Chuy's Holdings, Inc. (CHUY)
For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat ANAK, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. (CHUY) trades at $37.48 with AI Score 43/100 (Grade C). Chuy's Holdings, Inc. operates full-service Chuy's restaurants, offering Tex-Mex cuisine across 17 states. Market cap: $645.87M, Sector: Consumer cyclical.
Price live · AI analysis from May 9, 2026Analyst Coverage for CHUY: CHUY does not currently have published analyst price targets in our coverage universe. This is common for smaller-cap names with limited Wall Street coverage. In the absence of analyst consensus, our AI model evaluates CHUY against Consumer Cyclical peers across nine fundamental dimensions and assigns an underweight signal based on the underlying data.
CHUY: the 1 perspectives are evenly split.
How is this calculated? →Chuy's Holdings, Inc. (CHUY) Consumer Business Overview
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. operates and franchises full-service Tex-Mex restaurants under the Chuy's brand, primarily in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States. Known for its eclectic decor and made-from-scratch menu, Chuy's competes within the broader casual dining sector, emphasizing a differentiated dining experience.
What Is the Investment Thesis for CHUY?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. presents a compelling investment case based on its established brand, consistent profitability, and potential for continued expansion. With a P/E ratio of 21.2 and a profit margin of 6.8%, Chuy's demonstrates financial stability within the competitive restaurant industry. Key growth catalysts include strategic new restaurant openings in underserved markets and enhanced menu innovation to attract a broader customer base. However, investors should be aware of the potential risks associated with fluctuating food costs and intense competition within the casual dining sector. The company's beta of 1.78 indicates higher volatility compared to the market, requiring careful consideration of risk tolerance.
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
CHUY Key Highlights
- Market capitalization of $645.87M, reflecting the company's current valuation in the stock market.
- P/E ratio of 21.2, indicating the price investors are willing to pay for each dollar of Chuy's earnings.
- Profit margin of 6.8%, demonstrating the company's ability to generate profit from its revenue after accounting for expenses.
- Gross margin of 17.0%, reflecting the percentage of revenue remaining after deducting the cost of goods sold.
- Operated 96 restaurants in 17 states as of December 26, 2021, showcasing its established presence across the Southeastern and Midwestern United States.
Who Are CHUY's Competitors?
CHUY is benchmarked below against 8 industry peers on price, market cap, and our AI MoonshotScore.
| Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | AI Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GTX Garrett Motion Inc. | $33.19 | +4.54% | $6.21B | 50 |
| SGLOF Food & Life Companies Ltd. | $8.91 | +0.00% | $2.02B | 64 |
| ATGSY Autogrill S.p.A. | $6.55 | +0.00% | $2.50B | 58 |
| VENU VENU | $2.40 | +9.86% | $102.39M | 58 |
| REBN Reborn Coffee, Inc. | $1.65 | +3.78% | $8.74M | 57 |
| YUMC Yum China Holdings, Inc. | $42.48 | +1.87% | $14.83B | 46 |
| ELORY Elior Group S.A. | $4.86 | +0.00% | $1.23B | 47 |
| MTYFF MTY Food Group Inc. | $25.98 | +0.00% | $593.42M | 47 |
AI Score by Stock Expert AI · Price data: FMP / Yahoo Finance
What Are CHUY's Key Strengths?
- Established brand with a loyal customer base.
- Unique and differentiated restaurant concept.
- Commitment to fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch recipes.
- Strong presence in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States.
What Are CHUY's Weaknesses?
- Limited geographic diversification.
- Vulnerability to fluctuations in food costs.
- High beta indicating higher volatility compared to the market.
- Relatively low gross margin compared to some competitors.
What Could Drive CHUY Stock Higher?
- Potential for positive earnings surprises driven by effective cost management.
- Continued expansion into new geographic markets.
- Menu innovation and introduction of limited-time offers to drive traffic.
- Enhancement of digital presence and online ordering capabilities.
What Are the Key Risks for CHUY?
- Fluctuations in food costs could impact profitability.
- Intense competition in the restaurant industry could limit growth.
- Economic downturns could reduce consumer spending.
- Rising labor costs and regulatory challenges.
- High beta indicating higher volatility compared to the market.
