Chuy’s, a popular Tex-Mex restaurant chain, is set to establish its presence in McKinney, Texas, with plans for a new location at the West Grove development. The restaurant is expected to open its doors in late 2026, marking a significant addition to the area’s growing retail landscape.
City planning documents indicate that the new Chuy’s will span approximately 6,600 square feet and include a bar and outdoor patio. The restaurant will be situated on a 1.92-acre site at 8405 W. University Drive, positioned on the south side of West University Drive. This development aims to enhance the dining options available in the fast-expanding retail hub located north of Dallas.
Menu and Dining Experience
Chuy’s is renowned for its made-from-scratch menu featuring classic Tex-Mex dishes. The offerings will include favorites such as enchiladas, tacos, burritos, flautas, and quesadillas, along with fajitas, soups, and a variety of specialty sauces. The restaurant is particularly known for its creamy jalapeño sauce and a diverse selection of margaritas. The McKinney establishment will function as a full-service restaurant, featuring both bar seating and outdoor dining options.
Communications manager Hailey Fitch expressed excitement about bringing Chuy’s to McKinney, emphasizing the chain’s commitment to quality and flavor. In an email, she stated, “We are thrilled to introduce our unique Tex-Mex offerings to the McKinney community.”
West Grove Development and Strategic Expansion
The West Grove development is being promoted as a large mixed-use retail and dining district located at the 380/Custer corridor. Marketing materials highlight the project’s focus on creating a vibrant environment that includes retail shops, restaurants, and green spaces. The area has already attracted a range of national and regional dining concepts, positioning itself as a prime destination for shopping and dining for residents in west McKinney.
Chuy’s will join other notable tenants in West Grove, including Hopdoddy, further solidifying the area as a culinary hotspot. The restaurant’s planned opening aligns with ongoing efforts by developers to enhance the local dining scene.
In 2024, Chuy’s underwent a significant corporate transition when Darden Restaurants announced its acquisition of the chain. This development integrates Chuy’s into a broader portfolio that includes renowned brands like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. Industry analysts believe that this acquisition could accelerate Chuy’s expansion efforts, particularly in suburban markets such as McKinney.
Currently, there are around 10 Chuy’s locations across North Texas, including establishments in nearby Frisco and Plano. This existing footprint suggests that McKinney is a logical next step as the Dallas-Fort Worth suburbs continue to embrace new national and regional dining concepts.
As planning documents indicate a targeted opening in late 2026, local residents and potential employees are eagerly anticipating the new restaurant’s debut. However, typical permitting and construction timelines could lead to adjustments in the schedule as utility work and site approvals progress. As of now, no public groundbreaking date has been established, leaving the community keenly awaiting updates on this exciting development.
