ARMANDOS—one of Houston’s most beloved eateries, has a bevy of things to celebrate. The dynamic duo behind the scenes—Armando and Cinda Palacios—are toasting 45 years in the biz while making waves toward their exciting future. We caught up with these lovebirds to learn more about how it started and what’s coming.
Armando and Cinda Palacios
When opening the doors to ARMANDOS in 1978, what were you hoping for?
AP: I wanted to create a dining experience that was the antithesis of the common Tex-Mex casual taquerias. That had already been perfected, and at the time, Tex-Mex was almost a bad word within the culinary landscape. Every other cuisine had an elevated, white tablecloth option to visit for a special occasion, see and be seen, or simply celebrate the good life while dressed to the nines. I wanted to inspire and surprise our guests while offering the comforting classic Tex-Mex they love.
What does the future hold?
CP: The future is bright. Palacios Murphy as a company has evolved quickly; during the pandemic, I started assembling a team for our corporate office to help implement operational, creative, culinary and financial strategies as we expand our portfolio. The energy in our office is incredible, and I am inspired every single day by the team. I believe the sky is the limit.
Cemented as an institution in Houston for 45 years now, what do you love most about the restaurant?
AP: The people. It has been an incredible honor to watch generations of families gather around a table. We have seen birthdays, weddings, the birth of children and grandchildren and even some devastating losses. We have the pleasure of knowing our guests and their families after all these years as part of these important life moments. This is an incredible part of the human experience and, by far, what I am most grateful for every day when I wake up.
Looking toward the next 45, what do you hope for with the restaurant?
CP: I love ARMANDOS—it is about the way you feel when you are here. We want everyone to feel special and taken care of as a guest, and I am looking forward to finding new ways to cultivate that feeling. The hospitality industry has evolved so much in the last 10 years, especially after the pandemic. I am excited to grow with that evolution as our group continues to expand. We have assembled a truly stellar team and watching them all perfect their crafts.
The craziest thing you’ve ever done...
AP: Open a restaurant!
Photography by: PHOTO COURTESY OF LAUREN HOLUB
