Cali Burrito (website)
3104 Hamilton Blvd., Allentown
(610) 351-1791
The online Urban Dictionary refers to a Cali Burrito as a "delicious and mythical burrito found in Mexican eateries." After two experiences at this new Allentown establishment, I can attest that the fare is anything but mythical and certainly qualifies as delicious. (Perhaps transcendent?)
The ambiance of Cali Burrito calls to mind the casual and laid-back attitude of the Golden State's surfing scene. (In fact, the take out menu features a stylized burrito coolly navigating a wave.) There's no pretense here; just good food served quickly.
I've tried the Cambria (grilled veggies, black beans, brown rice, guac and cheese) and the Old Monterey (chicken black beans, rice, cheese and guac.) Both were chock full of goodness -- an entire meal wrapped in a steamed tortilla. The Humboldt, another vegetarian option, has smoked tofu. Steak, pork and ground beef round out the available meats. Accompaniments -- free with any burrito or taco -- include pico de gallo, lettuce, cabbage, jalepenos, cilantro and fire roasted ranchero sauce. In addition, three homemade salsas were available: tomatillo, tomato and a wonderful mango salsa. Homemade chips were toothsome and fulfilling.
Also worth noting is the restaurant's focus on sustainability. They claim to use environmentally friendly sugar cane plates and "plasticware," local organic produce in season and organic coffee. As if I needed something more to like.
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6 comments:
I frequent Cali Burrito often and have never been disappointed. My favorite reins as the tofu tacos. The husband prefers the fish tacos.
The two owners are quite friendly as well...
My only complaint is that during their "summer hours" they close at 8pm. For some people that may be fine, but we tend to eat later.
Tara,
You bring up a good point re hours. It's remarkable that most Lehigh Valley restaurants close as early as they do -- even on weekends. My wife and I will frequently want to grab a bite after an evening event, only to find most places closed. (We don't want to go to a smoky bar. Ugh.) Many people are eating later nowadays. We'll have to see how long it takes LV restaurants to catch on.
This place has changed owners several times in the past few years.
Well, it's a winner now. Priced right, fresh, and delicious.
I prefer the fish taco, it does not sound that great but it's very tasty.
Just say no to chains.
Great food. I eat there often. Nice veggie options. Try the whole wheat taco wrapped around the Humboldt. I always customize mine. And the salsas and chips are awesome. Friendly, fast service at a great price too. I'm a believer!
This place is terrible. I'm beginning to think the Lehigh Valley doesn't really know how to do Hispanic food. For a GREAT buritto, I would suggest a drive to Bridgewater, NJ for Chipoltle' or to the Short Hills mall and try Qdoba. These two establishments get it right. Cali Burrito is just a cheap immitation.
Thanks for the post, Anon. I have to disagree. The Lehigh Valley has several good if not very good Mexican restaurants (Amigo Mio, Mexicana Grill, Mexico Lindo to name three) and so many Hispanic restaurants that it's tough to keep track.
I'd argue that the burritos at Cali Burrito and the national chains you mentioned aren't Mexican food -- they're Americanized takes on the burrito. Cali Burrito even professes to offer California style burritos, not authentic Mexican ones. Tulum in Bethlehem offers burritos in the same style, but with original twists that you can't find at the chains.
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