Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen is expanding into the Austin area with planned restaurants in Kyle and Leander, marking a larger move beyond its Houston-area base. The Austin Business Journal reported that the 33-year-old Tex-Mex chain selected sites along Interstate 35 as it continues growing outside its home market.
The Kyle restaurant will be located at Kyle Park, a development by Houston-based NewQuest Properties near Interstate 35 and Bebee Road. According to the publication, the approximately 9,500-square-foot restaurant is targeting a November 2027 opening.
Heather McKeon, Gringo’s chief operating officer, told the Austin Business Journal that the company is also exploring potential incentives for the Kyle project. Eligibility will depend on the investment, project fees and expected employment. McKeon said Gringo’s typically hires between 125 and 150 employees at each location.
In Leander, Gringo’s is purchasing property within Northline, a 116-acre development intended to establish a new downtown destination. The publication reported that the planned restaurant will cover approximately 9,500 square feet and is targeting a mid-2028 opening.
The chain’s approach to dining is built around value and flexibility. In comments to the Austin Business Journal, McKeon said the company wants customers to enjoy restaurant meals without overspending, whether they are visiting with family or choosing a place for date night.
Takeout is also becoming a larger part of the business. According to McKeon’s comments in the publication, to-go orders account for between 22% and 35% of sales volume across Gringo’s Houston-area operations. The company also expects its catering business to grow as it enters the Austin market.
McKeon said the company remains open to future opportunities, although no additional Austin-area locations have been announced.
