Chipotle plans its first Mexico location by 2026

Chipotle will open its first Mexico location in early 2026, aiming to bring its US-style burritos and bowls to a country already rich in authentic Mexican cuisine.

The fast-casual giant is partnering with local operator Alsea, which runs global brands like Domino’s, Burger King, Chili’s and Starbucks across Latin America and Europe.

Following the news, Chipotle shares fell over 3%, while Alsea’s rose nearly 3%. The expansion supports Chipotle’s broader global growth plans and may cushion the impact of rising US tariffs on Mexican imports. 

Though Chipotle sources avocados from various regions, about half still come from Mexico—a country involved in past US trade disputes.

It isn’t Chipotle’s first international move. In 2023, it entered the Middle East through a deal with Alshaya Group and now operates five outlets in Kuwait and the UAE. 

Globally, Chipotle has over 3,700 restaurants and plans to open up to 345 new locations in 2025.

Analysts see the strategy as smart, given the chain’s solid performance—it has topped Wall Street’s EPS estimates for four straight quarters and expects earnings growth of 3.7% this quarter. However, they seek more clarity on pricing and site selection. 

Meanwhile, US-based chains like Taco Bell have struggled in Mexico, with multiple failed attempts since the 1990s.