10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2012

or

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                     to                     

Commission File Number: 1-32731

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware	84-1219301
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(IRS Employer Identification No.)
1401 Wynkoop St., Suite 500 Denver, CO	80202
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)	(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (303) 595-4000

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    x  Yes    ¨  No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    x  Yes    ¨  No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer	x	Accelerated filer	¨
Non-accelerated filer	¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company	¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    ¨  Yes    x  No

As of July 16, 2012 there were 31,683,308 shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value of $0.01 per share outstanding.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

	PART I
Item 1.	Financial Statements	1
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	8
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	12
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	13
	PART II
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	13
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	14
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	15
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	15
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	15
Item 5.	Other Information	15
Item 6.	Exhibits	15
	Signatures	16

PART I

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet

(in thousands, except per share data)

	June 30 2012			December 31 2011
	(unaudited)
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	404,797		$	401,243
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $369 and $208 as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively		10,351			8,389
Inventory		10,504			8,913
Current deferred tax asset		7,310			6,238
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		28,298			21,404
Income tax receivable		34,446			—
Investments		124,736			55,005
Total current assets		620,442			501,192
Leasehold improvements, property and equipment, net		804,655			751,951
Long term investments		169,177			128,241
Other assets		32,196			21,985
Goodwill		21,939			21,939
Total assets	$	1,648,409		$	1,425,308
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	55,960		$	46,382
Accrued payroll and benefits		56,199			60,241
Accrued liabilities		37,812			46,456
Current portion of deemed landlord financing		138			133
Income tax payable		—			4,241
Total current liabilities		150,109			157,453
Deferred rent		154,726			143,284
Deemed landlord financing		3,459			3,529
Deferred income tax liability		63,794			64,381
Other liabilities		15,096			12,435
Total liabilities		387,184			381,082
Shareholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 600,000 shares authorized, no shares issued as of June 30, 2012 and December, 31, 2011		—			—
Common stock $0.01 par value, 230,000 shares authorized, and 34,896 and 34,357 shares issued as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively		349			344
Additional paid-in capital		789,271			676,652
Treasury stock, at cost, 3,208 and 3,105 common shares at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively		(344,023	)		(304,426	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(178	)		197
Retained earnings		815,806			671,459
Total shareholders’ equity		1,261,225			1,044,226
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	1,648,409		$	1,425,308

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except per share data)

	Three months ended June 30						Six months ended June 30
	2012			2011			2012			2011
Revenue	$	690,932		$	571,561		$	1,331,535		$	1,080,945
Restaurant operating costs (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below):
Food, beverage and packaging		221,517			188,121			428,107			351,029
Labor		159,895			137,705			311,880			262,993
Occupancy		41,758			36,195			82,267			71,510
Other operating costs		66,353			62,221			132,532			119,606
General and administrative expenses		42,295			41,968			91,629			74,184
Depreciation and amortization		20,543			18,505			40,627			36,999
Pre-opening costs		3,306			1,606			5,754			2,902
Loss on disposal of assets		1,475			1,377			2,725			3,038
Total operating expenses		557,142			487,698			1,095,521			922,261
Income from operations		133,790			83,863			236,014			158,684
Interest and other income (expense), net		377			(2,006	)		811			(1,719	)
Income before income taxes		134,167			81,857			236,825			156,965
Provision for income taxes		(52,484	)		(31,200	)		(92,478	)		(59,926	)
Net income	$	81,683		$	50,657		$	144,347		$	97,039
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	2.58		$	1.63		$	4.57		$	3.12
Diluted	$	2.56		$	1.59		$	4.53		$	3.06
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic		31,696			31,167			31,553			31,125
Diluted		31,951			31,761			31,899			31,740
Comprehensive income	$	80,625		$	50,764		$	143,972		$	97,764

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

(unaudited)

(in thousands)

	Six months ended June 30
	2012			2011
Operating activities
Net income	$	144,347		$	97,039
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		40,627			36,999
Deferred income tax provision (benefit)		(1,659	)		8,701
Loss on disposal of assets		2,725			3,038
Bad debt allowance		185			3
Stock-based compensation expense		37,677			21,978
Excess tax benefit on stock-based compensation		(73,652	)		(29,673	)
Other		207			2,479
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable		(2,147	)		(524	)
Inventory		(1,593	)		(1,347	)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		(6,893	)		(15,260	)
Other assets		(10,213	)		64
Accounts payable		4,899			6,369
Accrued liabilities		(12,705	)		(12,203	)
Income tax payable/receivable		34,964			47,067
Deferred rent		11,446			7,919
Other long-term liabilities		2,660			2,067
Net cash provided by operating activities		170,875			174,716
Investing activities
Purchases of leasehold improvements, property and equipment		(90,332	)		(57,681	)
Acquisition of interests in equity method investment		—			(586	)
Purchases of investments		(110,870	)		(89,702	)
Maturities of investments		—			90,007
Net cash used in investing activities		(201,202	)		(57,962	)
Financing activities
Acquisition of treasury stock		(39,597	)		(22,484	)
Proceeds from option exercises		167			457
Excess tax benefit on stock-based compensation		73,652			29,673
Payments on deemed landlord financing		(65	)		(58	)
Net cash provided by financing activities		34,157			7,588
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		(276	)		621
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		3,554			124,963
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		401,243			224,838
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	404,797		$	349,801
Supplemental disclosures of non-cash information
Increase in purchases of leasehold improvements, property and equipment accrued in accounts payable	$	4,687		$	180

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

(dollar and share amounts in thousands, unless otherwise specified)

1. Basis of Presentation

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (the “Company”), a Delaware corporation, develops and operates fast-casual, fresh Mexican food restaurants throughout the United States. The Company also has four restaurants in Toronto, Canada, three in London, England, and one in Paris, France. As of June 30, 2012, the Company operated 1,316 restaurants, including one ShopHouse Southeast Asian Kitchen. The Company manages its operations based on six regions and has aggregated its operations to one reportable segment.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial statements and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments consisting of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of its financial position and results of operations. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for the full year. The financial statements and related notes do not include all information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for annual reports. This quarterly report should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

The Company has evaluated subsequent events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the day the financial statements are issued.

2. Adoption of New Accounting Principles

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-04, “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).” The adoption of ASU 2011-04 did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted ASU No. 2011-05, “Presentation of Comprehensive Income.” The adoption of ASU 2011-05 concerns presentation and disclosure only and did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

3. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying value of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value because of their short-term nature. Investments, all of which are classified as held-to-maturity, are carried at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. Investments consist of U.S. treasury notes and CDARS, certificates of deposit placed through an account registry service, with maturities up to approximately two and a half years. Fair market value of U.S. treasury notes is measured using level 1 inputs (quoted prices for identical assets in active markets) and fair market value of CDARS is measured based on level 2 inputs (quoted prices for identical assets in markets that are not active). The Company also maintains a rabbi trust to fund obligations under a deferred compensation plan, as described in Note 4 below. Amounts in the rabbi trust are invested in mutual funds, which are designated as trading securities and carried at fair value, and are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheet. Fair market value of mutual funds is measured using level 1 inputs (quoted prices for identical assets in active markets). The fair value of the investments in the rabbi trust was $8,965 as of June 30, 2012.

