“Of course, just what Isla Vista needed: another burrito place,” I thought as I patiently waited for Santa Ynez Burrito to open at the old Korean BBQ joint’s location. The day finally came. Monday, March 28 was the grand opening of I.V.’s latest Mexican eatery. Starving and with a group of friends, I headed over to the already-packed restaurant. The line to order was out the door, and people lingered around outside on the twinkle-light-covered patio where all the large circular tables inside were packed with frat bros chowing down on dank burritos a foot long and stuffed to the max! Who knew tortillas could even be that big?

Marisa Ratchford / Daily Nexus

Marisa Ratchford / Daily Nexus

To my delighted surprise, they offered 50 percent off all burritos, which I of course couldn’t resist. However, my taste buds were slightly disappointed because their chimichangas weren’t a part of the special. Their regular menu includes tacos, burritos, chimichangas, nachos and quesadillas. Regardless, I ordered my giant vegetarian burrito and waited patiently. Within 10 minutes, I had my very own warm bag of deliciousness and a side of green salsa to go.

Biting into the burrito, I was already immersed in tortilla heaven. The large flour tortilla was warm and soft and the filling was colorful and full of flavor. Stuffed with beans, rice, salsa, cheese, guacamole and sour cream, I was happy. The sauce had just the right amount of kick to elevate the burrito and set my taste buds on fire. Classic yet simple, the burrito was satisfying. It wasn’t too soggy and held together until the last few bites. Yes, I ate the whole thing. I have no shame.

Marisa Ratchford / Daily Nexus

Marisa Ratchford / Daily Nexus

Overall, I was pleased with the restaurant. It provided a satisfyingly simple menu with comparable prices to other locations and something at least a little different (chimichangas). I will be sure to head back soon longing for that chimichanga and relaxing under the twinkle-light patio on a warm spring night.

My only concern is that I am not sure if another burrito place in Isla Vista is really the smartest venture. I mean, as of now, the market is pretty saturated, and I know I would personally like to see something new and inventive so I’m not stuck with the same leftovers in my fridge every week. But I understand. The burrito is a SoCal college student staple. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, I will never pass up the beauty of delicious food wrapped up in a warm tortilla. I just wish I had a way to branch out and try new things, and I think a lot of my peers feel the same. I wish Santa Ynez Burrito the best of luck in surviving the Isla Vista test and in proving that we, as a community, need one more

Print