Summary: A New York City woman has sued Chipotle Mexican Grill and DoorDash, alleging she bit into a rodent in a burrito bowl delivered on Jan. 11, 2025. Chipotle strongly denies the claim and says internal reviewers believe the item was a chicken tendon or ligament. The lawsuit remains pending in New York State Supreme Court.
Lawsuit Allegations
Plaintiff Gia Bernhardt filed suit in New York State Supreme Court after she says a DoorDash delivery brought a Chipotle burrito bowl from the Third Avenue Manhattan location on Jan. 11, 2025. According to the complaint, which was obtained by PEOPLE and filed by The Gucciardo Law Firm, Bernhardt alleges that while eating the meal she bit into an object she believed to be a rodent and suffered "severe bodily injuries."
The filing advances multiple claims against Chipotle, including negligence, strict products liability and breaches of implied and express warranties. Bernhardt also names DoorDash and an unidentified delivery driver referred to as "John Doe," alleging negligent handling and delivery of the order. Additional claims include negligent infliction of emotional distress, with the complaint asserting ongoing physical and psychological consequences.
Angus Mordant/Bloomberg via GettyA customer holds a bag of food outside a Chipotle restaurant in New York, US, on Friday, Jan. 12, 2024
Chipotle's Response
"We will vigorously defend ourselves against these claims," said Laurie Schalow, Chipotle's Chief Corporate Affairs and Food Safety Officer. She added that Chipotle's internal reviewers examined the item in person and in photos and are "confident the object is a chicken tendon/ligament."
Chipotle reiterated that employee and guest health and safety are its highest priorities and pointed to its food-safety procedures. PEOPLE reported that DoorDash had not yet responded to requests for comment.
Damages Sought And Case Status
Bernhardt's attorneys are seeking damages that exceed "the jurisdictional limits of lower courts," along with punitive damages, costs and disbursements; no specific dollar amount has been disclosed. The complaint describes claimed harms including permanent injuries, medical expenses and diminished ability to perform normal daily activities. The lawsuit remains pending and no court date is publicly scheduled.
Note: These are allegations in a civil complaint. Chipotle has denied the allegations; the matter will be decided in court or resolved by the parties.
