By Michelle Robinson
Staff Writer
WEST FARMINGTON – Been to West Farmington lately? In West Farmington you can get a tan, get your hair done, feed your horse, do some tole painting, rent a movie, and now you will be able to top it all off with a hearty Mexican lunch.
Big Mouth Burritos is coming to West Farmington.
Owner Chuck Snell has been busy at work renovating the space at 133A Bridge Street, right across from the park and post office. Big Mouth’s will open on Tuesday and will be serving lunch and dinner.
Chuck, burrito chef extraordinaire, is “recreating a California-style Taqueria. I grew up eating at little taco shops in San Diego. I really miss the food. I’ve spent the last 20 years trying to recreate it.”
Chuck’s roots are in Maine, his father is from Strong, but served in the Navy while Chuck was growing up, resulting in his family moving around a lot. As an adult, Chuck continued to live the nomadic lifestyle, working at Sugarloaf seasonally, and other resorts out west. He also did independent catering, including local events and weddings.
“I always came back to Farmington because this is the area I love. I’ve built a community of friends here. This burrito shop is a decision to stay here permanently,” Chuck said.
He speaks high praises for West Farmington. “This area has a lot of potential,” he said. “The landlord was a family friend, and when the space opened up I looked at West Farmington with different eyes. I really saw the potential for this area, for business. And it’s literally two minutes from downtown.”
Being Chuck’s first entrepreneurial venture, he is starting on a shoestring. He says his experience of moving through the steps of small business start up, including negotiations with the town and various permits and inspections required for a restaurant, has been successful. “ The town officials have been really helpful and supportive,”he noted.
Chuck’s cooking is well known around these parts, and many who have eaten his cuisine have long been urging him to open a restaurant. When the news finally got out that Chuck was going to go for it, people have been pitching in. Friends and associates have showed up for work parties to help with painting and renovations.
Charlie Snell, Chuck’s father, helped with arranging financing. Chuck’s neighbor, Ross Lasley, has been acting as his business mentor, assisting with a solid business and financial plan. Many others are waiting for opening day to show their support by wrapping their big mouths around a burrito.
The inside, recently painted, is reminiscent of a cheery Mexican bus station, without the hub bub, dirt and with a much nicer aroma. It is a warm, sunny space that already has a good feeling. There is seating for 12, take out, and wireless internet connection. One can expect good music, a friendly atmosphere and great customer service. The menu will include tacos with homemade corn tortillas, burritos, quesadillas, beans, rice, soups and salads. Taco lovers can also look forward to the addition of fish tacos once a week. Fillings will include shredded meats slow cooked Mexican style and beans. There will be specific vegetarian and vegan alternatives.
Dining at Big Mouth Burritos is not only going to be a delicious meal, but an experience in itself. Big Mouth Burritos is located at 133A Bridge Street. Phone: 779-1800
