What On The Border serves and how much it costs
On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina is a sit-down restaurant chain that serves Tex-Mex food — a blend of Mexican and American cooking styles. The menu includes enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and combination plates. Most entrees come with rice and beans. Prices vary by location and what you order, but a typical entree runs between $12 and $18, with appetizers between $6 and $10.
The restaurant also has a full bar with margaritas, beer, and cocktails. Drinks are priced separately from food. On The Border operates in multiple states across the United States, so menu items and prices may differ slightly depending on which location you visit. You can check the specific menu and pricing for your nearest restaurant on their website or by calling ahead.
Key Takeaways
- On The Border serves Tex-Mex entrees like enchiladas, fajitas, and burritos, typically priced between $12 and $18 per plate.
- Most entrees include rice and beans as sides, and appetizers range from $6 to $10.
- The restaurant has a full bar with margaritas, beer, and cocktails available at additional cost.
- Prices and menu offerings vary by location, so it's worth checking your local restaurant's menu online or by phone before you go.
- On The Border operates as a sit-down restaurant where you order from a server, not a counter-service or fast-casual model.
How to find the menu for your location
On The Border's website has a location finder where you can enter your city or zip code to see which restaurants are near you. Once you find your location, you can view that restaurant's specific menu, hours, and phone number. Some locations may have slightly different offerings or pricing based on local costs and regional preferences.
You can also call the restaurant directly to ask about specific dishes, portion sizes, or dietary options. Many locations offer vegetarian versions of their entrees, and staff can tell you which items contain common allergens like nuts or shellfish. If you want to see the menu before you visit, most locations have their menus posted online or on third-party restaurant sites.
Ordering and payment options
At On The Border, you sit down at a table and order from a server. You can order for dine-in, takeout, or delivery depending on the location. Payment is typically handled at the end of your meal — you can pay with cash, credit card, or debit card. Some locations may also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, though this varies by restaurant.
If you're ordering takeout or delivery, you can call the restaurant directly or use third-party delivery apps. Delivery apps usually add a service fee and delivery charge on top of your food cost. Takeout orders are typically ready within 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the restaurant is.
What to expect when you visit
When you arrive, a host or hostess will seat you at a table. Your server will bring you water and chips with salsa, which are usually free. You'll order from a printed menu or, at some locations, from a tablet at your table. Food typically arrives within 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how busy the restaurant is and what you ordered.
On The Border locations are designed for casual dining — they're family-friendly and good for groups. The atmosphere is typically bright and decorated with Mexican-inspired décor. Noise levels can be moderate to high during busy times. Most locations have a bar area separate from the dining room, though some smaller locations may have the bar integrated into the main dining space.
Dietary options and special requests
On The Border can accommodate some dietary needs. You can request modifications like removing cheese, adding extra vegetables, or substituting beans for rice. Vegetarian entrees are available, and you can ask your server which dishes are made without meat. However, the kitchen is not a dedicated vegetarian or allergen-free space, so cross-contamination is possible if you have severe allergies.
If you have questions about ingredients or preparation methods, ask your server before you order. They can check with the kitchen or provide information about what's in each dish. Some locations may have nutritional information available if you ask, though not all do.
Loyalty programs and discounts
On The Border occasionally runs promotions and discounts, which vary by location and time of year. Some restaurants offer happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers during specific times. You can check the restaurant's website or social media pages to see if there are current deals in your area. Signing up for the restaurant's email list or following them on social media may alert you to upcoming promotions.
The restaurant does not have a single nationwide loyalty program that works at all locations, so rewards and discounts depend on where you're dining. It's worth asking your server if there are any current specials or upcoming promotions when you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does On The Border take reservations?
Most On The Border locations accept reservations, especially for larger groups. Call your local restaurant directly to make a reservation. Some locations may also accept reservations through their website or third-party reservation platforms. Walk-ins are also welcome, though you may have a wait during busy times like weekends and dinner hours.
Can I order from On The Border online?
Yes, many locations offer online ordering for takeout or delivery through their website or third-party apps. Check your local restaurant's website to see if online ordering is available in your area. Delivery options depend on your location and which apps service your area.
What's the difference between On The Border and other Tex-Mex restaurants?
On The Border is a chain restaurant with standardized recipes and pricing across locations, whereas independent Tex-Mex restaurants may have unique menus and pricing. On The Border offers a consistent experience, but local restaurants may have more regional specialties or lower prices depending on the area.
Are there gluten-free options?
Some On The Border locations can prepare gluten-free meals, but availability varies. Ask your server about gluten-free options when you arrive. The kitchen is not a dedicated gluten-free space, so cross-contamination is possible if you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.
What time does On The Border close?
Hours vary by location. Most restaurants are open for lunch and dinner, typically from late morning through late evening. Check your local restaurant's website or call ahead to confirm hours, as they may vary by day of the week and may change seasonally.