Chipotle is now close to the Huntley High School campus.
After a long wait for students, the new location opened on Sept. 17 on Route 47.
The popular chain restaurant was immediately flooded with customers, and every parking space was filled. The drive-through line was all around the building.
The interior has a modern feeling and there are several different seating options to choose from: short or high tables, benches, or stools against the west wall with a view of Route 47.
All of the employees are hard at work, everyone is doing something diligently. They are all very friendly and helpful. It’s a very fast-paced environment.
“There’s always a lot going on, and you do have to keep track of how much food you have,” employee Sophie Romero said. “For example, if the rice is halfway, you have to call it out to the grill people so they can start making it.”
Though the work atmosphere of Chipotle is a busy one, they still focus highly on hygiene.
“After working there, I see how serious they are about everything,” Romero said. “It’s honestly great. We’re super on top of our hygiene. I think it’s every hour when a timer goes off in the kitchen and everyone has to wash their hands.”
Why is this establishment so popular? Some may say the freshness of the food, the variety, customization, or even just the overall atmosphere. It’s especially attractive to students.
“I think it’s great for the high schoolers because I feel like there’s not really many food options around,” Romero said. “It offers a healthier alternative.”
The food itself is made fresh every single day. Employees start preparing the food hours before opening.
“I think that’s really good to have in the community,” manager Sarah Benson said. “Chipotle has 53 ingredients to their menu, so being able to know that you’re comfortable eating the food that you’re eating, and that it’s not bad for you is great.”
Chipotle prefers to call their customers guests as they are more than just profit to them. They pride themselves on a strong customer-employee relationship.
“We have four cultural values, and one of them is just making sure that our hospitality is special, and that the way that we treat people is special,” Benson said. “Honestly, when you have that connection with your customers, they really care for you the way that you care for them.”
With many loyal customers who highly praise the establishment, there is a clear impact on the community. As the restaurant continues to grow from its new location, people are only more likely to find their way there.
“Chipotle means love,” freshman Izzy Keegan said. “It means happiness. It’s just really made my life 10 times better. It’s my favorite food. Anytime my parents ask what I want for food, it’s just always going to be Chipotle.”
