Pappasito’s Cantina

Pappasito’s Cantina is a well-established Tex-Mex restaurant brand that has been serving guests since 1983, when it was founded by the Pappas family in Houston, Texas. The company is part of Pappas Restaurants, Inc., a respected operator of multiple full-service dining concepts. Over the years, Pappasito’s has become known for its lively atmosphere and classic Southwestern menu, with a focus on mesquite-grilled specialties and a full-service dining experience.

As of November 2025, Pappasito’s Cantina operates 22 locations, with a footprint concentrated in major Texas markets such as Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, as well as select high-traffic corridors in nearby regions. The brand remains privately held and family-owned, with all locations company-operated rather than franchised.

In the past five years, Pappasito’s has continued to expand thoughtfully, targeting both established and emerging suburban trade areas. The company favors freestanding sites and high-visibility retail corridors, often selecting locations that can accommodate large-format dining rooms and patios. This approach has allowed Pappasito’s to adapt to evolving consumer preferences for experiential dining and group gatherings.

A notable milestone in the brand’s history is its sustained growth and adaptability, maintaining a strong presence in competitive markets while remaining under the same family ownership since its founding. The company’s ongoing expansion in Texas and adjacent markets, combined with its operational scale and reputation for quality, positions Pappasito’s as a reliable and attractive tenant for landlords, brokers, and developers seeking to enhance the appeal and traffic of their retail centers. All real estate discussions are managed at the parent company level, ensuring a consistent and professional approach to site selection and partnership.