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Tag: Houston restaurant openings

  • Openings and Closings: Recess Soon, Ninja Ramen Will Close – Houston Press

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    It’s Thanksgiving week, so things are a bit slow with restaurant openings. This week we have the wrap-up of November’s openings, plus a couple of places that you may want to hit before they close for good. 

    It’s not your McDonald’s playground, that’s for sure. Credit: Recess

    Recess, 1500 Waugh, is coming to River Oaks in early 2026. Its name suggests a playground, and that is exactly what it is, but for both kids and adults. It’s a two-story retreat with custom playscapes for little ones, plus workspaces and a full bar and bistro for parents. 

    The grown-up playground upstairs offers fun of a different kind. Credit: Recess

    The supervised play area was created by Rootlab, a Houston-based fabricator known for designing family-friendly projects with environments made for children and their parents, including installations at Houston Museum of Natural Science. Adults can work or unwind, with trained caregivers monitoring the playscapes as kids explore and play. The upstairs dining space gives parents a direct sightline to their children, plus there are smart wristbands to track each child at all times. 

    The second story space offers comfortable seating for adults to socialize or do a little computer work, while enjoying a coffee or cocktail. There will be a dining menu, as well as a dedicated kids menu. 

    Baytown has a second location of Golden Chick. Credit: Golden Chick

    Golden Chick, 2300 Main, has opened in Baytown, making number two for the area. It’s the first location for franchisee Sheazab Kapadia. The brand’s success has resulted in a strong market in its home state of Texas as well as its expansion into states throughout the south. It will be adding Nevada, Arkansas, Missouri and Arizona to its national portfolio in the coming year. 

    Currently, Houston locations of Golden Chick are donating 10 percent of sales of the Mini Funnel Cakes to local schools for classroom supplies, field trips and campus projects. The donation will continue through January 4, 2026. 

    Before it’s too late:

    Over the past couple of months, several restaurants have announced their upcoming closures. Here is a list of places that you will want to make a farewell visit to, soon. 

    Ninja Ramen is here for just another month. Credit: Zachary Churbock

    Ninja Ramen, 4219 Washington, will close December 30, according to CultureMap Houston.

    Owner Christopher Huang opened the whiskey-centric ramen bar in 2014 and many people consider it the OG of Houston ramen restaurants. However, as more and more restaurants open in Houston, some longtime establishments are seeing their business affected as diners flock to new concepts, eager for something different. 

    In January 2024, Huang posted on Facebook of the difficulties the restaurant was going through and laid out his plans to bring clientele back in with bar specials and even adding an espresso martini to its bar menu. But it was the Japanese whiskey program, along with the tasty ramen, that brought in guests originally. With more and more Americans choosing to drink less alcohol, coupled with the trend toward tiny, expensive craft cocktails, whiskey bars are seeing less consumers. 

    Huang also told CultureMap that he was working 100 hours a week and that it wasn’t worth it to keep Ninja Ramen going. The restaurant will finish out December by still hosting its annual snow party December 19 through December 21. 

    However, the closure of his whiskey and ramen joint means Huang will get to focus more on Narwhal Jousting Club, his unique burger restaurant with chef David Ramos. He even hinted at possibly expanding the concept. 

    Pico’s will have its tamales available for the holidays. Credit: Nick de la Torre

    Pico’s, 3601 Kirby, has been saying farewell since August of this year, but its actual closure is getting down to the wire. “Sometime in January 2026” is the latest prediction. Currently, it is doing Farewell Dinners including a recent taco omakase. Its yearly tamale stand is up and running right now, just in time for the holidays. It will last through January 6 of next year. It offers tamales Oaxaquenos (banana leaf) and tamales Nortenos (corn husk) by the half and full dozen. For Black Friday, Pico’s is offering buy 5 dozen, get one dozen free.

    Paulie’s and Camerata, 1834 Westheimer, will close December 31, so there’s still more than a month left for loyal fans to enjoy the home-cooked pastas and delicious paninis at Paulie’s or drop in for a glass of wine or two at Camerata.

