Texas Playing an Integral Role in U.S. Expansion of Mexican Restaurant Chains

The culinary landscape of the United States is gearing up to welcome a new wave of Mexican restaurant chains with Texas in the vanguard. Highly anticipated chains include a mix of fast-food, fast-casual, Mexican and Tex-Mex offerings. According to a report published on Mashed, twelve Mexican restaurant chains are on the threshold of nationwide expansion, with over half of them originating in Texas.

Emerging Mexican Chains: The Lone Star State’s Role

Five out of seven Texan chains geared for expansion are taco-centred concepts, evidence of the growing popularity of tacos nationwide. It is also worth noting that several Texas-based chains like Chuy’s, Fuzzy’s, and Taco Cabana, have been recently purchased by large hospitality groups, which will fuel their further growth. Here’s the scoop on seven Texas chains set to explode onto the national scene:

Chuy’s

The Austin-born Tex-Mex chain was established in 1982 and is revered for its genuine Tex-Mex cuisine served in a unique, fun ambience. There are currently 101 restaurants across 15 states including six in San Antonio, New Braunfels, and San Marcos. Following its acquisition by Darden Restaurants, Inc. in July 2024, customers can anticipate more locations coming their way.

Fajita Pete’s

Born in Houston in 2008, this chain is known for its delicious fajitas. Everything on the menu, from tortillas to sides, is handmade and from scratch. Their robust franchising program has led to the establishment of 30 locations across Texas, Kansas, Pennsylvania, and Colorado.

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

Fuzzy’s, specialising in Baja-style Mexican cuisine, owes its origins to Fort Worth and was founded in 2001. With an impressive portfolio of over 150 outlets across 17 states, its growth is sure to continue, especially following acquisition by Dine Brands in 2022.

Taco Cabana

Founded in the 1970s in San Antonio, this admired fast-casual chain is loved for its affordable, tasty food, creative margarita menu, and late-night hours. Following its 2021 acquisition by Yadav Enterprises, customers can expect improvements such as upgraded drive-thrus and a streamlined takeout process.

Taco Palenque

This fast-casual chain, famed for its authentic Mexican cuisine, has remained a Texan entity since 1987. Its founder, Juan Francisco Ochoa Sr., the brains behind El Pollo Loco, has expansion plans to spread Taco Palenque nationwide.

Torchy’s

This beloved Austin taco chain, originating from a food truck in 2006, now boasts 125 locations across 14 states and eyes further growth. Its popular tacos and queso, alongside innovative menu updates, keep customers coming back for more.

Velvet Taco

From a single, food-focused taco shop in Dallas in 2011, Velvet Taco has flourished to nearly 50 outlets across seven states. It is known for its culinary unique combinations such as Chicken & Waffle tacos and Tikka Chicken taco with basmati rice. They have plans to expand further, including airport venues.

Non-Texas Chains on the Rise

The five non-Texan chains also planning to extend their reach across America include Bubbakoo’s Burritos, BurritoBar, Condado Tacos, District Taco, and Surchero’s. The big question remains, will any of these ventures dare to enter Texan territory?