Chipotle Mexican Grill
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Chipotle Mexican Grill
Founded by Steve Ells in 1993, Chipotle Mexican Grill is a Colorado-based burrito and taco restaurant that is famous for their chunky guacamole and for being one of the first successful chains in the newer category of fast-casual dining establishments--with more emphasis on quality and slightly higher prices than traditional fast food, but still a quick meal. It is now a subsidary of the McDonald's Corporation.
The first restaurant started in Colorado, near the University of Denver, and restaurants have since opened throughout the US.
Latching on to the health food craze that gripped the nation, and keeping in line with their "Food With Integrity" mission statement, Chipotle is moving towards all natural ingredients. To date, Chipotle has all natural, free range pork and beef as well as organic dairy products such as cheese and sour cream.
Menu
In the interest of efficiency, Chipotle's menu is quite simple. Five types of items are available:
- burrito
- fajita burrito
- burrito "bol" (no tortilla; suggested for people following low-carbohydrate diets)
- hard or soft tacos
- salad
and one of five fillings (all items also include black beans or pinto beans, and rice):
- chicken
- "carnitas" (pork)
- "barbacoa" (shredded beef)
- steak
- vegetarian (guacamole--normally an extra-cost option)
There are various additional toppings. In addition, four salsas are available: a mild pico de gallo, medium corn- and green chile-based salsas, and hot red chile-based salsa. The price depends only on the filling ordered. Additionally, there are several so-called "secret items" not listed on the regular menu but available by request, such as quesadillas.
Chipotle is also noted for its ability to handle fax orders, making it popular among office workers picking up lunch.
External links
- Chipotle Mexican Grill website (http://www.chipotle.com/)
- "Chipotle Fan" unofficial fan site - Find your Burrito Soulmate (http://www.chipotlefan.com/)
- "Chipotle Lovers" unofficial fan site, complete with nutritional data (http://www.chipotlelovers.com)