People came the first day we opened and they’ve been coming for the past three days, so that’s a good sign.”

Hector Angel, co-owner of Salsa's Burrito Grill

Salsa's Burrito Grill
108 Chase Road
Portsmouth, RI 02871
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PORTSMOUTH — The back of its menu states in bold letters: “Burritos: The most important meal of the day.”

Based on the number of vehicles seen coming and going from the new Salsa’s Burrito Grill parking lot over the past few days, many Portsmouth residents apparently agree.

“So far, so good,” said co-owner Hector Angel, taking a brief break from serving customers lunch on Friday. “We opened this past Tuesday and people love it. People came the first day we opened and they’ve been coming for the past three days, so that’s a good sign.”

The new business, located at 108 Chase Road, was previously the location of Samantha’s Seafood, which is now operating at the Montaup Country Club on Anthony Road. Longtime residents will remember the building as the former site of the N.E.P. meat market.

Mr. Angel’s partner in the venture is Frank Morales. 

“We also have a full-service restaurant in Bristol, called Casa Margaritas,” said Mr. Angel, referring to the dining establishment on Gooding Avenue.

The setup at Salsa’s Burrito Grill resembles an assembly line that’s worked by several employees, so you won’t stay hungry for long. Customers have their choice of chicken, steak, carnitas (slow-roasted, marinated pork), barbacoa (steamed meat flavored with Mexican herbs), veggie or ground beef burrito.

Then comes all the other goodies for inside: white or Spanish rice, pinto or black beans, salsas, pice de gallo, sour cream, cheese and — for a little extra — guacamole or queso dip.

There’s also a kid’s menu that offers tacos and cheese quesadillas, and the restaurant offers sides such as chips with salsa or guacamole, and flan. Thirsty? There’s soda and Mexican soft drinks, and the restaurant is seeking a Class BV lliquor license.

There’s a small dining area within the restaurant, or you can order to go. 

Mr. Angel said the most popular dishes so far appear to be the carnitas burrito, the grilled chicken burrito, and the guacamole that’s made fresh daily.

“We’re just so happy to be in town,” he said.

The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information or to place a takeout order, call 401/293-5322. You can also find them on Facebook.