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Freebirds
Category: Restaurants Mexican Mexican [Edit]
3958 5th Ave(between University Ave & Washington St)
San Diego, CA 92103
Neighbourhood: Hillcrest
(619) 299-5500
- Hours:
Mon-Wed, Sun 11 am - 9:30 pm
Thu-Sat 11 am - 10 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
107 reviews for Freebirds
Review Highlights
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"My burrito maker was super nice and talkative I enjoyed her." In 18 reviews -
"Everyone was super friendly." In 4 reviews -
"...a meal, but i think it was due to it being opening day." In 3 reviews
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107 reviews in English
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Review from Kate G.
5/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
I had a friend who worked at Freebirds in Texas and she kept telling me how amazing their burritos were, and how my burrito addiction would be satisfied if I just came to Texas. I kind of didn't believe her.. until they opened their location up here in San Diego!
It's over by where the old Corvette Diner used to be. It makes me sad to go down that street these days, but now I can drive down there with a little less sadness than before!
The Freebird size burrito is a pretty normal burrito.. good for if you're just normally hungry. I did beans, rice, and cheese.. yummy! Zero complaints. Everything was delicious! We did a side of chips and they were delicious too.
Parking was easy enough, but we did go at night.. it was shortly before closing when we finally got there. But there is a parking garage right across the street, no big deal.
OH. Their "pot" brownies are Jesus in brownie form. Just saying. -
Review from Samantha N.
San Diego, CA
5/15/2012 1 Check-in Here
It's alright. But kinda overpriced. I wouldn't go back here. Nothing was spectacular to me.
Plus during our lunch their alarm system kept going off and they did not know how to turn it off. -
Review from Mary W.
San Diego, CA
4/23/2012
They say imitation is the highest form of flattery. Sadly the product of imitation is rarely as good as the original.
If you like Chipotle, chances are you'll like Freebirds. They are a bit cheaper, offer larger portions, a larger variety of toppings, and support a much more artsy and hip environment.
But if you're like me, and Chipotle reminds you of your college dining hall- don't hold your breath.
While the burritos are larger, the size is accounted for by way too much rice, which you can easily see in any picture of a burrito. They do have better topping varieties (good roasted corn!), and a larger selection of wraps. I liked that they have the availability of Bacon, but its annoying that it along with guacamole are an additional $.50.
This location is also a pain in that it has no parking, so you have to pay a meter, which is always a downer.
I will concede that the staff at the Freebirds location I visited were very friendly, and helpful (almost creepy Starbuck level happy). And the eatery itself is cute, with a little less of the fast food feel you get at Chipotles.
And they gave out free brownies which was a nice thought, and were also cheekily marketed. But they were just ok brownies, much less exciting than the employees made them out to be. I've never been less excited about Chocolate in my whole life- and that' saying something.
In the end, meh. -
Review from Mary Jordan W.
San Diego, CA
5/22/2012
I was offered a gift card AGAIN today after Freebird's got our order wrong (for the 3rd time in a row.) It was nice that they tried to make it right, but all three times we had to drive back to the restaurant to get our order corrected and get the gift cards. Super annoying. The burritos I have had from them are pretty good, especially the carnitas, but unfortunately the service has been disappointing. There are SO many great places in San Diego to get a burrito, I'd rather support a local business with good food and good service over Freebirds.
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Review from R. O.
Chula Vista, CA
5/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Great burritos served with a smile! I love this place!
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Review from Manami Y.
4/11/2012
2.5 stars.
Comparable to Chipotle.
Cayenne flavored tortilla was a dud.
They have "pot brownies."
Stingy with the guacamole.
Hippy vibe.Listed in: My Future Home - San Diego
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Review from Tien N.
4/17/2012
Most people don't know shit about burritos.
If Chipotle were to start feeling insecure about itself and then joined a gym it'd end up like Freebirds.
I got the normal sized one which was packed with so much stuff I was afraid it was going to explode in my face--and there were two sizes bigger, each one twice as big as the previous.
There were a lot more options compared to Chipotle, including different cheeses, salsas and other toppings, so if variety is your spice of life then check em out.
Quality wise I'd say it's on par with Chipotle (which personally I think is rather plain), so if you're after size and variety, head over to Hillcrest and you won't be disappointed.