4. Employee Benefit Plans

The Company maintains the Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. Supplemental Deferred Investment Plan (the “Deferred Plan”) which covers eligible employees of the Company. Prior to the first quarter of 2012, the Deferred Plan was unfunded, with all earnings and losses recorded in general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of income. Total liabilities under the Deferred Plan as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 were $8,965 and $6,802, respectively, and are included in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet.

During the first quarter of 2012, the Company elected to fund its deferred compensation obligations through a rabbi trust. The rabbi trust is subject to creditor claims in the event of insolvency, but the assets held in the rabbi trust are not available for general corporate purposes.

The Company records trading gains and losses in general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of income, along with the offsetting amount related to the increase or decrease in deferred compensation to reflect its exposure of the Deferred Plan Liability. The Company recorded $292 and $91 of unrealized losses on investments held in the rabbi trust during the three and six months ended June 30, 2012.

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5. Shareholders’ Equity

During the first six months of 2012, the Company purchased shares of common stock under Board authorized share repurchase programs. The shares may be purchased from time to time in open market transactions, subject to market conditions. The Company repurchased 74 shares for $28,899 during the six months ended June 30, 2012. The cumulative shares repurchased under authorized programs as of June 30, 2012 are 3,112 for a total cost of $322,609. As of June 30, 2012, $77,657 was available to repurchase shares under the current repurchase authorization. The shares are being held in treasury stock until such time as they are reissued or retired at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

During the first six months of 2012, shares of common stock were netted and surrendered as payment for applicable tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of outstanding restricted stock units. Shares surrendered by the participants in accordance with the applicable award agreements and plan are deemed repurchased by the Company but are not part of publicly announced share repurchase programs. In the first six months of 2012, the Company repurchased 28 shares for a total cost of $10,698.

6. Stock-based Compensation

During the first quarter of 2012, the Company granted stock only stock appreciation rights (“SOSARs”) on 616 shares of its common stock to eligible employees, of which 191 include performance conditions. The grant date fair value of the SOSARs was $104.95 per share with an exercise price of $371.63 per share based on the closing price of common stock on the date of grant. The SOSARs (other than those subject to performance conditions) vest in two equal installments on the second and third anniversary of the grant date.

Total stock-based compensation expense was $18,045 and $38,805 ($11,004 and $23,663 net of tax) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively, and was $13,455 and $22,779 ($8,229 and $13,932 net of tax) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, respectively. During the first quarter of 2012, the Company increased its estimate of the number of non-vested stock awards subject to performance conditions that it expects will vest, which resulted in a cumulative adjustment to expense of $5,578 ($3,401 net of tax and $0.11 to basic and diluted earnings per share). A portion of stock-based compensation totaling $608 and $1,128 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, and $400 and $801 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, was recognized as capitalized development and is included in leasehold improvements, property and equipment in the consolidated balance sheet. During the six months ended June 30, 2012, 573 options or SOSARs were exercised, 27 options or SOSARs were forfeited, and 83 non-vested stock awards vested.

7. Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share (“diluted EPS”) is calculated using income available to common shareholders divided by diluted weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding during each period. Potentially dilutive securities include common shares related to stock options, SOSARs and non-vested stock awards (collectively “stock awards”). For the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, 365 and 311 stock awards, were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, 396 and 307 stock awards, were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because they were anti-dilutive. In addition, 492 and 454 stock awards for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 246 and 202 stock awards for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because they were subject to performance conditions.

The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share:

	Three months ended June 30				Six months ended June 30
	2012		2011		2012		2011
Net income	$	81,683	$	50,657	$	144,347	$	97,039
Shares:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding		31,696		31,167		31,553		31,125
Dilutive stock awards		255		594		346		615
Diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding		31,951		31,761		31,899		31,740
Basic earnings per share	$	2.58	$	1.63	$	4.57	$	3.12
Diluted earnings per share	$	2.56	$	1.59	$	4.53	$	3.06

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8. Commitments and Contingencies

California ADA Cases

In 2006, Maurizio Antoninetti filed suit against the Company in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, primarily claiming that the height of the serving line wall in the Company’s restaurants violated the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, as well as California disability laws. On December 6, 2006, Mr. Antoninetti filed an additional lawsuit in the same court making the same allegations on a class action basis, on behalf of himself and a purported class of disabled individuals, and a similar class action was filed by James Perkins in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on May 7, 2008.

In the individual Antoninetti action, the district court entered a ruling in which it found that although the Company’s counter height violated the ADA, the Company provided the plaintiff with an equivalent facilitation, and awarded attorney’s fees and minimal damages to the plaintiff which the Company has accrued. The Company and the plaintiff appealed the district court’s ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, and on July 26, 2010, the appeals court entered a ruling finding that the Company violated the ADA and did not provide the plaintiff with an equivalent facilitation, and remanded the case to the district court. On March 21, 2012, the district court reaffirmed its original award of minimal damages to the plaintiff and denied further injunctive relief. On July 18, 2012, the district court ordered a final judgment awarding the plaintiff a portion of the attorney’s fees and costs originally sought.

The Company lowered the height of its serving line walls throughout California some time ago, which makes injunctive relief in these cases moot, and has the lower serving line walls in a significant majority of its restaurants outside of California as well. The Company will vigorously defend the class action cases, including by contesting certification of a plaintiff class. It is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of, or any additional potential liability from, these cases.

Notices of Inspection of Work Authorization Documents

Following an inspection during 2010 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) of the work authorization documents of the Company’s restaurant employees in Minnesota, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement arm of DHS (“ICE”) issued to the Company a Notice of Suspect Documents identifying a large number of employees who, according to ICE and notwithstanding the Company’s review of work authorization documents for each employee at the time they were hired, appeared not to be authorized to work in the U.S. The Company approached each of the named employees to explain ICE’s determination and afforded each employee an opportunity to confirm the validity of their original work eligibility documents, or provide valid work eligibility documents. Employees who were unable to provide valid work eligibility documents were terminated in accordance with the law. In December 2010, the Company was also requested by DHS to provide the work authorization documents of restaurant employees in the District of Columbia and Virginia, and the Company provided the requested documents in January 2011. The Company has received additional requests for work authorization documents covering a small number of individual restaurants as well, and ICE’s investigation remains ongoing. In April 2011 the Company also received notice from the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia that it is conducting an investigation into these matters through its criminal division. The Company believes its practices with regard to the work authorization of its employees, including the review and retention of work authorization documents, are in compliance with applicable law. However, the termination of large numbers of employees in a short period of time does disrupt restaurant operations and results in a temporary increase in labor costs as new employees are trained.

In May 2012, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission notified the Company that it is conducting a civil investigation of the Company’s compliance with employee work authorization verification requirements and its related disclosures and statements, and the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia advised the Company that its investigation has broadened to include a parallel criminal and civil investigation of the Company’s compliance with federal securities laws.

The Company intends to continue to fully cooperate in the government’s investigations. It is not possible at this time to determine whether the Company will incur any fines, penalties or further liabilities in connection with these matters.

