Founder Of Chipotle Net Worth (Updated 2025).

Steve Ells, the founder of Chipotle Mexican Grill, began his culinary journey at a young age, growing up in a family that valued good food and cooking. After graduating from the University of Colorado with a degree in political science, Ells decided to pursue his passion for food and enrolled in the Culinary Institute of America. It was here that he honed his skills and developed a love for Mexican cuisine, which would later become the inspiration for his restaurant concept.

In 1993, Ells moved to San Francisco to work at Stars, a renowned restaurant owned by renowned chef Jeremiah Tower. It was during his time at Stars that Ells noticed a gap in the market for fast-casual Mexican food that used high-quality ingredients. With a loan from his father and a business plan, Ells opened the first Chipotle Mexican Grill in Denver, Colorado, in 1993. The restaurant was an instant success, and within a decade, Chipotle had expanded to over 500 locations across the United States.

Founder of Chipotle’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Steve Ells, the founder of Chipotle Mexican Grill, has an estimated net worth of $1 billion, according to Forbes. This significant wealth is primarily attributed to his ownership stake in the company he founded in 1993.

Career

Steve Ells, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, started Chipotle with a single restaurant in Denver, Colorado. He expanded the business, innovating the fast-casual dining concept, and took Chipotle public in 2006. Ells stepped down as CEO in 2018 but remains a significant shareholder and chairman of the board.

Other Ventures

After leaving his role as CEO, Ells has focused on other ventures. He launched Nextbite, a ghost kitchen company, in 2020. He also serves on the board of directors for several other companies, including Lyft and Sweetgreen.

Assets

Ells’ primary asset is his stake in Chipotle, which he owns through various trusts. As of 2025, he holds around 15% of the company’s shares. He also owns properties in Colorado and California, as well as a private jet.

Annual Income

As a significant shareholder, Ells continues to receive a substantial annual income from Chipotle. In 2021, his total compensation was around $2.5 million, primarily from stock awards. This figure can fluctuate based on the company’s performance and his role on the board.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Founder Of Chipotle

Frequently Asked Questions: Founder of Chipotle Net Worth

1. Who is the founder of Chipotle?

Steve Ells is the founder of Chipotle Mexican Grill. He opened the first Chipotle restaurant in Denver, Colorado in 1993.

2. What inspired Steve Ells to start Chipotle?

Steve Ells was inspired to start Chipotle after a trip to San Francisco, where he discovered the burrito stands in the Mission District. He wanted to bring this unique and delicious concept to Denver.

3. How did Chipotle grow from a single restaurant to a global chain?

Chipotle grew through a combination of strategic planning, innovative marketing, and a focus on high-quality ingredients. The company expanded regionally before going national in the early 2000s, and it continued to grow through franchising and new store openings.

4. When did McDonald’s Corporation become a majority shareholder in Chipotle?

McDonald’s Corporation became a majority shareholder in Chipotle in 2001, acquiring a 97% stake in the company. They sold their stake in 2006.

5. When did Steve Ells step down as CEO of Chipotle?

Steve Ells stepped down as CEO of Chipotle in 2018, but he remains the company’s executive chairman.

6. What is Steve Ells’ current role at Chipotle?

Steve Ells currently serves as the executive chairman of Chipotle’s board of directors. He is involved in strategic decision-making and works closely with the CEO to drive the company’s vision and growth.

7. What is Steve Ells’ net worth?

As of the latest estimates, Steve Ells’ net worth is approximately $1 billion.

8. How has Steve Ells contributed to the growth of Chipotle’s sustainability initiatives?

Steve Ells has been a driving force behind Chipotle’s commitment to sustainability. He has championed the use of responsibly raised meat, organic produce, and other sustainable practices in the company’s supply chain.

9. What other ventures has Steve Ells been involved in besides Chipotle?

Steve Ells has invested in several other food-related ventures, including the fast-casual chain, Shake Shack, and the plant-based food company, Beyond Meat. He has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts focused on education and sustainable agriculture.

10. What is Steve Ells’ approach to leadership and business philosophy?

Steve Ells’ approach to leadership and business philosophy emphasizes authenticity, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. He believes in fostering a culture of responsibility and integrity within the company and strives to create meaningful connections with customers through high-quality food and exceptional service.