The workers were quite eclectic and energetic, which certainly gave the burrito some extra flavor as well. -
Review from Matty B.
San Diego, CA
5/20/2012
Ok. First off, we only eat at places with veggie and grass-fed and pasture raised products. So whenever a new place that fits the bill pops up we have to try it. The food? AWESOME. The spicy tomatillo sauce is totally spicy. the burritos are as large as you want them. My boyfriend got the largest size the first time, and has to cradle it like a baby while he ate it. Why 3 stars???? Online ordering! If I order online, I shouldn't get a call to confirm my order, where I have to go over EVERY TOPPING in confirmation before going to pick it up. What is the point of filling in the bubbles on the site, if I have to re-order in grueling detail with a person on the phone right after?!?!
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Review from Ron S.
San Diego, CA
4/14/2012
Freeb!rds dropped off a cater tray for our office to try their food. They sent over several different burritos and cookies and chips. I had pork and chicken burritos and they both rocked! The chips were good, I liked the brownies and the chocolate chip cookies were ok. Gotta try the actual restaurant to get the full taste.
Thanks Freeb!rds -
Review from Jes D.
San Diego, CA
4/23/2012
Great staff and delicious food complimented by heaping portions. The person making your burrito/nachos/whatever you order knows exactly what is in everything that goes on your platter. And their customer service is wonderful. Not forced, just down to earth, sometimes goofy and always friendly. Everyone needs to stop comparing Freebirds to Chipotle. They are different. Very different. And I love them both. The Hillcrest staff is amazing. Keep it up.
BONUS: Gluten-free and vegan friendly! -
Review from Fernando M.
San Diego, CA
4/15/2012
Found this place on a whim and it reminded me of Chipotle (which irks the staff there at Freebirds) but it turns out, the ingredients are much better tasting.
I had the original FREEBIRD size burrito. Cayenne tortilla (they warned me it would be a hint at cayenne and that was the hint) with steak, Spanish rice, black beans, and the corn salsa. Like I said, fresher and more flavourful than Chipotle, but I can see how people will always compare the two.
Incredibly limited salsa selection: Mild (green) and Hot (red) and a Texas BBQ. The staff recommended I use the BBQ, but my Mexican upbringing forbids it. It's a GREAT sauce. For BBQ Chicken. NOT for a steak burrito.
There is also a hot pepper sauce called "Death Sauce" at the table, if you want some true heat on your burro. Decent, but a notch too much on the heat and it takes away flavour instead of enhancing it.
All in all, great place, great vibe, awesome staff and good, fresh food. Would I go out of my way to get it? Nope. But if I'm nearby and want something filling and fresh, I'm there.
Enjoy! -
Review from Dennis R.
San Diego, CA
Updated - 3/26/2012
The last time I was in and would not stay or order because the music was too loud and too acerbic for my taste, I was told send an email so their corporate would know what my thoughts were.
I did that, I sent in a comment about the music being too much for my age group.
i.e. David Bowie, Aerosmith.
What I got back was nothing. No response.
I wish this place luck in surviving, they're gonna need it.
I just don't see anything special about it and the music/hippie vibe is a turnoff for me.
Not recommended. I wouldn't take anyone there just because of the atmosphere.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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3/5/2012
Please tone the music down.
I went back in after a visit when you were new which was crazy time in… Read more »
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Review from Stela M.
San Diego, CA
4/18/2012
Really weird experience, food is so meager, I don't get the concept at all. I went there with my mom starving after seeing a movie a cross the street. After eating the burrito I felt full and unsatisfied, like I had wasted a meal.
I am sorry but Chipotle is way better. -
Review from lisa s.
La Mesa, CA
5/10/2012
Burritos are good price for the size. Carnitas are extremely salty. The menu is clear, but it gets kind of confusing when you are picking from so many unlabeled toppings to add. Would go back again only if in the neighborhood
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Review from Krystle M.
San Diego, CA
3/2/2012
Like many of the other reviewers, I had high hopes for the this place but was disappointed for the most part. Hopefully the owners read this so they can make improvements and save their business. I noticed it was not too busy when I went on Friday at 12:30PM. Not a good sign. These are the biggest reasons Freebirds kinda pretty much isn't worth it:
1) They do not have enough people to service the few customers they had when we were there. We waited about 10 minutes for someone to take our order. There were only 2 other groups in the place. Imagine if they were even semi-busy. The manager was very nice, but that is no excuse. We never wait that long at Chipotle!
