Irving-based restaurant company On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina has been bought at auction by Houston-based Pappas Restaurants as the auction’s prevailing bidder.

The transaction, which is subject to court approval, is expected to be finalized and close in the coming weeks. Details of the bid were not disclosed.

“We’re excited to welcome On The Border to the Pappas family,” Pappas CEO Mike Rizzo said in a statement. “On The Border is a brand with deep heritage and loyal guests, and we see tremendous opportunity to invest in its future. Our shared Texas roots and passion for hospitality make this a natural fit.”

Pappas said the acquisition will join two iconic Texas-based restaurant brands and expand Pappas’ presence in the Tex-Mex category.

The restaurant company said that On The Border’s value-driven approach complements Pappasito’s Cantina, that is known for its fresh ingredients, sizzling fajitas, hand-shaken margaritas, and high-energy atmosphere.

With decades of experience operating high-performing restaurant brands, Pappas Restaurants will apply its proven operational model and commitment to quality and hospitality to help strengthen and modernize On The Border locations. The guest experience at On the Border will remain rooted in the lively, welcoming environments that both brands are known for.

“On The Border has always stood out for its energy and bold flavors—it’s a brand we’ve known and respected for years,” Chris Pappas, co-owner of Pappas Restaurants, said in a statement. “This gives us the chance to bring our passion for Tex-Mex to more guests, and we’re excited to build on what makes both brands special.”

Pappas Restaurants said it will explore ways to enhance On The Border’s menu, operations, and guest experience while still honoring the brand’s history and fan-favorite offerings.

Pappas Restaurants is a family-owned and operated restaurant group with a portfolio of iconic brands, including Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Pappasito’s Cantina, Pappas Bar-B-Q and Pappas Bros. Steakhouse.

Founded in 1982 in Dallas, On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina has been serving Border-style Tex-Mex cuisine for over four decades. At its peak, On The Border operated over 150 locations across the United States and internationally. Today, it operates 60 company-owned restaurants across 18 states and has 20 franchised locations in the U.S. and South Korea.

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