Have You Heard: Chipotle restaurant nears opening date

Fans of thick burritos and sustainable ingredients take note: Chipotle Mexican Grill is planning to open its new Billings restaurant in April.

Spokesman Chris Arnold of the Denver-based company said the new fast-casual restaurant should open this spring in front of Luckys Market at West Park Promenade.

The Denver-based company isnt ready to announce a specific date yet, he said.

Workers for Langlas Construction began construction of the $563,300 building at 1601 Grand Ave. last September. Chipotle will be joined in the building by another business that has yet to be announced, according to NAI Properties, which is marketing the property.

Founded in 1993, Chipotle is one of the countrys fastest-growing chains and enjoys an impassioned following. The restaurants, which are all corporate-owned, serve Mexican-style burritos, burrito bowls, tacos, chips and salsa and salads.

The chain has made efforts to distinguish itself from regular fast food through its ingredients. According to its website, Chipotle uses only naturally sourced pork and chicken from animals raised antibiotic-free on a vegetarian diet.

In January, the company stopped serving pork at hundreds of its restaurants nationwide after discovering a supplier was not meeting its standards.

The new Billings restaurant would be Montanas first Chipotle. A Missoula restaurant is also under construction.

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Have You Heard: Chipotle restaurant nears opening date