Chipotle Mexican Grill Coming to Bloomingdale

Construction crews are knocking down walls and loading Dumpsters with construction debris to make way for a Chipotle Mexican Grill in Bloomingdale Plaza.

According to Mark Ely, leasing agent for the shopping center's owner, Regency Centers, residents can expect to dine at Bloomingdale's newest restaurant three months from now.

Chipotle is occupying the space that once housed Latin Cafe 2000, 829 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon.

"They are renovating the entire space," said Ely. "That's what Chipotle does. They do a complete buildout. It will really look different when they're done."

Chipotle has reportedly leased 2,650 square feet of space in the shopping center.

Ely said the restaurant would be similar to the one in Orlando and South Tampa, both of which he's tried.

"I've eaten there and really like their food," he said. "I think this will be a good addition to the Bloomingdale community."

Regency Centers, a national owner, operator and developer of community shopping centers, operates the 267,736-square-foot Bloomingdale Square shopping center, anchored by Walmart, Bealls and Publix Super Market alongside national retailers such as Dollar Tree, Hallmark, RadioShack and Bank of America.

With the addition of Chipotle Mexican Grill, 96 percent of the space at Bloomingdale Square will be leased.

Chipotle Mexican Grill specializes in gourmet burritos and tacos. The restaurant was founded by Steve Ellis, who enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America and became a chef. He said the inspiration for Chipotles was the little taquerias he frequented while living San Francisco. He wanted to open a restaurant that would elevate the typical fast food. With a modest loan, he moved back to Colorado and started the first Chipotle in 1993.

For the entire Chipotle Mexican Grill story, visit http://www.chipotle.com/.