Is your favorite Tex-Mex spot about to disappear? This major chain’s problem might affect you!
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The landscape of casual dining has been shifting like the sands of a desert, and for fans of Tex-Mex cuisine, the news has been as spicy and unpredictable as the food itself.
A beloved chain that has served up sizzling fajitas and frosty margaritas for decades is now facing a financial crunch that could change the way many Americans experience this fusion of Texas and Mexican flavors.
On the Border, a name linked to generous portions of enchiladas, tacos, and nachos, has found itself in a precarious position.
The chain, which has been a fixture in the Tex-Mex dining scene since its inception in 1982 in Dallas, Texas, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
This move comes after the company shuttered over a dozen locations nationwide, a significant contraction from its peak presence.

The reasons behind On the Border's financial woes are truly complex. The casual dining sector has been hit hard by a perfect storm of challenges: fewer people are dining out, food costs are rising, and the competition is fiercer than ever.
For On the Border, this has led to a “rapid loss of liquidity,” as described by the chain's chief restructuring officer, Jonathan M. Tibus.
The company has been forced to put a hold on vendor and rent payments to conserve cash, leading to strained relationships with landlords and suppliers, further exacerbating their operational difficulties.
Behind On the Border is the Argonne Capital Group, a firm that operates a portfolio of franchises including Applebee's, IHOP, Wingstop, and even fitness centers like Planet Fitness.
The group's experience in managing diverse brands might offer a glimmer of hope for On the Border's future, as they navigate through the bankruptcy process.
Despite the grim news, On the Border's leadership remains optimistic. President Chris Rockwood has stated that the restructuring will allow the company to address its financial and operational challenges head-on.
The goal is to emerge from this period stronger and with a renewed focus on growth. With assets and liabilities ranging between $10 million and $50 million, the path forward will require careful navigation.
On the Border is not alone in its struggles. The past year has seen other major players in the casual dining industry face similar fates.
Red Lobster, TGI Fridays, and Buca di Beppo have all filed for bankruptcy, each citing the need to restructure to overcome financial and operational hurdles.
These chains have sought to reassure patrons that their favorite dining spots will come out on the other side more resilient.
Source: Atlanta News First / Youtube.
For those who cherish the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of On the Border, the bankruptcy filing may raise concerns about the future availability of their favorite dishes.
While the restructuring process is designed to keep the business afloat, it's possible that more locations could close or undergo changes as the company seeks to stabilize its finances.
Bankruptcy doesn't always mean the end. It can be a strategic move to shed unprofitable locations, renegotiate leases, and streamline operations.
For On the Border, this could mean a more focused menu, improved customer service, and a stronger brand in the long run.
Have you noticed changes at your local On the Border? Are you concerned about the future of your go-to spot for Tex-Mex cuisine? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!
A beloved chain that has served up sizzling fajitas and frosty margaritas for decades is now facing a financial crunch that could change the way many Americans experience this fusion of Texas and Mexican flavors.
On the Border, a name linked to generous portions of enchiladas, tacos, and nachos, has found itself in a precarious position.
The chain, which has been a fixture in the Tex-Mex dining scene since its inception in 1982 in Dallas, Texas, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
This move comes after the company shuttered over a dozen locations nationwide, a significant contraction from its peak presence.

On the Border, a major Tex-Mex chain, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after closing more than a dozen locations recently. Image source: On the Border / Youtube.
The reasons behind On the Border's financial woes are truly complex. The casual dining sector has been hit hard by a perfect storm of challenges: fewer people are dining out, food costs are rising, and the competition is fiercer than ever.
For On the Border, this has led to a “rapid loss of liquidity,” as described by the chain's chief restructuring officer, Jonathan M. Tibus.
The company has been forced to put a hold on vendor and rent payments to conserve cash, leading to strained relationships with landlords and suppliers, further exacerbating their operational difficulties.
Behind On the Border is the Argonne Capital Group, a firm that operates a portfolio of franchises including Applebee's, IHOP, Wingstop, and even fitness centers like Planet Fitness.
The group's experience in managing diverse brands might offer a glimmer of hope for On the Border's future, as they navigate through the bankruptcy process.
Despite the grim news, On the Border's leadership remains optimistic. President Chris Rockwood has stated that the restructuring will allow the company to address its financial and operational challenges head-on.
The goal is to emerge from this period stronger and with a renewed focus on growth. With assets and liabilities ranging between $10 million and $50 million, the path forward will require careful navigation.
On the Border is not alone in its struggles. The past year has seen other major players in the casual dining industry face similar fates.
Red Lobster, TGI Fridays, and Buca di Beppo have all filed for bankruptcy, each citing the need to restructure to overcome financial and operational hurdles.
These chains have sought to reassure patrons that their favorite dining spots will come out on the other side more resilient.
Source: Atlanta News First / Youtube.
For those who cherish the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of On the Border, the bankruptcy filing may raise concerns about the future availability of their favorite dishes.
While the restructuring process is designed to keep the business afloat, it's possible that more locations could close or undergo changes as the company seeks to stabilize its finances.
Bankruptcy doesn't always mean the end. It can be a strategic move to shed unprofitable locations, renegotiate leases, and streamline operations.
For On the Border, this could mean a more focused menu, improved customer service, and a stronger brand in the long run.
Key Takeaways
- On the Border, a major Tex-Mex chain, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after closing more than a dozen locations recently and operating half as many restaurants as it did at the end of 2023.
- The chain is operated by Argonne Capital Group, which also owns several other well-known franchises including Applebee's, IHOP, and Wingstop.
- The bankruptcy filing is seen as a strategic move to refocus on growth, address financial challenges, and emerge as a stronger business.
- Other casual dining brands such as Red Lobster, TGI Fridays, and Buca di Beppo have also filed for bankruptcy over the past year amidst similar financial and operational difficulties.
Have you noticed changes at your local On the Border? Are you concerned about the future of your go-to spot for Tex-Mex cuisine? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!