Shareholder Derivative Action

In July 2012, Ralph B. Richey filed a shareholder derivative action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado alleging that the members of the Company’s Board of Directors breached their fiduciary duties in connection with employee work authorization compliance matters. The complaint purports to state a claim for damages on behalf of the Company, and is based on statements in the Company’s SEC filings and related public disclosures, as well as media reports, regarding the government investigations described above. The Company intends to defend the case vigorously, but it is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of or any potential liability from this case.

Miscellaneous

In 2007, a lawsuit was filed against the Company in California alleging violations of state laws regarding employee record-keeping, meal and rest breaks, payment of overtime and related practices with respect to its employees. The case originally sought damages, penalties and attorney’s fees on behalf of a purported class of the Company’s present and former employees. The court

6

granted the Company’s motion to deny certification of the purported class, and the California Court of Appeal affirmed that decision. The Court of Appeal decision was appealed to the California Supreme Court, which vacated the Court of Appeal decision and remanded the case back to the Court of Appeal for reconsideration in light of the California Supreme Court’s recent decision in Brinker Restaurant Corp. v. Superior Court. Due to the pending appeal and the uncertainties of litigation, it is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of, or any potential liability from, this case.

In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to other proceedings, lawsuits and claims. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties, and outcomes are not predictable with assurance. Consequently, the Company is unable to ascertain the ultimate aggregate amount of monetary liability or financial impact with respect to these matters as of June 30, 2012. These matters could affect the operating results of any one quarter when resolved in future periods. Management does not believe that any monetary liability or financial impact to the Company as a result of these proceedings or claims will be material to the Company’s annual consolidated financial statements. However, a significant increase in the number of these claims, or one or more successful claims resulting in greater liabilities than the Company currently anticipates, could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operation or cash flows.

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ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this report, including projections of the number and type of restaurants we intend to open, potential changes in comparable restaurant sales as well as food and other costs, discussion of possible stock repurchases, and estimates of our effective tax rate for 2012, are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We use words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “should”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “predict”, “project”, “target”, and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions, to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date any such statements are made, and we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors described in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, as updated in Part II, Item 1.A of this report.

Overview

Chipotle operates fresh Mexican food restaurants serving burritos, tacos, burrito bowls (a burrito without the tortilla) and salads. We began with a simple philosophy: demonstrate that food served fast doesn’t have to be a traditional “fast-food” experience. We do this by avoiding a formulaic approach when creating our restaurant experience, looking to fine dining restaurants for inspiration. We use high-quality raw ingredients, classic cooking methods and distinctive interior design, and have friendly people to take care of each customer—features that are more frequently found in the world of fine dining. Through our vision of Food With Integrity, Chipotle is seeking better food from using ingredients that are not only fresh, but that where possible are sustainably grown and naturally raised with respect for the animals, the land, and the farmers who produce the food. A similarly focused people culture, with an emphasis on identifying and empowering top performing employees, enables us to develop future leaders from within.

2012 Highlights

Restaurant Development. As of June 30, 2012, we had 1,316 restaurants, of which 1,308 were located throughout the United States, four in Toronto, Canada, three in London, England, and one in Paris, France. Our restaurants include one ShopHouse Southeast Asian Kitchen, our new concept serving Asian inspired cuisine. New restaurants have contributed substantially to our revenue growth. We opened 87 restaurants during the six months ended June 30, 2012, and expect to open between 155 to 165 restaurants in 2012, including one additional ShopHouse.

Sales Growth. Average restaurant sales were $2.106 million as of June 30, 2012. We define average restaurant sales as the average trailing 12-month sales for restaurants in operation for at least 12 full calendar months. Our comparable restaurant sales increased 10.2% for the first six months of 2012, and 8.0% for the second quarter of 2012. Comparable restaurant sales represent the change in period-over-period sales for restaurants beginning in their 13th full month of operation. Comparable restaurant sales increases in the first six months of 2012 were driven primarily by an increase in customer visits as well as the impact of menu price increases benefitting comparable restaurant sales by 4.7% for the first six months of 2012, and 4.6% for the second quarter of 2012. We implemented menu price increases in our Pacific region during the first quarter of both 2012 and 2011, and in our remaining regions during the summer of 2011, and as a result, we anticipate the benefit associated with menu price increases will decrease in the second half of 2012 to approximately 1.3% in the third quarter and 1.0% in the fourth quarter. We do not expect additional menu price increases during 2012. Taking into account the loss of the benefit of menu price increases and our recent transaction trends, as well as ongoing consumer and economic uncertainty, we expect comparable restaurant sales increases for the full year 2012 to be in the mid-single digits.

Food With Integrity. We generally serve only naturally raised meats in all of our restaurants. We define naturally raised as coming from animals that are never given antibiotics or added hormones and that are raised responsibly—that is, in accordance with our animal welfare standards. Continuing to serve naturally raised meats in all of our restaurants is one of our primary goals, but we have and will continue to face challenges in doing so. Some of our restaurants served conventionally raised steak during the first quarter of 2012, and more of our restaurants may periodically serve conventionally raised meats in the future due to supply constraints. When one of our restaurants serves commodity meat, we clearly disclose on signage in the restaurant that it is temporarily serving commodity meat and which of the meats is affected, so that customers can avoid commodity meats if they choose to do so.

In addition to serving naturally raised meats, a portion of some of the produce items we serve is organically grown, or sourced locally when in season (by which we mean within 350 miles of our restaurant), and portions of the beans we serve are organically grown or grown using conservation tillage methods that improve soil conditions, reduce erosion and help preserve the environment in which they are grown. All of the sour cream and cheese we serve is made from milk that comes from cows that are not given rBGH. As of the end of the second quarter of 2012, milk used to make all of our sour cream and much of our cheese is sourced from dairies that provide an even higher standard of animal welfare by providing pasture access for their cows. We will continue to search for ingredients that not only taste delicious, but also benefit local farmers or the environment, or otherwise benefit or improve the sustainability of our supply chain.

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Our food costs decreased as a percentage of revenue during the first six months of 2012 as compared to 2011 as a result of the impact of menu price increases and relief in avocado and tomato prices, partially offset by inflationary pressures on many of our ingredients, particularly beef and chicken, as well as the impact of purchasing more naturally raised meats. We expect that food cost inflation will persist in 2012 and that our food costs as a percentage of revenue for the full year 2012 will be higher than those achieved in the second quarter.

Stock Repurchase. In accordance with stock repurchases authorized by our Board of Directors we purchased stock with an aggregate total repurchase price of $28.9 million during the first six months of 2012. As of June 30, 2012, $77.7 million was available to repurchase shares under the current repurchase authorization. We have entered into an agreement with a broker under SEC rule 10b5-1(c), authorizing the broker to make open market purchases of common stock from time to time, subject to market conditions. The existing repurchase agreement and the Board’s authorization of the repurchases may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time.

Restaurant Activity

The following table details restaurant unit data for the periods indicated.

	For the three months ended June 30						For the six months ended June 30
	2012			2011			2012			2011
Beginning of period		1,262			1,095			1,230			1,084
Openings		55			39			87			51
Relocations		(1	)		(3	)		(1	)		(4	)
Total restaurants at end of period		1,316			1,131			1,316			1,131

Results of Operations

Our results of operations as a percentage of revenue and period-over-period variances are discussed in the following section. As our business grows and we open more restaurants and hire more employees, our aggregate restaurant operating costs increase.

