Chipotle Fans are Riled Up Over Arrival of Newest Menu Item: 'Just Bring Back My Fav'
- Chipotle has introduced a new Chipotle Honey Chicken protein to its menu, sparking mixed reactions from fans.
I must confess, friends, that there was a time when I was a Chipotle hater. Hold your gasps and screams of horror; I've since come to my senses. But my reasons for not liking the beloved quick-service Tex-Mex eatery had more to do with my own expectations than anything. It's not that I ever thought the food was bad, but in the early days, Chipotle seemed bland and mediocre compared to the Pollo Tropicals and now-Cavas of the world. It wasn't the mouthwatering flavor it was hyped up to be, and after my initial visit, it took a while before I ever made back in.
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These days, Chipotle is my life ! Whether that first visit was a fluke or not remains to be seen, but since then, the California-based chain has leveled it up in the flavor department with drool-worthy proteins like smoked brisket, guajillo garlic steak and chicken al pastor. They've continued to double down on simplicity while giving everything their signature Chipotle flair.
Despite their best efforts, though, competitors have been circling, and after Cava launched their IPO last year, the brand has posed itself as a major threat to the Chipotle throne. In that light, it makes Chipotle's announcement of its latest "swicy" protein seem like more of a reaction than a feat of groundbreaking innovation.
Related: How to Make Chicken Taste Like it Came From Chipotle, According to a Former Employee
The fan-favorite burrito chain announced its new Chipotle Honey Chicken via its official Instagram page, and the reaction from fans has been seemingly lukewarm. Beginning today, March 7, everyone will be able to get a taste of the new eat, with hopes that it will land itself a forever spot on the lineup.
While a large portion of fans were excited at the news, there was a secondary voice that's almost impossible to miss. "Y'all doing extra stuff we don't want😭 WE WANT CHICKEN AL PASTOR," said one unimpressed fan. "Al pastor permanently >>>" chimed in another.One fan even went so far as to say, "Honestly, idgaf… just bring back my fav, Al pastor & lower your prices."
Despite the naysayers, we'll definitely be giving it a try, thanks to the glowing endorsement of fans who've already tried it. "I've been getting this in Northern California for at least 6 months now. It's amazing!" It looks like the ball is in Cava's court now.
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