Long Live Burrito!

San Francisco, I hate to break it to you, but you're no longer the burrito capital. You have been displaced by Westbrook, Maine. Say it loud, say it proud, Westbrook is the new Burrito capital. Go ahead San Franciscans, tell me why I am wrong. Brag about your numerous Latin restaurant options, the various sizes of your burritos, sizzling hot sauces, authentic this or that. Go ahead. You're wrong. You're wrong. You're wrong. Get on a plane or glide to Maine on your skateboards, find your way to Burrito in Westbrook and experience burrito perfection.

I am a seeker of Latin cuisine. During the last two decades I have sought out countless Latin eateries. While in San Fran, a few times, I discovered that the Latin food was indeed darn good, I found a place called Wahoo in Hawaii that is forever burned into my flavor memory, and on a trip into Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, I was treated to cuisine usually only shared with locals -- which was extraordinary. While in Atlanta, Chicago, San Diego and many others -- the Latin eateries were all exceptional. But, in all honesty, Burrito in Westbrook, Maine has them all beat.

The luscious fish burrito that I enjoyed today for lunch was the finest burrito I have ever enjoyed. It as wrapped in a soft, sweet, lightly grilled tortilla and filled with flaky white fish (that fell to pieces in my mouth as if it had been caught this morning in local waters). The rest of the fillings: perfectly steamed rice, delicate black beans, young scallions, thick sour cream, melted cheese, and warm salsa, combined to create an unmatched marriage of textures and tastes.

I read a comment on Burrito that complained of the chips served with the meals. I don't know about you, but I don't order for the chips. I am eating what comes in the center of my plate. In this case, it's a traditional burrito made by folks who put an exceptional amount of love into their cuisine. You can taste it in every bite.

So, burrito lovers of the world, I advise you to make tracks to Burrito in little Westbrook, Maine. Come and taste it yourselves and then tell me if you agree. I think you will.

Cheers -

state of the State's food scene

Maine Governor John Baldacci emphasized many points in his 2008 State of the State speech. The dominance of Maine's hospitality industry, was one. The state of Maine's hospitality industry is strong.

Maine restaurants, hotels, inns and hospitality retailers are experiencing growth due to increased tourism. Industry support by Maine residents has never been stronger. One economic indicator, continued rising fuel prices, points to more tourists than ever before finding their way to Maine -- in 2008 and beyond. More day trippers, especially. It's a good time to be a Maine hospitality industry player.

I speak from understanding of the business, which is fueled with fact based, and anecdotal, reports. I also attended this weeks "Breakfast with Charlie," at USM (Charles Colgan’s economic forecast for 2008). It was "doom and gloom." But one bright spot was the topic of Maine's hospitality industry's expected growth. Single digit, at best, but continued growth, nonetheless.

I'm not alone in thinking that Maine's hospitality industry is a gem. Our state is one of the top destinations in the country.

Don't take Jim's word on it:

http://www.downeast.com/Articles-2008/Recession-presents-an-opportunity/
http://portlandpsst.blogspot.com/
http://archive.seacoastonline.com/news/04042007/entertainment-f-a4-mainechefs-m30.html
http://www.visitmaine.com/tag/restaurants/award-winning_chefs/portland_maine_a_food_network/
http://www.jamesbeard.org/awards/awards.php?year=2007&category=3#235
http://www.visitmaine.com/tag/restaurants/award-winning_chefs/rob_evans/
http://www.foodandwine.com/articles/maines-food-hero-sam-hayward
http://www.epicurious.com/gourmet/features/top_50_2006

And, although they spelled her name wrong ... http://www.mainehomedesign.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=372&Itemid=110