Bubbakoo's Burritos opens first Illinois location in Arlington Heights

A New Jersey-based fast casual Mexican restaurant known for its specialty burritos - like the Nashville Hot Chicken - is holding a grand opening at its first Illinois location Thursday in Arlington Heights.

Bubbakoo's Burritos, at 115 W. Rand Road within the Annex of Arlington shopping center, will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Tom Hayes and Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce leaders Thursday afternoon. Customers who download the restaurant's app will get $3 off their order Thursday.

"We're really enjoying getting to know the people of Arlington Heights and we wanted to celebrate with the community," Devang Patel, the franchise owner, said in an announcement of the new location.

Bubbakoo's was started in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, in 2008 by business partners Bill Hart and Paul Altero and has since expanded to 65 locations across 10 states.

Customers can pick and choose their burrito, burrito bowl, taco and quesadilla ingredients, or order off the menu of signature creations. That includes the Burritodilla - a burrito and quesadilla fusion - and General Tso Chicken Tacos.

Patel said he plans to get involved in the community by hosting fundraisers for local organizations.

"Our goal for this grand opening is to fully introduce ourselves to the community so they know exactly what to expect when they come into our store, a friendly atmosphere with delicious food," he said.

The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.