Move over burritos: Chipotle is launching a new restaurant concept, and it has nothing to do with Mexican food.
It's called Farmesa, and its pedigree had been rumored for a week before Chipotle confirmed it. Plans call for it to open this month in Santa Monica, California, at Kitchen United Mix, with a limited menu before an official opening in March.
There's no barbacoa to be found, but the restaurant's concept is creating custom bowls to customer specifications, so it's not far off from Chipotle's assembly line in format.
Big question on Chipotle's new Farmesa concept ...
— Jonathan Maze (@jonathanmaze) February 15, 2023
Does the world really need another bowl brand? Really? Is the restaurant customer just hotly after more fast-casual customizable bowls?
The menu was created by James Beard Award-winning chef Nate Appleman, who previously worked for the chain in the mid-2000s. Each bowl features a protein, greens or a grain, two sides, a choice of five sauces, and a topping option. Some of the choices include grilled tri-tip steak, everything spice-crusted king salmon, whipped potatoes, golden beets, sprouted cauliflower, and sweet potato chips.
Gallery: The Craziest Burritos Across America
Prices for bowls range from $12 to $17, which is in line with Chipotle's pricing in some areas. Because it's located in a ghost kitchen concept with many food vendors under one roof, much of its business will probably be in takeout and delivery, though dine-in will be available.
Chipotle expects that Farmesa will help the company "test and learn on future restaurant concepts," so if you happen to live in the area, you may be able to try the next big thing in restaurants before everyone else.