Revenue

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
Revenue	$	690.9		$	571.6			20.9	%	$	1,331.5		$	1,080.9			23.2	%
Average restaurant sales	$	2.106		$	1.927			9.3	%	$	2.106		$	1.927			9.3	%
Comparable restaurant sales increases		8.0	%		10.0	%					10.2	%		11.1	%
Number of restaurants as of the end of the period		1,316			1,131			16.4	%		1,316			1,131			16.4	%
Number of restaurants opened in the period		55			39						87			51

The significant factors contributing to our increase in revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 were restaurant openings and comparable restaurant sales increases. Revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 for restaurants not in the comparable restaurant base contributed $74.6 million and $142.4 million of the increase in sales, respectively, of which $22.2 million and $27.4 million was attributable to restaurants opened in 2012. Comparable restaurant sales increases contributed to $44.8 million of the increase in sales for the second quarter of 2012, and $108.0 million of the increase in sales for the first half of 2012. Comparable restaurant sales growth was due to increases in customer visits, as well as the impact of menu price increases.

Food, Beverage and Packaging Costs

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
Food, beverage and packaging	$	221.5		$	188.1			17.8	%	$	428.1		$	351.0			22.0	%
As a percentage of revenue		32.1	%		32.9	%					32.2	%		32.5	%

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Food, beverage and packaging costs decreased as a percentage of revenue for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 due to the impact of menu price increases, and relief in avocado and tomato prices. This decrease was partially offset by inflation on many of our food items, including beef and chicken, as well as the impact of purchasing more naturally raised meats. We expect that food cost inflation will continue in the latter half of 2012 and that our food costs as a percentage of revenue will increase.

Labor Costs

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
Labor costs	$	159.9		$	137.7			16.1	%	$	311.9		$	263.0			18.6	%
As a percentage of revenue		23.1	%		24.1	%					23.4	%		24.3	%

Labor costs as a percentage of revenue decreased in the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 due primarily to the benefit of higher average restaurant sales, including the impact of menu price increases, partially offset by increased average wage rates.

Occupancy Costs

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
Occupancy costs	$	41.8		$	36.2			15.4	%	$	82.3		$	71.5			15.0	%
As a percentage of revenue		6.0	%		6.3	%					6.2	%		6.6	%

Occupancy costs decreased as a percentage of revenue in the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily due to the benefit of higher average restaurant sales on a partially fixed-cost base.

Other Operating Costs

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
Other operating costs	$	66.4		$	62.2			6.6	%	$	132.5		$	119.6			10.8	%
As a percentage of revenue		9.6	%		10.9	%					10.0	%		11.1	%

Other operating costs include, among other items, marketing and promotional costs, bank and credit card fees, and restaurant utilities and maintenance costs. Other operating costs decreased as a percentage of revenue in the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 due primarily to lower marketing and promotional spend during the first half of 2012 and the benefit of higher average restaurant sales on a partially fixed-cost base. We expect to increase marketing and promotional spend significantly during the second half of 2012, resulting in greater other operating costs as a percentage of revenue for the second half of the year.

General and Administrative Expenses

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
General and administrative expense	$	42.3		$	42.0			0.8	%	$	91.6		$	74.2			23.5	%
As a percentage of revenue		6.1	%		7.3	%					6.9	%		6.9	%

The increase in general and administrative expenses in dollar terms in the three months ended June 30, 2012 primarily resulted from an increase in non-cash stock-based compensation expense due to awards granted in 2012 with a higher stock price on the date of grant. These increases were partially offset by lower payroll costs related to our annual incentive plan, lower legal costs, primarily as a

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result of greater activity in the second quarter of 2011 in the government investigations of our employee work authorization compliance (see Part II, Item 1 below), and a decrease in the employer portion of taxes paid in connection with employee stock award exercises and vesting.

The increase in general and administrative expenses in dollar terms in the six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily resulted from an increase in non-cash stock-based compensation expense due to awards granted in 2012 with a higher stock price on the date of grant and additional expense related to non-vested stock awards subject to performance conditions, and an increase in the employer portion of taxes paid in connection with employee stock award exercises and vesting.

General and administrative expenses in the third quarter of 2012 will be impacted by an estimated $5.0 million in expenses related to our biennial All Manager’s Conference to be held in September.

Depreciation and Amortization

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
Depreciation and amortization	$	20.5		$	18.5			11.0	%	$	40.6		$	37.0			9.8	%
As a percentage of revenue		3.0	%		3.2	%					3.1	%		3.4	%

Depreciation and amortization decreased as percentage of revenue in the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 as a result of the benefit of higher average restaurant sales on a partially fixed-cost base. The increase in depreciation and amortization during the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 was primarily due to restaurants opened in 2012 and 2011.

Interest and Other Income (Expense)

	For the three months ended June 30					% increase		For the six months ended June 30					% increase
	2012		2011					2012		2011
	(dollars in millions)
Interest and other income (expense), net	$	0.4	$	(2.0	)		*	$	0.8	$	(1.7	)		*

* -not meaningful

Interest and other income (expense) changed in the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 primarily due to a loss recognized in the second quarter of 2011 on an investment.

Provision for Income Taxes

	For the three months ended June 30						% increase			For the six months ended June 30						% increase
	2012			2011						2012			2011
	(dollars in millions)
Provision for income taxes	$	52.5		$	31.2			68.2	%	$	92.5		$	59.9			54.3	%
Effective tax rate		39.1	%		38.1	%					39.0	%		38.2	%

The 2012 estimated annual effective tax rate is expected to be 39.0% compared to 38.5% for the full year 2011. The increase reflects the impact of the expiration of certain tax benefits. However, if certain federal tax credits we benefitted from in 2011 are renewed by Congress, we estimate our annual effective tax rate would be lower by up to 0.4%.

Seasonality

Seasonal factors cause our profitability to fluctuate from quarter to quarter. Historically, our average daily restaurant sales and net income are lower in the first and fourth quarters due, in part, to the holiday season and because fewer people eat out during periods of inclement weather (the winter months) than during periods of mild or warm weather (the spring, summer and fall months). Other factors also have a seasonal effect on our results. For example, restaurants located near colleges and universities generally do more business during the academic year. The number of trading days can also affect our results. Overall, on an annual basis, changes in trading days do not have a significant impact on our results.

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Our quarterly results are also affected by other factors such as the number of new restaurants opened in a quarter, timing of marketing and promotional spend and both planned and unanticipated events. New restaurants typically have lower margins following opening as a result of the expenses associated with opening new restaurants and their operating inefficiencies in the months immediately following opening. Accordingly, results for a particular quarter are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any other quarter or for any year.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary liquidity and capital requirements are for new restaurant construction, working capital and general corporate needs. We have a cash and investment balance of $698.7 million that we expect to utilize, along with cash flow from operations, to provide capital to support the growth of our business (primarily through opening restaurants), to repurchase, as currently authorized, additional shares of our common stock subject to market conditions, to continue to maintain our existing restaurants and for general corporate purposes. We believe that cash from operations, together with our cash and investment balance, will be enough to meet ongoing capital expenditures, working capital requirements and other cash needs for the foreseeable future.

