Oklahoma diners lost two familiar restaurant locations this month when On The Border closed its company-owned restaurants in the state — but the story behind these closures is bigger than just two local Tex-Mex spots going dark.
The closures came as part of a broader shutdown of all company-owned On The Border locations, and the full picture involves bankruptcy, a high-profile acquisition and an abrupt end that blindsided employees. This adds to a difficult period for restaurants across Oklahoma, which had already seen the impact of restaurant pullbacks, including Salad and Go exiting Texas and Oklahoma after rapid expansion.
On The Border in Oklahoma City
The On The Border at 120 S. Meridian Avenue in Oklahoma City closed on Friday, June 12, 2026.
The closure was part of a company-wide shutdown of all remaining On The Border company-owned locations. The Oklahoma City manager told The Oklahoman he was notified only on Wednesday — two days before the final day of service. The restaurant had roughly 35 employees, all of whom found themselves out of work with almost no notice…