    Restaurants Reported Open November 2025:

    Cupbop, 5116 Fairmont Parkway, opened November 14

    Doc’s Jazz Club, 1201 Westheimer, opened November 15

    Fuzzy’s Tacos and Margs, 4630 Kingwood, opened November 6

    The Henry, 700 Town and Country Boulevard, opened November 12

    Lazy Lane, 923 Wakefield, opened November 25

    Liberty Kitchen, 5212 Morningside, opened November 5

    Live Mas Cafe, 19400 Interstate 45, opened November 20

    On the Kirb, 6777 Woodlands Parkway, opened November 15

    Oru, 746 W. 24th, opened November 18

    Paris Baguette, 18203 Egret Bay Boulevard, opened November 3

    Pizza Twist, 10760 Barker Cypress, opened November 7

    Seven Sushi, 9889 Bellaire Boulevard, opened November 20

    The Taco Stand, 1503 Westheimer, opened October 30

    Tripping Tacos, 5600 Richmond, opened November 8

    Restaurants Reported Closed November 2025:

    Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, 20920 Katy Freeway, closed temporarily November 1. Reopens March 2026

    Kitsune, 13251 Jones, closed October 30

    Outback Steakhouse, 9753 FM 1960, closed early November

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Seven Sushi, Lankford’s Woodlands – Houston Press

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    Seven Sushi & Robata, 9889 Bellaire Boulevard, debuted in Bellaire November 20. The all-you-can-eat concept takes over the space of the relocated Fu Fu Restaurant in Dun Huang Plaza. It comes from husband and wife Grace and Leo Xia, the successful restaurateurs behind Duck N Bao and Hongdae 33. Like their earlier concepts, Seven Sushi is big on style, fresh seafood and premium meats. 

    Grace and Leo Xia are happy and it shows. Credit: Jenn Duncan

    Located just around the corner from Hongdae 33, its Korean AYCE hotspot, the new eatery is set in a beautifully renovated space, transformed by the same designer responsible for the Cypress and Memorial locations of Duck N Bao, as well as Hongdae 33. Traditional Japanese and Chinese architectural elements blend with modern and sleek elements like warm wood tones, stone tilework and brass accents. The Shoji-style latticework across the walls and ceiling is back-lit with red and yellow hues. A marble waterfall countertop encases the cocktail prep station, its backlighting creating a stunning illumination. 

    The design is modern, but romantic. Credit: Jenn Duncan

    The elegance of the interior elevates the AYCE experience that caters to diners at all hours of the day. The base price ($37) includes a two-hour window of unlimited ordering of its core items like nigiri, handrolls, robata skewers and chicken wings. For $20 more, guests can add premium items to the meal such as bluefin tuna, Hawaiian ribeye, Korean short rib and garlic-butter shrimp. There is also a list of premium add-ons, priced per piece. 

    We’ll take one of each, please. Credit: Jenn Duncan

    The cocktail selection features pretty drinks, created by Grace Xia, such as the Geisha 101 and the sake-based Purple Rain. There’s also a selection of beer, wine and sake. Grace said about the new venture, “The design is very different from Hongdae’s, but like all our restaurants, we’re sourcing fresh, high-quality ingredients at a fair price. We want everyone to enjoy good food at a reasonable price.”

    Her husband and partner agrees. Leo says, “When the tables fill up and guests are enjoying the food, that’s what makes me happiest.” 

    Lankford’s is known for its old fashioned burgers and cold beer. Credit: Lankford’s

    Lankford’s, 24 Waterway, is shooting to open in January 2026 in The Woodlands. Taking over the space which formerly housed Baja Cantina, it will be the third location for the longtime burger joint that was founded in 1937 as a grocery store, before becoming an icehouse and burger joint in the 1980s, when the Lankfords’ daughter Eydie took over operations. It soon became a full-fledged family restaurant and flourished under Eydie’s management. She retired in 2021, letting her son Paul Prior and his wife Jessica Prior, take over the business. 

    The couple soon expanded Lankford’s footprint with a second, more modern, location in Bellaire in May 2023. With the Woodlands location, the couple will have a fourth-generation family member, Nicolas van der Does, helping to oversee operations.

    Like the Bellaire spot, The Woodlands restaurant will offer a 12-tap self-serve beer wall. There will also be a kid-friendly milkshake bar, along with boozy options for adults. The menu will still offer its famous burgers, chicken fried steak and daily specials. 

