Hot Shop — Restaurant in Albany

I recently visited Hot Shop Burritos, and I must say, it's a hidden gem that offers a unique fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican flavors. The location, situated on a bustling main intersection, might seem tricky to park, but there's actually a small, free parking lot right next to it.

What sets Hot Shop Burritos apart is that their menu isn't massive, but it's all about the quality of their offerings. They specialize in a variety of burritos, around 10 or so, and that's where the magic happens. The combination of Mediterranean and Mexican ingredients in these specialty burritos creates a delightful culinary experience.

However, what truly makes this place shine is the exceptional service. The main guy running the show is incredibly kind and warm, making you feel like you've known him for years, even if it's your first visit. He's great with recommendations and, when not too busy, may even let you sample some of their delicious creations.

Hot Shop Burritos also offers excellent value for the area. For just $30, you can easily feed two people, which is quite a deal, especially when compared to some of the larger chains like Chipotle.

I can confidently say that I'll be making Hot Shop Burritos a regular dining spot. It's a wonderful blend of flavors, friendly service, and affordability that's...

This restaurant. Wow. It was a human experience. I didn’t feel like a cog in a machine—moving down the conveyor belt calling out instructions to the chipotle worker “white rice, no beans, fajitas, etc.” like some sort of ChatGPT robot.

No, this was something else. I said hello to the owner, and he smiled. I gave my order…and he delivered. I asked for sauces—no charge. Can you imagine that? How far have we fallen as a society that I could not believe house made sauces would be complimentary. He threw them in the bag like a mobster making it rain—no regard for cost or expense.

Pleasantries ended, got my food, said a prayer, and got to it. It was a perfect blend of everything. Succulent Afghan chicken kabob, rice, beans, pico, sour cream, cheese, and sauce. It delivered.

These days, hype is rarely deserved—Zion Williamson, Rivian, Virtual Reality, Cryptocurrency. But this man and his burritos deserve all the hype.

Oh, and it’s not...

Bravo!!! Highly recommend The Hot Shop - an East Bay local Gem & favorite! The owner is so kind, and clearly passionate about his culinary craft.

The Tropical Burrito is A-mazing!! Seriously. Lunch Hour. SF Bay Bridge. Tropical burrito. Repeat. Read on.

I worked in the San Francisco Financial District - plenty of yummy restaurants to choose from.... But I was in love with the tropical burrito! So much so, that during my lunch hour, I would drive over the San Francisco bridge, swing into The Hot Spot, quickly order my burrito, jump back in my car, layer napkins across the front of my suit, and carefully eat my burrito as I crossed back over the bridge (while driving a stick shift). Parked my car, gathered up my giant makeshift bib, reapplied my lipstick and hustled back to the office! Whew! Worth it. This was in 2003. Now 2018, the Tropical is still my go-to...