The Heart & Soul Behind Chuys
Chuys was born from a passion for bold, authentic food and the belief that every meal should feel like a celebration. Since our founding in Austin, Texas, we've brought the spirit of chuy's vibrant Tex-Mex flavors to every guest who walks through our doors across the United States.
From a Small Kitchen
to a Big Legacy
It all started in 1982 on Barton Springs Road in Austin, Texas. Two friends — Mike Young and John Zapp — had a dream: create a place where the food was bold, the portions were generous, and the atmosphere was full of life. Chuys quickly became Austin's beloved neighborhood spot, known for its green chile-smothered dishes and legendary Elvis Presley Memorial Combo.
Over the decades, Chuys has grown while holding tight to its roots — a commitment to made-from-scratch recipes, warm hospitality, and the kind of energy that makes every visit feel special. Each location carries the spirit of the original, down to the eclectic decor and the handmade tortillas fresh from the press.
Every sauce, every tortilla, every enchilada filling is crafted fresh each day using time-honored recipes.
We believe food brings people together. Chuys has been part of birthdays, first dates, and family dinners for over 40 years.
We partner with regional suppliers who share our passion for quality, freshness, and sustainability.
Our Mission & Vision
At Chuys, we're guided by a clear purpose: to deliver incredible food experiences rooted in authenticity, community, and joy.
Our Mission
To serve bold, made-from-scratch Tex-Mex food that brings people together — one delicious meal at a time.
Our Vision
To be the most beloved Tex-Mex restaurant brand in the United States, known for flavor, fun, and unforgettable experiences.
Our Promise
Every guest who orders from Chuys will enjoy food made with care, served with a smile, and worth coming back for.
Our Passion
We cook with passion, plate with pride, and serve with the warmth that makes Chuys feel like home — wherever you are.
Our Core Values
These principles guide everything we do — from how we source our ingredients to how we treat every single guest.
We never cut corners. Our recipes are rooted in tradition, and every dish reflects the genuine flavors that made Chuys famous.
From fresh-cut salsas to hand-rolled tortillas, quality is in every detail. We source premium ingredients and prepare everything in-house.
Chuys has always been more than a restaurant — it's a gathering place. We invest in the neighborhoods we serve and the people who serve alongside us.
Life is better with great food and good vibes. Chuys embraces joy — from the colorful decor to the free-spirited energy of our team.
A History of Bold Flavor
From a single location on Barton Springs Road to a nationwide icon — here's how Chuys grew into the restaurant America loves.
The Original Opens
Mike Young and John Zapp open the first Chuys on Barton Springs Road in Austin, Texas. The menu features handmade tortillas, green chile sauce, and the now-legendary Elvis Presley Memorial Combo.
Austin Falls in Love
After nearly a decade of word-of-mouth acclaim, Chuys expands within Austin. The restaurant becomes a cultural institution, celebrated for its quirky decor and unbeatable green chile.
Expanding Beyond Texas
Fueled by massive demand from loyal fans who moved out of state, Chuys opens its first out-of-Texas location, bringing authentic chuy's Tex-Mex to new communities across the South.
National Recognition
Chuys celebrates its 30th anniversary and is recognized among the top casual dining chains in the United States, praised for its consistency, flavor, and guest experience.
Adapting & Innovating
Chuys launches enhanced online ordering and delivery options to serve guests at home. Despite unprecedented challenges, the brand strengthens its connection with the communities it serves.
Still Growing, Still Bold
With 50+ locations nationwide and more than one million loyal guests, Chuys continues to evolve — staying true to the original vision while bringing exciting new flavors to the table. Order Now and taste the legacy.
Meet Our Team
Great food starts with great people. Our leadership team brings decades of culinary passion, hospitality expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the Chuys experience.
Carlos Rivera
With 20+ years in Tex-Mex cuisine, Carlos oversees all recipe development and ensures every dish meets the Chuys standard of bold, authentic flavor.
Maria Santos
Maria leads guest experience across all Chuys locations, championing the warm, welcoming energy that keeps our community coming back again and again.
Jake Thompson
Jake ensures that every Chuys location runs with the precision and consistency our guests expect — from kitchen efficiency to supply chain quality.
Priya Kapoor
Priya tells the Chuys story to the world — crafting campaigns that capture the spirit of bold flavors and the vibrant community behind every plate.