    Lankford’s original location is going to get a coffee and wine bar next door. Credit: Lankford’s

    The Priors are also making major changes to the original Midtown restaurant, 88 Dennis, at the same time. The family has purchased the lot next door to debut a new coffee and wine bar. There will be specialty coffee drinks, light bites and  a sommelier-curated wine list. The full Lankford’s menu will also be available, along with homemade pastries from pastry chef Jenny Finch. It’s expected to debut in January 2026 as well.

    Seth Siegel-Gardner and Kent Domas team up to deliver prosecco–spiked pizza. Credit: Carla Gomez

    Lee’s Cocktail Lounge, 5117 Kelvin, has debuted its pizza menu, a tasty collaboration between Seth Siegel-Gardener and Milton’s executive chef, Kent Domas. The duo, thinking outside the pizza box, have developed a base dough that uses prosecco for a touch of sweetness and also as a fermenting agent.

    You could be having this much fun at Lee’s. Credit: Carla Gomez

    Siegel-Gardner is no stranger to the pizza game. Earlier in his career, he and his business partner Terrance Gallivan were serving up gourmet wood-fired pies at the much-missed Pass & Provisions. Now, as creative & culinary director at Local Foods Group, he’s collaborating with Chef Domas on a new culinary program at Lee’s offering pizza they describe as a cross between Neapolitan and New York-style.

    Get on board the Spritz train. Credit: Carla Gomez

    The 10-inch pizzas aren’t just enhanced by bubbly prosecco, they are topped with high-quality ingredients that range from classic to exotic. Yes, you can have a pepperoni or margherita version, but there’s also pesto saltimbocca with chicken and prosciutto, or truffle; topped with black and king trumpet mushrooms. The truffle gets even more luxe with a shaving of white and black truffles on top. There’s also a leeks vinaigrette pie that echoes the flavors of Europe with its brown butter-roasted hazelnuts, celeriac, fontina cheese and aged balsamic. Instead of basil, it’s garnished with celery leaves.

    There are also Italian-inspired cocktails and a whole lotta spritzes.

    Outback Steakhouse, 9753 FM 1960, has closed, according to atascocita.com. We have reached out for more information.

    New menu items are just some of the changes at Traveler’s Cart. Credit: Andrew Hemingway

    Traveler’s Cart, 1401 Montrose Boulevard, has switched to full service this week, transitioning from its previous counter-style operations. The change comes nearly a year after the restaurant made its debut as a fast casual eatery focused on global cuisine. Owners Thy and Matthew Mitchell, who also own the more upscale Traveler’s Table, wanted to integrate more hospitality and staff interaction into the experience by incorporating hosts, servers and a reservation system. 

    Matthew Mitchell says that hospitality is about connection, adding, “We want every guest to feel welcomed, valued, and part of something special- as if they are travelers being welcomed into our home- and that experience begins with a friendly face at the door and great service throughout the visit.” Mitchell and his wife, Thy, were recently named Houston Restaurateurs of the Year by the Texas Restaurant Association at its 2025 Golden Fork Awards. 

    Thy and Matthew Mitchell pose with their newly acquired tuk tuk. Credit: Andrew Hemingway

    As part of its evolution, the restaurant is also adding a few new menu items as well, like Thai Chili Queso, Baja Shrimp Tacos and Steak Frites. Other new dishes include Vietnamese Cha Cha, Salmon Donburi and Chicken Parmesan. On the cocktail side, a Mexican Espresso Martini and Pandan Sticky Rice Old Fashioned join the creative cocktail offerings. 

    The duo collaborated with Raja Sweets and Pok Pok  Po for its recent Diwali celebration and there are more to come. Other adventures on the horizon include chef pop-ups, a Weekday Getaway Happy Hour and late Night at Traveler’s Cart. 

    Another Cypress location of Pizza Twist is under construction. Credit: Lorretta Ruggiero

    Pizza Twist, 10760 Barker Cypress, celebrated its grand opening November 7 in Cypress and it is soon to be joined by another location on Jones Road at Grant, in the east Cypress area. The Indian fusion pizza chain was founded in 2014 by Harpreet Dahyia in Sacramento, California. It began franchising in 2017 and has now spread nationwide and globally. Currently, there are three locations in the Greater Houston area including the new Cypress store, plus Sugar Land and Conroe. 

