Chipotle Owner Net Worth (Updated 2025).

Steve Ells, the mastermind behind Chipotle Mexican Grill, began his culinary journey in the early 1990s. After graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder with a degree in Art History, Ells decided to pursue his passion for cooking. He enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America, where he honed his skills and developed his unique vision for the restaurant industry.

Following his graduation from CIA, Ells gained valuable experience working under renowned chefs like Jeremiah Tower and Joyce Goldstein. In 1993, Ells moved to San Francisco and worked at Stars, a highly acclaimed restaurant. It was here that he first conceptualized the idea of Chipotle, inspired by the simple yet delicious burritos he enjoyed at a small Mexican restaurant in Colorado.

Chipotle Owner’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Chipotle Mexican Grill’s co-founder and former CEO, Steve Ells, has an estimated net worth of $1.5 billion. This figure reflects his significant stake in the company, which he founded in 1993.

Career

Steve Ells began his career as a chef, working at several renowned restaurants. In 1993, he opened the first Chipotle restaurant in Denver, Colorado. He served as the company’s CEO until 2018, overseeing its growth into a multinational chain with over 2,500 locations worldwide.

Other Ventures

Beyond Chipotle, Ells has invested in several other food-related ventures. He co-founded the restaurant group, Investable Assets, which owns and operates several high-end dining establishments. Additionally, he has backed various food tech startups, demonstrating his interest in the industry’s future.

Assets

Ells’ assets include a significant stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill, valued at over $1 billion. He also owns several properties, including a luxurious home in Aspen, Colorado. His art collection, featuring works by artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, is another notable asset.

Annual Income

As of 2025, Steve Ells’ annual income is estimated to be around $20 million. This figure is primarily derived from his Chipotle stock and dividends, as well as his other business ventures and investments.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Chipotle Owner

Frequently Asked Questions: Chipotle Owner Net Worth

1. Who is the owner of Chipotle?

Steve Ells is the founder and former CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill. He started the company in 1993. However, as of 2021, Brian Niccol is the current CEO of Chipotle.

2. What is Chipotle’s net worth?

As of the latest estimates, Chipotle’s market capitalization is around $40 billion.

3. How much is Steve Ells worth?

Steve Ells’ net worth is estimated to be around $1 billion.

4. What is Brian Niccol’s net worth?

Brian Niccol’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million.

5. How did Steve Ells start Chipotle?

Steve Ells started Chipotle in 1993 with the help of his father, who was a successful restaurant operator. Ells was inspired to create Chipotle after a trip to San Francisco, where he discovered the taqueria style of cooking.

6. What is Chipotle’s business model?

Chipotle operates on a fast-casual business model, offering high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients at a slightly higher price point than traditional fast-food restaurants. Their menu is focused on burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads.

7. How many Chipotle restaurants are there?

As of 2021, there are over 2,800 Chipotle restaurants worldwide, with the majority located in the United States.

8. What is Chipotle’s revenue?

Chipotle’s annual revenue is around $6 billion.

9. What is Chipotle’s stock ticker symbol?

Chipotle Mexican Grill’s stock ticker symbol is CMG on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

10. What is Chipotle’s mission statement?

Chipotle’s mission statement is “To change the way people think about and eat fast food.”