Chipotle Mexican Grill has opened its first restaurant in Mexico, marking a new step in the fast-casual chain’s international growth strategy and a notable market entry for a U.S.-based brand built around Mexican-inspired food.

The location opened July 16 in San Pedro Garza García, Nuevo León, within the Monterrey metropolitan area, according to a news release from Chipotle. The restaurant is being operated in partnership with Alsea, a restaurant operator with a large portfolio across Latin America and Europe.

"We are entering Mexico with deep respect for the country's culinary heritage and a commitment to delivering the Chipotle experience with excellence," Scott Boatwright, CEO of Chipotle, said in a statement. "Our research has reinforced our belief that there is strong interest in high-quality, freshly prepared food served with the customization and convenience that Chipotle offers."

Chipotle and Alsea plan to open additional restaurants in Nuevo León later this year, followed by expansion into Mexico City in 2027. The San Pedro Garza García restaurant is the first location to open under a development agreement the companies announced in April 2025.

According to Chipotle, Alsea operates several thousand restaurants for global quick-service, coffee shop and full-service restaurant brands in numerous countries across Latin America and Europe. Partnering with an established regional operator gives Chipotle local operating support as it tests demand and expands outside its largest market.

The new Mexico restaurant features Chipotle’s standard menu of customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, salads and quesadillas. The company said many ingredients are sourced from regional suppliers.

Chipotle said it chose the Monterrey area because of its "strong economy, growing population" and role as a major business hub.

"Bringing Chipotle to Mexico is an important step in our growth and portfolio diversification strategy," Christian Gurría, CEO of Alsea, said in a statement. "We are introducing an iconic brand with a differentiated value proposition that has resonated with millions of guests around the world, and we are confident it will be warmly welcomed by Mexican consumers."

As of March 31, Chipotle operated more than 4,100 restaurants worldwide. The chain expects to open between 350 and 370 new locations in 2026.

Chipotle’s international footprint includes restaurants in Canada, Europe and the Middle East, with additional openings planned in South Korea and Singapore. The Mexico rollout will be one of several markets to watch as the company continues building its presence beyond the U.S.

Chipotle could not immediately be reached by FOX Business for additional comment. FOX Business' Aislinn Murphy contributed to this report.