Restaurant analyst tests Chipotle portion sizes by comparing 75 bowls; here's the result
How did Chipotle respond to the viral portion size allegations?
Chipotle responded to the viral portion size allegations by denying any changes in their portion sizes and reinforcing proper portioning with their employees. They also encouraged customers to vocalize or digitally select their desired portions when ordering. Despite the controversy, Chipotle's sales grew 7% in the last quarter.
Who led the portion size test at Chipotle?
The portion size test at Chipotle was led by Wells Fargo restaurant analyst Zachary Fadem. He and his team ordered 75 bowls from eight different NYC Chipotle locations to compare the portion sizes. The test was conducted in response to a viral TikTok trend where customers filmed Chipotle employees making their food due to speculations about decreasing portion sizes1.
What specific ingredients were included in the tested bowls?
The tested bowls included white rice, black beans, chicken, pico de gallo, cheese, and lettuce. The portion sizes of these ingredients varied significantly among the 75 bowls ordered from eight different Chipotle locations in New York City.