Throughout this week, outrage spread throughout social media as one of America’s favorite fast food chains was believed to be closing for good. Chipotle Mexican Grill was rumored to have filed for bankruptcy, leaving Americans across the country scrambling for the truth and wondering what was next- Was chipotle really gone for good? Would America ever eat a classic burrito bowl again?

After plenty of speculation from the public, Chipotle shut down the rumors rather than their doors. Chipotle spokesperson Erin Wolford affirmed publicly, saying, “The false information stemmed from an inaccurate online article confusing Chipotle with a venture it tested in 2023. The story has since been corrected.” The brand has also stated that they are planning to open hundreds of restaurants this year- confirming that burrito bowls aren’t going anywhere. 

Amidst this outrage, many questioned how social media users could so easily believe that chipotle was closing- but this isn’t the first time the internet has gone crazy over a rumor. The public reaction to the hearsay is a testament to how vital social media is to American news- just one person can cause a wave of misinformation that leaves a whole country wondering the truth. Aima Afzal (12), said, “When I heard about it, it was such a devastating thought that I had to go to Chipotle the next day just in case it closed.” Luckily, Aima as well as other Chipotle fanatics were relieved to find out  that the rumors were in fact just that: rumors. 

Although the Chipotle scare has come to an end, the public’s passion for their favorite fast food chain is everlasting. The public response to the potential closing of the restaurant showed just how important Chipotle, like other popular fast food chains, is to American culture and people. One X user posted, “As long as I’m alive, Chipotle will be in business.” The public reaction to something as simple as a restaurant closing is a testament to the passion of today’s generation- especially when something they love is at risk.