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The Untold Truth of On the Border: A Mexican Cantina & Grill with a Flavorful History
If you’ve ever indulged in a Margarita Monday, Taco Tuesday, or Fiesta Friday, then you’re probably familiar with On The Border Mexican Cantina & Grill. This classic Mexican chain has captured the hearts and taste buds of many with its delicious cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. But how much do you really know about On The Border? Let’s dive into the untold truth about this beloved restaurant.
A birth of freshness and ideas
According to On The Border’s official website, the story began in 1982 when three friends, fueled by a little too much tequila and a lot of big ideas, set out on a mission. Their goal was simple yet ambitious: to bring fresh, border-style Mexican food to the United States. The first On The Border location opened in Dallas, Texas, and quickly gained popularity thanks to its salty margaritas and homemade tortillas. The corner of Knox and Travis became a hit, and the business began to grow exponentially. By 2020, On The Border had 150 locations across the United States and Asia, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Innovation and vibrancy
On The Border has always strived to make Mexican restaurants as vibrant as the flavors they serve. In the ’80s, the Houston area had a clear divide in its Mexican cuisine, with half of the restaurants being authentic and the other half being American-owned and less authentic. On The Border bridged this gap by offering a fusion of both styles, creating a unique dining experience that resonated with a wide audience. While the restaurant has become more standardized over the years, it continues to offer its customers creative and affordable options. From $2 margaritas for an entire month to $5 burrito boxes with their famous chips and salsa, On The Border knows how to keep its customers happy.
Indulgence and Moderation
While some Mexican dishes can be healthy, it’s important to note that On The Border doesn’t necessarily align with a health-conscious diet. In fact, Men’s Health named it America’s worst Mexican chain due to its fried protein options and generous amounts of cream and cheese. For those watching their calorie intake or portion size, indulging in On The Border’s menu can be a challenge. The popular Tres Enchilada Dinner alone packs a whopping 1,600 calories, making it difficult to fit into a moderately strict meal plan.
But if you still want to enjoy the flavors of On The Border while keeping an eye on your portion size, there’s good news. The dine-in chain also offers a retail selection of products that can be found in grocery stores. With nine chip varieties ranging from Tajin to Zesty Ranch, you can take a bag home and satisfy your On The Border cravings without resorting to multiple rounds of chips and salsa.
Bottom Line
On The Border Mexican Cantina & Grill has earned a special place in the hearts of Mexican food lovers across the United States and beyond. From its humble beginnings in Dallas to its expansion into Asia, the restaurant continues to deliver flavorful and satisfying meals that keep customers coming back for more. While indulgence and moderation may be a balancing act at On The Border, there’s no denying the unique blend of flavors and vibrant atmosphere that make it a popular dining destination. So the next time you find yourself craving Mexican cuisine, consider stepping into On The Border and experiencing the untold truth behind this culinary gem.
FAQS
On The Border was founded in 1982 by three friends with a mission to bring fresh, border-style Mexican food to the United States. The first location opened in Dallas, Texas, and quickly gained popularity for its homemade tortillas and salty margaritas. Since then, the restaurant has expanded to 150 locations in the U.S. and Asia.
What makes On The Border different from other Mexican restaurants?
On The Border offers a unique blend of authentic Mexican flavors combined with American influences. It successfully bridges the gap between traditional and American-owned Mexican restaurants, creating a vibrant and trendy dining experience for its customers.
Does On The Border have any special promotions or offers?
Yes, On The Border often offers creative and affordable options for its customers. In the past, they have offered $2 margaritas for an entire month and $5 burrito boxes with their famous chips and salsa. These promotions are designed to provide value and enhance the dining experience.
Is On The Border considered a healthy dining option?
On The Border is not known for being a particularly healthy dining option. It has been criticized for its fried protein options and liberal use of cream and cheese. Men’s Health even named it the worst Mexican chain in America. So if you’re looking for healthier options, it’s important to practice moderation and watch portion sizes.
Can I enjoy the On The Border flavors at home?
Yes, you can! On The Border offers a retail selection of products that can be found in grocery stores. They offer a variety of chips, from Tajin to Zesty Ranch, that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home. This allows you to satisfy your cravings without having to go to a restaurant for multiple rounds of chips and salsa.
How do I find an On The Border location near me?
You can easily find an On The Border location near you by visiting their official website or using their mobile app. They have a store locator feature that allows you to search for the nearest restaurant based on your location.