Chipotle Mexican Grill, a fast-casual giant, is known for its customizable burritos, bowls, and tacos. But beyond the official menu lies a world of secret menu items and creative hacks, dreamt up by customers and sometimes whispered about by employees. Among these culinary legends, the “Double Decker Taco” reigns supreme. But what is a Double Decker Taco at Chipotle, and how can you snag one for yourself? Let’s dive deep into this delightful creation.
Understanding the Chipotle Menu Foundation
Before we unravel the mysteries of the Double Decker Taco, it’s crucial to grasp the core components of the standard Chipotle experience. This will give you a foundation for understanding how the Double Decker Taco is constructed and why it’s considered a special request.
The Standard Taco Offering
Chipotle offers tacos with your choice of fillings, protein (steak, chicken, carnitas, barbacoa, sofritas), rice, beans, salsa, cheese, sour cream, lettuce, and guacamole (for an extra charge). These are served in either soft flour tortillas or crispy corn tortillas. This flexibility allows for near-endless combinations.
The Power of Customization
The beauty of Chipotle lies in its almost limitless customization. Want double rice? Extra cheese? A specific salsa combination? Chances are, they can accommodate your request. This principle of customization is the key to unlocking the potential of the Double Decker Taco.
Deconstructing the Double Decker Taco: Layers of Deliciousness
The Double Decker Taco at Chipotle isn’t an official menu item; it’s a custom creation. It’s essentially a hybrid taco that cleverly combines the textures and flavors of both a soft flour tortilla and a crispy corn tortilla. Imagine the satisfying crunch of a crispy shell meeting the pliable comfort of a flour tortilla, all wrapped around your favorite fillings.
The Anatomy of a Double Decker Masterpiece
The basic idea is simple: the crispy corn tortilla is “glued” to the soft flour tortilla using melted cheese. This creates a double-layered shell that’s both sturdy and flavorful. Your chosen fillings are then added inside the assembled shell, creating a truly unique and satisfying taco experience. The cheese acts as the crucial adhesive that fuses the two tortillas together.
Why the Cheese is Key
The melted cheese isn’t just for flavor; it’s the structural glue that holds the Double Decker Taco together. Without it, the crispy shell would simply slide around within the soft tortilla, defeating the purpose of the double-layered design. It also adds a creamy, savory element that complements the other fillings.
Ordering Your Own Chipotle Double Decker Taco: A Step-by-Step Guide
Since the Double Decker Taco isn’t on the official menu, you’ll need to know how to order it correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get exactly what you’re craving:
Step 1: Communicating Your Vision
Start by clearly explaining what you want. Don’t just say “Double Decker Taco.” Instead, try something like: “I’d like a taco, but I want to make it a double decker. Can I get a soft flour tortilla with a crispy corn tortilla glued to it with cheese?” Clarity is key.
Step 2: Specifying Your Tortilla Preferences
Specify your preferred type of flour tortilla (usually just “flour tortilla”) and the type of crispy corn tortilla. Some locations might have different options for the crispy shell (e.g., yellow corn, blue corn).
Step 3: Cheese Application
This is critical. Tell them you want cheese melted onto the flour tortilla before they attach the crispy shell. You can specify what kind of cheese you want, if they offer multiple options (although typically it’s just Monterey Jack).
Step 4: Assembly and Fillings
Once the cheesy bond is formed, you can proceed with your usual filling requests: protein, rice, beans, salsa, and toppings. Don’t be afraid to customize!
Step 5: Be Prepared for Potential Challenges
Keep in mind that not all Chipotle employees are familiar with the Double Decker Taco request. Some might be hesitant or unsure how to prepare it. Be patient, polite, and clearly explain the process. If they’re still unable to accommodate you, you might have to adjust your order or try a different location.
The Appeal of the Double Decker: Why It’s a Chipotle Fan Favorite
So, what makes the Double Decker Taco such a popular menu hack? It boils down to a few key factors:
Texture Contrast: The Ultimate Sensory Experience
The combination of the soft, chewy flour tortilla and the crunchy, brittle corn tortilla provides a delightful textural contrast that elevates the taco experience. It’s the best of both worlds.
Enhanced Structural Integrity: No More Taco Catastrophes
The double-layered shell provides extra support, reducing the risk of the taco falling apart or leaking fillings. This is especially helpful if you load up on ingredients.
A Flavor Boost: Cheese as the Unsung Hero
The melted cheese not only acts as an adhesive but also adds a layer of creamy, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients. It’s a subtle but significant enhancement.
The Joy of Customization: Creating Your Perfect Taco
The Double Decker Taco is a testament to the power of customization at Chipotle. It allows you to create a taco that’s perfectly tailored to your preferences.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
While the Double Decker Taco is a delicious and innovative creation, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
Increased Cost: Double the Tortilla, Double the…Not Really
While they typically don’t charge you extra for the second tortilla, it’s possible that some locations might. It’s best to clarify the cost before placing your order. Be polite and understand that they are doing something outside the normal procedure.
Preparation Time: Be Patient
Preparing a Double Decker Taco takes slightly longer than a standard taco. Be patient and understanding, especially during peak hours. Remember, you’re asking them to do something special.
Mess Factor: Handle with Care
Due to the increased volume of fillings and the double-layered shell, the Double Decker Taco can be a bit messy. Be sure to grab extra napkins.
Employee Familiarity: Not Always Guaranteed
As mentioned earlier, not all Chipotle employees are familiar with the Double Decker Taco request. Be prepared to explain the process clearly and politely.
Beyond the Basics: Double Decker Variations and Creative Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basic Double Decker Taco, you can start experimenting with different variations and creative ideas.
The Quesadilla-Taco Hybrid: Extra Cheesy Goodness
Consider asking them to melt cheese on both the flour tortilla and the crispy corn tortilla before assembling the taco. This will create an even cheesier and more decadent experience.