What Are the Growth Opportunities for CHUY?
- Expansion into New Markets: Chuy's has the opportunity to expand its footprint by opening new restaurants in underserved markets. By targeting regions with strong demand for Tex-Mex cuisine and limited competition, Chuy's can drive revenue growth and increase brand awareness. Market research and site selection are crucial to ensure successful expansion. This strategic growth initiative could potentially add 5-10 new locations annually, contributing significantly to revenue growth over the next 3-5 years.
- Menu Innovation and Limited-Time Offers: Chuy's can attract new customers and increase repeat visits by introducing innovative menu items and limited-time offers. By incorporating seasonal ingredients and experimenting with new flavor combinations, Chuy's can keep its menu fresh and exciting. This strategy can drive traffic and increase average check sizes. The rollout of 2-3 new menu items per year, coupled with targeted marketing campaigns, can boost same-store sales by 2-3%.
- Enhancing Digital Presence and Online Ordering: Investing in a user-friendly website and mobile app can enhance the customer experience and drive online ordering. By offering seamless online ordering and delivery options, Chuy's can cater to the growing demand for convenience and accessibility. This initiative can expand the company's reach and increase sales. A fully integrated digital platform with loyalty programs and personalized offers can boost online sales by 15-20% within the next 2 years.
- Strengthening Brand Loyalty Through Rewards Programs: Implementing a comprehensive loyalty program can strengthen customer relationships and drive repeat business. By rewarding frequent diners with exclusive discounts, special offers, and personalized experiences, Chuy's can foster brand loyalty and increase customer lifetime value. A well-designed loyalty program can increase customer retention rates by 10-15% and drive incremental revenue growth.
- Optimizing Operational Efficiency and Cost Management: Chuy's can improve its profitability by optimizing operational efficiency and implementing effective cost management strategies. By streamlining processes, reducing waste, and negotiating favorable contracts with suppliers, Chuy's can lower its operating expenses and increase its profit margins. A focus on operational excellence can improve profitability by 1-2% within the next year.
What Opportunities Does CHUY Have?
- Expansion into new markets.
- Menu innovation and limited-time offers.
- Enhancing digital presence and online ordering.
- Strengthening brand loyalty through rewards programs.
What Threats Does CHUY Face?
- Intense competition in the restaurant industry.
- Changing consumer preferences and dining trends.
- Economic downturns that could impact consumer spending.
- Rising labor costs and regulatory challenges.
What Are CHUY's Competitive Advantages?
- Established brand recognition and reputation for quality Tex-Mex cuisine.
- Unique and quirky restaurant atmosphere that differentiates it from competitors.
- Commitment to using fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch recipes.
What Does CHUY Do?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. was founded in 1982 in Austin, Texas, by Mike Young and John Zapp. Frustrated by the lack of authentic Tex-Mex options, they set out to create a restaurant that offered fresh, flavorful food in a quirky, fun environment. The first Chuy's restaurant was opened in an old abandoned Texas barbecue joint on Barton Springs Road. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its unique atmosphere, large portions, and made-from-scratch recipes. Over the years, Chuy's expanded beyond Austin, opening locations across the Southeastern and Midwestern United States. As of December 26, 2021, Chuy's operated 96 restaurants in 17 states. The company's restaurants offer a diverse menu of Tex-Mex favorites, including enchiladas, tacos, fajitas, and burritos, all prepared with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Chuy's is committed to providing a high-quality dining experience with a focus on customer service and a lively atmosphere. The company's headquarters remain in Austin, Texas, reflecting its deep roots in the local community.
What Products and Services Does CHUY Offer?
- Owns and operates full-service restaurants under the Chuy's name.
- Offers a diverse menu of Tex-Mex cuisine, including enchiladas, tacos, fajitas, and burritos.
- Prepares all dishes with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
- Provides a high-quality dining experience with a focus on customer service.
- Creates a lively and fun atmosphere in its restaurants.
- Operates restaurants primarily in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States.
How Does CHUY Make Money?
- Generates revenue through the sale of food and beverages in its restaurants.
- Focuses on providing a unique dining experience to attract and retain customers.
- Manages costs through efficient operations and supply chain management.
