The Dude burrito abides, and satisfies, at Pelon’s Baja Grill

Source: The Virginian Pilot; April 3, 2019

It was serendipitous that I had finished watching movie, “The Big Lebowski” for what had to be the 100th time when I had a craving for a burrito. Call it fate, but National Burrito Day also was approaching; the food holiday was observed on April 4.

Serendipitous because one of my favorite places for California Baja-style food, Pelon’s Baja Grill, has a burrito front and center on their extensive bill of fare titled The Dude.

Indeed, there is a whole section of the menu devoted to burritos, in fact there more than a dozen offerings all together, available in a traditional flour tortilla or wrapped in a tortilla of whole wheat for a nominal upcharge.

Also for a small additional fee there are more than a dozen add-ons ranging from beans or rice to french fries, guacamole or salsa fresca. Extra meat is also an option. Burritos served in a bowl with mixed greens is priced two bucks more.

But back to The Dude, which, truth be told, probably was named more for the surf culture in Baja than for “The Big Lebowski” character played by Jeff Bridges.

Regardless, this Dude abides.

Overstuffed in a soft and supple tortilla (I opted for whole wheat) is marinated and grilled steak, rice, refried beans, cilantro, onions, guacamole and salsa fresca.

The tastes and textures were epic.

Seriously, this is a delicious burrito. The steak was flavorful and tender and grilled perfectly. There was an abundance of the beef, and it shined through the other add-ins. Speaking of those, the beans and rice were complimentary and not overpowering. The guacamole and salsa were delicious.

Although the offering filled up the wax paper-lined serving boat, I had no trouble finishing each and every bite. Cowabunga.

There is also a Pelon’s in Norfolk.

Pelon’s is at 3619 Pacific Ave. Call 757-417-3970 or visit pelonsbajagrill.com.