About Chuys
From a single Austin location to a beloved institution — bold flavors, genuine hospitality, and authentic chuys culture since 1982.
Bold Flavor
The Story Behind Chuys
Chuys was born in 1982 in Austin, Texas, when John Zapp and Mike Young opened a small, scrappy Mexican food restaurant in a converted drive-in. The idea was simple: serve real, made-from-scratch Mexican food in a space where everyone felt welcome — and make it memorable. The legendary green chile recipes that defined the chuys experience were introduced from day one.
What began as a local Austin secret quickly became a city institution. The eclectic décor, the irreverent spirit, and above all the food — slow-cooked meats, handmade tortillas, and that unmistakable chuy's green chile sauce — created an experience unlike any other Mexican restaurant in the region.
Over four decades, Chuys has grown from that single Austin outpost to multiple beloved locations across the United States, yet we have never compromised on what matters: fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a dining room that feels like a party. Every plate that leaves our kitchen is a tribute to the bold, authentic flavors we have served since 1982.
Our Mission & Purpose
Every decision we make — from ingredient sourcing to how we greet a guest — flows from a clear set of principles that have guided Chuys from the very start.
Fresh Ingredients
We source locally whenever possible and prepare every dish from scratch daily — no shortcuts, no compromises. Freshness is non-negotiable at Chuys.
Genuine Hospitality
A meal at Chuys is more than food — it is a warm welcome. We train every team member to treat guests like family from the moment they walk in.
Bold, Authentic Flavor
Authentic Mexican food means bold seasoning, real chiles, and time-honored recipes. The chuy's flavor profile is earned through technique, not shortcuts.
Community First
We invest in the neighborhoods we call home — through local hiring, charitable partnerships, and celebrations that bring people together at our tables.
Chuys Through the Years
Four decades of bold Mexican food, unforgettable memories, and steady growth — here are the milestones that define the chuys legacy.
The Original Chuys Opens
John Zapp and Mike Young open the first Chuys in Austin, Texas, in a converted drive-in on Barton Springs Road. The menu, the music, and the green chile sauce create an instant sensation among locals.
Second Location & Growing Fame
Word of mouth spreads across Austin. A second Chuys location opens to meet demand. The legendary "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" room décor concept debuts, setting the tone for all future restaurants.
Texas Expansion Begins
Chuys begins expanding beyond Austin into Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Each new restaurant maintains the handcrafted, eclectic character that defines authentic chuy's hospitality.
National Expansion & IPO
Chuys goes public and accelerates national growth, opening locations across the Southeast and Midwest. The brand is now recognized as one of the most distinctive Mexican food chains in the United States.
Adapting & Persevering
During challenging times, Chuys pivots to curbside pickup and delivery, keeping communities fed and team members employed. The chuys spirit — resilient, fun, and generous — shines through the difficulty.
100+ Locations & Growing
Chuys continues to grow, staying true to the same bold flavors and genuine hospitality that made us famous. With new locations opening across the US, the best of chuys is still ahead of us — and we invite you to Order Now.
The People Behind Every Plate
Our team is the heart of everything that makes Chuys special. From our pitmaster to our front-of-house leads, every person shares a passion for bold flavor and genuine care.
Executive Chef
Carlos Mendoza
With 20 years of authentic Mexican culinary training, Carlos oversees all recipes at Chuys — protecting the original green chile formula while introducing bold seasonal specials.
Head of Guest Experience
Maria Santos
Maria has been welcoming guests to Chuys for over 15 years. She trains every front-of-house team member in the warm, spirited hospitality that defines the chuy's dining experience.
Operations Director
David Park
David ensures every Chuys location delivers a consistent, top-quality chuys experience. From supply chain to kitchen standards, he keeps the engine running smoothly across all sites.
Community & Partnerships
Lisa Chen
Lisa leads Chuys' community initiatives, from local charity events to catering partnerships. She is the bridge between the brand and the neighborhoods that make Chuys feel like home.
The Values That Define Chuys
From the first bowl of green chile in 1982 to every plate served today, these core values have been the backbone of everything we do at Chuys — and everything we will keep doing as we grow.
Order NowUncompromising Quality
Every ingredient is chosen with intention. We never sacrifice quality for speed or cost. If it is not worthy of the Chuys name, it does not reach your table.
Respect and Inclusion
Our dining room has always welcomed everyone. We celebrate diversity — in our team, our guests, and the rich culture of Mexican cuisine that inspires every dish.
Creativity and Fun
No two Chuys restaurants look exactly alike — that is by design. We believe great food should come with great energy. Creativity and a sense of humor are baked into our DNA.
Sustainability Commitment
We are actively reducing our environmental footprint — from responsible sourcing and waste reduction initiatives to packaging improvements across all of our United States locations.