Chuy's

Chuy's was founded in 1982 by Mike Young and John Zapp in Austin, Texas. The first restaurant was opened in 1980 in a former Tex-Mex store that the pair purchased. The menu features what would become the hallmark of the chain: Tex-Mex food with a modern twist. The first location quickly became known for its unique atmosphere, which included décor inspired by local roadside eateries, neon signs, and a continually changing collection of art. Over the next decade, the chain opened additional locations in Texas and began expanding into new states. Today, there are more than 80 Chuy's locations in 21 states.