Burrito tycoons opening a second restaurant, in Plymouth

PLYMOUTH — In the two years since Aaron and Reuben Bassett opened Burrito Me in downtown Laconia, the customer response has exceeded their expectations. Now that they've gained some experience as restaurateurs and business managers, the team of cousins is planning to open a second store, on Plymouth's Main Street, on Tuesday.

For the Bassetts, who had never managed a dining establishment prior to opening their tacqueria, getting Burrito Me off the ground was challenging. "It's been a long learning experience," said Aaron. Now, "It's finally coming around to what we expected," and they feel ready to take on the new location.

And a great location they think it is. From the early days of their business, they intended to open a second location, and Plymouth was quickly identified as the best place Burrito Me number two. While their clientele includes regulars from every age group, the Bassetts think their food will do especially well with the Plymouth State University bunch – people who are looking for a quick, affordable way to find a flavorful and nutritious meal.

Also, as the political, cultural and economic center of Grafton County, Plymouth sees a steady flow of car and foot traffic, and nearly everyone who walks or drives through downtown will pass their new storefront at 70 Main Street, located across the street from the southern end of town commons.

Those familiar with Burrito Me in Laconia will feel at home in the new place, which features the same menu and pricing and the same décor. Unlike in Laconia, there's no room for outdoor seating. As consolation, Plymouth patrons will be able to order draft beers – Laconia clientele must make do with bottles – and Aaron and Reuben plan to stock kegs of local, craft beers such as those made by White Birch Brewing of Hooksett.

They have good reason to keep the same business model – it's treated them well so far. Their numbers have continued to grow. Even through the winter, when most local businesses see a decline, their saw summer-like business. "We had an idea it would work," said Reuben, but even they have been surprised by the response.

Part of their success, Reuben said, has been due to the relative lack of competition for their specific type of food. The Bassett cousins think their Plymouth business will continue to enjoy the corner on the burrito market. Looking at other Main Street establishments, Reuben said, "It makes it pretty tempting to know that there's no competition here except pizza and sandwiches.

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Aaron (left) and Reuben Bassett, who two years ago started Burrito Me in Laconia, are set to open a new location on Plymouth's Main Street. (Laconia Daily Sun photo/Adam Drapcho)