Technology
Photo: Las Palapas
February 17, 2026
San Antonio-based Tex-Mex chain Las Palapas is celebrating its 45th anniversary with a digital overhaul, partnering with Paytronix to launch a new mobile app and loyalty program designed to fuel a major brand expansion.
The partnership replaces the restaurant’s legacy infrastructure with a unified tech stack, integrating online ordering, digital gift cards and AI-driven marketing tools into a single platform.
“Partnering with Paytronix was a strategic move to simplify the Las Palapas tech stack, making it more efficient and bringing more functionality,” Joseph Fain, vice president of operations for Las Palapas, said in a company press release. “This digital backbone positions us to succeed as we look to a new period of growth.”
Modernizing the guest experience
The cornerstone of the rollout is the LP Club mobile app. More than 100,000 existing loyalty members are being transitioned to the system, which allows users to:
- Earn points and unlock member-only perks.
- Manage and pay with e-gift card balances.
- Re-order favorite meals for fast pickup.
- Access location-specific promotions, such as stadium-based QR code discounts.
Fain noted that the previous system limited the brand’s promotional capabilities. With the new integration, Las Palapas can now process e-gift cards online and execute real-time marketing campaigns at live events.
Scaling for the future
The timing of the tech launch coincides with a milestone year for the company. Founded in 1981, Las Palapas operates 25 locations. The company plans to use the data-driven insights provided by Paytronix to scale the brand throughout 2026.
Adriana Zeman, vice president of customer success at Paytronix, said the integrated suite — which includes omnichannel messaging and AI insights — is built specifically for restaurant chains looking to expand without increasing back-end complexity.
“Las Palapas has the infrastructure in place to grow the business while keeping focus where it belongs: creating the best food and experience for guests,” Zeman said.