2) The food was just okay. The other reviewers were right--the place is an over-priced version of Chipotle. I had the carnitas soft tacos on corn tortillas. We had to get it to go because we waited so long in line and had an appointment. My tacos fell apart and the meat was just so so. Nothing to write home about. The boyfriend had a chicken burrito. It was good, nothing crazy.
My suggestion? The line up for all the ingredients for your tacos/burritos/salads is so long. They should shorten it, that alone would save them some much needed time that could be used to get to customers faster. They also need another person to help customers as they get in line. They should call the people on that TV show that come in and help people save their failing restaurants. I can't see how they are going to make it without making some serious changes.
The idea and the vibe is great, but their execution basically proves that whoever owns the place doesn't really know what they are doing.
BUT...Their pot brownie is super good! If you decide to give the place a shot, get one. They are at the front. BTW, they are not real pot brownies...I'm sure some of you are bummed about that...but they are tastilicious.
Oh yeah, one more thing. They close so early. They should stay open late for all the drunko's who crave mexican after the bars. -
Review from Eva H.
2/27/2012
Why do I keep subjecting myself to chains? Well, mainly because I'm usually solo during lunch and in a hurry and they get me in and out on the quick. Freebirds was on my way home from the doc and I was hungry, so in I went.
I made it in before the lunch rush (11:45am-ish) and waited for 5-10 minutes before being greeted by the poor sole employee manning the line. She was friendly enough, though, and got my burrito done quickly. Kudos for other staff checking all of the food temps while I waited, though. At least they don't want everyone to get food poisoning.
I got the regular sized burrito (they all have stupid names--I don't remember the exact terminology) with a cayenne tortilla (not much heat--think a fire Dorito), steak (mushy), pinto beans (standard), cilantro lime rice (exactly like Chipotle's), cheese, pico (standard), cilantro, and some roasted garlic that was way overpowering and a mistake to add.
Overall, it was just like other reviews have stated: Chipotle with more add on options. Still, it filled me up and the price wasn't exorbitant. I could have easily gone with the smaller ladysized version and been completely full--as is, I tossed 1/3 of it in the trash.
Still, I have a feeling my tummy will ache later but it's a heck of a lot better than Qdoba. Still not as good as Chipotle, though. Which reminds, me I have a Chipotle gift card burning a hole in my wallet that needs to be used...Listed in: Stuck in the middle with…, San Diego Rebellion
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Review from Karina M.
University Heights, San Diego, CA
4/4/2012
This business came before Chipotle, and unlike that subsidiary of McDonald's, it is independently owned AND doesn't put cilantro in everything by default. I have missed Freebirds since I left Texas in 1999 and I can't wait to go to FREEBIRDS again!
I will review then. But I loved the spinach tortilla with beans and beef when I used to eat there. -
Review from Kellie H.
San Diego, CA
3/12/2012
2 stars for offering natural chicken and grass-fed beef products!
Disorganized prep line, confusing menu, more expensive version of Chipotle...next time: we go to Chipotle! -
Review from Amanda L.
San Diego, CA
3/8/2012
We've driven by this place many times and finally decided to stop in.
Upon entrance, my sister and I immediately looked at each other and said "Chipotle"?
Either way we were determined to eat a burrito so we ordered 2 (Freebird size) Carnitas burritos. The carnitas were very flavorful and they had a bevy of condiments to put on your burrito which set Freebird apart from its clear competition (Chipotle). One, they have Spanish rice which was a definite plus and they have queso fresco which made me very happy as well! The burrito was good sized and filled us up!
Maybe we went at a good time because there was no wait and our burrito-maker was friendly and helpful. Other than that, if it had been busy the whole ordering process could benefit from being shorter. Also, parking isn't great, but I guess that's just Hillcrest.
We'll be back for more carnitas and to try the POT BROWNIE :) -
Review from Jill H.
2/5/2012
This is the 3rd 'Birds I've visited since the early 90s. First one in Isla Vista ('IV' to the Santa Barbara locals), second one in Austin, TX. Really glad they've started opening stores in SoCal--FINALLY!
First things first--they are NOT trying to compete with the more 'authentic' Mexican restaurants in San Diego. This is more Tex-Mex. Keep that in mind, and the visit and food will be all the more enjoyable.
