Lubbock, get ready. Portillo’s, the Chicago-style street food favorite, is officially on its way, and it’s bringing more than just hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. This new location at Canyon West, near Texas Tech University, will showcase the brand’s “Restaurant of the Future” — a modern, streamlined approach designed for today’s diners.
The new spot will span about 6,250 square feet, right in the heart of the bustling Canyon West Shopping Center, a 155-acre hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The design is part of Portillo’s newer blueprint — slightly smaller than older locations, but smarter and more efficient, offering everything fans love with a layout that just works better.
Inside and out, there will be plenty of seating for everyone — from solo diners grabbing a quick lunch to groups enjoying a night out. And for those on the go, there will be double drive-thru lanes, pickup shelves, and a Grab and Go retail area for added convenience.
And, of course, the menu is everything you’d expect. From the famous Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches to char-grilled burgers and that legendary chocolate cake — yes, including the over-the-top cake shake — this location will deliver all the Portillo’s classics locals have been waiting for.
This “Restaurant of the Future” design is rolling out across Texas as the brand expands into cities like El Paso, Fort Worth, and Houston. Lubbock is now part of that growth — a clear sign of how important Texas has become to the company, second only to its home state of Illinois.
So, why Canyon West? It’s simple. The area is a prime spot to reach a mix of students, families, and visitors. With steady traffic from Texas Tech, nearby neighborhoods, and the growing retail and entertainment mix in the area, it’s the perfect match for Portillo’s first step into the Hub City.
The updates don’t stop with the food and layout. Expect tech-savvy features like kiosks, self-serve drink stations, and a streamlined process that makes dining in or carrying out quick and seamless.
It’s not just diners who will benefit. Portillo’s is hiring locally, offering competitive pay, daily pay options, free shift meals, and opportunities for growth — a welcome boost to the job market here in Lubbock.
Construction is already underway, with an opening planned for later this year. If you want to stay in the loop, you can sign up for email updates by selecting “Lubbock, TX” as your favorite location on the Portillo’s website.
For a city that loves good food with a local touch, Portillo’s is set to be a perfect fit. Whether you’re craving a Chicago classic, curious to see what the hype is about, or just looking for a new spot to meet friends, this restaurant promises to bring big flavor, fast service, and a fun experience — all built for the future.
