PORTAGE, MI -- Chipotle Mexican Grill will have its second area location when the doors open Thursday on a new restaurant at 5964 S. Westnedge Ave. in Portage.

The 2,073-square-foot restaurant will open in the shopping plaza off the northwest corner of Westnedge and Milham avenues, adjacent to Panera Bread.

The business is scheduled to be open seven days per week, from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.

As an opening-day promotion, Chipotle plans to give a free sparkling drink to the first 500 customers who buy an entree.

Chipotle is a Denver-based chain of more than 2,300 company-owned restaurants that have a design-your-own meal menu. It includes burritos, tacos, burrito bowls and salads.

Food is prepared in open kitchens and customers can choose from a variety of food items, including black beans, pinto beans, grilled meats, braised meats, shredded meats, sauted fajita vegetables, cilantro-lime rice, guacamole, aged shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.

The business promotes its use of quality food from sustainable sources, including meats from animals that were never given antibiotics or added hormones. It also touts its use of classic cooking methods and use of ingredients that have no added colors, flavors or other additives.

Chipotle was started in Denver in 1993 by Steve Ells, who continues as its chairman and chief executive officer.

The new restaurant employs about 33 people as well as a management team. Those interested in applying for work may do so at careers.chipotle.com/ (and search for Portage).

Patrons can order food and eat at the restaurant or order online to avoid a line in the restaurant. The business also has catering that can provide food for parties of 20-200.

Chipotle opened its first location in Greater Kalamazoo at 5363 W. Main St. in Oshtemo Township in November of 2011.