Chipotle sets sights on Asia with first restaurants in South Korea, Singapore

United States – Chipotle Mexican Grill has signed a joint venture with South Korea’s SPC Group to open restaurants in Asia for the first time, with the first sites set to open in South Korea and Singapore in 2026.

Scott Boatwright, chief executive officer of Chipotle, said the company sees Asia as a significant growth opportunity: “With a rapidly evolving dining-out business, fuelled by preferences for variety and convenience, expanding into Asia presents an incredible opportunity.”

“Real food prepared fast is in high demand in these markets and, with notable brand awareness among consumers, we see potential for strong adoption out of the gate,” he added. 

Chipotle has already built cultural relevance in South Korea despite not having restaurants there. 

In 2021, a member of the country’s best-selling K-pop group famously referred to the brand as “Chicotle” and said he wanted to eat it every day. 

The company responded by temporarily changing its name on X to “Chicotle” and giving away thousands of free entrées. 

In 2023, two members of a popular K-pop girl group also expressed their love for the brand, noting they “couldn’t live without Chipotle” even though it was unavailable in Korea.

Heesoo Hur, executive vice president and owner of SPC Group, described the partnership as a natural fit: “Given the familiarity of this iconic brand among Koreans and Singaporeans, and their passion for exceptional culinary experiences, these two markets are ideal entry points for Chipotle in Asia.”

“We have a proven track record of developing global brands and see an opportunity to leverage our market expertise to introduce Chipotle’s responsibly sourced food to new guests,” Hur explained. 

The move into Asia extends Chipotle’s international expansion strategy. 

In 2023, the company signed a development agreement with Alshaya Group to enter the Middle East, where six restaurants are now open across Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. 

In April 2025, it agreed with Alsea S.A.B. de C.V. to open in Mexico, with the first location scheduled for 2026.

Chipotle currently operates more than 3,800 restaurants worldwide, including over 60 in Canada, 20 in the United Kingdom, six in France, and two in Germany. 

It plans to open between 315 and 345 new restaurants this year, with a long-term target of reaching 7,000 locations in the United States and Canada.