Purple Cactus Burrito and Wrap Bar

Enjoy a quick taste of fresh, healthy California-inspired burritos and wraps at this popular Jamaica Plain restaurant—just beware of the tall wobbly chairs.

Pros

Cons

At first glance, the Purple Cactus Burrito and Wrap Bar on Jamaica Plain's Centre Street looks pretty unremarkable—a front counter, several small tables, walls painted a trendy brown and bright green—but what the eatery lacks in visual distinction it makes up for in the quality of its food.

The Purple Cactus offers California-inspired Mexican fare such as burritos and quesadillas as well as wraps, salads, soups, nachos, chilis, fresh fruit juices, and smoothies. Portions are generous and the food is full of fresh, healthy ingredients. Highly recommended are the Portabello and Baby Spinach Quesadilla served with house-made salsa fresco and some truly excellent guacamole ($6.95), the Cabo Cooler limeade ($1.25/$1.50), the Turkey Chili ($3.50/$4.50), Thai chicken wrap ($5.95), and pretty much any of the smoothies ($3.50/$3.95). The Purple Cactus also carries a number of dessert items such as cookies, brownies, and breakfast breads made by the always-tasty Rosie's Bakery, but I admit I've never tried them as the allure of JP Licks just across the street always seems to win out. What can I say? I love ice cream.

For the most part the prices at the Purple Cactus are reasonable, but beware the add-ons! A side of guacamole and salsa and your price tag will jump by a few dollars. But my biggest complaint with the Purple Cactus has nothing to do with the food or the price. If you choose to dine in, avoid sitting at one of the tall tables: The stools with tiny backrests may look retro cool but they are uncomfortable for people of just about any height and many of them wobble in a way that makes you fear for your safety. If its nice out or you live nearby I suggest just taking your food to go.