In a decisive move cementing its grip on the American casual dining scene, Florida-based conglomerate Darden Restaurants has acquired Austin's homegrown Tex-Mex chain Chuy's, as reported by Austin Eater. The deal, finalized for a hefty sum of $605 million, translates to a purchase price of $37.50 per share in an all-cash format and was announced just yesterday.

Grown from a single eatery in Austin in 1982, Chuy's burgeoned into a 101-location empire spanning 15 states, its latest Austin branch opened its doors in Mueller this April, not long after the passing of co-founder Mike Young in 2023, as noted by Austin Eater.

The acquisition by Darden, which manages multiple other dining chains, including Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, heralds a new chapter for Chuy's, famed for its kitschy decor, commitment to Tex-Mex cuisine, and unique dining environments that live up to its promise that "If you've seen one Chuy's, you've seen one Chuy's," a sentiment shared by Dallas CultureMap.

The move further diversifies Darden's portfolio and adds Tex-Mex flair to its lineage of American casual dining experiences. Still, the stock market's response to the purchase was lukewarm, with Darden shares dipping 1% post-announcement, contrasted by Chuy's stock which rallied well above its closing price upon news of the deal, according to The Citizen Tribune.