Construction begins on Chipotle restaurant at West Park Promenade

Chipotle Mexican Grill, a fast-casual eatery, is building its first Montana restaurant at West Park Promenade in Billings.

Construction of the 4,592-square-foot restaurant began Monday in front of Luckys Market and across the street from Panda Express.

On Wednesday, workers for Langlas Construction were clearing dirt for the $563,300 building at 1601 Grand Ave. Billings planning officials estimated construction of the shell would be completed in six to eight weeks, and the company would likely need to file more permits for additional work.

Officials at Denver-based Chipotle did not return a call Tuesday.

Chipotle, whose name is derived from a Spanish name for smoked and dried peppers, was founded in 1993 and now has more than 1,600 locations in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and France.

Chipotle serves Mexican-style burritos, burrito bowls, tacos, chips and salsa, and salads.

The company is credited with pioneering fast-casual dining, one of the fastest-growing restaurant sectors in the nation.

All Chipotle restaurants are corporate-owned, not local franchises.

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Construction begins on Chipotle restaurant at West Park Promenade