Chipotle opens second Cedar Rapids location

CEDAR RAPIDS — A major competitor in the fast-casual Tex-Mex market is opening a second location in Cedar Rapids.

Signs are now up for Chipotle Mexican Grill at 3425 Westdale Parkway SW.

A Chipotle representative said the new location will be open by the end of the year, though the chain has not specified an exact opening date.

The new location will feature the brand’s Chipotlane, a drive-thru lane that allows guests to expedite pickup of mobile orders without leaving their cars.

The opening comes 11 years after Chipotle established itself in Cedar Rapids with its Lindale Mall location. The chain also has one location in Coralville and one in Iowa City.

Chipotle is slowly growing its presence as a local competitor to Coralville-based Pancheros Mexican Grill, which has nine locations in the Corridor and a much stronger presence throughout Iowa.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.