Houston-based Pappas acquired On the Border in a bankruptcy auction in May 2025. In the year since, On the Border has undergone “a sweeping menu overhaul,” strengthened its operations, and focused on elevating the overall guest experience, Pappas says.
One year after acquiring Irving-based On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina in a bankruptcy auction, Houston’s Pappas Restaurants has welcomed the brand into its portfolio of dining concepts. Pappas’ other concepts include Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Pappasito’s Cantina, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Pappas Bar-B-Q, Pappas Burger, and Yiayia’s Greek Kitchen.
Founded in 1982, On The Border has long been known for its Tex-Mex dishes including sizzling fajitas, hand-pressed tortillas, freshly prepared guacamole, and signature hand-crafted margaritas. But in March 2025, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing inflation, rising interest costs, low traffic demand, and other factors…