Burritos on Main Street

For many weeks we’ve seen the paper in the windows of the shop at 4 Main Street in Vineyard Haven and wondered what was going on. Then we saw the little sign: La Choza and there was a good amount of speculation as to what was coming. If you’ve walked by recently, there’s no question, burritos have made it to Main Street.

This Wednesday, February 29^th, La Choza is opening its doors and offering up some super tasty, super affordable, super simple – burritos – and that’s pretty much it.

“I’m here to fill that void of easy to get, easy to afford, good food,” said owner Seth Gambino. “Going out shouldn’t always have to feel like you’re treating yourself – especially when that treat means a $12 grilled cheese.”

Gambino, who grew up on the Island and graduated from the in 1992, has returned to the Island and brought some business experience with him. Gambino opened up the first La Choza in the Berkshires in 2001 where he found the tourist-driven economy to be much like the Island’s, with many upscale restaurants and few affordable, well made choices.

“The point is to try to have people come in with a $10 bill and leave with change in their pocket,” said Gambino.

The place is decked from top to bottom with collected items: license plates, Mexican Day of the Dead décor and even a Tom-Tom Club poster.

“Go kitsch or go home,” said Gambino.

There is a counter by the window with some standing room and stools. Other than that, it’s a big kitchen where for the time being, Gambino will run the show by himself.

“I hope to find someone soon to help out, but I’ve done this before and I’ve got family in the area as well. I should be fine.”

The process is simple. First you choose whether or not you want a traditional-style burrito in a flour tortilla or an untraditional one in a biodegradable bowl with gluten-free chips, then you pick your fillings and your toppings.

According to Gambino, he’s not trying to make a food statement. His goal is to make, “good, fresh, healthy, made-to-order food that you can grab and go.” And eventually he plans to do it seven days a week all year long.

He won’t, however, be selling any alcohol. “I’ve done that before too,” he said. “It’s too much of a headache.”

Currently the hours of operation are still to be determined, but Gambino is planning to be open from 11 am – 9 pm and perhaps later.

“I’m considering staying open for the last boat,” he said. “My hope is that people will get in the habit of calling from the boat and then coming by on their way home to pick up something to take with them.”

La Choza is located at 4 Main Street in Vineyard Haven. The grand opening takes place on Wednesday, February 29^th. Doors will open at 11 am and there will be a celebration from noon – 2 pm. NOTE: the parking lot next to the building is available to La Choza customers.