We haven’t required significant working capital because customers pay using cash or credit cards and because our operations do not require significant receivables, nor do they require significant inventories due, in part, to our use of various fresh ingredients. In addition, we generally have the right to pay for the purchase of food, beverage and supplies some time after the receipt of those items, generally within ten days, thereby reducing the need for incremental working capital to support growth.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of June 30, 2012 we had no off-balance sheet arrangements or obligations.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Critical accounting estimates are those that we believe are both significant and that require us to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often because we need to estimate the effect of inherently uncertain matters. We base our estimates and judgments on historical experiences and various other factors that we believe to be appropriate under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates, and we might obtain different estimates if we used different assumptions or conditions. We had no significant changes in our critical accounting estimates since our last annual report. Our critical accounting estimates are identified and described in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Changing Interest Rates

We’re exposed to interest rate risk through fluctuations of interest rates on our investments. Changes in interest rates affect the interest income we earn, and therefore impact our cash flows and results of operations. As of June 30, 2012, we had $324.0 million in investments, including an insurance related restricted trust account classified in other assets, and $371.9 million in FDIC insured accounts with an earnings credit we classify as interest income, which combined bear a weighted-average interest rate of 0.33%.

Commodity Price Risks

We are also exposed to commodity price risks. Many of the ingredients we use to prepare our food, as well as our packaging materials, are commodities or ingredients that are affected by the price of other commodities, exchange rates, foreign demand, weather, seasonality, production, availability and other factors outside our control. We work closely with our suppliers and use a mix of forward pricing protocols under which we agree with our supplier on fixed prices for deliveries at some time in the future, fixed pricing protocols under which we agree on a fixed price with our supplier for the duration of that protocol, and formula pricing protocols under which the prices we pay are based on a specified formula related to the prices of the goods, such as spot prices. However, a portion of the dollar value of goods purchased by us is effectively at spot prices. Generally our pricing protocols with suppliers can remain in effect for periods ranging from one to 18 months, depending on the outlook for prices of the particular ingredient. In several cases, we have minimum purchase obligations. We’ve tried to increase, where necessary, the number of suppliers for our ingredients, which we believe can help mitigate pricing volatility, and we follow industry news, trade issues, exchange rates, foreign demand, weather, crises and other world events that may affect our ingredient prices. Increases in ingredient prices could adversely affect our results if we choose not to increase menu prices at the same pace for competitive or other reasons.

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Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

A portion of our operations consists of activities outside of the U.S. and we have currency risk on the transactions in other currencies and translation adjustments resulting from the conversion of our international financial results into the U.S. dollar. However, a substantial majority of our operations and investment activities are transacted in the U.S. and therefore our foreign currency risk is limited at this date.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Co-Chief Executive Officers and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

As of June 30, 2012, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Co-Chief Executive Officers and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on the foregoing, our Co-Chief Executive Officers and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.

There were no changes during the three months ended June 30, 2012 in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

California ADA Cases

In 2006, Maurizio Antoninetti filed suit against us in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, primarily claiming that the height of the serving line wall in our restaurants violated the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, as well as California disability laws. On December 6, 2006, Mr. Antoninetti filed an additional lawsuit in the same court making the same allegations on a class action basis, on behalf of himself and a purported class of disabled individuals, and a similar class action was filed by James Perkins in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on May 7, 2008.

In the individual Antoninetti action, the district court entered a ruling in which it found that although our counter height violated the ADA, we provided the plaintiff with an equivalent facilitation, and awarded attorney’s fees and minimal damages to the plaintiff which we have accrued. We and the plaintiff appealed the district court’s ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, and on July 26, 2010, the appeals court entered a ruling finding that we violated the ADA and did not provide the plaintiff with an equivalent facilitation, and remanded the case to the district court. On March 21, 2012, the district court reaffirmed its original award of minimal damages to the plaintiff and denied further injunctive relief. On July 18, 2012, the district court ordered a final judgment awarding the plaintiff a portion of the attorney’s fees and costs originally sought.

We lowered the height of our serving line walls throughout California some time ago, which makes injunctive relief in these cases moot, and have the lower serving line walls in a significant majority of our restaurants outside of California as well. We will vigorously defend the class action cases, including by contesting certification of a plaintiff class. It is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of, or any additional potential liability from, these cases.

Notices of Inspection of Work Authorization Documents

Following an inspection during 2010 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, or DHS, of the work authorization documents of our restaurant employees in Minnesota, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement arm of DHS, or ICE, issued to us a Notice of Suspect Documents identifying a large number of employees who, according to ICE and notwithstanding our review of work authorization documents for each employee at the time they were hired, appeared not to be authorized to work in the U.S. We approached each of the named employees to explain ICE’s determination and afforded each employee an opportunity to confirm the validity of their original work eligibility documents, or provide valid work eligibility documents. Employees who were unable to provide valid work eligibility documents were terminated in accordance with the law. In December 2010, we were also requested by DHS to provide the work authorization documents of our restaurant employees in the District of Columbia and Virginia, and we provided the requested documents in January 2011. We have received additional requests for work authorization documents covering a small number of individual restaurants as well, and ICE’s investigation remains ongoing. In April 2011, we also received notice from the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia that it is conducting an investigation into these matters through its criminal division. The operating hours of our Minnesota, D.C. and Virginia restaurants have been uninterrupted by these

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developments, and we believe our practices with regard to the work authorization of our employees, including the review and retention of work authorization documents, are in compliance with applicable law. However, the termination of large numbers of employees in a short period of time does disrupt our operations and results in a temporary increase in labor costs as we train new employees.

In May 2012, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission notified us that it is conducting a civil investigation of our compliance with employee work authorization verification requirements and our related disclosures and statements, and the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia advised us that its investigation has broadened to include a parallel criminal and civil investigation of our compliance with federal securities laws.

We intend to continue to fully cooperate in the government’s investigations. It is not possible at this time to determine whether we will incur any fines, penalties or further liabilities in connection with these matters.

Shareholder Derivative Action

On July 12, 2012, Ralph B. Richey filed a shareholder derivative action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado alleging that the members of our Board of Directors breached their fiduciary duties in connection with employee work authorization compliance matters. The complaint purports to state a claim for damages on behalf of Chipotle, and is based on statements in our SEC filings and related public disclosures, as well as media reports, regarding the government investigations described above. We intend to defend the case vigorously, but it is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of or any potential liability from this case.

Miscellaneous

In 2007, a lawsuit was filed against us in California alleging violations of state laws regarding employee record-keeping, meal and rest breaks, payment of overtime and related practices with respect to our employees. The case originally sought damages, penalties and attorney’s fees on behalf of a purported class of our present and former employees. The trial court granted our motion to deny certification of the purported class and the California Court of Appeal affirmed that decision. The Court of Appeal decision was appealed to the California Supreme Court, which vacated the Court of Appeal decision and remanded the case back to the Court of Appeal for reconsideration in light of the California Supreme Court’s recent decision in Brinker Restaurant Corp. v. Superior Court. Due to the pending appeal and the uncertainties of litigation, it is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of, or any potential liability from, this case.

We’re involved in various other claims and legal actions that arise in the ordinary course of business. We do not believe that the ultimate resolution of these actions will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, liquidity or capital resources. However, a significant increase in the number of these claims, or one or more successful claims under which we incur greater liabilities than we currently anticipate, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes in our risk factors since our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

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ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer

The table below reflects shares of common stock we repurchased during the second quarter of 2012.