    Indian fusion pizza is trending right now, but Houstonians got their first taste of it when Bombay Pizza Company opened downtown in 2009. Unfortunately, it shuttered during the pandemic. In the past couple of years, however, numerous Indian pizza places have sprouted up like Naan Pizza Co., Curry Pizza House, Ashay’s Pizza, The Curry Pizza Co., and more. Many of them have set up shop in Houston’s suburbs, delivering both traditional and fusion pies. 

    Pizza Twist’s menu features Italian pizzas like pepperoni and supreme, but also flavor combos such as bbq chicken and Hawaiian. Its Indian-inspired creations include butter chicken, chicken tikka masala and curry veggie. There are also naan pizzas, chicken wings and fusion pastas like the Palak Paneer Pastatwist. 

    Kitsune, 13251 Jones, closed October 30, citing the reason as “personal”, according to its Facebook page. Unfortunately, the location seems to be cursed by bad luck as it has been two Chinese restaurants, a sushi bar and barbecue joint over the past fifteen years. Oddly, they all seemed to get good reviews, including Kitsune, which was an all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant.

    There’s already a sign advertising its next tenant, Cypress Sunrise Cafe. Here’s hoping it has better luck when it debuts.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Lazy Lane, On the Kirb and Bari #2 – Houston Press

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    Lazy Lane, 923 Wakefield, will open November 25 in the Garden Oaks/Oak Forest neighborhood. It comes from Doke Concepts, the hospitality group behind Heights & Co., a restaurant and patio bar on Yale. The newest concept has been in the works for several years, with owner Brian Doke bringing in a team of industry professionals to elevate the dining and bar scene in the area.

    Joining Doke in the venture are Evin Wood, operating partner, and general manager Taylor Stephenson. Leading the kitchen is chef/partner Daniel Davidson whose impressive resume includes Michelin-starred California establishments French Laundry, Meadowood and Saison.  

    The menu blends French and Italian flavors with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Credit: Brian Kennedy

    Davidson’s menu melds classic comfort food with global influences, relying on local and seasonal ingredients to make the dishes shine. Guests will find healthy items like Farro & Brassica Salad, made with farro from Anson Mills, plus Smoked Pasta, Davidson’s take on carbonara, flavored by an olive-oil poached egg yolk. As a nod to Houston’s love of bold flavors, the Birria Beef Peccheri Pasta is a dish of birria-braised beef, chile de arbol brodo (broth) and cilantro chutney.

    The restaurant’s dry-aged meat program will satisfy the carnivorous cravings of Texans with its Cast Iron Filet and Dry Aged Bone-In Ribeye for Two. On Friday and Saturday nights, the ribeye comes with two complimentary martinis. There are also handcrafted pizzas, made with two-day fermented dough using imported Italian flour. 

    The cocktail program includes beautiful drinks like this Parisian Mojito. Credit: Brian Kennedy

    Martinis are stars in the cocktail program with sweet versions like the lychee-fig vodka and a savory option with blue cheese-infused vodka and house-stuffed olives. Signature cocktails include the Parisian Mojito and Endless Summer Margarita. The curated wine list will soon include Lazy Lane’s house label, expected to launch in December. 

    The restaurant itself spans 4,000 square feet, with tall ceilings and large windows, plus a 25-foot marble bar that serves as a focal point in the open area. It connects to a private dining room with a retractable glass wall. The private space can also be extended to the outdoor veranda. 

    On the Kirb raises the bar on sports bar cuisine. Credit: Becca Wright

    On the Kirb, 6777 Woodlands Parkway, opens November 15. It’s the 5th location for the organic eatery and sports bar, which takes over the former home of an El Tiempo restaurant. The 6,000 square-foot space has been completely renovated, echoing the rustic charm of its other locations. However, the Woodlands spot, with its 2,000 square-foot patio, will be the largest location for the brand. 

    First opened on Kirby in 2016, it offered an alternative type of sports bar where guests could enjoy a cold beer and the Big Game, while also indulging in elevated bar fare that was fresh, responsibly-sourced and still craveworthy. Yes there are wings and fries, but they’re cooked in beef tallow, instead of seed oils. There are still sports bar favorites like giant pretzels and burgers, but there are also entree salads and handcrafted pizzas. The menu features plenty of  vegan, keto and low-carb options, as well. OTK also offers daily specials like Organic Taco Tuesday and Wednesday Steak Night with grass-fed beef. 

