Overview: Tin Star Tacos & Tequila has reemerged in McKinney, Texas, occupying the former Maple Street Biscuit Company location at 8801 El Dorado Pkwy., Ste. 100. The reboot restores nostalgic favorites from the original 1999 menu while introducing new aesthetic elements and a full bar featuring limestone walls and woodgrain bartops.
The Full Story
Tin Star, now operating as Tin Star Tacos & Tequila, has returned to the North Texas market under the leadership of co-founder and CEO of Reach Hospitality Rich Hicks. Operating partner Aaron White, previously a franchisee for Mooyah Burgers in the 2000s, leads the revival alongside Tin Star alum Ruben Velazquez, who assists in restoring original recipes. The menu leans proudly into its roots, resurrecting best-sellers from the original 1999 lineup, including the iconic Cheeseburger Taco, alongside new takes on Tex-Mex and weekend brunches.
The establishment features a full bar described as an architectural surprise for a fast-casual concept. This space includes a striking limestone wall, warm woodgrain bartop, plush stools, and custom purse hooks fashioned from railroad ties. The menu offers eight signature frozen cocktails, including the Star Rita, Watermelon Jalapeño Margarita, Prickly Pear Paloma, Espresso Martini, Old Fashioned, and Frosé. Weekend brunches run Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 3 pm, featuring five signature breakfast tacos and $5 mimosas.
Production & Profile
The beverage program highlights a selection of tequilas available to pair with the food. Signature frozen cocktails are priced at $6 before 6 pm on weekdays. The bar features a limestone wall and woodgrain bartop, complemented by plush stools and custom purse hooks fashioned from railroad ties.
Brand & Industry History
Tin Star was trailblazing Dallas’ gourmet-taco scene years before concepts like Torchy’s, Revolver, and Velvet Taco entered the market. The reboot resurrects best-sellers from the original 1999 menu, including the iconic Cheeseburger Taco. For its return, Tin Star’s menu delivers the unexpected flavor combinations and playful culinary creativity that made the brand a North Texas favorite.
What This Means
McKinney marks the first chapter of the Tin Star return, with a second location slated to open in late February 2027. The new site will be located at The Mix, an 112-acre development in Frisco touted as a hub of upscale retail, dining, office, hotel, and residential offerings surrounding a vibrant nine-acre central park.
Consumer Takeaway
Guests can visit the location at 8801 El Dorado Pkwy., Ste. 100 in McKinney to access the full bar and updated murals, signage, menus, and uniforms. The dining experience includes tacos such as the OG #9 with grilled chicken and red onion-jalapeño marmalade, or the Steakhouse Burger Taco piled with smoky bacon. Frozen cocktails are available at $6 before 6 pm weekdays, while weekend brunches offer $5 mimosas starting Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am-3 pm.
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