What Industry Does CHUY Operate In?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. operates within the highly competitive restaurant industry, which is characterized by evolving consumer preferences and intense rivalry among numerous players. The industry is influenced by factors such as disposable income, demographic trends, and changing lifestyles. The casual dining segment, in which Chuy's primarily competes, has seen steady growth, driven by demand for convenient and affordable dining options. Key trends include the increasing adoption of technology, such as online ordering and delivery services, and a growing focus on health and sustainability. Chuy's differentiates itself through its unique Tex-Mex cuisine, quirky atmosphere, and commitment to fresh ingredients.
Who Are CHUY's Key Customers?
- Individuals and families seeking a casual dining experience.
- Customers who enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine and a fun atmosphere.
- Local communities in the areas where Chuy's restaurants are located.
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. (CHUY) Valuation Context
Valued at $645.87M, CHUY is classified as a small-cap stock. Relative to its peer group, CHUY's quantitative score of 43/100 is below the peer average of 57/100.
CHUY Revenue & Earnings Trend
In Q2 2024, CHUY generated $119.8M in top-line revenue, marking a sequential increase of 8.4%. The company recorded net income of $7.4M, with diluted EPS of $0.43.
Company Profile
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. operates in the Restaurants industry within the Consumer Cyclical sector. It is headquartered in Austin, US. The company is led by CEO Steven J. Hislop. CHUY has traded publicly since 2012.
ROE 13%Key Financial Metrics
Return on equity for Chuy's Holdings, Inc. stands at 12.7%, a gauge of how efficiently it converts shareholder capital into profit. Return on assets is 6.6%, showing how much profit it generates from its asset base. CHUY trades at a trailing price-to-earnings ratio of 21.20, below the Consumer Cyclical sector average of ~39x. Its free cash flow yield is 3.2%, a gauge of the cash the business throws off relative to its market value. A current ratio of 1.65 indicates the company holds enough short-term assets to cover its near-term obligations. Its earnings yield is 4.7%, the inverse of the P/E and a quick read on earnings relative to price.
F-Score 7/9Financial Health
Chuy's Holdings, Inc.'s Piotroski F-Score is 7/9, a 9-point checklist of profitability, leverage and efficiency — signaling solid underlying fundamentals. Its Altman Z-Score of 3.57 places it in the safe zone, indicating low near-term bankruptcy risk.
FY2026 estForward Outlook
Wall Street analysts project Chuy's Holdings, Inc. revenue of about $548.3M for fiscal 2026, with EPS near $2.06.
CHUY Financials
Fundamental Snapshot
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
Bull Case vs Bear Case
Bull Case
- Chuy's insider activity hints at confidence; recent buys suggest management believes in future growth.
- The social buzz around Chuy's is generally positive, with users praising their consistent food quality and atmosphere.
- Talk of expansion plans in the community suggests excitement about Chuy's growth potential and market penetration.
- Chuy's seems to be weathering the economic climate well, maintaining a loyal customer base and positive brand image.
Bear Case
- Some community members express concerns about rising menu prices potentially impacting customer traffic.
- Negative online reviews mention inconsistent service quality, which could damage Chuy's reputation long-term.
- There's chatter about increased competition in the Tex-Mex restaurant sector potentially squeezing Chuy's market share.
- Insider selling, even if for personal reasons, can sometimes create a perception of uncertainty among investors.
AI-generated arguments based on insider flow, news sentiment and technicals — not financial advice · March 2026
Recent Quarterly Results
| Quarter | Revenue | Net Income | EPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q2 2024 | $120M | $7M | $0.43 |
| Q1 2024 | $110M | $7M | $0.40 |
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
CHUY Latest News
No recent news available for CHUY.
CHUY Analyst Consensus
Consensus Rating
Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for CHUY.
Price Targets
Wall Street price target analysis for CHUY.
CHUY MoonshotScore
What does this score mean?
The MoonshotScore rates CHUY's growth potential on a scale of 0-100 across multiple factors including innovation, market disruption, financial health, and momentum.
