We Agree: Eat Burritos…Live Longer

Concerning Mexican cuisine, the question is usually limited to Chili’s or On the Border (OtB). In the Bergen County area, this battle of the bulge within the Mexican food realm has few well-known rivals. Whether you like one or the other, there is little doubt that when a craving arises, more than likely Chili’s or OtB are the prevailing candidates. I, for one, am tired of this two party monopoly. Although I enjoy both of these chains, I usually prefer a more intimate setting at a local eatery.

Pancho’s Burritos provides a perfect departure from these chains, providing small-town appeal with quality food. This is not just another case of plugging a small-town store against Big Business. I would not recommend this restaurant unless it could compete with the both the taste quality and consistency of a resourceful chain while maintaining its unique appeal. I have visited this establishment several times, and have yet to be disappointed by any dish. I have found that most of Mexican/Tex-Mex eateries cater to more spicy or unique palettes very different from my “gringo” taste buds. The spices used at Pancho’s, however, accentuate the flavor, as opposed to producing heat purely for the sake of it. To top it off, Pancho’s offers food with this mass appeal without the hustled atmosphere of a chain.

Burritos, fajitas, chimichangas, and tacos dominate most menus, offering a choice of beef, chicken, steak, or shrimp. Mini-burritos are also offered if one feels that a full-sized burrito would be too large for one person (I estimate the regular-sized burritos are at least a pound, although I forgot my pocket burrito scale at home). Baby back ribs and chicken wings/fingers provide an alternative to those who are not as eager to indulge in the Mexican cuisine. Pancho’s also features a special brunch on Saturdays and Sundays featuring huevos rancheros (eggs) and chorizo among other Mexican dishes. The dish that looks most curious is green eggs and ham - the color comes from a green tomatillo sauce. In addition, the availability of a low-carb menu and vegetarian dishes bolsters Pancho’s motto of “Eat burritos, live longer.” And don’t expect plates of bland vegetables, either; the low-carb menu features burritos, quesadillas, and wraps. Vegetarian dishes include a portabello salad and meat-free wraps.

For me, no authentic Mexican experience would be complete without a margarita or freshly made fruity sangria. Pancho’s offers margaritas frozen or on the rocks in several flavors including strawberry, mango, peach, and melon. The sangria is filled with fresh fruit and made on the premesis. The bar offers several beers on tap as well as in bottles, including Corona, Tecate, Negro Modelo, and Dos Equis, as well as Bud, Rolling Rock, and Heineken. Pancho’s has about 15 tables indoors and, during warmer weather, the patio features several tables for outdoor dining. Pancho’s also offers take out and delivery and an adjacent parking lot is rarely full.

Pancho’s Burritos
214 Main St.
New Milford
(201) 225-2554
http://www.panchosburritos.net

— by Jimi
A lifetime NJ resident and former Eagle Scout, this fun-loving, beer-chugging sports fan holds a Biology degree from The College of New Jersey in Trenton. A budding comedian, Jimi has done amateur performances at Caroline’s on Broadway. He's always looking for a new audience and a cold beer.

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