About Chuys
From a small kitchen to one of Orlando's most beloved chuys destinations — discover the passion, people, and bold Tex-Mex flavors that make us who we are.
The Story Behind Chuys
Chuys was born in 2009 from a simple belief: that great food should bring people together. Founded by restaurateur Carlos "Chuy" Mendez in the heart of Orlando's International Drive, the restaurant started as a 30-seat neighborhood spot serving traditional Tex-Mex recipes passed down through generations.
Carlos had grown up cooking alongside his grandmother in San Antonio, Texas, learning the art of slow-cooked meats, hand-pressed tortillas, and bold salsas made from scratch. When he relocated to Orlando, he brought those recipes with him — and the city fell in love.
"I didn't want to open just another restaurant. I wanted to create a place where the food tasted like home — like someone's abuela spent all day in the kitchen." — Carlos Mendez, Founder
Today, chuy's has grown into a full-service dining destination with a loyal following of locals and tourists alike. We remain committed to the same hand-crafted recipes, fresh ingredients, and warm hospitality that defined us on day one.
Our Core Values
Every decision we make — from sourcing ingredients to training our staff — is guided by these foundational principles at Chuys.
Fresh Always
We source local produce and prepare everything fresh daily. No freezer shortcuts — ever. If it's on your plate, it was made that morning.
Made With Heart
Our kitchen team puts genuine care into every dish. Cooking is personal to us — we treat every guest like family walking through our door.
Community First
We're proud to be an Orlando institution. We support local farmers, partner with food banks, and give back to the neighborhood that raised us.
Bold Flavor
We never compromise on taste. Our recipes are bold, layered, and unapologetic — because Tex-Mex should always be an experience, not just a meal.
15 Years of Bold Flavors
From a single location to a beloved Orlando institution — here's how Chuys grew into the restaurant you know and love.
The Beginning
Carlos Mendez opens the original Chuys on International Drive with a 30-seat dining room, 12 menu items, and a dream to share authentic Tex-Mex with Orlando.
First Expansion
After earning "Best Mexican Restaurant" by Orlando Weekly, Chuys expands its dining room to 120 seats and introduces its now-iconic fresh tortilla bar.
Catering Launch
We launch our full-service catering division, bringing chuy's bold flavors to weddings, corporate events, and festivals across Central Florida.
Award-Winning Recognition
Chuys receives the Florida Restaurant Association's Community Impact Award and is featured in Food & Wine magazine's "50 Best Tex-Mex Spots in America."
Digital & Delivery
We launch our online ordering platform and partner with major delivery services, making it easier than ever to Order Now and enjoy Chuys from home.
Franchise Program
Chuys opens its franchise program, inviting passionate entrepreneurs to bring authentic Tex-Mex to communities across the United States.
Meet Our Team
Every great dish starts with great people. Our passionate team brings decades of culinary expertise and heart to everything we serve at Chuys.
Carlos Mendez
Born in San Antonio, TX, Carlos spent 20 years perfecting the Tex-Mex recipes he learned from his grandmother before bringing them to Orlando in 2009.
Maria Reyes
With a culinary degree from Le Cordon Bleu Miami and 12 years in fine dining, Maria joined Chuys in 2013 and elevated our kitchen to new creative heights.
James Walker
James ensures every guest leaves happy. A hospitality veteran with 18 years of restaurant management experience, he leads our front-of-house team with warmth and precision.
Sofia Vega
Sofia leads our award-winning catering and events division, coordinating hundreds of events annually with seamless execution and memorable chuy's flavor.