    A full bar and a wall of wine takes the sports bar premise to a new level at On the Kirb.

    On tap, there are a number of local craft beers, but the bar also has a line-up of signature cocktails and a thoughtfully-constructed wine selection. 

    Owner Joe Arbeely says he is thrilled to bring OTK’s fresh approach to the sports bar scene to The Woodlands. “From ample TVs to catch your favorite team to premium outdoor space and bar food you can feel good about indulging in, we’re confident On the Kirb is going to be a great add to the dining scene in this community.”

    Bari makes it rain with the Truffle Pasta. Credit: Becca Wright

    Bari Ristorante, 24 Waterway Ave., is expected to open in early 2026 in The Woodlands. It’s the second location of the upscale Italian restaurant that first debuted in River Oaks in May 2023. It’s part of Bari Hospitality Group, led by industry experts Pedro Teyuca and Tommy Nally. The group also acquired Georgia James from Underbelly Hospitality in late 2024. 

    Bari is coming to The Woodlands next year. Credit: Bari Hospitality Group

    At the helm of the kitchen is Certified Master Italian Chef Renato de Pirro, who brings over three decades of experience in restaurants across Italy and the United States. Many of the River Oaks favorites will be on the The Woodlands menu, including many of its tableside pasta dishes like the Truffle Pasta which is finished in a giant wheel of parmigiano reggiano, then topped with freshly-shaved truffles. Other tableside spectacles include its Chateaubriand, a center-cut filet that is first cooked in the pizza oven, then flambeed at the table. 

    Bari’s ink squid taglioni is handmade. Credit: Becca Wright

    The pasta is made in-house for dishes like Pappardelle Bolognese and Tagliolini Neri, a squid ink pasta in vodka sauce and there are delicious seafood plates such as Mediterranean sea bass cooked in rock salt. The upcoming Woodlands location will have an expanded selection of premium meat cuts as well. 

    You know you’re in Texas at Woody’s Hideaway. Credit: Michael Ma

    Woody’s Hideaway, 1128 W. Dallas, is shooting to open in December in Conroe. Part of Woody’s Brands, the company behind Texas sports bar Little Woodrow’s, it will join two other locations, one in Houston and another in Midland, Texas. 

    Part sports bar, part entertainment venue, Woody’s Hideaway features a variety of game options from Full Swing golf simulator bays to multiple pro-size Diamond 7 pool tables. Multiple televisions, augmented reality darts, outdoor games, karaoke and signature cocktails add to the fun.

    You won’t miss a game with all these screens. Credit: Michael Ma

    The food menu has bar faves like wings, fried pickles, crispy Philly eggrolls and Frito Pie sliders, plus the Hideaway Burger and Cajun Hot Chicken Sandwich, for reasonable prices. In addition to cold beers on tap and by the bottle, there are signature cocktails like the Tee Time, with gin, grapefruit and St. Germain, plus mocktails such as Cherried Away and Faux Loma. We’re eyeing the Boozy Orange Dreamsicle on its Dirty Sodas list. 

    It’s getting closer and closer. Credit: Lorretta Ruggiero

    Swamp Spot, 12220 Jones, is getting closer to opening. Lights are on, signage is hung and the interior is almost near completion. That’s about all we know. Two frozen machines were spotted, so it’s highly likely that there will be frozen cocktails.

    Carla’s has coffee and cocktails. Credit: Lorretta Ruggiero

    Carla’s Coffeehouse, 12218 Jones, opened a couple of months ago in the same strip center as Swamp Spot. It’s a coffeehouse by day, cocktail bar by night, with coffee drinks like cappuccino, cold brew and a sweet potato pie latte that’s getting rave reviews. For nosh, there are croissants, brownies, cookies and waffles. The cocktail menu includes an espresso martini, along with its signature Golden Harvest, a margarita with the flavors of cinnamon, peach and brown sugar.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Maison Chinoise, Murray’s Pizza – Houston Press

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    Maison Chinoise, 1958 W. Gray, opens October 31 in River Oaks. It’s the second Texas location of the modern Chinese restaurant from Lombardi Family Concepts and the group has brought in some stellar talent to launch the new business. Leading the kitchen is executive chef Jordan He, a native of Shanxi, China, whose extensive experience includes a decade-long stint at Wynn Las Vegas. He served as chef de cuisine at Wing Lei, which was the first North American Chinese restaurant to earn a Michelin Star. He also worked with Hakkasan Group in Miami and Los Angeles earlier in his career. 