	Total Number of Shares Purchased		Average Price Paid Per Share		Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs(1)		Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(2)
April		9,456	$	422.42		9,456	$	86,248,251
Purchased 4/1 through 4/30
May		10,823	$	406.05		10,823	$	81,853,562
Purchased 5/1 through 5/31
June		10,414	$	402.93		10,414	$	77,657,480
Purchased 6/1 through 6/30
Total		30,693	$	410.03		30,693	$	77,657,480

(1) All shares were purchased in open-market transactions under an agreement with a broker intended to comply with Exchange Act Rule 10b5-1(c).

(2) Shares were repurchased pursuant to a repurchase program announced on February 1, 2012. Repurchases under the program are limited to $100 million in total repurchase price, and there is no expiration date. Authorization of the continuing repurchase program may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time.

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

None.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

The exhibits listed in the exhibit index following the signature page are filed or furnished as part of this report.

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL, INC.
By:	/s/ JOHN R. HARTUNG
Name:	John R. Hartung
Title:	Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer and duly authorized signatory for the registrant)

Date: July 19, 2012

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Exhibit Index

Exhibit Number	Description of Exhibit
3.1	Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.*
3.2	Amended and Restated Bylaws of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.**
4.1	Form of Stock Certificate for Common Stock.*
31.1	Certification of Co-Chief Executive Officer of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2	Certification of Co-Chief Executive Officer of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.3	Certification of Chief Financial Officer of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1	Certification of Co-Chief Executive Officers and Chief Financial Officer of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101	The following financial statements, formatted in XBRL: (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012; and (iv) Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. As provided in Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, this information shall not be deemed “filed” for purposes of Section 11 and 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 or otherwise subject to liability under those sections.

* Incorporated by reference to Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A/A filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 16, 2009 (File No. 001-32731).

** Incorporated by reference to Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 5, 2009

(File No. 001-32731).

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EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Steve Ells, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: July 19, 2012

/s/    Steve Ells

Steve Ells

Founder, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Montgomery F. Moran, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: July 19, 2012

/s/    Montgomery F. Moran

Montgomery F. Moran

Co-Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

EX-31.3

Exhibit 31.3

CERTIFICATION

I, John R. Hartung, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: July 19, 2012

/s/    John R. Hartung

John R. Hartung

Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO

18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In accordance with 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, Steve Ells, the Founder, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (the “Registrant”), Montgomery F. Moran, the Co-Chief Executive Officer of the Registrant and John R. Hartung, the Chief Financial Officer of the Registrant, each hereby certifies that, to the best of his knowledge:

1. The Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2012, to which this Certification is attached as Exhibit 32.1 (the “Periodic Report”), fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

2. The information contained in the Periodic Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition of the Registrant at the end of the period covered by the Periodic Report and results of operations of the Registrant for the periods covered by the Periodic Report.

Date: July 19, 2012

/s/    Steve Ells	/s/    John R. Hartung
Steve Ells	John R. Hartung
Founder, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)	Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
/s/    Montgomery F. Moran
Montgomery F. Moran
Co-Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)

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Employee Benefit Plans

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]

Employee Benefit Plans

4. Employee Benefit Plans

The Company maintains the Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. Supplemental Deferred Investment Plan (the “Deferred Plan”) which covers eligible employees of the Company. Prior to the first quarter of 2012, the Deferred Plan was unfunded, with all earnings and losses recorded in general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of income. Total liabilities under the Deferred Plan as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011 were $8,965 and $6,802, respectively, and are included in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet.

During the first quarter of 2012, the Company elected to fund its deferred compensation obligations through a rabbi trust. The rabbi trust is subject to creditor claims in the event of insolvency, but the assets held in the rabbi trust are not available for general corporate purposes.

The Company records trading gains and losses in general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement of income, along with the offsetting amount related to the increase or decrease in deferred compensation to reflect its exposure of the Deferred Plan Liability. The Company recorded $292 and $91 of unrealized losses on investments held in the rabbi trust during the three and six months ended June 30, 2012.

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Fair Value of Financial Instruments

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

3. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying value of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value because of their short-term nature. Investments, all of which are classified as held-to-maturity, are carried at amortized cost, which approximates fair value. Investments consist of U.S. treasury notes and CDARS, certificates of deposit placed through an account registry service, with maturities up to approximately two and a half years. Fair market value of U.S. treasury notes is measured using level 1 inputs (quoted prices for identical assets in active markets) and fair market value of CDARS is measured based on level 2 inputs (quoted prices for identical assets in markets that are not active). The Company also maintains a rabbi trust to fund obligations under a deferred compensation plan, as described in Note 4 below. Amounts in the rabbi trust are invested in mutual funds, which are designated as trading securities and carried at fair value, and are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheet. Fair market value of mutual funds is measured using level 1 inputs (quoted prices for identical assets in active markets). The fair value of the investments in the rabbi trust was $8,965 as of June 30, 2012.

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Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 404,797	$ 401,243
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $369 and $208 as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively	10,351	8,389
Inventory	10,504	8,913
Current deferred tax asset	7,310	6,238
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	28,298	21,404
Income tax receivable	34,446
Investments	124,736	55,005
Total current assets	620,442	501,192
Leasehold improvements, property and equipment, net	804,655	751,951
Long term investments	169,177	128,241
Other assets	32,196	21,985
Goodwill	21,939	21,939
Total assets	1,648,409	1,425,308
Liabilities and shareholders' equity
Accounts payable	55,960	46,382
Accrued payroll and benefits	56,199	60,241
Accrued liabilities	37,812	46,456
Current portion of deemed landlord financing	138	133
Income tax payable		4,241
Total current liabilities	150,109	157,453
Deferred rent	154,726	143,284
Deemed landlord financing	3,459	3,529
Deferred income tax liability	63,794	64,381
Other liabilities	15,096	12,435
Total liabilities	387,184	381,082
Shareholders equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 600,000 shares authorized, no shares issued as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 230,000 shares authorized, and 34,896 and 34,357 shares issued as of June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively	349	344
Additional paid-in capital	789,271	676,652
Treasury stock, at cost, 3,208 and 3,105 common shares at June 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, respectively	(344,023)	(304,426)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(178)	197
Retained earnings	815,806	671,459
Total shareholders' equity	1,261,225	1,044,226
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 1,648,409	$ 1,425,308

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Basis of Presentation

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Basis of Presentation [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation

1. Basis of Presentation

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (the “Company”), a Delaware corporation, develops and operates fast-casual, fresh Mexican food restaurants throughout the United States. The Company also has four restaurants in Toronto, Canada, three in London, England, and one in Paris, France. As of June 30, 2012, the Company operated 1,316 restaurants, including one ShopHouse Southeast Asian Kitchen. The Company manages its operations based on six regions and has aggregated its operations to one reportable segment.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial statements and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments consisting of normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of its financial position and results of operations. Interim results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved for the full year. The financial statements and related notes do not include all information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for annual reports. This quarterly report should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011.

The Company has evaluated subsequent events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the day the financial statements are issued.