Leadership: Steven J. Hislop
CEO
Steven J. Hislop serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Chuy's Holdings, Inc. His professional background includes extensive experience in the restaurant and hospitality industries. Prior to joining Chuy's, Hislop held various leadership positions at other restaurant chains, demonstrating his expertise in operations, marketing, and strategic planning. Hislop's experience includes roles focused on improving customer experience, driving revenue growth, and enhancing operational efficiency. His leadership is expected to guide Chuy's through its next phase of growth and expansion.
Track Record: Under Steven J. Hislop's leadership, Chuy's Holdings, Inc. has focused on expanding its restaurant footprint and enhancing its brand presence. Key achievements include the successful opening of new restaurant locations and the implementation of initiatives to improve customer satisfaction. Hislop has also overseen efforts to optimize operational efficiency and manage costs effectively. Hislop's strategic decisions have contributed to the company's consistent profitability and sustainable growth.
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. Consumer Cyclical Stock: Key Questions Answered
What does Chuy's Holdings, Inc. do?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. owns and operates full-service restaurants under the Chuy's name, offering Tex-Mex cuisine in a fun and quirky atmosphere. The company focuses on providing a unique dining experience with made-from-scratch recipes and fresh ingredients. Chuy's restaurants are primarily located in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States, catering to individuals and families seeking a casual dining experience. The company's business model revolves around generating revenue through the sale of food and beverages, while managing costs through efficient operations and supply chain management. Chuy's differentiates itself through its established brand, unique restaurant concept, and commitment to quality.
What do analysts say about CHUY stock?
Analyst coverage of Chuy's Holdings, Inc. typically focuses on the company's growth potential, profitability, and competitive positioning within the restaurant industry. Key valuation metrics such as the P/E ratio and profit margin are closely monitored. Analysts often assess the company's ability to expand into new markets, innovate its menu, and manage costs effectively. The consensus view on CHUY stock reflects a balanced perspective, considering both the company's growth opportunities and potential risks. Investors are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence and consider their individual risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.
What are the main risks for CHUY?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. faces several risks, including fluctuations in food costs, intense competition in the restaurant industry, and potential economic downturns that could impact consumer spending. Rising labor costs and regulatory challenges also pose ongoing risks to the company's profitability. Additionally, Chuy's relatively high beta indicates higher volatility compared to the market, which could result in significant price swings. Effective risk management strategies, such as hedging against commodity price increases and diversifying its supply chain, are crucial for mitigating these risks. Investors should carefully consider these factors when evaluating CHUY stock.
How does Chuy's Holdings, Inc. manage supply chain and input cost risks?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. manages supply chain and input cost risks through a combination of strategic sourcing, hedging, and menu pricing strategies. The company works closely with its suppliers to negotiate favorable contracts and ensure a stable supply of high-quality ingredients. Chuy's also employs hedging strategies to mitigate the impact of commodity price fluctuations. In addition, the company may adjust its menu prices to reflect changes in input costs, while remaining competitive within the market. By proactively managing its supply chain and implementing effective cost control measures, Chuy's aims to minimize the impact of external factors on its profitability.
What are Chuy's Holdings, Inc.'s strongest brands and market positions?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc.'s strongest brand is the Chuy's restaurant chain, known for its unique Tex-Mex cuisine and quirky atmosphere. The company has established a strong market position in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States, with a loyal customer base that appreciates its fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch recipes. Chuy's differentiates itself from competitors through its commitment to quality, customer service, and a fun dining experience. The company's brand recognition and reputation have contributed to its consistent profitability and sustainable growth. Chuy's continues to strengthen its market position by expanding into new markets and innovating its menu to meet evolving consumer preferences.
What are the key factors to evaluate for CHUY?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. (CHUY) holds an AI score of 43/100 (low). P/E: 21.2x vs the S&P 500's ~20-25x. Not financial advice.
How frequently does CHUY data refresh on this page?
CHUY prices update in real time during U.S. market hours. Fundamentals refresh after quarterly filings; analyst ratings and AI insights update daily; news is aggregated continuously.
What has driven CHUY's recent stock price performance?
Chuy's Holdings, Inc. (CHUY) moves on earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Established brand with a loyal customer base. See the News tab for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.
Official Resources
Data provided for informational purposes only.
- The information provided is based on publicly available data and management commentary. There may be inherent limitations in the accuracy and completeness of the data.
- This is not investment advice. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.