Chuy’s

About Chuy’s

In 1982, Austin, Texas became the birthplace of the Tex-Mex legend we know today as Chuy’s. What started in a modest, old Texas BBQ joint on Barton Springs Road with only seating for sixty has grown into a beloved chain across the U.S. The vision of founders Mike Young and John Zapp was simple—create a fun, funky Tex-Mex restaurant serving fresh, authentic food that appeals to everyone. With a quirky style and fresh flavors, Chuy’s was born.

“If You’ve Seen One Chuy’s, You’ve Seen One Chuy’s”

Each Chuy’s location has its own unique charm, thanks to the creativity of our founders and their “decorator” Jose Cuervo. Our eccentric touches, like the hand-carved wooden fish, shiny hubcaps hanging above booths, and the Elvis shrine, are the signature elements that have been part of Chuy’s since day one. These unique décor pieces have become a part of the Chuy’s legacy, yet every restaurant has something special to reflect its local community.

Our Approach to Tex-Mex: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fun

At Chuy’s, we believe in fresh Tex-Mex made with high-quality ingredients and a dash of fun. Our menu offers a blend of flavors inspired by New Mexico, border towns, the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas, and, of course, Austin. Our fajita marinade, a family recipe from South Texas, is just one of the many ways we bring authentic flavors to your table. Freshness is at the core of what we do, and our commitment to quality food remains unchanged from the very beginning.

Expanding Beyond Texas

Chuy’s was born deep in the heart of Texas, but in the late 2000s, we knew it was time to share our little Tex-Mex secret with the rest of the country. In November of 2009, we opened our first restaurant outside of Texas in Franklin, Tennessee, marking the beginning of our national expansion. Since then, Chuy’s has brought fresh, authentic Tex-Mex to food lovers far and wide, sharing our passion for great food and fun with communities across the U.S.

Chuy’s and the Community

At Chuy’s, giving back to the community is more than just a responsibility—it’s a privilege. We take pride in sponsoring local charities, supporting fundraisers, and engaging in causes that matter to our employees and customers. Our commitment to local service and building connections within the community is as strong as our dedication to delivering outstanding food and a welcoming atmosphere.