:** Ask nicely if they can make you a small container. The dressing is oil, vinegar, oregano, honey, pepper and salt.
8. **The 3-Pointer:**
* **Description:** A budget-friendly option that allows you to get a small meal for a lower price.
* **How to Order:**
1. Order a taco or a bowl with only three ingredients.
2. Common combinations include rice, beans, and protein; or rice, beans, and salsa.
* **Benefits:** A cheap and cheerful way to satisfy your Chipotle craving without breaking the bank.
9. **The Salad Dressing Hack:**
* **Description:** While Chipotle doesn’t officially offer salad dressing, you can use their vinaigrette (meant for the salads) as a dressing for your bowl.
* **How to Order:** Ask for a side of vinaigrette when ordering your bowl.
* **Benefits:** Adds a tangy and flavorful element to your bowl.
10. **Brown Rice and Black Beans (combined first)**
* **Description:** Request that they combine your rice and beans first before adding anything else to your bowl.
* **How to Order:** Politely request that they mix the black beans and brown rice first. This creates a smoother and more evenly distributed flavor base.
11. **Extra Ingredients (be nice!)**
* **Description**: Chipotle is often generous with their ingredients if you ask nicely.
* **How to Order**: Politely request extra rice, beans, or salsa. Avoid asking for excessive amounts, and be understanding if they cannot accommodate your request due to portion control policies.
**Tips for Ordering from the Chipotle Secret Menu:**
* **Be Polite and Patient:** Remember that the secret menu isn’t an official offering. Be courteous and understanding to the employees. They may not be familiar with every secret menu item, so be prepared to explain what you want clearly.
* **Order During Off-Peak Hours:** Avoid ordering complex secret menu items during busy lunch or dinner rushes. This will give the employees more time to prepare your order and reduce the likelihood of frustration.
* **Know Your Ingredients:** Having a good understanding of the ingredients available at Chipotle will help you create your own secret menu combinations.
* **Be Specific:** Clearly articulate what you want and how you want it prepared. This will minimize confusion and ensure that you get exactly what you’re looking for.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** The best part about the Chipotle secret menu is the opportunity to try new and exciting flavor combinations. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and create your own signature dish.
* **Ordering Online:** Some secret menu items, like the Quesarito, are easier to order online for pickup. This allows you to avoid the pressure of ordering in person and gives the employees more time to prepare your meal. Add instructions to the ‘special instructions’ section of your online order if needed.
**Creating Your Own Secret Menu Item:**
The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to creating your own Chipotle secret menu item. Here are some ideas to get you started:
* **Spice it Up:** Experiment with different salsa combinations or ask for a side of hot sauce to add an extra kick to your meal.
* **Mix and Match Proteins:** Try combining different proteins, such as chicken and steak, for a unique flavor profile.
* **Explore Different Textures:** Add a combination of crispy and soft ingredients, such as chips and sour cream, for a more dynamic culinary experience.
* **Consider the Presentation:** Think about how the different ingredients will interact with each other and how the final product will look.
**The Etiquette of Secret Menus**
While exploring the secret menu can be fun, remember to be considerate of the restaurant staff. Here are some guidelines:
* **Know What You’re Ordering:** Don’t just vaguely ask for something “off the menu.” Be specific about the ingredients and how you want it prepared.
* **Be Understanding:** Not every employee will know every secret menu item. Be patient and explain politely.
* **Avoid Overly Complicated Orders During Peak Times:** Save elaborate requests for slower periods to avoid overwhelming the staff.
* **Don’t Expect Special Treatment:** Remember that these are unofficial items. Be grateful if the staff can accommodate your request, but don’t demand it.
* **Be Prepared for Extra Charges:** Some secret menu items may require extra ingredients or preparation, which could result in additional costs.
**The Future of the Chipotle Secret Menu:**
As Chipotle continues to evolve and innovate, the secret menu will likely continue to grow and evolve as well. With the rise of social media and online food communities, new secret menu items are constantly being created and shared. Whether you’re a seasoned Chipotle veteran or a curious newcomer, exploring the secret menu is a fun and rewarding way to experience the restaurant’s offerings in a whole new light. So, the next time you visit Chipotle, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden culinary gems that await you. You might just find your new favorite meal!
Enjoy your Chipotle adventure! By understanding the core ingredients, following the instructions provided, and being respectful of the staff, you can unlock a world of delicious possibilities beyond the regular menu. Happy experimenting!