I split a Monster burrito with my boyfriend...was pretty good, though not as big as the wall display you see when you first enter the restaurant.
The employees were really cool and helpful at suggesting ingredients for our burrito. Spinach tortilla with carnitas, white rice, pico de gallo, corn salsa, garlic, onion, refried beans, cheese blend, cilantro and I'm sure I'm forgetting something. TONS of options to cram into this bad boy and it was dern tasty. The refried beans look disgusting, but taste great...don't worry. Chips were thin, crispy and salty...just the way I like em.
Our Monster burrito, bottle of water, fountain drink and chips came to about $12. Not great, but not horrible either.
Note that their Death Sauce is not. It's like a spicy BBQ sauce, so don't compare it to the hot sauces at traditional Mexican restaurants. It's tasty, but frankly, I think it would be better used for dipping chicken strips.
Ambiance is cool...lots of 'hippie' decor throughout, including a green person on a motorcycle right over your head at the cash register. Seeing a big green foot hanging down from there was a bit odd, but funny.
They also sell 'pot' brownies, which aren't what you think. They're just round brownies that sit in a metal pot at the cash register. Didn't buy one, but will at some point in the future.
All in all, great place for a slightly different type of burrito than you're used to from a 'Bertos (Albertos, Aibertos, Roybertos, Umbertos, [fill in the blank]Bertos), Los Panchos or similar place in the San Diego area.
Keep an open mind, and enjoy!Listed in: Diet Schmiet!
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Review from John C.
San Diego, CA
4/18/2012
I used to get a Freebirds burrito every time I would go to Santa Barbara. The one in San Diego didn't disappoint. Although it's now a chain, the flavors brought back some great memories of the Freebirds in SB. I love the BBQ sauce! Can't stress that enough. So many burrito joints focus on being "authentic" Mexican. What I like about Freebirds is that you a) get to build your own burrito b) it has Tex-Mex flavors and ingredients (if you choose).
I don't know what others are talking about. I thought the steak had a ton of flavor. And they had a lot of choices for me to build my custom burrito. I thought it was an excellent change from the MXN, Roberto's , Cotijas, etc. I will be going back, even though it's a bit of drive for me. -
Review from Blue S.
San Diego, CA
1/9/2012
So I got some card in my mailbox offering buy 1 burrito, get 1 burrito free from this place. I had looked them up when I saw they were coming to the neighborhood and figured it would be come cheesy-ass faux hippy Chipotle ripoff...but buy 1 get 1 free? That's worth a shot. Their website says that the super monster is "ALMOST 7 POUNDS" whoop whoop etc. so I figured I'd order 2 of those and see what they're all about, have leftovers, the whole 9.
So I place the order online and get a call from them within 5 minutes verifying my order. At this point they tell me I need to make one burrito a combo meal for the deal to apply, which of course isn't mentioned on their flyer, but whatever, I'm still getting over like a high jumper so fine, I made one a combo by adding a drink and "pot brownie" (HOLY SHIT THEY MADE A MARIJUANA JOKE THAT'S SO RAD). The kids and I walked over and got our food and came back home.
The place is pretty noisy and the staff is hired for maximum hipster value. They played Operation Ivy and Black Sabbath over the system while we were there, which was kind of an odd pairing. Super cheesy decor, all motorcycles and fake colored chalkboards and prefab foil burrito wrapper origami. Pretty lame.
But enough already, how was the food? I call bullshit on the super monster thing for one. There is NO WAY the two burritos combined were 7 pounds. Pancho Villa up in the Mission rolls pinners bigger than these. Totally absurd. Either they bullshitted me out of properly sized burritos because I used a damn coupon or they're little bitty burritos in the first place. The insides are okay, not all the same heat, but nothing terrible. The hot sauces (habanero and death) are not hot. The hot tomatillo sauce isn't bad. Best of all, they had Spanish rice instead of cilantro rice, which if you hate cilantro as much as I do you know will keep me from ever eating a burrito at Chipotle.
To sum up, this place is bullshit. I'd rather spend $8 on carne asada chips at La Posta then $14 on some ZOMFG SUPER MONSTER burrito that wouldn't fill my tooth. -
Review from kevin f.
San Diego, CA
2/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
Food good! (grassfed steak!)
