US-based fast-casual restaurant chain Chipotle has announced the closure of its ghost kitchen concept, Farmesa, just over one year after its launch.
The concept was introduced in February 2023 and operated out of its partner Kitchen United’s Santa Monica location in California.
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It ceased operations following the location’s shutdown in February 2024. Kitchen United, which has been struggling, was recently acquired by C3 and is now moving away from the ghost kitchen market.
Farmesa, a bowl-centric brand, offered customisable bowls with a mix of proteins, greens, grains and vegetables.
The brand was developed to reflect the farm-to-table ethos, as suggested by its name — a combination of the words “farm” and “mesa” which is Spanish for table.
The menu featured 100% certified organic and all-natural drinks, including offerings from Tractor Beverage Co and sparkling water.
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By GlobalDataThe menu was developed by chef Nate Appleman, who contributed to Chipotle’s menu in the mid-to-late 2000s and served as the director of culinary innovation for Farmesa.
Chipotle’s chief customer and technology officer Curt Garner noted that Farmesa will continue to exist within Chipotle’s innovation lab for testing new menu items, although there are no plans for standalone Farmesa locations.
Chipotle’s CEO Brian Niccol, during the company’s recent earnings call, stated that their primary focus is on strengthening the Chipotle brand both domestically and internationally.
Niccol indicated that while they are not ruling out future ventures, expanding beyond the Chipotle brand is not a current priority.
The company has been working on improving the efficiency and speed of its restaurants to drive sales growth.
In February 2024, the restaurant chain doubled its commitment to its Cultivate Next venture fund to $100m.
The aim was to foster partnerships with early-stage companies that align with its mission to “Cultivate a Better World” and support its goal of operating 7,000 restaurants in North America.
