Chipotle Mexican Grill

We were a little skeptical when we heard about the chain grill’s new online ordering service, DSL (Don’t Stand in Line). Can you actually secure fresh, hot lunch over the Internet? Eager to find out, I went to Chipotle’s Web site, where I first had to complete a user registration process. Skepticism faded into amusement when an interactive replica of Chipotle’s serving line appeared, complete with images of different meats, salsas, and toppings. One click at a time, users can build their own virtual salad, burrito, taco, or bol (a burrito in a bowl). Upon submitting your order, the phone number of the nearest Chipotle outpost pops up with a note asking you to call the brick-and-mortar store in 10 minutes to confirm that your request was received. At this point, you will be forgiven for wanting to log off and run to the nearest Taco Del Mar, especially because the site doesn’t list prices. If you stick it out, you’ll get to skip the long line once you arrive to pick up your burritos and bols. Ultimately, we thought DSL would be worth the effort for folks who frequent Chipotle, and we certainly like the idea of ordering ahead online. Still, the system isn’t altogether simple. How’s the food? Oh, yeah, the food: Surprisingly, the chain uses naturally raised pork in its very well seasoned, lightly smoky carnitas burrito ($7.95), with roasted chili-corn salsa, making it your best bet. 4231 University Way N.E., 206-547-4644 UNIVERSITY DISTRICT and 10503 N.E. Fourth St., 425-467-0660. BELLEVUE. www.chipotle.com.