Place dorky.
Recycling good!
Buy ten get one free! -
Review from Lauren R.
San Diego, CA
2/18/2012
Going into this place, I had hopes that my burrito would surpass the 3-star average that Freebirds holds. Well, unfortunately what I got was just that, an average burrito. The vast variety of toppings definitely surpasses Chipotle, but for an indecisive gal such as myself, I'm not sure thats such a good thing. The interior is cool and the place was kept very clean....
Service was great...but the pot brownies were ever greater! -
Review from Lindsey B.
San Diego, CA
3/27/2012
How does this place not have better reviews!? Yes, its Chipotle's sibling in a way but still delicious! I actually appreciate the fact that they offer different size burritos, specifically the Hybird which is the perfect size for me - not that I couldn't down a size bigger but you have to watch the cals sometimes. I also like the different choice of tortillas (wheat being one of them). All the "insides" options are great from chicken, salsas, beans, cilantro rice, guac, etc. Yum Yum. And their chips are thin, salty and crispy and served warm. Two thumbs up!
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Review from Isaac G.
Los Angeles, CA
4/4/2012
While I wouldn't classify Freebirds as "Mexican" or "authentic", it makes a solid burrito (even if there's rice inside). There's also something to be said for using healthy ingredients but Freebirds burrito has that heavy feel. Definitely lacking the homemade taste, very bland, and the disorganized staff and high prices didn't help. That being said, it was o (dot) k (dot), but not much more than that. I won't be returning anytime soon...
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Review from Jeanna W.
1/15/2012 1 Check-in Here
My friend was raving about Freebirds ever since he heard there was going to be a location opening in San Diego. He is from San Antonio and pretty much missed the hell out of the food, and apparently the hot sauce on the table.
The service was super friendly and kind of relaxed; a little too relaxed if you ask me, but que-evar.
$12 for my lunch, which I guess is okay. To be honest, I could see myself at Freebirds again, but only on the occasion when my friend from San Antone wants to go. Other than that, I'll stick to Chipotle.
Oh, but on the up and up, the queso sauce is divine. -
Review from Billy B.
San Diego, CA
2/21/2012
Freebirds not even worth it when free. Got a buy one get one and after everyone had heartburn for the rest of the night.
this place has nuthin on Chipotle!
Stay Away!!!! Check out Snooze (if you want bfast) or Smashburger for a far better meal than the quality of food freebirds has. -
Review from Mikey P.
1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
They finally brought it to San Diego! I'm a fatty so they have a super monster burrito for me here.... Warning: This is super big.... if you can eat a lot then get it...I normally get monster and i'm good...
I recommend the Spinach Burrito, Carnitas&Beef&Dark Chicken Meat Mix, Cilantro lime rice, black beans, grill veggies, Death Sauce, corn, and a Beer! oh man i'm soo full =(
Pretty much they are known for the different tortillas and The way they cook their meat is good and leaner then other places... and since I'm from Texas It reminds me of College Station... but they originated like in Santa Barbara I believe...
The way you are suppose to eat the burrito here is different... if you notice they warp it different so you can peel from one end down as you eat... unlike Chipotle where sometimes the burrito is so fat it's break the foil...
i'm probably hyping it up too much... but I have a different connection to this place... so whatevers o___O
yay FreeBirds! -
Review from Johnny L.
San Ysidro, CA
4/7/2012
SO!!!! I FINISHED THE SUPER MONSTER BURRITO AND GOT A SHIRT! xD
My friend and I both finished them. WHY!?!?!?! I DONT KNOW!!!! We did it i guess just because we wanted to see who would win first and well... he did but we still both got shirts and our pics on the wall.
The reason i ask why we finished em is because well, honest opinion yes the burritos are HUGE but the suck and taste nasty. Girl said everything is fresh, but thats a bunch of BS the beans taste like theyre from a can and the rice from a box. The salsa sucks vegetables they had tasted awful, My burrito was chicken cost me extra for more chicken which sucked and had no flavor and the steak that my friend got was nast as well. My friends girlfriend got nachos and said they sucked also and that even the 711 ones are better. Im seriously like WTF why did we do it but o well we did. This place AND CHIPOTLE BOTH SUCK!
Wish i wouldnt have ate the whole thing even for the shirt and picture. Never going back.
