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Thanksgiving Eve has earned a reputation as the biggest reunion night of the year, when college students and young adults return to their hometowns and reconnect with old friends. Chipotle is positioning itself as the natural first stop for these get-togethers.
“For many of our guests, their hometown Chipotle is where they’ve created countless memories, and this Thanksgiving Eve, it’s a destination where reunions can begin,” said Chipotle President and Chief Brand Officer Chris Brandt.¹
The deal allows up to five free menu items per order—meaning a group of friends can stock up on burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads without breaking the bank.
Fast-Food Rivals Left Playing Catch-Up
Meanwhile, traditional fast-food chains are feeling the heat. McDonald’s recently missed earnings estimates, as customers, hit by inflation, opted to cook at home instead of visiting the golden arches. Attempts to counter with combo meals have fallen short compared to Chipotle’s straightforward BOGO offer.
A standard Chipotle chicken entrée costs roughly $9.60. With the BOGO deal, diners essentially receive two meals for that price—a 50% discount that undercuts even McDonald’s value meals.²
Competitors like Cava charge about $13.47 per entrée, while Sweetgreen averages $14.58.² Chipotle’s promotion makes it glaringly clear that many fast-casual options are overpriced.
Other chains have tried festive specials: KFC rolled out “Extra Crispy Festive Feast” bundles, Subway offered “Festive Feast Collection” sandwiches with stuffing and cranberry sauce, and Popeyes brought back its Cajun-Style Turkey.³ However, none match the simplicity or affordability of Chipotle’s BOGO, which is aimed squarely at groups wanting quality food at a bargain.
Doubling Down on Holiday Deals
The “Back Home BOGO” is just the opening salvo. Chipotle is also offering free delivery for Cyber Weekend—Friday, November 28 through Monday, December 1—for orders through its app or website with code CYBER25.¹ In a market where delivery fees are often tacked onto already high menu prices, this gives Chipotle a massive advantage.
Additionally, the chain launched its “Build-Your-Own Chipotle” digital family meal, designed for four to six people—ideal for Friendsgiving or family gatherings.¹ The package includes 24 ounces of protein, rice, beans, a premium side such as guacamole or Queso Blanco, three salsas, toppings, lettuce, cheese, two large chips, and eight soft taco shells. Customers can save $10 on their first order through December 31 using code TRYBYOC.¹
Winning Over Value-Conscious Diners
Chipotle’s three-pronged strategy—BOGO, free delivery, and family meal options—is forcing fast-food chains to rethink their offerings during the critical holiday week. The restaurant business has become a battlefield for value-conscious Americans, and Chipotle has demonstrated it knows what diners truly want: real, high-quality food without forcing them to dig deeper into their wallets.
If McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, and other competitors don’t respond quickly, they risk watching once-loyal customers bypass their drive-thrus and head straight to Chipotle.
