
5

"Founded by Bay Area natives and brothers Leo and Oliver Kremer, this New York–based chain specializes in forearm-sized, Mission District–style burritos wrapped in steamed tortillas; Monterey Jack cheese melted onto the tortilla is described as “the bedrock of the foundation” of each hefty handheld. Steaming (rather than grilling) produces a pliable, warm, moisture-infused tortilla — part of the brothers' stated mission of “tortilla reform” — and the nixtamalized corn tortillas from Sacramento Valley farmers are filled with guacamole made with ripe Hass avocados, homemade beans, carnitas slow-cooked over 12 hours, and chicken and steak marinated overnight in customized spice blends. After a six-month test run in NYC, the D.C. menu will also include breakfast burritos stuffed with chorizo; the kitchen will additionally offer quesadillas, nachos, tacos, bowls, fresh salads, and veggie-based items, while the new locations plan lively happy hours, wines, and canned cocktails like High Noon. The Kremer brothers cite decades-old Gordo Taqueria as their main muse, and the brand — bought two years ago by Founders Table Restaurant Group — emphasizes simple, beautiful ingredients and a focused approach to each location." - Tierney Plumb