There’s been a recent influx of Mexican themed diners and take-outs in the region, and judging by their growing customer base, they’re enjoying success and filling a need. But there still a certain segment of the dining-out crowd that shuns Mexican cuisine fearing an excessively hot palette. Fat Bastard Burrito dispels that myth quickly and offers levels of spice that let their ultra-fresh veg and perfectly cooked meat shine through, providing a refreshing break from the average ho-hum take-out choices. This provincial gem of a 47 franchise operation recently opened a new location in Smiths Falls in the LCBO retail complex on Lombard Street. And when you’re in a competitive market, you need to do what Fat Bastard does; find new ways to delight the taste buds.
My wife and I dropped by on a recent Sunday afternoon for a post-golf lunch. I went for a signature ground beef burrito and she opted for the shrimp taco-trio. First tip; if you’re choosing the big or huge sized burrito over a lil, bring an appetite. They know how to fill a wrap at Fat Bastards. And they have almost 20 different filling combos from traditional spiced ground beef to sweet chili Thai. This amazing number of choices also includes a good supply of vegetarian creations and a rare option for gluten-free wraps. Their chopped veg are extremely fresh and diced to perfection and guacamole is never an extra cost. The heat level is up to you and the mild tone still has the flavour you need without the heat you may not. The shrimp for my wife’s tacos were served in soft shells with freshly sautéed shrimp with a great hint of lime. The extensive menu also includes a wide array of quesadillas and desserts.
As their public pledge notes, “When you eat at Fat Bastard Burrito, you’ll taste the long hours we put into perfecting our craft. We are obsessed with burritos, and love what we do. Our goal is to bring you the freshest and most exclusive flavours available anywhere on the planet.” Judging from our experience they hit their target with perfection. The Smiths Falls location is open from 11 am to 11 pm Monday through Thursday, till midnight Friday and Saturday and until 10 pm on Sunday. You can reach them at 613 284 0909 and check out their menu and nutritional specs at fatbastardburrito.ca. Their address is 123 Lombard St, Unit 8 and they’re wheelchair accessible. There’s also counter and table seating available.
Column by Brian Turner
