Social media went into a frenzy after false reports suggested that Chipotle was closing all its restaurants and filing for bankruptcy. However, the company has shut down these rumors, confirming that it is not closing but expanding with hundreds of new locations in 2025.
Is Chipotle Closing? The Truth Behind the Viral Rumors
Speculation about Chipotle closing restaurants spread rapidly online after a misleading report from Spanish media outlet Unión Rayo. The confusion began when the outlet mistakenly linked Chipotle’s logo to the closure of Farmesa Fresh Eatery, a spinoff venture tested by Chipotle in 2023.
The misleading information quickly went viral, with users on X (formerly Twitter) expressing frustration and disbelief.
- “Chipotle is closing all restaurants & is declaring bankruptcy. The number of businesses declaring bankruptcy is very eerie,” one user posted.
- Another joked: “How Chipotle goin bankrupt when I get a bowl with extra chicken and guac every day?????”
Chipotle spokesperson Erin Wolford refuted the claims, explaining that the false reports originated from an inaccurate online article. Unión Rayo has since apologized for the confusion, but the rumors still spread across social media.
What is Farmesa Fresh Eatery? The Source of the Confusion
Farmesa Fresh Eatery was a restaurant concept tested by Chipotle in 2023 at a Santa Monica food hall.
The concept focused on healthy protein bowls, inspired by Chipotle’s Food with Integrity standards. The menu was curated by James Beard Award-winning chef Nate Appleman, who previously led Chipotle’s menu innovations in the 2000s.
Farmesa’s Menu Highlights
- Bowls included protein, greens or grains, two sides, and a choice of sauce.
- Prices ranged from $11.95 to $16.95.
- The brand operated for a few months before being discontinued.
Despite Farmesa closing, Chipotle itself remains financially strong and is not shutting down any locations.
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Chipotle is Not Closing – It’s Expanding!
Far from shutting down, Chipotle is actually growing its presence in 2025.
Chipotle’s Expansion Plans for 2025
- The company plans to open between 315 and 345 new restaurants this year.
- 80% of these locations will feature Chipotlanes, the company’s digital drive-thru service.
- In 2024, Chipotle opened 304 company-owned restaurants, including three international locations.
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Financial Strength: No Debt, Strong Revenue Growth
- Chipotle’s total revenue for 2024 was $11.3 billion, a 14.6% increase from 2023.
- The company reported zero debt and over $2 billion in cash reserves.
- CEO Scott Boatwright emphasized: “Chipotle had another outstanding year. Everything we do is in service of our guests and those who serve them.”
New Menu Items
Chipotle recently introduced Honey Chicken, a new protein option to expand its menu offerings.
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Final Verdict: Chipotle is Here to Stay
Despite viral rumors, Chipotle is NOT closing. The misinformation stemmed from the Farmesa Fresh Eatery closure, but the company itself remains financially strong and continues to grow.
For fans of Chipotle’s burritos and bowls, there’s no need to worry—the chain is not only staying open but expanding across the U.S. and internationally.
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