For those who might say I dont know what a real burrito is pues estan bien mal. Trust me I know good burritos when i eat em and know good mexican when i eat em. Next time i see hipsters making burritos ima say helllll nah and go back to San Ysidro donde me concigo uno mas rico en EL JALAPEÑO! -
Review from Juan V.
San Diego, CA
3/24/2012
This place has fun and unique branding, but I think the owners could have invested some of that marketing money in developing the quality of their menu. I had high expectations when I walked into the place, but when the time came for the first bite, I felt like I was eating something my elementary school cafeteria lady would make. The employees were friendly and there are fun and interesting things on the wall, but I hope the owners consult a burrito chef soon.
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Review from Chris P.
Two words: Super Monster.
On a warm December afternoon I strolled in here to enjoy a delicious burrito. I did not however expect to be put to the challenge of eating a burrito the size of a newborn baby. Not to let a good challenge go to waste I stepped up to the plate and ordered a carnitas super monster burrito.
The super monster is two 14" tortillas overlapped to make one giant tortilla. I went with the cyanne pepper tortillas. I filled my monster with cilantro lime rice, black beans, carnitas, onion, cheese, sour cream, guac, house made salsa, and hot sauce. The girl had a little bit of trouble wrapping it up and making sure it was tight enough so that it didn't fall apart on me when I attempted to eat it.
I thought about going for a combo with a pot brownie but decide to just grab a Pepsi. I was surprised at the price. My order came to around $16. Not much more than I would pay at Chiptole (in Canada) but I had a burrito the size of 4 chipotle burritos.
Time to eat. While my friends chatted away I chomped down. I set a good even pace. It didn't try to got to fast, nor did I pych myself out by going slow and over thinking it. In less that 20 minutes the entire thing was in my belly. It was much easier than I thought it would be. My friends couldn't believe that I finished it, along with a drink and a refill and wasn't about to puke. Stomach of a champion I guess.
So the next time you come in here look for my picture on the wall. Also, I've got the t-shirt to prove it.
The service was excellent. While my friend and I were waiting for another to join us we had two different staff members come chat us up, talk about how things work and make some suggestions. The line staff all cheered on as my super monster was being made.
Finally, since everyone else is comparing Freebirds to Chipotle, I will too. Freebirds is a very close second. While their carnitas aren't as good and I find a Chipotle burrito to be more flavourful, they do do some things better. I like the fact that there is a choice of size and a choice of tortilla type. I also like that there are a few more options for cheese and other toppings.
I'll be back, but probably not for a super monster. -
Review from Melanio F.
San Diego, CA
12/13/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Freebirds is a burrito place. That being said, I really am not into burritos. I have gone here twice and both times I had myself some hard shell tacos.
Pros:
you choose what's in your taco/burrito.
you choose your shell/wrap.
you choose your salsa
you can get a 2 taco combo with drink for $5 plus tax
you get a Freebird frequent card
Cons:
Too many choices
Avocado is extra (not sliced, its shot out of a tube)
Taste is okay.
I would say its fine that it's there, but if I had a choice I might venture somewhere else cheaper or more menu choices (like carnitas and rice) in the area - Lalos or Porkyland. -
Review from Chris S.
San Diego, CA
I really wanted to be a fan but i't just didn't work out. This wannabe Chipotle has way too many things going on. Love the meat and sauces but the loud music makes it hard to place my order. Went here on a friday at 4pm and was empty "should have been a warning to just walk away. the portions are small and the flavor is not there.
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Review from Cherish D.
Chula Vista, CA
2/8/2012
Perhaps I am a bit biased because I am a UCSB alum and am OBSESSED with the original in IV.... however, it definitely satisfies my craving and is better than driving 3.5 hrs to Santa Barbara.
The girl who helped us was awesome! so helpful and even let us taste before we committed. Even though we knew the difference, she continued to remind us it was not the same as the original so we wouldn't be let down.
ALSO, I know it sounds soooo odd because it is a Mexican food, but ADD THE BBQ SAUCE to your nachos and burritos!!!! You will not regret it! The BBQ sauce is the one thing that is the same as IV's freebirds (THANK GOD) and is the reason I will come back!!!!!!!!! -
Review from Cecile N.
San Diego, CA
I randomly stumbled upon this place because as I was leaving Urban Outfitters, I realized I was starving. Walked by this place to my car and realized they were new. Decided to come in and try it out.
