Capitalizing on the popularity of take-out ordering from restaurants in the time of COVID-19—when city and state ordinances, or simply the general public's comfort level, have put the kibosh on most on-site restaurant dining—Chipotle Mexican Grill has unveiled a digital-only restaurant. The concept, the Chipotle Digital Kitchen, is in Highland Falls, NY, but is expected to appear elsewhere down the road. It is only available for pick-up, delivery, and catering orders. 

According to an announcement from the fast-casual chain, "The new prototype will allow Chipotle to enter more urban areas that wouldn't support a full-size restaurant and allows for flexibility with future locations."

Because there is no dining room or line for service, diners must place their orders through the restaurant's website, mobile application or third-party delivery services and then obtain their orders from a lobby which, the statement said, "is designed to include all of the sounds, smells and kitchen views of a traditional Chipotle restaurant."