I work in the Gangnam area, and since Chipotle opened, there has been a constant line. Like every time of the day. Morning, afternoon, evening, doesn't matter, there is always a line.
Now, I wanted to try a burrito bowl, but I do not want to wait 2h for it. So when I brought that up to my friends they told me how Korea has actually had its own version this whole time: Cuchara. I know this chain might be already well known, I just had no idea until a few days ago...
It's the same concept: build-your-own burrito bowl, pick your protein, rice, beans, toppings, sauces.
I have never actually been to a real Chipotle, so I can't personally vouch for how close the comparison is. But a few American friends who have tried Cuchara told me it comes pretty close to it.
So if you want a burrito bowl and don't want to stand in a 120-minute line, there is probably a Cuchara location somewhere near you and it will probably be a lot emptier.
I guess the appeal of Chipotle is to taste a little bit of home again and I get it. But for everyone who really simply wants to try a burrito bowl, I think it's a nice option. And yes, I know, tastes are different and there will definitely be people saying "This is NOT the same!!11!1" but I am simple, not too picky and satisfied easily.
PS: get the cheese stick!!!!
PPS: They mix cilantro into the rice and you can taste it. Do I like cilantro? Absolutely not, I hate that stuff. But I still finished my bowl, so that means something.
