Imagine securing a prime spot in Victoria Island or downtown London with heavy foot traffic, the perfect lunchtime crowd, and a vision: a bustling burrito bar with the kind of queues that wrap around the block. You do the maths, picture the menu, and even sketch out the branding in your head. But then you hit a wall: Chipotle does not franchise. So you shift focus, and now you are looking for the best Chipotle franchise alternatives that can deliver similar success without the corporate red tape.
Despite being one of the most successful fast-casual restaurant chains in the world, with a reported Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $2.6 million per location in 2023, Chipotle does not follow the traditional franchise model. Instead, the company controls 100% of its restaurants through corporate ownership. This unique Chipotle ownership model allows it to protect brand quality, maintain consistency, and reinvest earnings into strategic expansion. In fact, Chipotle allocated over $1.4 billion in 2023 alone to build new restaurants, highlighting just how serious they are about growth and operational control.
So, what does that mean for you, the aspiring investor, operator, or entrepreneur? If you cannot buy into Chipotle, can you still replicate its success? This article explores the best Chipotle franchise alternatives. These are fast-casual brands that are open to franchising, offer similar food concepts or operational models, and provide realistic opportunities for you to enter the market. From restaurant build costs to expected revenues, we break down what it takes to thrive in this booming sector.
See also: Best Italian Food Franchises to Invest in.
Key Takeaways
- Chipotle does not franchise. Every location is corporate-owned to protect quality, consistency, and long-term brand value.
- Building a restaurant with similar performance requires a significant investment of $2.5M to $4M, covering land, construction, and pre-opening costs.
- With strong operations and a prime location, it is possible to reach $2.6M in annual sales, but success depends on controlling food, labour, and occupancy expenses.
- While you cannot own a Chipotle, you can replicate the model or explore other Chipotle franchise alternatives with proven fast-casual economics.
What Is Chipotle?
Chipotle Mexican Grill is a global leader in the fast-casual restaurant space, best known for its build-your-own burritos, bowls, and tacos made with fresh, ethically sourced ingredients. Founded in 1993 in Denver, Colorado, Chipotle disrupted the quick-service industry by blending the speed of fast food with the quality of casual dining. Today, the brand operates more than 3,200 restaurants across the United States and several international markets.
From a business perspective, Chipotle is a benchmark for high-performing restaurant models. With an Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $2.6 million, it far outpaces many traditional franchise brands. Yet, unlike those franchises, Chipotle does not sell franchise rights. Every single store is company-owned, operated, and funded, making it one of the few fast-casual giants that has built its empire without external operators.
Chipotle’s Ownership Model
One of the most defining features of Chipotle’s business strategy is its strict corporate ownership model. Unlike brands such as Subway, KFC, or McDonald’s, Chipotle does not franchise any of its locations. Every restaurant is owned, operated, and financed by the company itself.
This decision is not accidental, it is strategic. By keeping full ownership, Chipotle maintains total control over everything from food sourcing and preparation to store layout, customer service, and even staff training. This consistency helps protect its brand reputation and ensures that the customer experience is nearly identical whether you are in New York, Austin, or London.
The company also benefits from tighter control over unit economics. For example, corporate ownership allows Chipotle to test and roll out new technologies, like its digital kitchen, advanced POS systems, or new restaurant formats, without waiting for franchisees to catch up. The result? Faster innovation, better margins, and data-driven decisions that directly impact performance.
There is also a financial advantage. With an Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $2.6 million and growing digital sales, Chipotle has the scale and cash flow to fund its expansion. In 2023 alone, it invested over $1.4 billion into new restaurant builds, bypassing the need for franchise capital while retaining 100% of profits.
Chipotle’s ownership model prioritises long-term brand equity over rapid expansion. By sacrificing the immediate income from franchise fees, it maintains full operational and financial control. But for entrepreneurs eager to enter the fast-casual space, there are several high-performing alternatives to Chipotle that offer franchise opportunities, combining strong brand appeal with scalable, investor-friendly models.
See also: A product on how to become a successful franchise owner.
What Makes a Good Chipotle Alternative?
When looking for Chipotle franchise alternatives, the goal is not just to find another burrito chain, it is to find a fast-casual restaurant franchise that delivers strong revenue potential, scalable operations, and a loyal customer base. While Chipotle does not offer franchises, several other brands are built on similar foundations. But what makes one truly stand out?
Here is what to look for in a franchise brand that can replicate the success of Chipotle.