    The interior was designed by Houston design firm NDD Design, with Dany Daniel. Credit: Becca Wright

    The menu at Maison Chinoise blends contemporary and authentic Chinese culinary traditions, focusing on dim sum and dumplings like xiao long bao (pork dumplings) and pan-fried chicken buns. There are starters like coconut milk bread, crispy rock shrimp and Sichuan salt & pepper lamb lollipops, fragrant with ginger, cumin and five-spice. Specialties include wagyu beef and truffled fried rice, pan-seared Chilean sea bass and Imperial Peking Duck, a showstopper for two to four guests, complete with Mandarin crepes, pickled papayas, sweet bean sauce and more. 

    For dessert there’s an ube Nutella bao and Texas pecan dumplings, a sweet version of xiao long bao with caramel pecan and apple compote. 

    The outdoor conservatory patio faces the glitz of River Oaks. Credit: Becca Wright

    The cocktail menu draws on Asian ingredients to complement the dining menu with drinks like Lychee Luck, made with vodka, pomegranate, yuzu, sugar and lychee. Other cocktails include the Pandan Express Martini and Aloe Can You Go, a concoction of mezcal, passionfruit, lime and aloe liqueur. 

    The launch begins with dinner service, followed by lunch November 3 and brunch service soon after. 

    We want our husband to open a restaurant named after us that serves this kind of menu. Credit: Michael Ma

    Murray’s Pizza & Wine, 9655 Katy Freeway, opens October 24 in Memorial, right next to a newly-opened location of Leaf & Grain, its sister restaurant. Both concepts come from founder Deets Hoffman, who named his newest venture after his wife, Murray. 

    The idea came about when Hoffman took over the former Texadelphia space to open a new location of his concept Leaf & Grain. The space was twice the size needed so he decided to split it in two and open a pizza concept, showcasing the sourdough expertise that the team has acquired over the years at Leaf & Grain. 

    Murray’s Pizza has a welcoming vibe, along with pizza and wine. Credit: Michael Ma

    The restaurant will serve artisan pizzas made with long-fermented dough, using Barton Springs Mill flour which is milled in Texas. Using a number of locally-sourced ingredients, the pizza menu includes Sausage alla Vodka, with whipped ricotta, and Not-Hawaiian, a spicy pie topped with salami piccante, pickled shallot and pineapple-infused hot honey. 

    In addition to the specialty pizzas, there are small plates like hamachi-salmon crudo, focaccia Genovese with burrata, white bean hummus and a meatball made with Black Angus beef and Duroc pork. The dessert menu offers horchata tiramisu and Italian bread pudding with locally-made gelato.

    The hamachi-salmon crudo is elevated cuisine for a pizza place. Credit: Michael Ma

    The wine list has been thoughtfully curated with natural wines from boutique producers, as well as locally-sourced choices from Padre’s Wine. There are also local craft beers and signature cocktails such as Frozen Blood Orange Negroni and Murray’s Spritz. Local hospitality veteran Derek P. Brown, formerly of Riel, consulted on the bar program, including its Aperitiki selection that combines Italian aperitivos with tiki elements. 

    Colorful ingredients make for healthy eating at Leaf & Grain. Credit: Kirsten Gilliam

    Leaf & Grain, 9655 Katy Freeway, opened in Memorial October 18, just ahead of the adjacent Murray’s Pizza. It’s the sixth location of the family-friendly restaurant that offers chef-curated salads, sandwiches and bowls that are full of nutrition and flavor. The menu puts an emphasis on carefully-sourced proteins and fresh produce. 

