Mexican chain Chipotle has said it sees more growth potential in the UK ahead of the opening of its latest London restaurant.
Chipotle Mexican Grill’s international boss Anat Davidzon said it has been “impressed” by its momentum in the UK over the past year and will therefore look to grow its restaurant estate.
It came ahead of the company’s latest new restaurant opening in Stratford, east London.
The site, at Westfield Stratford City, will create 30 jobs and marks its first food court location in the UK.
It said the first 100 customers to visit the restaurant will receive a free side of guacamole alongside their main meal.
The brand, which was founded in 1993, has more than 4,000 restaurants globally, with the vast majority in the US.
It launched in the UK in 2012 and has since expanded to 20 sites, primarily in central London.
Bosses said the group sees a strong opportunity for growth in Europe, after reporting its strongest year on record in 2025.
Chipotle said the UK is its “standout” market within Europe and plans to grow its UK presence by 20% this year, with plans for longer term growth.
Ms Davidzon told the Press Association: “The opening in Stratford will be the first of 2026, and then we have a couple more already lined up this year.
“We had a really positive 2025 and are looking to grow the brand more in London following that.
“We will take the time to select the right units, looking at those with high street visibility, ideally locations in central London with the dense foot traffic.”
The company said it will focus on the UK and London now but sees growth potential elsewhere in Europe.
It said it sees the potential for “hundreds” of restaurants across the continent, with a particular focus on London, Frankfurt and Paris.
Chipotle is the latest US fast-casual brand to target more UK openings.
Rivals including Popeyes and Wingstop have pushed forward with UK expansion plans in recent years amid growing demand for US brands.