Chipotle restaurant to open in Albany

ALBANY — The latest in a string of new restaurants opening in Albany, Chipotle Mexican Grill, is set to debut at its 2630 Dawson Road location on Nov. 17.

“We’re excited to open a restaurant that gives Albany residents easier access to our food made with fresh, high-quality ingredients,” said Chipotle’s Southeast marketing lead Candace Doby. “Additionally, we’re proud to have 28 Albany-area residents join our restaurant team and share the Chipotle passion for providing an outstanding experience for every customer who comes through the door.”

Steve Ells, founder, chairman and co-CEO, started Chipotle with the idea that food served fast does not have to be the typical fast-food experience, according to the restaurant’s website.

Beginning with a single location in 1993, today Chipotle operates more than 2,000 restaurants, including 39 locations in Georgia and 20 locations outside the U.S.

Chipotle currently employs more than 60,000 people and is considered one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the nation.

“Customers can expect food with integrity, that’s what we’re about,” Albany store General Manager Brianna Adams said. “Our meats don’t have any antibiotics or hormones in them, and (while) we are not all the way organic, we are working to get closer to 100 percent organic. You will get more organic food from here than from most restaurants around.”

According to Chipotle officials, the restaurant offers a menu focused on burritos, tacos, burrito bowls (a burrito without the tortilla) and salads made fresh from high-quality raw ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in a “distinctive atmosphere.”

A Chipotle press release states, “Chipotle is seeking better food from using ingredients that are not only fresh, but that — where possible — are sustainably grown and raised responsibly, with respect for the animals, the land and the farmers who produce the food. In order to achieve this vision, we focus on building a special people culture that is centered on creating teams of top performers empowered to achieve high standards. This people culture not only leads to a better dining experience for our customers, it also allows us to develop future leaders from within.”

Putting its money where its mouth is, Chipotle partnered with Guild Education to give employees opportunities to earn college credits and pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees, according to restaurant officials. Between the company’s tuition reimbursement program, which offers up to $5,250 per year and an additional $5,815 in available federal grants for those who qualify, Chipotle employees can pay as little as $250 per year to attend college.

The restaurant will be open seven days a week from 10:45 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., making it easier for Albany to satisfy its burrito and taco cravings.