In a world dominated by Chipotle and Moe’s, Flying Burrito is a local restaurant that has ventured to carve its own unique niche in the market of fast-casual Mexican food.
Often times when choosing small businesses over chains, location and convenience must are often sacrificed. However, this is not the case of Flying Burrito. Located in the same shopping center as the Raleigh Grande theatre, it is the perfect place to go out to eat with friends or on a date before going to see the newest flick.
Complimenting this prime location is an equally agreeable atmosphere. Flying Burrito is far more casual than rivals Chipotle and Moe’s. Meaning that instead of waiting in a line and watch your food made before your eyes, you actually sit down and are waited on. It doesn’t feel like you are caught up in the lunch rush; rather you can enjoy your meal in a calm and spirited atmosphere, as you would at a nicer sit-down restaurant. This is actually a refreshing change of pace that should not be undervalued.
Surprisingly, the relaxed and invigorating atmosphere does not come at the cost of an upscale restaurant. The prices are incredibly good, if not better than the competing chains; this is also coupled with daily specials, and chips and salsa come free.
The food itself is unarguably better than the chains. The ingredients all taste fresher, and the food is also portioned so that you have many small things rather than one massive burrito. This allows you to sample a more eclectic menu, and you feel more full and satisfied in the end from the greater variety. Flexibility is also reflected in the menu itself, as you can add any top or ingredient you want to any of their tacos or burritos.
I had the steak and mashed potatoes taco which featured steak, mashed potatoes, con queso and cheese; combining American staples with Mexican flair. Although I didn’t add any extra toppings the two soft shell tacos tasted delicious by themselves and were more than enough to fill anyone up.
All of these reasons are exactly why Flying Burrito stands out and you should choose it over the chains. The relaxed atmosphere, inarguable price, and most of all creative spin on traditional Mexican food contribute to the uniqueness that is Flying Burrito.
It’s as their motto says, “Bringing the Southwest to the Southeast.”
