by Neil Evans

 
For me, the ultimate all-in-one meal comes in the form of a burrito. And for my money, the only place to consume such a diesel burrito is at the Boca Grande. With several locations in the Boston area, getting your hands on one of their massive Grande burritos couldn't be easier or more necessary. Now I know some people swear by Anna's Taqueria, but I've eaten at Anna's and I've made my choice.

I normally go to either the Coolidge Corner or Brighton Center Boca Grande's but before even inside, what gets you is the smell. You can smell the grilled steak, cilantro and tortillas from a block away and it's an immediate aphrodisiac. Must. Have. Burritos!

There's really only one way to go when stepping to the counter to place your order: Steak Burrito Grande with black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream and hot sauce. The result is a pound-plus tortilla stuffed with Mexican goodness to the size of a small baby. Let it sit and settle in its foil for three to four minutes then crack into it.

The steak is marinated to perfection and grilled tender. Matched perfectly with the rice, cheese and steamed flour tortilla, I can think of no better single item of food in the world. The extra toppings elevate the burrito to a level that is rarely achieved. You'll need a good half hour to wade through the burrito and savor the intense flavors, so plan accordingly.

Of course, there are other filling options like chicken, chorizo and veggies that are decent choices, but order at your own risk. Your first Boca experience must be life-altering and I would hate it to be ruined by a food mistake. Aside from burritos, Boca Grande also offers tamales, plates, quesadillas and a variety of Mexican favorites, all very tasty. But really, why waste your time on a quesadilla or tacos when you could get a burrito? Why settle for Sammy Hagar when you could have David Lee Roth?

Unfortunately, due to a positive career change, I will no longer be working in Boston and therefore no longer have immediate access to my favorite single item of food on the planet. It will be the only thing I miss about the city. I am sentimental over a burrito. Yes, they're that good.

Boca Grande does have a website, but it's incredibly outdated. Check it out here or better yet go in person to their one of many locations. Thank me later after you recover from the food coma.

Kenmore Square, Coolidge Corner, Brighton Center, Cambridge (2).