    The Memorial location is as colorful as the food. Credit: Michael Ma

    The tightly-curated menu features items like The Alamo grain bowl with avocado, house Texas cheese blend, cherry tomatoes, black beans, roasted cage-free chicken and totopos (nixtamalized corn tortilla chips) from Victoria Elizondo at Cochinita & Co. There are salads like the Thai-ger King, with romaine, roasted chicken, mango and almond lemongrass sauce, plus the Pesto Sandwich. 

    Guests also have the option of customizing their bowls and salads with different types of greens and grains, plus a variety of standard toppings like corn and tomatoes, as well as premium choices including warm chickpeas, roasted vegetables and avocado. There are 11 different dressings such as tzatziki, Caesar and avocado vinaigrette. 

    Owner Deets Hoffman and head of operations Edward Thompson pose at the new Memorial location. Credit: Michael Ma

    Owner Deets Hoffman said that the restaurant has been trying to expand into the Memorial area for the past decade. “I grew up ten minutes from here, so this neighborhood holds a lot of sentimental value…We love the Memorial community and are excited to bring Leaf & Grain to the neighborhood as a go-to spot for fresh, chef-driven, healthy meals.”

    A classic martini deserves a classy ambiance. Credit: Eberhard Social House

    Eberhard Social House, 1216 W. Clay, opened October 21 in the Harlow District.  It’s the newest concept from The Kirby Group, known for its Houston hotspots like Heights Bier Garten and Wooster’s Garden. Eberhard is a bit more refined, with a sophisticated and elegant two-story lounge that offers a main bar on the ground floor and an intimate seating area upstairs. 

    The second story has a bird’s eye view of the bar and lounge. Credit: Joel Ramirez

    With ambient lighting and plush upholstery, guests can linger over cocktails like Playa Padre, a spicy tropical tequila drink, or the slightly suggestive Linen Sheets, made with vodka, lychee, probiotic liquid yogurt (for stamina), lychee liqueur, cherry blossom cordial and lime. There’s also a fruity mocktail, Rose Prickly Pear Spritz, which gets its bubbles from Topo Chico and a kick from a rim of smoked salt. 

    Though its wine list and cocktail menu are on the luxury side of pricing, befitting its posh atmosphere, there is a happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with drink specials, light bites and charcuterie boards. 

    Dress to impress. 

    Kolache Shoppe can satisfy both sweet and savory cravings. Credit: Becca Wright

    Kolache Shoppe, 10321 Katy Freeway, opened last week in Memorial, joining the bustling community that seems to be constantly booming with new businesses and eateries. It’s the fourth for the Greater Houston area and it’s a joint partnership between owners Randy and Lucy Hines and director of operations Michael Horne.

    Franchisee Michael Horne and Kolache Shoppe owner Randy Hines are all smiles at the new location. Credit: Becca Wright

    Randy and Lucy Hines took over the bakery from founder Erwin Ahrens in 2014. The kolache shop had been in operation since 1970 and Randy Hines learned the original recipe for the fluffy pastry from Ahrens. Over the years, the bakery has added collaborations and new versions of the kolaches(sweet) and klobasnikys (savory), but have kept the legacy of the original dough recipe. 

    The display of kolaches and koblasnek is a thing of beauty. Credit: Becca Wright

    Customers will find sweet options like fruit and cheese-filled kolache, plus savory items like smoked brisket, egg and cheddar or kielbasa, cheese and jalapeno. The Memorial location serves Boomtown Coffee with drip, espresso and specialty brews. It will also offer monthly specials like its sister locations. 

    In November, the bakery will have a number of grand opening events like Loyalty Member Appreciation Day November 3, Early Bird Gift Cards November 4, and BOGO pastries on Customer Appreciation Day November 6. 

    The Rustic is relocating. Credit: The Rustic

    The Rustic, 1836 Polk, will close its current location at the end of 2025 to prepare for relocation, as the George R. Brown Convention Center begins its expansion process. When completed, The Rustic will be located at 1718 Jackson, next to the expanded GRB wing, putting it closer to the Toyota Center as well. The new location is expected to open in winter 2026. 

    Once the venue opens, it will have expanded on-site parking (hallelujah!) and a dedicated rideshare pick-up and drop-off area. 

    Until its planned shuttering, The Rustic will continue with serving up daily live music, frosty cocktails and tasty Texas cuisine. 