1. A Customisable, Build-Your-Own Menu Format
Chipotle built its empire on a simple idea: let people customise their meals. Whether it is a burrito, bowl, taco, or salad, this format puts control in the hands of the customer, without slowing down operations.
Any strong burrito bar business opportunity or build-your-own-bowl franchise should follow this logic. The ability to assemble meals on demand not only appeals to a wide range of dietary needs but also helps with portion control and cost management.
2. Proven Track Record and High AUV
A major reason Chipotle is envied across the industry is its impressive Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $2.6 million. While few franchises match that number, good alternatives often report AUVs of $1 million or more.
When researching high AUV restaurant franchises, check for transparent reporting, third-party validation, and consistent earnings across locations. Understanding AUV meaning in the restaurant industry is key, because it reflects a unit’s actual revenue potential, not just projections on paper.
3. Scalable and Operationally Simple Model
One of the most underrated assets in the fast-casual franchise investment world is operational simplicity. Chipotle’s limited menu and efficient line-based kitchen design allow high throughput with low waste.
Look for restaurant franchise opportunities that do not require complicated food prep or large teams. A franchise that can be launched in a small footprint with minimal overhead will scale faster and cost less to build, helping you better manage restaurant build costs.
4. Strong Digital, Delivery, and Tech Integration
In today’s food industry, success is not just about what you serve; it is about how easily people can get it. Chipotle thrives on digital sales, in-app orders, and seamless delivery integration.
The best fast-casual restaurant franchises today come equipped with modern POS systems, mobile ordering, loyalty apps, and third-party delivery partnerships. This is especially important if you are exploring healthy fast food franchises, where convenience and health often go hand in hand.
5. Comprehensive Franchise Support
If you are new to food service or want to avoid the guesswork, choose a franchise that offers end-to-end support. This should include training, supply chain access, brand marketing, and operational playbooks.
Also, examine franchise fees and royalty rates. A lower franchise fee may be appealing upfront, but long-term success depends on consistent support and a franchise team that is invested in your performance.
6. Culturally Relevant or Niche Branding
Finally, your top Chipotle franchise alternatives should reflect cultural trends or local relevance. Whether it is plant-based menus, regional flavours, or health-focused options, emerging franchise brands that tap into consumer values tend to perform better.
Think beyond the menu. Look for franchise food concepts that are aligned with what your market craves such as authenticity, convenience, and a reason to come back.
Top 5 Chipotle Franchise Alternatives You Can Invest In
While you cannot own a Chipotle, you can invest in fast-casual restaurant franchises that offer similar value propositions like customisable meals, operational simplicity, and scalable business models. These brands are not only open to franchising but also have proven track records in the competitive fast-casual segment.
Below are some of the best Chipotle franchise alternatives worth considering:
1. Moe’s Southwest Grill
A direct competitor to Chipotle, Moe’s Southwest Grill offers a similar Tex-Mex experience with burritos, bowls, and quesadillas. Founded in 2000, Moe’s has grown into a nationally recognised brand with over 550 locations across 30+ U.S. states. Its menu is built on a customisable, assembly-line format that mirrors Chipotle’s service style.
From an investment standpoint, Moe’s offers a balance of scale, brand power, and accessibility. The initial investment to open a Moe’s franchise ranges between $625,000 and $1.3 million, depending on location and buildout costs. Franchisees are required to have a minimum liquid capital of $300,000 and a net worth of at least $1 million, making it ideal for serious investors who want to enter the fast-casual food space with a proven player.
What makes Moe’s even more attractive is its updated financial performance. The brand reported average net sales of $1,235,422 per unit as of 2024, making it one of the stronger performers among fast-casual restaurant franchises. This AUV, combined with relatively moderate startup costs, puts Moe’s in a sweet spot for entrepreneurs seeking solid franchise profitability.
In terms of franchisee support, Moe’s provides full onboarding, location assistance, operations training, and ongoing marketing resources, ensuring that you are not left navigating the fast-casual landscape alone.
For investors searching for Chipotle franchise alternatives with customisable menus, strong brand recognition, and nationwide scalability, Moe’s Southwest Grill is one of the most reliable and profitable opportunities currently on the market.
See also: Best Franchises to Own for Beginners today: Top Opportunities for First-Time Entrepreneurs
2. QDOBA Mexican Eats
QDOBA stands out as one of the strongest Chipotle franchise alternatives for entrepreneurs looking to enter the fast-casual Mexican food space. With its bold flavours, customisable menu, and emphasis on freshness, QDOBA has built a loyal customer base across North America. What makes it appealing to investors is its flexible franchising model, which includes both traditional and non-traditional restaurant formats, allowing you to tailor your investment to your location and growth goals.