The Spicy Double Decker: Adding a Kick
Incorporate spicy salsa, jalapeños, or hot sauce into your fillings to add a fiery kick to your Double Decker Taco.
The Veggie Double Decker: A Vegetarian Delight
Opt for sofritas as your protein and load up on fresh vegetables, salsa, and guacamole for a delicious and satisfying vegetarian Double Decker Taco.
The Breakfast Double Decker: A Morning Marvel
If you’re lucky enough to find a Chipotle location that serves breakfast (usually only at airports), try creating a Double Decker Taco with eggs, chorizo, and cheese.
Is the Double Decker Taco Worth the Hype?
Ultimately, whether or not the Double Decker Taco is “worth it” is a matter of personal preference. However, for many Chipotle fans, the unique texture, enhanced flavor, and increased structural integrity make it a clear winner. It’s a creative and customizable way to elevate your taco experience and enjoy the best of both worlds. If you’re looking for a way to spice up your next Chipotle visit, give the Double Decker Taco a try. Just remember to be clear, polite, and patient when ordering, and be prepared to enjoy a truly unique and satisfying taco experience. This hack transforms a regular taco into something extraordinary, exemplifying the boundless potential for customization that Chipotle offers. So, venture forth, experiment, and craft your perfect Double Decker Taco creation. Your taste buds will thank you.
What exactly is a Double Decker Taco at Chipotle?
A Double Decker Taco at Chipotle isn’t an official menu item, but rather a popular customer-created “menu hack.” It essentially involves combining a crunchy taco shell with a soft taco shell, using melted cheese and/or refried beans as “glue” between them. This creates a multi-layered taco with varying textures and flavors, offering a unique eating experience compared to a standard taco.
The hack is achieved by ordering both a soft taco (usually flour or corn) and a crispy taco shell. You then request that the staff melt cheese on the soft taco shell or spread refried beans on it, immediately pressing the hard shell onto it. This acts as an adhesive, bonding the two shells together before you add your desired fillings. The result is a sturdy taco that provides both the crunch of the hard shell and the softness of the tortilla.
Is the Double Decker Taco an official Chipotle menu item?
No, the Double Decker Taco is not an officially recognized or listed item on the Chipotle menu. It’s a customer-originated creation that has gained popularity through online communities and word of mouth. Chipotle employees are generally aware of the request, but they may not always know the term “Double Decker Taco.”
Because it’s not an official item, availability and ease of ordering can vary depending on the specific Chipotle location and the staff member preparing your food. Some locations may be more accommodating than others in melting the cheese or spreading the beans to adhere the shells together. It is always best to be polite and clearly explain what you’re trying to order.
How do you order a Double Decker Taco at Chipotle?
Ordering a Double Decker Taco requires a bit of explanation, as it’s not a straightforward request. Start by ordering both a soft taco (flour or corn) and a crispy taco separately. Be prepared to order and pay for each shell individually. Specify your fillings for inside the taco as well.
Next, and this is key, politely ask the Chipotle employee to melt cheese on the soft taco shell or spread refried beans on it (your preference) before you add the crispy taco shell, as though you were gluing it. Then ask them to press the hard taco shell onto it. This step is crucial for holding the two shells together. Finally, add your chosen fillings inside the assembled Double Decker Taco. If the staff seems confused, patiently explain the process again.
What are the advantages of a Double Decker Taco compared to a regular taco?
The main advantage of a Double Decker Taco is the enhanced texture. The combination of the crunchy hard shell and the soft tortilla provides a more interesting and satisfying eating experience than a single-shell taco. This contrasting texture adds another dimension to the flavor profile of the taco.
Another benefit is structural integrity. The soft shell acts as a buffer, preventing the hard shell from easily breaking and spilling the contents. This makes the Double Decker Taco less messy and easier to handle compared to a traditional hard-shell taco, which is prone to crumbling. The “glue” (cheese or beans) further reinforces the structure.
Can I customize my Double Decker Taco at Chipotle?
Yes, absolutely! The Double Decker Taco allows for the same level of customization as any other item at Chipotle. You can choose your preferred meat (chicken, steak, carnitas, barbacoa, or sofritas), rice, beans, salsa, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and other toppings to fill your taco.
Furthermore, you can even customize the shells themselves. Opt for a flour or corn tortilla for the soft shell, and select your preferred toppings for the “glue” between the shells – whether it’s melted cheese or refried beans. This high level of customization allows you to create a Double Decker Taco that perfectly matches your taste preferences.
Is the Double Decker Taco more expensive than a regular taco?
Yes, because it requires ordering two separate taco shells, the Double Decker Taco is generally more expensive than a single regular taco. You will be charged individually for the soft taco and the crispy taco, plus any additional toppings you add to your taco. The difference in price depends on the prices each shell has individually.
However, many find the added cost worthwhile due to the improved texture and structural integrity. Consider it an “upgrade” to your taco experience. Keep in mind that adding guacamole or extra meat will also increase the overall price, just as it would with any other Chipotle item. Weigh the costs and benefits to decide if the Double Decker Taco is right for you.
Are there any potential downsides to ordering a Double Decker Taco at Chipotle?
One potential downside is the complexity of ordering. Since it’s not an official menu item, there can be a communication barrier with the staff, especially if they are unfamiliar with the term “Double Decker Taco.” Be prepared to explain the process clearly and patiently, which may take extra time during busy periods.
Another potential issue is the messiness factor. While the Double Decker design aims to reduce spillage, overfilling the taco can still lead to a messy eating experience. Additionally, the melted cheese or beans between the shells can sometimes become drippy if the taco is not consumed quickly. Manage your expectations and prepare to possibly use extra napkins.