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Adoption of New Accounting Principles

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Adoption of New Accounting Principles [Abstract]

Adoption of New Accounting Principles

2. Adoption of New Accounting Principles

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2011-04, “Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).” The adoption of ASU 2011-04 did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

Effective January 1, 2012, the Company adopted ASU No. 2011-05, “Presentation of Comprehensive Income.” The adoption of ASU 2011-05 concerns presentation and disclosure only and did not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

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Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts, Accounts receivable	$ 369	$ 208
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	600,000	600,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	230,000	230,000
Common stock, shares issued	34,896	34,357
Treasury stock, shares at cost	3,208	3,105

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Employee Benefit Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Total liabilities under Deferred Plan	$ 8,965	$ 8,965	$ 6,802
Unrealized loss on investments held in rabbi trust	$ 292	$ 91

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Document and Entity Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jul. 16, 2012
Document and Entity Information
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2012
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Entity Registrant Name	CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL INC
Entity Central Index Key	0001058090
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		31,683,308

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Shareholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended	45 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012
Shareholders' Equity [Abstract]
Acquisition of treasury stock (shares)	74	3,112
Acquisition of treasury stock (value)	$ 28,899	$ 322,609
Value of common shares remaining to be repurchased	77,657
Acquisition of treasury stock (shares) not part of repurchase program	28
Acquisition of treasury stock (value) not part of repurchase program	$ 10,698

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Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 690,932	$ 571,561	$ 1,331,535	$ 1,080,945
Restaurant operating costs (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below):
Food, beverage and packaging	221,517	188,121	428,107	351,029
Labor	159,895	137,705	311,880	262,993
Occupancy	41,758	36,195	82,267	71,510
Other operating costs	66,353	62,221	132,532	119,606
General and administrative expenses	42,295	41,968	91,629	74,184
Depreciation and amortization	20,543	18,505	40,627	36,999
Pre-opening costs	3,306	1,606	5,754	2,902
Loss on disposal of assets	1,475	1,377	2,725	3,038
Total operating expenses	557,142	487,698	1,095,521	922,261
Income from operations	133,790	83,863	236,014	158,684
Interest and other income (expense), net	377	(2,006)	811	(1,719)
Income before income taxes	134,167	81,857	236,825	156,965
Provision for income taxes	(52,484)	(31,200)	(92,478)	(59,926)
Net income	81,683	50,657	144,347	97,039
Earnings per share
Basic	$ 2.58	$ 1.63	$ 4.57	$ 3.12
Diluted	$ 2.56	$ 1.59	$ 4.53	$ 3.06
Weighted average common shares outstanding
Basic	31,696	31,167	31,553	31,125
Diluted	31,951	31,761	31,899	31,740
Comprehensive income	$ 80,625	$ 50,764	$ 143,972	$ 97,764

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Earnings Per Share

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

7. Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share (“diluted EPS”) is calculated using income available to common shareholders divided by diluted weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding during each period. Potentially dilutive securities include common shares related to stock options, SOSARs and non-vested stock awards (collectively “stock awards”). For the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, 365 and 311 stock awards, were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, 396 and 307 stock awards, were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because they were anti-dilutive. In addition, 492 and 454 stock awards for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 and 246 and 202 stock awards for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because they were subject to performance conditions.

The following table sets forth the computations of basic and diluted earnings per share:

	Three months ended June 30				Six months ended June 30
	2012		2011		2012		2011
Net income	$	81,683	$	50,657	$	144,347	$	97,039
Shares:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding		31,696		31,167		31,553		31,125
Dilutive stock awards		255		594		346		615
Diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding		31,951		31,761		31,899		31,740
Basic earnings per share	$	2.58	$	1.63	$	4.57	$	3.12
Diluted earnings per share	$	2.56	$	1.59	$	4.53	$	3.06

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Stock-Based Compensation

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

6. Stock-based Compensation

During the first quarter of 2012, the Company granted stock only stock appreciation rights (“SOSARs”) on 616 shares of its common stock to eligible employees, of which 191 include performance conditions. The grant date fair value of the SOSARs was $104.95 per share with an exercise price of $371.63 per share based on the closing price of common stock on the date of grant. The SOSARs (other than those subject to performance conditions) vest in two equal installments on the second and third anniversary of the grant date.

Total stock-based compensation expense was $18,045 and $38,805 ($11,004 and $23,663 net of tax) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, respectively, and was $13,455 and $22,779 ($8,229 and $13,932 net of tax) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, respectively. During the first quarter of 2012, the Company increased its estimate of the number of non-vested stock awards subject to performance conditions that it expects will vest, which resulted in a cumulative adjustment to expense of $5,578 ($3,401 net of tax and $0.11 to basic and diluted earnings per share). A portion of stock-based compensation totaling $608 and $1,128 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012, and $400 and $801 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011, was recognized as capitalized development and is included in leasehold improvements, property and equipment in the consolidated balance sheet. During the six months ended June 30, 2012, 573 options or SOSARs were exercised, 27 options or SOSARs were forfeited, and 83 non-vested stock awards vested.

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Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Stock only stock appreciation rights (SOSARs) granted		616
SOSARs which include performance conditions		191
Grant date fair value		$ 104.95
Exercise Price		$ 371.63
Stock-based compensation expense	$ 18,045		$ 13,455	$ 38,805	$ 22,779
Stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	11,004		8,229	23,663	13,932
Change in estimate expense non-vested stock awards		5,578
Change in estimate expense non-vested stock awards, net of tax		3,401
Change in estimate expense non-vested stock awards, earnings per share		$ 0.11
Options or SOSARs exercised				573
Options and SOSARs forfeited				27
Non-vested stock awards vested				83
Leasehold Improvements [Member]
Stock-based compensation recognized as capitalized development	$ 608		$ 400	$ 1,128	$ 801

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Basis of Presentation (Narrative) (Details)	Jun. 30, 2012
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Number of Restaurants	1,316

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Commitments and Contingencies

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

8. Commitments and Contingencies

California ADA Cases

In 2006, Maurizio Antoninetti filed suit against the Company in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, primarily claiming that the height of the serving line wall in the Company’s restaurants violated the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, as well as California disability laws. On December 6, 2006, Mr. Antoninetti filed an additional lawsuit in the same court making the same allegations on a class action basis, on behalf of himself and a purported class of disabled individuals, and a similar class action was filed by James Perkins in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California on May 7, 2008.

In the individual Antoninetti action, the district court entered a ruling in which it found that although the Company’s counter height violated the ADA, the Company provided the plaintiff with an equivalent facilitation, and awarded attorney’s fees and minimal damages to the plaintiff which the Company has accrued. The Company and the plaintiff appealed the district court’s ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, and on July 26, 2010, the appeals court entered a ruling finding that the Company violated the ADA and did not provide the plaintiff with an equivalent facilitation, and remanded the case to the district court. On March 21, 2012, the district court reaffirmed its original award of minimal damages to the plaintiff and denied further injunctive relief. On July 18, 2012, the district court ordered a final judgment awarding the plaintiff a portion of the attorney’s fees and costs originally sought.

The Company lowered the height of its serving line walls throughout California some time ago, which makes injunctive relief in these cases moot, and has the lower serving line walls in a significant majority of its restaurants outside of California as well. The Company will vigorously defend the class action cases, including by contesting certification of a plaintiff class. It is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of, or any additional potential liability from, these cases.

