With her always handy camera, Avery captures all the hottest happenings in Portland.
September 05, 2008
Gone Granny's Gone
It's official, Granny's Burritos is no more. After the unexpected padlocking of its Fore Street doors last December, fans were thrilled to see the cheap eats joint re-open in the spot of the former Uncle Billy's on Congress Street. But the collaboration between Granny's Chris Godin and Uncle Billy's John St. Laurent has come to an end.
But burrito freaks need not despair. The Congress Street spot is now home to Grandes Burritos Taqueria.
According to bartender Chris Wilson, the name change occurred when Godin left the partnership and St. Laurent stayed on to keep the burrito-loving masses fed. (No word on why Godin departed.)
"We've kept some of the old menu and improved on some of the recipes," Wilson says. "We wanted to keep the original style for the customers who wanted Granny's."
The additions include tacos, burrito bowls and an expanded offering of sauces. Wilson also says all the prices have been lowered by about $1.50. Currently, the restaurant is open daily from 11:30-10 pm and may soon expand its hours to midnight (and possibly later on the weekends). Each night there is live music, beginning around 8 pm.
Beer and wine remain on tap, but the service style has reverted back to the way it was on Fore Street. You order at the counter and your meal is delivered to your table. Take-out is available, and delivery may be offered in the future. Call 761-5930 for more info.
I walked up there for lunch on Tuesday, but the place wasn't open. So I can't tell you how the food measures up. If you've had a chance to check it, please chime in and let us know what you think.
Comments
Yeaaahhh, I'm gonna have to go ahead and just...disagree with you there, Adam. Granny's Burritos are absolutely the worst burritos on the face of the earth. With the Granny's guy gone, here's hoping Johnny can take over and make an edible product.
Posted by KEMSeptember 8, 2008 05:05 PM
I understand if you're not into the food... It's certainly not an AUTHENTIC burrito, but in my opinion, it IS a delicious one. There are several other options for a good burrito in town, so I don't think there's a need to change their recipe, quality, or technique. It's comfort food!
Adam
Posted by Adam FlahertySeptember 9, 2008 10:14 PM
Yeah.. the Granny's guy is gone but here's hoping that Johnny can manage to keep a functinoing business. In trying the phone number today and getting ht "not in service" recording and the customer service that I've heard that EVERYONE gets there, I'd be surprised if it stays open for any considerable length of time. Don't support these people.
Posted by ANOctober 6, 2008 11:47 AM
According to the blog Portland Psst, the new Grandes went the way of the old Granny's. Check it out at
http://portlandpsst.blogspot.com/2008/10/thai-chef-buffet-grandes-burritos.html
October 6, 2008 12:30 PM
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I've only eaten there once since the new "Grandes Burritos" sign went up, but at this point, they're still serving same Granny's burrito that we know and love. Let's all keep our fingers crossed that this doesn't change. It would be devistating to see this place disappear a second time!
Adam
Posted by Adam FlahertySeptember 8, 2008 10:38 AM