For those interested in a full-scale restaurant experience, QDOBA’s traditional investment model offers the complete package: dine-in seating, digital ordering, delivery, and catering. To qualify, franchisees must have a minimum net worth of $1 million and liquid capital of at least $350,000. The initial investment ranges from $545,000 to $1.294 million, depending on location, size, and buildout. Ongoing fees include a 5% royalty fee, a 2.75% brand marketing contribution, and a 1.25% local marketing fee, ensuring national and local support to drive customer traffic.
If you are looking to open in a non-traditional location such as a university, airport, stadium, or convenience hub, QDOBA offers a more streamlined model. The non-traditional investment requires the same $1 million net worth and $350,000 in liquid capital, but comes with a lower initial investment range of $236,000 to $939,000. Ongoing fees in this model include a slightly higher 6% royalty fee and a 1.75% brand marketing fee, with no separate local marketing fee.
If you are launching a flagship restaurant or setting up in a high-traffic institutional space, QDOBA offers strong operational support, supply chain access, and a proven business model. With its ability to flex between investment levels and environments, it remains one of the most versatile and scalable fast-casual restaurant franchises available today.
3. Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza is one of the most exciting fast-casual franchise alternatives to Chipotle, offering a similar customisation-first approach but with artisanal pizzas. Known for its fast-fired, build-your-own pizza model, Blaze delivers the same made-to-order experience that customers love at Chipotle, but in a different category. It is a modern, tech-forward brand that resonates especially well with younger, urban customers.
With over 340 locations across 38 U.S. states, Blaze has established a strong national footprint without oversaturation, giving new franchisees room to grow. It reports an impressive Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $1.1 million, putting it well above many other pizza concepts in the fast-casual space.
The brand is also accessible to first-time and multi-unit investors alike. To get started, you will need a minimum liquid capital of $300,000, and the initial investment ranges from $565,000 to $1.1 million, depending on location and site buildout. The franchise fee is a flat $30,000, and the royalty fee stands at 5% of gross sales.
Blaze supports franchisees with site selection, buildout guidance, training, marketing tools, and digital infrastructure, including mobile ordering and third-party delivery integration. Its simplified menu, fast prep time, and efficient kitchen layout make operations lean and scalable, which is ideal for entrepreneurs looking for a high-volume, quick-turnaround food business.
For anyone seeking a build-your-own bowl franchise-style concept outside of burritos or rice bowls, Blaze Pizza offers a proven path into the fast-casual market with the bonus of brand recognition and a loyal, growing customer base.
4. Saladworks
For entrepreneurs interested in the health-conscious segment of fast-casual dining, Saladworks is a standout alternative. It offers fully customisable salads, grain bowls, wraps, and soups following the same build-your-own model that drives Chipotle’s appeal, but with a wellness twist.
The initial investment ranges from $234,000 to $653,000, depending on format (in-line, kiosk, or non-traditional). Franchisees must have at least $350,000 in liquid capital, a net worth of $1,000,000 and a $350,000 franchise fee.
With flexible store models, a simplified prep process, and a product line aligned with today’s health trends, Saladworks offers a scalable, mission-driven brand for entrepreneurs looking to stand out in the fast-casual space.
5. Barberitos
Barberitos is a regional Tex-Mex brand that mirrors Chipotle’s core menu, like burritos, bowls, tacos, and quesadillas, but with a Southern twist and a more relaxed franchising structure. It is a compelling burrito bar business opportunity for those looking to introduce a proven concept to smaller or underserved markets.
Founded in Georgia, Barberitos has expanded to different locations throughout the Southeastern United States, leaving significant white space for expansion. The brand leans into freshness and simplicity, offering a focused menu that keeps food costs and prep times manageable.
To open a Barberitos franchise, investors need liquid capital of at least $150,000 and a minimum net worth of $350,000. The initial investment ranges from $507,270-$618,760, with a $35,000 franchise fee.
Barberitos may be smaller than the national chains, but that can be an advantage as it offers new franchisees more regional territory and hands-on support, making it an ideal choice for operators seeking a high-potential brand in the early stages of growth.
