Torchy's Tacos says no to open carry after 'overwhelming customer concern'

Torchy's Tacos' first location in San Antonio opened for business early Thursday at The Shops at Lincoln Heights to a large rush of people throughout the morning and lunch time hours. Torchy's Tacos' first location in San Antonio opened for business early Thursday at The Shops at Lincoln Heights to a large rush of people throughout the morning and lunch time hours. Photo: Tyler White/San Antonio Express-News Photo: Tyler White/San Antonio Express-News Image 1 of / 14 Caption Close Torchy's Tacos says no to open carry after 'overwhelming customer concern' 1 / 14 Back to Gallery

Torchy's Tacos, an Austin-based restaurant chain with locations in San Antonio and throughout the state, said Wednesday they will not allow customers to openly carry pistols in their establishments despite a new Texas law allowing license holders to do so in public.

The law, which takes effect in Jan. 1, 2016, allows private entities such as businesses to decide whether to allow the practice on their premises. Grocery giant H-E-B and Whataburger, both based in San Antonio, have also decided they will not allow open carry.

RELATED: 9 things to know about Texas' new open carry law that takes effect on New Year's Day

"The open carry law in Texas is not an easy issue, as our involvement in it has proven. After overwhelming customer response and concern, Torchy’s Tacos will prohibit open carry in our restaurants," the chain said in a statement.

Texans have been allowed to openly carry long guns, including shotguns and semi-automatic rifles, without a license, but the new law will allow CHL holders to visibly carry pistols on their hip or in a shoulder holster.

RELATED: Taco fans line up for Torchy's Tacos opening in San Antonio

To attain a CHL in Texas, a resident must be at least 21, not have a felony conviction, pass a background check and training and safety courses, among other requirements.

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