"Often blamed for popularizing an overly simplified, mass-market take on Tex-Mex, this ubiquitous fast-food chain is said to have flattened regional distinctions and cheapened the cuisine by spreading standardized, low-cost interpretations that overshadow mom-and-pop restaurants; commentators framed its influence alongside that of Mexican scholar Diana Kennedy as twin factors that have worked to reduce respect for Tex-Mex compared with styles like barbecue, and urged support for independent Texas establishments to help reclaim the cuisine’s depth and authenticity." - Amanda Kludt