The humble burrito—warm, hearty, and endlessly customizable—is a staple in Mexican and Mexican-American cuisine. Independent and local Mexican restaurants in Salem, NH, like Vallarta Tacos & Burritos, serve staple Mexican dishes that are far superior to anything you’ll get at a chain restaurant. Restaurants like ours use fresh ingredients and traditional family recipes to bring you delicious meals, including amazing burritos.
But how did burritos become a staple of casual Mexican dining? Here’s a look at their history and why local restaurants in Salem, NH, are the best places to get them.
A Meal Meant to Travel
The word burrito, meaning “little donkey” in Spanish, likely refers to the rolled-up bundle resembling the packs donkeys once carried. While its exact origin is uncertain, many food historians trace the modern burrito back to Northern Mexico in the early 20th century, where wheat flour was more common than corn tortillas.
Popular Across the Border
Burritos became popular in the U.S. through Mexican-American communities, especially in California. Over time, regional styles like the massive, foil-wrapped Mission-style burrito from San Francisco evolved, packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and guac. Today, burritos are everywhere—from fast-food chains to gourmet food trucks—but nothing beats the flavor and authenticity of one from a local Mexican restaurant.
Eat Local, Eat Better
Here’s why you should order your next burrito from a neighborhood spot like Vallarta Tacos & Burritos: Local Mexican restaurants often use family recipes passed down through generations. Their ingredients tend to be fresher, the seasoning more intentional, and the experience more personal. When you order from a small business, you’re supporting the livelihood of families, not just corporations. You’re also likely to discover unique regional twists—like birria burritos, mole sauces, or handmade tortillas—that you won’t find in chain restaurants. Plus, it just tastes better when it’s made with pride and according to time-tested recipes.
Mexican Restaurants Salem, NH | Vallarta Tacos & Burritos
When you order a burrito from a local restaurant, you’re getting so much more than the Mexican version of fast food. You’re getting centuries of culinary tradition wrapped in a warm tortilla. Next time you’re in the mood for a burrito or some tacos, skip the chain restaurants and come to Vallarta Tacos & Burritos for the best of the best in Salem, NH!