Chipotle Mexican Grill Adding Second Cedar Rapids Location

Whether you get a burrito or your ingredients in a bowl, fast-casual restaurants like Chipotle have remained popular, especially among adults under 30. Cedar Rapids is about to add a second Chipotle location.

Chipotle Debuted in Cedar Rapids 11 Years Ago

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that Chipotle Mexican Grill made its debut in Cedar Rapids 11 years ago, inside of Lindae Mall. You can also find locations in both Coralville and Iowa City. The restaurant chain promotes that its food has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and that everything is made fresh. No freezers, no can openers.

Where Is the New Chipotle Location in Cedar Rapids?

The Gazette reports that signs are up for the new Cedar Rapids Chipotle location at 3425 Westdale Parkway SW. A representative for the chain told the Gazette that they hope to have the new location open by the end of the year, but have not announced a specific date.

Chipotle Expands in Cedar Rapids to Compete with Pancheros

Chipotle's main competition when it comes to fast-casual Mexican food is Pancheros Mexican Grill. The Gazette reports that the Coralville-based chain has nine locations in the Corridor and a much stronger presence in Iowa.

It has been a tough year for restaurants like Chipotle and Pancheros. News Nation reports that inflation and the economy have forced many customers to stay away. Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright told News Nation that the chain isn't losing customers to the competition, but instead to grocery stores and people eating at home.