On the Border Closes Three Kansas City Locations, Only One Remain

On the Border Closes Three Restaurants in Kansas City Area

After years of operation, the Tex-Mex chain On the Border has made the tough decision to close three of its restaurants in the Kansas City area. This closure affects the locations in Kansas City’s Northland, Independence, and Lee’s Summit.

Closure Notice

A sign on the door of the Northland On the Border stated, “We hate to say adios, but this location is now closed. Thank you to our loyal guests for all the good times.” While expressing regret over the closure, the sign also encouraged customers to instead visit the On the Border in Overland Park, at 11855 W. 95th St., which remains as the only operating branch in the Kansas City area.

Confirmation of Closure

Representatives for On the Border did not provide a comment regarding the closures. However, the Facebook pages of the Lee’s Summit and Independence locations also confirmed the permanent closure of the restaurants. Additionally, the listings for all three restaurants have been removed from On the Border’s official website.

Company History

Founded in Dallas in 1982, On the Border initially entered the Kansas City market in the mid-1990s with a location on the Country Club Plaza at 700 W. 47th St. The chain was known for its signature table-side guacamole, fajitas, and margaritas. Over the years, it expanded to other areas, including Leawood, Olathe, and Lawrence. However, all of these locations have since been closed.

In 2009, On the Border was sold to Brinker International, the parent company of Chili’s Grill & Bar. Subsequently, it was acquired by Golden Gate Capital, a private equity firm, in 2010. The chain’s current owner, Argonne Capital Group, another private equity firm, purchased On the Border in 2014.