Mad Money

Chipotle CEO says the chain is developing brisket but new menu items on hold for now

Key Points
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill CEO Brian Niccol said the chain is developing brisket and cauliflower rice.
  • But any new menu items will be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Chipotle had previously planned to introduce one to two menu items per year.
Chipotle CEO says most new menu items are on pause
VIDEO1:3001:30
Chipotle CEO says most new menu items are on pause

Chipotle Mexican Grill is developing new menu items — such as brisket and cauliflower rice — but customers won't be able to try them until the coronavirus pandemic ends.

"Our culinary guys are still hard at work, but obviously a lot of these things are going to be delayed where we are right now," CEO Brian Niccol said Thursday on CNBC's "Mad Money" host Jim Cramer

Chipotle had previously planned to introduce one to two new menu items per year. In February, the burrito chain replaced its queso with a new recipe. Niccol has previously said Chipotle is also testing quesadillas and beverages. 

Before taking the reins at Chipotle two years ago, Niccol was head of Yum Brands' Taco Bell. The Mexican fast-food chain is known for its unique menu creations, such as Nacho Fries and Doritos Locos Tacos. Chipotle, on the other hand, has largely stuck to the same menu that it has had for years.

While the restaurant industry has been reeling from the coronavirus, Chipotle has been offering free delivery on orders over $10 through April to entice customers.

Hourly workers are getting a pay hike of 10% from March 16 to April 12. Managers and field leaders will still receive their quarterly bonuses, even though the sales declines in March meant stores missed their performance targets.

Chipotle CEO talks sourcing, delivery, bonuses and supporting hospitals amid coronavirus outbreak
VIDEO8:5108:51
Chipotle CEO talks sourcing, delivery, bonuses and supporting hospitals during COVID

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