They're set up like Chipotle except they've got more menu options. They have different sizes and they're priced accordingly. They have different tortillas. I tried the spinach one, it's pretty good. I got the baby size and was kind of disappointed that I ordered such a small one because I probably could've gone bigger. The restaurant was big and super empty when I ate there. No problem finding a table to sit at. My cousin had the salad and she said hers was alright too.
We ended up paying about $13 for both of us (salad + baby burrito). Not bad I guess. Food is alright, definitely wouldn't drive all the way to Hillcrest just to eat it. -
Review from Mathew M.
Clairemont, San Diego, CA
12/22/2011
First impression is this place is an upscale Chipotle. You'll recognize the cafeteria/buffet style food prep layout, with industrial looking design aesthetics ... but that's about where the comparisons end.
Freebirds definitely is attempting to WOW you with a sensory overload of great stuff in your burrito. They offer a variety of cheeses, fresh vegetables, bean varieties, and several types of tortilla types (Spinach, roasted red pepper, corn, etc.) The big difference with Freebirds is they are not up-selling you for every item, with the exception of guacamole, all the items come with the price of the burrito.
The staff is very engaging and welcoming. They love explaining to newcomers 'how it all works' and even suggest their favorite flavors. For a newcomer, you definitely feel comfortable in the environment.
The bad news is: street parking sucks (if not nearly impossible) and this can be a pain-in-the-ass if you're business commuter checking-out the place. I also wouldn't recommend the place if you're planning on meeting a client there for anything other then casual dining, as the place pumps the music fairly loud. I don't mind the music, but if you're thinking a working lunch - you might want to think about meeting somewhere else.
They have more urban edge to their style and that seems to suit the community (Hillcrest) really well. I'd eat there again for sure, but just might have to plan ahead time-wise if I don't want pay for parking.
Welcome to San Diego, Freebirds. -
Review from Danny W.
11/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
If ya can't beat 'em, join 'em right? Well, in this case it's more like if you can't beat 'em copy their concept entirely, charge more per serving, add more topping options, and theme it to a 70's rockabilly band.
They're similar to Chipotle except whoever makes the big boy decisions behind this franchise smokes a hell of a lot more weed. With menu features like a Super Mondo Burrito, Death Sauce, light and dark meat chicken, and even a pot brownie... (don't get too excited) everything about the place besides the price screams stonerific.
It's not bad, but in my honest opinion the food just isn't as good as some of their competitors. I applaud the innovation and will revisit any spot that lets you display your foil art around the restaurant, but if you put a Chipotle next to them I choose that 9 times out of 10 for their recipe.
Definitely a cool experience, but don't get your taste buds hopes too high.Listed in: Hill to the Crest, Burritos, Chain Gang
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Review from Sean W.
11/21/2011
It's a lot like Chipotle except it sucks ass.
But at least you're supporting some old self-satisfied hippies by spending your money here. -
Review from danieL R.
San Diego, CA
11/17/2011
Wow.
Overload of the senses.
This place was insane, i dont know if its only because of their grand opening hype or if thats what I should expect every time I come here. Seriously, the Rock and/or Roll was blasting, there are like 20 employees yelling in your ear, the colors were bright and everywhere, you are pressured to choose from like 500 different options down the burrito assembly line, its like an insane asylum.
I am pretty sure one of the company policies is to snort a few lines of coke and take a couple of pills from a dish they keep in the employee lounge, upon clocking in.
Everybody is so hyper, I was jittery and watching my back every few seconds.
So expect this - with people shaking in their shoes, with giant creepy grins and popping eyeballs
"HAVE YOU BEEN HERE BEEEEFOOREE???!!!!!!" (they had just been open for 20 minutes)
HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE AT FREEBIRDS????!!! (at the register before even eating)
DO YOU WANT TO PUNCH ME IN THE FAAAAAACCCEEEEE FOR AN EXTRA .75 CENTS???!!!
The food was so - so.
I know its organic and healthy and free range and grass fed and hormone free and antiobiotic free and made from only virgin animals and all that, but its still 7 bucks for a small burrito, you know, I am happy with my regular Cuervo burrito down the street for better taste and cheaper prices.
It was still good though, I would maybe eat there again. Just make sure to take an anti anxiety pill as soon as you leave.
