Chipotle Opens In The Shops at 2000 Penn.

By Emily Scott

The new Chipotle opened its doors to the public on Wednesday after months of anticipation. Located on the George Washington University campus in The Shops at 2000 Penn., it is now the most convenient Chipotle for GW students, who are enthusiastic about the grand opening.

Construction of Chipotle had been underway for at least three months, according to Hector, the general manager. Chipotle finally had its pre-opening, an invitation only event, on Tuesday, and its official grand opening on Wednesday.

The pre-opening on Tuesday was for about 1000 individuals who had received an invitation. Some invitations were distributed by GW student organizations; others were handed out on street corners.

The only thing that could make the opening of Chipotle even more exciting for GW students would be if it accepted GWorld. Unfortunately, Chipotle is not accepting GWorld, and when asked if they would be accepting GWorld in the near future, general manager Hector said he is “not 100 percent sure.”

Hector said he would like for Chipotle to accept GWorld, but noted that with the increased GWorld rates, “we couldn’t take that hit.”

But that didn’t stop GW students from flocking to Chipotle on Wednesday. There was a line of at least 15 people as early as 11:30 a.m., a half hour after the eatery opened. By 12:00 p.m., the line extended very far out the door.  

When asked how they felt about the new Chipotle, the overwhelming response of GW students was “excited.” But Simon, a GW freshman, did say “it would be nice if they accepted GWorld.”

Daniel, another GW freshman, said that the opening of the new Chipotle is “groundbreaking for GW students. Its location across from U-Yard is convenient for those late-night burrito cravings.”

Previously, the closest Chipotle for GW students was located at 19^th and M streets, which is a longer walk, but that Chipotle does accept GWorld. Simon said that he did go to the Chipotle at 19^th and M St. “occasionally,” but he will probably be eating at the new Chipotle more often because it is so close.