Burrito-ful

We loved Pura Vida long before Chef Hector Santiago’s brief, but bold run on Top Chef last year. Dining there feels like Christmas, making a wish list and waiting for yummy little presents to arrive at the table. And it doesn’t hurt that Chef Santiago is good people. So, when we heard that he had started a food stand, Burro Pollo, on weekends in the lot across the street from Pura Vida…let’s just say that there aren’t very many things we’ll stand outside for in July, but this is one of them. Santiago’s luscious chicken burritos get their start with a quick flame char for the tortillas, filled with generous spoonfuls of tender chicken stewed with Mexican spices and topped with crema, fresh onions, carrots and cilantro. He also slips in tiny pickled chilies that pack a fiery punch – it’s a good thing we opted for a house-made agua fresca (today’s water was flavored with watermelon, basil, agave nectar and lime). I asked for tips on the agua fresca since we have some watermelon and basil to finish off at home – Santiago said to simply muddle the ingredients with your hands and strain. He also said vodka would be pretty good in there. I’ve got my to-do for tonight.

We ordered two regular burritos (if you’re real hungry, you can go for a grande), an agua fresca, and a bottled water, for $15. Devoured over the wooden picnic table in front of the stand, stew juice running down our arms, it was a delightful way to spend a Sunday lunch. So tasty that we even forgot about the heat – for about 15 minutes anyway.

Coming up from Chef Hector, he’ll be selling gourmet Latin sandwiches from Pura Vida starting this Tuesday, July 27. Called Super Pan, the lunch spot’s menu will include Pork Belly Coconut Buns, a Chipotle BBQ Beef Sandwich, Jamon Serrano on house made Spanish Coca Bread with manchego cheese & date-marcona almond butter, and more.

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