Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse move closer to construction in Peñitas

Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse have formally filed construction plans for new locations in Peñitas, marking a key step forward in the city’s ongoing retail expansion along Expressway 83.

According to filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, Olive Garden plans a 7,487-square-foot full-service restaurant, while LongHorn Steakhouse has filed plans for a 5,780-square-foot location at adjacent sites near Expressway 83. 

Each project carries an estimated construction cost of $2 million, representing nearly $4 million in combined investment.

Both restaurants are planned within Peñitas Crossing Phase I, a development that has gained momentum following recent large-scale retail announcements, including Home Depot. 

The filings indicate that Peñitas’ growth phase has moved from planning into active pre-construction.

State records list Peñitas Crossing Phase I LLC as the property owner. 

Construction for both restaurants is scheduled to begin March 30, 2026, with completion expected by Oct. 12, 2026.

This information is based on preliminary TDLR filings. Project plans, costs, and timelines may change, and not all proposed developments move forward.