Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. is a prominent American chain specializing in fast-casual Mexican cuisine, renowned for its customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads.

Founded in 1993 by Steve Ells in Denver, Colorado, the company has grown to operate nearly 3,800 restaurants across the United States and internationally.

The restaurant's menu emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients, allowing customers to personalize their meals with a variety of proteins, including adobo chicken, steak, sofritas, and guacamole.

Chipotle caters to diverse dietary preferences, offering options suitable for keto, vegan, and gluten-free diets. The company is committed to sourcing ingredients responsibly, aligning with its "Food With Integrity" mission, which focuses on using naturally raised meat and organic produce.

In recent years, Chipotle has expanded its menu to include innovative items like plant-based chorizo, catering to the growing demand for plant-based options.

The company has also embraced digital technology, introducing features such as online ordering, a mobile app for easy ordering and payment, and digital pickup shelves to enhance customer convenience.

Locations

As of July 2025, Chipotle operates 3,768 locations across 50 states and territories in the United States, with California having the highest number of restaurants at 507.

Internationally, the company has expanded to these countries:

• Canada
• The United Kingdom
• France
• Germany
• Kuwait
• The United Arab Emirates

Notably, Chipotle plans to open its first restaurant in Mexico in early 2026, marking its entry into the Latin American market.

Additional notable U.S. locations include:

• San Francisco, California, including the first-ever Chipotle restaurant near the University of Denver campus at 1644 East Evans Avenue
• Lincoln, NE, USA
• Kenosha, WI, USA
• Manchester, NH, USA
• Rockford, IL, USA
• Worcester, MA, USA
• Surprise, AZ, USA
• Santa Ana, CA, USA
• Gilbert, AZ, USA
• Sioux Falls, SD, USA
• Pearland, TX, USA
• Columbus, GA, USA
• Portland, ME, USA
• Tempe, AZ, USA
• Lexington, KY, USA
• Los Angeles, CA, USA
• Greensboro, NC, USA
• Bridgeport, CT, USA
• West Palm Beach, FL, USA
• Baton Rouge, LA, USA
• Richmond, VA, USA

Leadership and Growth

Under the leadership of CEO Brian Niccol, who joined in 2018, Chipotle has experienced significant growth and revitalization.

Niccol's strategies have included introducing new menu items, improving food sourcing, and enhancing marketing efforts.

His leadership has been instrumental in rebuilding customer trust and driving the company's success.

Chipotle's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction continues to drive its expansion and popularity, making it a leading choice for those seeking fast-casual Mexican cuisine.