See Also: CAVA Franchise Alternatives: Best Mediterranean Restaurant Franchises to Invest in 2025
What It Costs to Build a Chipotle-Style Restaurant
If you are inspired by Chipotle’s model and wondering what it takes to build something similar, be prepared for a substantial capital commitment. While there is no official Chipotle franchise cost, since the company does not franchise, analysing its corporate investment strategy gives us a strong benchmark.
Based on recent financial disclosures and industry averages, the restaurant build cost for a Chipotle-style fast-casual unit ranges from $2.5 million to over $4 million, depending on location and scale. Here is a closer look at the restaurant build cost breakdown for this kind of fast-casual restaurant investment.
Property or Lease Acquisition
The first and most significant decision is where to set up shop. Chipotle-style restaurants thrive in high-traffic urban or suburban areas like shopping plazas, business districts, and university zones. A standard restaurant footprint ranges from 2,000 to 2,400 square feet.
If you are leasing, expect annual rent between $60,000 and $200,000, depending on your market. Some landlords may offer tenant improvement allowances, which can reduce your upfront restaurant build cost. Purchasing property, on the other hand, will push your budget higher, often ranging from $1 million to $2 million or more, especially in densely populated cities.
Construction and Equipment
After securing the location, construction begins. To replicate Chipotle’s efficient, open kitchen design, you will need a custom layout that includes prep areas, food warmers, refrigeration, high-heat grills, HVAC systems, and durable flooring. The dining area will also need quality finishes, lighting, and customer-friendly design.
Construction and kitchen setup combined typically run between $1 million and $1.5 million. This includes architectural design, general contracting, equipment installation, plumbing, electrical work, and compliance with health and safety regulations.
Pre-Opening Expenses
Before you ever serve a single customer, you will face a set of expenses critical to your launch. These include hiring and training staff, marketing your grand opening, acquiring licences and insurance, and setting aside working capital for the first few months.
- Staff onboarding and training: $40,000–$60,000
- Licences, permits, and insurance: $15,000–$30,000
- Opening promotions and marketing: $20,000–$50,000
- Working capital reserves: $100,000–$150,000
Altogether, these pre-opening expenses can add up to $200,000–$300,000, and they are often underestimated, so planning conservatively is smart.
Technology and Digital Integration
Chipotle’s success is also powered by its seamless tech stack. From mobile ordering to kitchen display systems, your modern fast-casual restaurant must be digitally enabled. You will need a large POS system, inventory software, online ordering platform, loyalty app, and delivery integrations.
The total technology investment typically falls between $25,000 and $50,000, depending on whether you are building from scratch or using a franchise’s in-house system.
While the startup cost is substantial, so is the potential return. With careful planning, many entrepreneurs aim for annual revenues of $1.5 million to $2.5 million, especially in well-positioned locations. Chipotle’s own Average Unit Volume (AUV) of $2.6 million offers a benchmark for what is possible with strong operations, efficient service, and high consumer demand.
How to Choose the Right Fast-Casual Restaurant Franchise For You
Choosing the right franchise is one of the most important business decisions you will make as an entrepreneur. It goes beyond popularity or name recognition. The right brand should align with your financial capacity, lifestyle goals, and long-term vision for growth. And when you are considering fast-casual franchise investments, especially Chipotle franchise alternatives, that decision becomes even more strategic.
Here is what you should consider before signing on the dotted line.
Start With What You Can Afford
Your first consideration should always be your budget. Franchise opportunities vary widely in terms of cost. Some fast-casual brands require startup capital above a million dollars, while others offer entry points below half a million. It is critical to look beyond the initial franchise fee and assess the full investment scope. This includes the cost of equipment, construction, marketing, technology, and working capital for the first few months.
You will also need to meet minimum liquid capital and net worth requirements, which are standard across most franchise brands. If you fall short financially, you may not even qualify, so it is essential to be realistic from the start. Aligning your investment range with a franchise that fits your financial profile will not only make the approval process easy but also set you up for a less stressful launch.
Understand the Operational Model
One of the reasons brands like Chipotle succeed is because of their simplicity, limited menu, fast service, and streamlined kitchen operations. When choosing a franchise, pay close attention to how complex the day-to-day running of the business will be.
If you are new to the food industry, you may want to avoid franchises that demand a large staff or intensive food preparation. Instead, look for concepts that can be run with a small, well-trained team and minimal waste. A business that is simple to operate is often quicker to scale and easier to replicate.
