An Athens Shop: The Burrito Buggy

Ohio University, being a somewhat secluded college town, is encompassed by many different kinds of shops and businesses to choose from. Low-budget and fast food restaurants are one of the most prominent businesses in the area.

One of many shops in Athens is the Burrito Buggy, located on the corner of Court Street and Union Street. The Burrito Buggy is a street vendor cart that is painted with a Mexican theme. The cart is designed this way in order to show what type of product they offer, as well as catch customer's attention from a distance.

The Burrito Buggy is known for its convenience as it is open late into the night. With all the night owls on campus, it is able to attract young college students as they return to their dorms or apartments after a night out. The kinds of customers the Burrito Buggy often attracts is groups of loud and boisterous, usually intoxicated individuals as they make their way back from the many bars located about Athens. The shop is able to attract these customers by offering cheap food that is easily accessible, and is quick to make.

In a competitive market, the Burrito Buggy is also able to successfully attract some customers because of its differences from other burrito shops. Compared to Chipotle, which closes in the evening, Burrito Buggy is open until 3:00 AM, making it an attractive option for late-night burrito lovers. Another burrito competitor, Big Mama's, is often crowded and busy late at night. Burrito Buggy offers a more convenient experience since it is a street vendor. Because there is no seating, there is less of a cluster and the wait tends to be minimal.

The Burrito Buggy offers several benefits to the community beyond just the product it provides. Since it is a local business, it keeps money in the community and also provides jobs and wages to locals. The cart adds to the city by giving the area some character. With chain restaurants like Chipotle and Wendy's close-by, the Burrito Buggy provides something different that is more homemade and unique. The Burrito Buggy's existence shows that Athens still values the "mom and pop" stores and restaurants.   It also shows that the town is made up largely of young college students who are on a low-budget and are always on the go.


All things considered, the Burrito Buggy makes for an excellent place to eat. The next time you need a quick and inexpensive meal, stop by the Burrito Buggy and support a local Athens business.

-Zach Heming and Jim Banicki