If you’re wondering why Denver’s Texas transplants have been celebrating lately, we have one word for you: Chuy’s. The Austin-based Tex-Mex chain has arrived in Colorado, serving its first plate of enchiladas in its new Westminster location just last week.

As a graduate of University of Texas at Austin, I was among those lining up at the beloved spot on its opening weekend. Hordes of hopefuls waited for an hour or more to get a taste of the Chicka-Chicka Boom-Boom enchiladas, hand-shaken Texas martinis (more on these in a moment), and creamy jalapeño dip. And judging by the satisfied buzz in the colorful dining room, the wait was well worth it.

Chuy’s has a unique charm with Elvis-inspired decor, a big-as-Texas attitude, and quirky tee shirts emblazoned with taglines like “tacocat spelled backwards is tacocat.” Your best bet is to go during happy hour, which runs from 4 to 7 p.m. on weekdays. It’s not just the drinks that are on special—you’ll also have access to a completely free build-your-own nacho bar stocked with chips, pico de gallo, beans, ground beef, jalapeños, and never-ending, free-flowing queso.

Load up with all the fixin’s, or simply grab a basket of chips with an accompanying bowl of queso for dipping. If you’re there for a margarita (and why wouldn’t you be?), you’ll be happy to know that you can have one on the rocks or frozen in a variety of flavors (our pick is the classic on the rocks) for just $5.00. But we highly recommend the Texas martini, a shaken blend of tequila reposado, fresh lime and orange juices, Cointreau, and olive brine, which is served in the shaker for $9.50 during happy hour. If you like spice, opt for Hatch green chile-infused tequila.

It might be hard not to overindulge in chips and queso during happy hour, but don’t forget about the main event. You’ll want to save room for the hand-rolled tortillas, Hatch green chile, and seven varieties of enchiladas, all of which will transport you straight to Tex-Mex heaven.

6595 W. 104th Ave, Westminster, 303-469-9441