Evaluate Brand Strength and Market Fit
Before investing in any franchise, it is important to examine the brand’s presence and appeal in your target market. A well-loved national brand may seem like a safe bet, but if your region is already saturated with its outlets, your chances of strong performance could be diminished.
On the other hand, an emerging brand with a growing reputation could offer more territory and less competition. Consider how the franchise aligns with local preferences and if it taps into broader consumer trends, such as healthy eating, plant-based meals, or delivery-first operations.
Brands that integrate digital ordering, mobile apps, and loyalty programmes tend to perform better in today’s tech-savvy market. The goal is to find a concept that is in demand and fits the needs of your local audience.
Investigate the Level of Support
A franchise is only as strong as the support it provides to its operators. Before committing, take time to understand the level of training, onboarding, and ongoing assistance you will receive. Some franchises offer extensive support, from helping you choose a location and design your store to providing operational handbooks, staff training, and marketing templates. Others may leave you to figure out more on your own.
This is important for first-time operators or investors transitioning from other industries. Reach out to existing franchisees and ask them about their experiences. The insight you gain from people already in the system can reveal a lot about what day-to-day operations look like and how responsive the franchisor is when issues arise.
Choose a Franchise That Reflects Your Goals
Beyond the numbers and logistics, the best franchise for you is one that matches your values and long-term business goals. Are you building a legacy? Hoping to eventually own multiple units? Looking for a business that allows you to stay hands-on or remain behind the scenes? These questions matter. When the brand’s mission, food philosophy, and culture align with your own, you will find more motivation to stick with it through the highs and lows.
Whether you are investing in a bold Tex-Mex brand, a health-focused salad concept, or an emerging niche with strong growth potential, your decision should be driven by more than just financial opportunity, it should also make sense for your lifestyle and vision.
Conclusion
For many entrepreneurs, the dream of owning a Chipotle franchise starts with excitement and ends in disappointment, only because Chipotle simply does not franchise. Yet, that roadblock does not mean the journey ends there. It opens the door to a broader range of opportunities in the fast-casual space.
As you have discovered throughout this guide, several brands offer what Chipotle does not: an accessible entry point, a scalable operational model, and the backing of a franchise system designed to support your growth.
The key is choosing the right brand for your goals, your budget, and your market. And once you do, committing fully to the process from location selection and staff training to digital strategy and customer experience is what will set you apart. While Chipotle may be out of reach, the opportunity to build your fast-casual empire is very much within it.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chipotle Franchise Alternatives
Can I own a Chipotle franchise?
No. Chipotle operates on a 100% corporate-owned model. The company has never franchised and has no plans to do so in the future. Every location is opened, operated, and controlled by Chipotle itself.
Does Chipotle have a franchise model?
No. Chipotle’s business model is entirely corporate-owned. This means all of its restaurants are opened, operated, and financed directly by the company itself. Unlike most fast-casual chains, it earns no income from franchise fees or royalties and instead retains full control over branding, operations, and expansion.
Why doesn’t Chipotle franchise its restaurants?
Chipotle’s leadership believes that full corporate ownership allows for better quality control, consistent customer experience, and tighter operational management. It also enables them to reinvest profits into expansion without relying on outside operators.
What franchise is similar to Chipotle?
Several franchises offer similar menu formats and operational models. QDOBA, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Barberitos are close comparisons, offering made-to-order burritos, bowls, and other Tex-Mex items. These brands mirror Chipotle’s service style and are open to franchise investment.
Who is Chipotle’s main competitor?
Chipotle’s main competitors include QDOBA and Moe’s Southwest Grill in the Mexican fast-casual segment. It also competes indirectly with other high-AUV fast-casual chains like Blaze Pizza and Wingstop, which attract similar demographics and operate with comparable efficiency.
Are there restaurants similar to Chipotle that do franchise?
Yes. Brands like QDOBA, Moe’s Southwest Grill, and Barberitos offer similar menu styles with franchise opportunities. Each has its requirements, support systems, and investment range, giving entrepreneurs multiple avenues into the fast-casual space.
What is the average investment to start a Chipotle-style restaurant?
Building a restaurant similar in scale and service to Chipotle typically costs between $2.5 million and $4 million. This includes property, construction, kitchen equipment, staffing, technology, and pre-opening expenses.
Which alternative franchise offers the best return?
Return on investment varies by location, operations, and brand strength. However, franchises like Wingstop, Blaze Pizza, and QDOBA report strong Average Unit Volumes (AUVs) between $1.1 million and $1.6 million, making them attractive from a financial standpoint when managed well.