Notices of Inspection of Work Authorization Documents

Following an inspection during 2010 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) of the work authorization documents of the Company’s restaurant employees in Minnesota, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement arm of DHS (“ICE”) issued to the Company a Notice of Suspect Documents identifying a large number of employees who, according to ICE and notwithstanding the Company’s review of work authorization documents for each employee at the time they were hired, appeared not to be authorized to work in the U.S. The Company approached each of the named employees to explain ICE’s determination and afforded each employee an opportunity to confirm the validity of their original work eligibility documents, or provide valid work eligibility documents. Employees who were unable to provide valid work eligibility documents were terminated in accordance with the law. In December 2010, the Company was also requested by DHS to provide the work authorization documents of restaurant employees in the District of Columbia and Virginia, and the Company provided the requested documents in January 2011. The Company has received additional requests for work authorization documents covering a small number of individual restaurants as well, and ICE’s investigation remains ongoing. In April 2011 the Company also received notice from the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia that it is conducting an investigation into these matters through its criminal division. The Company believes its practices with regard to the work authorization of its employees, including the review and retention of work authorization documents, are in compliance with applicable law. However, the termination of large numbers of employees in a short period of time does disrupt restaurant operations and results in a temporary increase in labor costs as new employees are trained.

In May 2012, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission notified the Company that it is conducting a civil investigation of the Company’s compliance with employee work authorization verification requirements and its related disclosures and statements, and the office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia advised the Company that its investigation has broadened to include a parallel criminal and civil investigation of the Company’s compliance with federal securities laws.

The Company intends to continue to fully cooperate in the government’s investigations. It is not possible at this time to determine whether the Company will incur any fines, penalties or further liabilities in connection with these matters.

Shareholder Derivative Action

In July 2012, Ralph B. Richey filed a shareholder derivative action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado alleging that the members of the Company’s Board of Directors breached their fiduciary duties in connection with employee work authorization compliance matters.The complaint purports to state a claim for damages on behalf of the Company, and is based on statements in the Company’s SEC filings and related public disclosures, as well as media reports, regarding the government investigations described above.The Company intends to defend the case vigorously, but it is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of or any potential liability from this case.

Miscellaneous

In 2007, a lawsuit was filed against the Company in California alleging violations of state laws regarding employee record-keeping, meal and rest breaks, payment of overtime and related practices with respect to its employees. The case originally sought damages, penalties and attorney’s fees on behalf of a purported class of the Company’s present and former employees. The court granted the Company’s motion to deny certification of the purported class, and the California Court of Appeal affirmed that decision.The Court of Appeal decision was appealed to the California Supreme Court, which vacated the Court of Appeal decision and remanded the case back to the Court of Appeal for reconsideration in light of the California Supreme Court’s recent decision in Brinker Restaurant Corp. v. Superior Court. Due to the pending appeal and the uncertainties of litigation, it is not possible at this time to reasonably estimate the outcome of, or any potential liability from, this case.

In the normal course of business, the Company is subject to other proceedings, lawsuits and claims. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties, and outcomes are not predictable with assurance. Consequently, the Company is unable to ascertain the ultimate aggregate amount of monetary liability or financial impact with respect to these matters as of June 30, 2012. These matters could affect the operating results of any one quarter when resolved in future periods. Management does not believe that any monetary liability or financial impact to the Company as a result of these proceedings or claims will be material to the Company’s annual consolidated financial statements. However, a significant increase in the number of these claims, or one or more successful claims resulting in greater liabilities than the Company currently anticipates, could materially and adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operation or cash flows.

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Earnings Per Share (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

	Three months ended June 30				Six months ended June 30
	2012		2011		2012		2011
Net income	$	81,683	$	50,657	$	144,347	$	97,039
Shares:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding		31,696		31,167		31,553		31,125
Dilutive stock awards		255		594		346		615
Diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding		31,951		31,761		31,899		31,740
Basic earnings per share	$	2.58	$	1.63	$	4.57	$	3.12
Diluted earnings per share	$	2.56	$	1.59	$	4.53	$	3.06

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Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Fair value of investments in rabbi trust	$ 8,965

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Earnings Per Share (Basic and Diluted Earnings) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income	$ 81,683	$ 50,657	$ 144,347	$ 97,039
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding	31,696	31,167	31,553	31,125
Dilutive stock awards	255	594	346	615
Diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding	31,951	31,761	31,899	31,740
Basic earnings per share	$ 2.58	$ 1.63	$ 4.57	$ 3.12
Diluted earnings per share	$ 2.56	$ 1.59	$ 4.53	$ 3.06

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Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Operating activities
Net income	$ 144,347	$ 97,039
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	40,627	36,999
Deferred income tax provision (benefit)	(1,659)	8,701
Loss on disposal of assets	2,725	3,038
Bad debt allowance	185	3
Stock-based compensation expense	37,677	21,978
Excess tax benefit on stock-based compensation	(73,652)	(29,673)
Other	207	2,479
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(2,147)	(524)
Inventory	(1,593)	(1,347)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	(6,893)	(15,260)
Other assets	(10,213)	64
Accounts payable	4,899	6,369
Accrued liabilities	(12,705)	(12,203)
Income tax payable/receivable	34,964	47,067
Deferred rent	11,446	7,919
Other long-term liabilities	2,660	2,067
Net cash provided by operating activities	170,875	174,716
Investing activities
Purchases of leasehold improvements, property and equipment	(90,332)	(57,681)
Acquisition of interests in equity method investment		(586)
Purchases of investments	(110,870)	(89,702)
Maturities of investments		90,007
Net cash used in investing activities	(201,202)	(57,962)
Financing activities
Acquisition of treasury stock	(39,597)	(22,484)
Proceeds from option exercises	167	457
Excess tax benefit on stock-based compensation	73,652	29,673
Payments on deemed landlord financing	(65)	(58)
Net cash provided by financing activities	34,157	7,588
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(276)	621
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	3,554	124,963
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	401,243	224,838
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	404,797	349,801
Supplemental disclosures of non-cash information
Increase in purchases of leasehold improvements, property and equipment accrued in accounts payable	$ 4,687	$ 180

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Shareholders' Equity

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2012

Shareholders' Equity [Abstract]

Shareholder's Equity

5. Shareholders’ Equity

During the first six months of 2012, the Company purchased shares of common stock under Board authorized share repurchase programs. The shares may be purchased from time to time in open market transactions, subject to market conditions. The Company repurchased 74 shares for $28,899 during the six months ended June 30, 2012. The cumulative shares repurchased under authorized programs as of June 30, 2012 are 3,112 for a total cost of $322,609. As of June 30, 2012, $77,657 was available to repurchase shares under the current repurchase authorization. The shares are being held in treasury stock until such time as they are reissued or retired at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

During the first six months of 2012, shares of common stock were netted and surrendered as payment for applicable tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of outstanding restricted stock units. Shares surrendered by the participants in accordance with the applicable award agreements and plan are deemed repurchased by the Company but are not part of publicly announced share repurchase programs. In the first six months of 2012, the Company repurchased 28 shares for a total cost of $10,698.

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Earnings Per Share (Narrative) (Details) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Stock awards excluded, anti-dilutive	365	396	311	307
Stock awards excluded, performance conditions	492	246	454	202