About Chuys
Over 40 years of authentic Tex-Mex flavor, community, and bold tradition — right here in Austin, Texas.
Born on Barton Springs Road, Built on Bold Flavors
Chuys was founded in 1982 by Mike Young and John Zapp on the legendary Barton Springs Road in Austin, Texas. What started as a tiny, funky roadside joint became one of the most beloved Tex-Mex destinations in the country. From the very first bowl of green chile queso, chuys set out to do things differently.
Built on a foundation of hand-rolled tortillas, scratch-made salsas, and recipes passed down through generations, Chuys quickly earned a cult following that stretches far beyond Texas. Our vibrant décor, playful atmosphere, and generously portioned plates embody the true spirit of chuy's — loud, colorful, and unapologetically delicious.
Today, Chuys continues to honor its roots while welcoming guests old and new to share in the tradition. Every plate that leaves our kitchen carries the same love and craftsmanship that defined us four decades ago.
View Our MenuOur Values
Every decision we make — from sourcing ingredients to serving guests — is guided by a set of core principles we never compromise on.
Fresh Ingredients
We source fresh, quality ingredients daily. No freezer shortcuts — just honest, scratch-made food the way it was meant to be.
Community First
Chuys is more than a restaurant — it's a gathering place. We support local causes, artists, and the vibrant Austin spirit we call home.
Bold Authenticity
Tex-Mex is our DNA. We stay true to the flavors and traditions that made chuy's famous — bold, generous, and never watered down.
Welcoming Everyone
Our doors are open to everyone. We believe great food is best shared, and every guest deserves to feel at home at Chuys.
A History of Bold Flavor
From a single roadside shack to an iconic Tex-Mex institution — here's how chuy's grew into a legend.
The Very First Chuys Opens
Mike Young and John Zapp open Chuys on Barton Springs Road, Austin. A tiny 800 sq ft space with mismatched furniture, it serves handmade tortillas and green chile queso that quickly wins over the neighborhood.
The Elvis Shrine Is Born
Chuys becomes famous for its eclectic décor, including the iconic Elvis shrine — a beloved tribute to the King that becomes a hallmark of the chuy's experience nationwide.
Expansion Beyond Austin
Riding a wave of loyal fans, Chuys opens new locations across Texas. The same made-from-scratch recipes travel with every new restaurant, ensuring no shortcuts, ever.
Green Chile Festival Tradition
Chuys launches its annual Hatch Green Chile Festival, celebrating the arrival of fresh New Mexico Hatch green chiles every fall. The event becomes a beloved annual tradition for thousands of fans.
National Recognition
Chuys earns national recognition as one of America's favorite casual dining chains, praised for authentic flavors, generous portions, and the unique personality that defines every location.
Still Scratch-Made, Still Soulful
Chuys continues to grow while staying true to its roots. Every tortilla is still hand-rolled, every salsa still scratch-made. The spirit of 1982 lives on in every single plate we serve.
Meet Our Team
The passionate individuals who bring the chuys experience to life — one perfectly seasoned dish at a time.
With 18 years of Tex-Mex mastery, Carlos leads our kitchen with passion and precision. He oversees every recipe, ensuring authentic flavors in each dish.
Maria ensures every Chuys location runs like clockwork. Her dedication to guest experience and team culture keeps the chuys spirit alive daily.
James personally builds relationships with local farmers and producers to keep Chuys stocked with only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients year-round.
Sofia is the heartbeat of our hospitality. She trains and inspires our front-of-house team to deliver the warm, welcoming Chuys experience every guest deserves.