MEXICO CITY — Chipotle Mexican Grill opened its first Mexican restaurant on Monday to a mix of curiosity and criticism, testing whether an American interpretation of Mexican cuisine can win over diners in the country that inspired it. The location sits in the affluent municipality of Naucalpan.

The Newport Beach, California-based chain partnered with Alsea, a Latin American restaurant operator, to launch its Mexican operation. The menu retains Chipotle's signature build-your-own bowls and burritos while adapting to local tastes, though critics online questioned whether Californian-style food belongs in Mexico.

Chipotle operates more than 3,700 restaurants worldwide, most in the United States, with expansion into Canada, Europe and the Middle East. The Mexican debut represents a symbolic and commercial milestone, bringing a US fast-casual model to a market with deeply rooted taquerias and street-food culture.

Food writers and diners reacted on social media with a blend of intrigue and pride, with some defending traditional Mexican cooking and others willing to sample the chain's offerings. Alsea executives said further openings would depend on the reception at the first site.

Restaurant analysts said Chipotle's entry marks a notable test of whether globalised versions of national cuisines can succeed in their countries of origin. The company views Mexico as a long-term growth opportunity rather than an immediate profit driver.