Chipotle Mexican Grill, the popular Denver-based fast-casual chain, will open Aug. 16 in the Pleasant Ridge Shopping Center, according to developer Lou Schickel.

This’ll be the chain’s first location in Central Arkansas and second in Arkansas. One opened in Fayetteville in May in the Frisco Depot building on Dickson St. And managed to piss off the community by sticking its Chipotle logo where a historic Fayetteville marker had been for years. After some outcry, Chipotle thought better off the placement and moved its sign.

I’ve never Chipotled, but I have friends whose opinions about food I trust, who’re crazy for it. Anyone else?


KAT’S UPDATE: Went over and toured the restaurant today (Thursday the 4th). Neat, clean, power-efficient… and the company seems to be very committed to the locavore movement. I’ve never Chipotle’d, either. Pics next week.