On The Border

On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina is a well-established Tex-Mex restaurant chain that first opened its doors in Dallas, Texas in 1982. The founders set out to share the flavors of mesquite-grilled meats, fresh tortillas, and classic margaritas with a wide audience. Over the years, the brand grew steadily, and by the 1990s, it had made a notable move into grocery stores with a retail line of chips, salsas, and margarita mixes—a milestone that extended its reach beyond the dining room.

As of November 2025, On The Border operates about 80 restaurants, with a mix of company-owned and franchised locations. The majority of these restaurants are concentrated in Texas and the southern United States, but the brand maintains a presence in select markets across the country. The company experienced significant changes in 2025, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March due to financial pressures. In May of that year, Pappas Restaurants, a respected name in the hospitality industry, acquired On The Border. This transition marked a new phase for the brand, focused on stabilizing operations and strengthening its core business.

Currently, On The Border is not pursuing aggressive expansion. Instead, it is concentrating on optimizing its existing portfolio and considering selective growth in core and high-performing markets such as Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, Georgia, and Florida. The brand’s ongoing retail product line continues to keep its name visible in grocery aisles nationwide, complementing its restaurant presence.

On The Border’s blend of casual dining and retail distribution, along with its renewed focus under experienced ownership, positions the company as a recognizable and stable tenant. Its approach to portfolio management and selective site evaluation reflects a disciplined growth posture, making it a relevant consideration for landlords, brokers, and developers seeking established brands with a track record of adaptability and resilience.