Best Burritos In Pittsburgh

Did you know that the word burrito means little donkey? From the brain power of cowboys along the U.S./Mexico border, burritos came into fruition. Cowboys needed a fast food that would keep on long journeys in a hot saddlebag without spoiling. The meat of choice was shredded jerky – usually beef "machachavo." Any beans and fresh vegetables on hand were also added. Since then, burritos have evolved into much more. Check out the best of what Pittsburgh has to offer by referring to this list.

(Preparing tortillas to go into the oven at Reyna Foods / Credit: Dev Meyers)

Reyna Foods
2031 Penn Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 261-2606
reynafoods.com

If you would like to binge on burritos in the 'Burgh, you should begin your journey at the tortilla factory at Reyna Foods in the Strip District. Be sure to call in advance if you want a tour. Reyna Foods is a colorful and authentic Mexican grocery store where you can find various types of hot sauce, a plethora of different beans and an amazing array of every imaginable Mexican ingredient. And what's cooking on the sidewalk in front of Reyna's seven days a week? Burritos of course. Choose between beef, chicken, pork, shrimp or vegetarian. But wait, it gets even better. Opening this fall adjacent to the tortilla factory is a restaurant with a full view of the factory and kitchen. You'll be able to watch your own tortillas being made while you look at the menu. Stop by for a preview of what's to come in the restaurant by ordering up a sidewalk burrito with some of the freshest tortillas you taste buds will ever have the pleasure of meeting. Also, join the folks from Reyna's at White Oak Farm in Hampton Township on Saturday, October 6, 2012 for the Pepper Farm Festival, featuring chiles from Hatch, New Mexico. There will be crafts, arts, live entertainment and some very special burritos cooked up just for you.

(Cameron, age 3, enjoys her meal at Casa Rasta / Credit: Dev Meyers)

Casa Rasta
2102 Broadway Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
(412) 223-6106
casarastapgh.com

Antonio Fraza brings 15 years of experience to the newest taco stand in the 'Burgh. In business for just eight months, Fraza packs the joint every night. A Mexico City native, he showcases the authentic Yucatan recipes his grandmother prepared when he was a boy growing up in Colonia Federal. "These are the real recipes," he said, "not Tex-Mex." Fraza also offers his own original recipes – Mexican infused with Caribbean flavors. His burritos are typically on the sweeter side with citrus flavors, allspice and pepper. Try out the Jamaican Jerk Chicken Burrito and the Beef Burrito. These succulent meats are jam packed with flavor and with a side of mole sauce and two types of salsa, you will leave a very happy customer.

Jose and Tony's
1537 McFarland Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15216
(412) 561-2025
joseandtonys.com

Tex/Mex food in a Tex/Mex decor, that's what you can expect at Jose and Tony's. If you're in search of a good burrito, look no longer. Choose from chicken, beef, bean, cheese or vegetarian burritos or just go along with the trendsetters and order the California Burrito. This beef and cheese burrito eats like an enchilada with the generous helpings encased within the tortilla. You will need a fork and knife for this popular burrito because with the smothering of cheese and enchilada sauce, it can get a bit messy for a mere hand hold.

Main Street Deli
3510 Main St
Munhall, PA 15120
(412) 205-3044
mainstdeli.com

What is a Reuben Wrap? This might raise a few eyebrows in a burrito article, but don't be so quick to lend a judging eye. Sometimes the regular burrito fixings can get a bit boring. Spice things up a bit by ordering this dish from Main Street Deli. The wrap comes with a flour tortilla, corned beef, homemade coleslaw and thinly-sliced cheese. It is a great alternative to the ordinary Mexican burrito. Also on the menu is the Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Club Wrap, Italian Wrap and Turkey and Bacon Ranch Wrap. You can eat in the dining room or take it home, but most people call for delivery.

EGGS-R-US
Noble Manor Shopping Center
2350 Noblestown Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
(412) 922-5828
eggsruspittsburgh.com

Breakfast anyone? Try a breakfast burrito from EGGS-R-US. These early-morning treats are stuffed with eggs, potatoes, cheese, peppers and onions to make up the bulk of dish. Then add some salsa, sour cream and cheddar jack cheese and you're starting to get somewhere. Enjoy this meatless option for $6.99 or get your protein with your choice of additional bacon, ham or hot or sweet sausage for only $7.99. Can you think of a better way to start your day?

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A freelance writer and marketing guru, Dev loves all things Pittsburgh. She is also an avid collector of mid century modern copper jewelry and a Pittsburgh history buff. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.