Chipotle’s Bringing Back Brisket For Football Season — But Will It Be A Touchdown?

Chipotle has had a busy few weeks – although, to be honest, all of its weeks are probably pretty busy, but it’s really ramped up this October. In the lead-up to Halloween, Chipotle both announced the return of its Boorito offer and the reveal of its new Big Ass Bag, a super-sized version of its to-go bag that’s large enough for an adult to sit inside. Novel and practical, right? Well, practically if you’re planning on carrying your friends around any time soon, maybe when they’re too tired to walk. The things we do for our loved ones. 

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October’s not done yet, though, and neither is this restaurant chain. Chipotle has just announced that its Mesquite-Smoked Brisket is back for another year, arriving right in the middle of football season. A winning play? Or a Hail Mary? Let’s discuss. 

Chipotle Mesquite-Smoked Brisket

This week, Chipotle has revealed that its Mesquite-Smoked Brisket is getting another spin. Starting November 5, the limited-time meat option will be available for (and I quote from Chipotle’s press release here) “football weekends, rivalry games and watch parties.” You could also order it for non-football-related events. Like lunch. 

Chipotle’s Mesquite-Smoked Brisket uses Responsibly Raised beef, and is imbued with seasonings like smoked serrano and chipotle chili peppers. In-store, it’s seared, hit with more spices, and then mixed with a smoky sauce before being served up. As in previous years, this brisket won’t stick around for long: In fact, you have two weeks to get it, as at the end of the day on November 18, it’ll be removed from menus once more. 

Do I Want It, Though?

So, here’s the thing: If you want to change up your regular bowl, it might be worth a try. It’s always nice to have options. That said, we should point out that in previous years, Chipotle’s smoked brisket has received a slightly mixed response. When it first dropped back in 2021, the reception was moderately warm, with people saying that while it was a little sweet and dry for their liking, it was still a decent option for a fast-food outlet. There was a similar reaction when it last appeared a couple of years back, and a few quibbles about its price. 

So, we might see the same vibe this year. But it’s important to stress that, as far as Chipotle’s limited-time options go, this one has its fair share of fans, so don’t write it off just yet. Make up your own mind on November 5. It’s competing with a seriously good version from Panda Express, though.