What's all the hubbub? Why are there dozens of people standing in line at a colorful shack outside Kroger on Chenal? It's because there is a new game in town, and it is known as Chuy's.
Chuy's is a Tex-Mex restaurant chain based out of Austin, TX that is known for its southwestern inspired cuisine, its fun and playful atmosphere, and its unique locations all across the country. Let's face it: when it comes to Mexican food in central Arkansas, the options, though many, are nearly all identical. With the exception of Cañon Grill, or Local Lime, you have a standard menu with standard selections and the cheese dip is white. Have you ever wanted something different? Have you ever wanted a Latin feast that wasn't afraid of heat? If so, I recommend you check out Chuy's.
Below is a more thorough review than I'm used to writing, namely because there is sooo much interest in this place, but let me just address a couple questions you might be asking yourself:
1) Should I wait in line for 1.5 hours for Chuy's? -- I say no. I think you will have a better time hanging out in the bar, shopping, or watching TV. While I love the food here, it's NOT different enough from other Mexican that it will change your life, so don't give up 2 hours of it to stand in line.
2) What is the best time to go right now? -- Lunch on a weekday. The wait is generally 20-30 minutes at peak hours, even less if you're there at 11am.
3) Do they have white cheese dip? -- No, they have queso. Yellow queso. Delicious, mind-blowing queso. And an Elvis Shrine.
4) Are there any items I really, really need to try while I'm there? -- Yes. If you like spicy, get the hatch green chile sauce on the side, or the creamy jalepeno sauce. They are amazing. If you like beverages, get a Texas Martini. If you like Elvis, well....
Menu: ★★★☆☆
The menu is varied with a lot of dishes people are probably familiar with. Honest and descriptive: spicy stuff is spicy. Has vegetarian options, but not a lot of options that would be kid friendly.
Food: ★★★★☆
So the food is done really, really well. Is it earth shattering? No. Is it delicious? Yes. Get some things on the side to try or some sauces to dip things in. Follow your waiter(ess)'s recommendations. Get some queso.
Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
Truly a highlight here. I can't believe how fast this restaurant was constructed, or how good it looks. Fun, playful, a bit unreservedly cliche in places, has a wonderful porch area, and most importantly: is sound proof enough that even while full, you can carry on a conversation.
Service: ★★★★☆
With a new restaurant it is vital that the staff is well trained and knowledgeable, and our waiter was both. He helped guide our food selections, offered descriptions of things, stayed on top of our drinks and chips despite an incredibly busy service.
Chuy's is a Tex-Mex restaurant chain based out of Austin, TX that is known for its southwestern inspired cuisine, its fun and playful atmosphere, and its unique locations all across the country. Let's face it: when it comes to Mexican food in central Arkansas, the options, though many, are nearly all identical. With the exception of Cañon Grill, or Local Lime, you have a standard menu with standard selections and the cheese dip is white. Have you ever wanted something different? Have you ever wanted a Latin feast that wasn't afraid of heat? If so, I recommend you check out Chuy's.
Below is a more thorough review than I'm used to writing, namely because there is sooo much interest in this place, but let me just address a couple questions you might be asking yourself:
1) Should I wait in line for 1.5 hours for Chuy's? -- I say no. I think you will have a better time hanging out in the bar, shopping, or watching TV. While I love the food here, it's NOT different enough from other Mexican that it will change your life, so don't give up 2 hours of it to stand in line.
2) What is the best time to go right now? -- Lunch on a weekday. The wait is generally 20-30 minutes at peak hours, even less if you're there at 11am.
3) Do they have white cheese dip? -- No, they have queso. Yellow queso. Delicious, mind-blowing queso. And an Elvis Shrine.
4) Are there any items I really, really need to try while I'm there? -- Yes. If you like spicy, get the hatch green chile sauce on the side, or the creamy jalepeno sauce. They are amazing. If you like beverages, get a Texas Martini. If you like Elvis, well....
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| Queso Compuesto |
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| Elvis Pressley Memorial Combo in front, Chicka-Chicka Boom-Boom in the back. |
The menu is varied with a lot of dishes people are probably familiar with. Honest and descriptive: spicy stuff is spicy. Has vegetarian options, but not a lot of options that would be kid friendly.
Food: ★★★★☆
So the food is done really, really well. Is it earth shattering? No. Is it delicious? Yes. Get some things on the side to try or some sauces to dip things in. Follow your waiter(ess)'s recommendations. Get some queso.
Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
Truly a highlight here. I can't believe how fast this restaurant was constructed, or how good it looks. Fun, playful, a bit unreservedly cliche in places, has a wonderful porch area, and most importantly: is sound proof enough that even while full, you can carry on a conversation.
Service: ★★★★☆
With a new restaurant it is vital that the staff is well trained and knowledgeable, and our waiter was both. He helped guide our food selections, offered descriptions of things, stayed on top of our drinks and chips despite an incredibly busy service.