This prominent building in Long Beach that once smelled like fresh-popped popcorn will soon smell like cilantro, grilled steak and chicken.
Chipotle Mexican Grill is moving into a retail space that was carved out of the former Long Beach Cinemas site on the corner of Park Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard.
New signs for the fast-casual restaurant went up this week.
The movie theater closed back in April 2023, leaving the corner space empty for more than two years before it was subdivided. Other for rent signs are still up at the building.
There’s no word yet on when the new Chipotle will open, or what else is planned for the rest of the building.
Calls to the property’s leasing agent were not returned.
Chipotle, founded in Denver in 1993, has grown into one of the largest restaurant chains in the country, known for its build-your-own burritos, tacos, and salads. The company operates more than 3,800 restaurants nationwide, including 36 across Long Island.
Top: The Chipotle signs going up at the old Long Beach movie theater. (Credit: Andrew Rappaport)