Chipotle Mexican Grill opened its first restaurant in Brandon located at 829 E. Bloomingdale Ave. with a fundraising event for Bloomingdale High School Band.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, the nationwide restaurant known for serving “Food With Integrity,” now calls Brandon home with the opening of its newest location at 829 E. Bloomingdale Ave. The first in Brandon it sits in the Bloomingdale Square plaza.

The grand opening festivities began with a pre-opening fundraising event benefitting the Bloomingdale High School Band. The Rajun Bull Band played for the crowd. Attendees were given one of Chipotle’s signature menu items which include burritos, tacos, bowls (a burrito without the tortilla) and salads and a beverage for a donation of $5. One hundred percent of the proceeds were donated to the Bloomingdale High School Band.

Susan Maley, of Valrico, was on hand at the pre-opening event. Both of her children are in the band. Maley said, “This is very generous of Chipotle to involve the band in their grand opening. We have never before been to Chipotle. It is really good!”

John Sever, the Bloomingdale High School Band Director, said, “This is a great event for the band. This is a good relationship for Bloomingdale High School to have with a local business.”

Chipotle will be open Monday-Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Chipotle’s “Food With Integrity” philosophy means simple ingredients are used in creative ways to elevate ordinary into extraordinary. Chipotle spokesperson, Chris Arnold said, “Chipotle is committed to making high-end dining and top quality ingredients available and affordable so everyone can eat better.”

Arnold added, “To do so, we continue to extend our reach with new restaurants, and strive to continually enhance our ‘Food With  Integrity’ philosophy.”

Chipotle serves higher quality ingredients that are naturally, sustainably raised or locally produced. In addition to the food philosophy, Chipotle strives to elevate its environmental footprint. The Brandon location features sustainable architecture such as recycled drywall, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and energy efficient appliances. The food is served using bowls from recycled newsprint and unbleached tray liners and napkins and cups are made from post-consumer waste.

The new Chipolte Grill is located in the Bloomingdale Square Plaza. Visit www.chipotle.com or call 423-6384.

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