SJFS has learned that another longtime chain restaurant is saying goodbye to South Jersey.
According to an employee who confirmed the news by phone to South Jersey Food Scene on Thursday, the On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina location at 4160 Church Road in Mount Laurel is closing its doors. The employee indicated the shutdown is imminent as of Friday, June 12.
The closure comes amid reports that the Texas-based Tex-Mex chain is preparing to shutter locations across the country. Multiple media outlets, including Chron.com, reported Thursday that managers have been informed that remaining restaurants could cease operations as early as June 12.
For months, On The Border had been attempting to stabilize after emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2025. Earlier this year, the company had already closed its Paramus and New Brunswick restaurants, leaving Mount Laurel and Princeton as the chain’s final New Jersey outposts.
Founded in Dallas in 1982, On The Border became known for its fajitas, margaritas, tableside chips and salsa, and casual Tex-Mex atmosphere. At its peak, the brand operated more than 150 locations nationwide. Following its bankruptcy, Houston-based Pappas Restaurants acquired the chain and had announced plans to revitalize the brand with menu updates and operational improvements. Those efforts now appear to have fallen short.
Farewell, On The Border. Your happy hour was actually pretty good!
SJFS is dedicated to food, dining, restaurants, and drinking in South Jersey. Got a news tip? Email southjerseyfoodscene@gmail.com.