    The Garden Avocado bagel is full of deliciousness. Credit: Einstein Bros. Bagel

    Einstein Bros. Bagels, 14090 FM 2920, had its grand opening October 21 in Tomball. Part of Panera Brands, the bagel and breakfast sandwich shop has seen quite an expansion in the Greater Houston area. It opened locations in Katy and Conroe this past summer and there is a soon-to-open store at 5706 San Felipe.

    The menu includes 15 different bagel flavors including blueberry, everything, spinach Florentine, and pretzel. It also has a variety of cream cheese schmears like country pepper, jalapeno salsa and strawberry. But don’t worry. Purists can still get a plain bagel with plain cream cheese. 

    A picture is worth a thousand words. Credit: Einstein Bros. Bagels

    Its bagel breakfast sandwiches can be straight forward like the bacon, egg and cheese, or for folks who aren’t watching their calories, there’s the Maplehouse, a maple French toast bagel smeared with almond honey cream cheese and loaded with pork sausage, bacon, egg, and cheddar. The kitchen throws in some syrup for an extra messy experience. 

    There are lunch bagel sandwiches, too, including Nova Lox and Avocado Veg-Out. 

    Chef Jane Wild is baking up more than just pies. Credit: Giselle Morales Photography

    Jane & The Lion Bakehouse, 4721 N. Main, will softly launch its dinner service Halloween weekend. The first service will open October 31. Following its launch weekend, it will serve dinner Thursday, Friday and Saturday with two seatings, 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. There are 30 openings per seating, by reservation only.

    Chef Jane Wild opened the bakery this past April and has been blooming in phases. The line up of fresh-baked, pastries, pies and breads has been joined by breakfast sandwiches, biscuits and fritters. With the new seasonal suppers, guests will get to enjoy three courses from a chalkboard-style menu that offers guests two to four options per course. 

    Wild said in a press release, “My team and I are building a restaurant that feels like opening the doors to our own homestead. From sourdough and vinegars to pastries and seasonal savory plates, there are no shortcuts, no fillers, no seed oils, no so no CRAP.” She added, “Very little goes to waste and our farmers are our pantry. Oh, and we’ve got a pantry for you!”

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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  • Openings and Closings: H Town’s Zaranda Opens – Houston Press

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    Zaranda, 1550 Lamar, opens to the public October 18 at 4 p.m. Located in the Norton Rose Fulbright Tower across from Downtown Houston’s Discovery Green Park, It will join H Town Restaurant Group’s line-up of acclaimed restaurants including Hugo’s, Caracol, URBE, Xochi and the soon-to-reopen Back Street Cafe. 

    The news of a new Hugo Ortega restaurant always gets Houston gourmands excited. The James Beard Award-winning chef and his equally lauded wife, and restaurateur, Tracy Vaught, have created some of the most loved and visited restaurants in the city. While Houston has always had a plethora of Tex-Mex eateries and authentic taqueria, Ortega’s foray into the culinary scene in Houston has introduced diners to authentic Mexican flavors with modernity and refinement. From traditional Oaxacan dishes to seafood plates inspired by the Mexican coast, Ortega elevates the cuisine beyond guests’ expectations.

    Chef Hugo Ortega (center) is flanked by talent, with sous chef Paula Gutierrez and head chef Adrian Caballero. Credit: Nick de la Torre

    Ortega does not stand alone in his ventures, however. Along with his wife Vaught, who has received an Outstanding Restaurateur semi-finalist nod from JBA four times, Ortega has chefs Adrian Caballero and Paula Gutierrez helping to execute the menu and lead the kitchen.   Ortega’s brother, Ruben Ortega, who was a James Beard Award finalist for Outstanding Pastry Chef in 2022, is the executive pastry chef for H Town and he will be assisted by lead pastry chef Roxy Puga. 

    The concept is based on Las Californias, a term once used to describe the region from Northern California to Cabo San Lucas. Alta California, or “Upper California,” was annexed by the United States after the Mexican-American War, eventually becoming the 31st state in 1850. Baja California, or the lower region, remained part of Mexico. It is the bounty of produce and abundance of seafood in these beautiful areas that inspires the menu at Zaranda.

    The School of Fish cocktail is giving off tropical ocean vibes. Credit: Paula Murphy

    Hugo Ortega says, “ I wanted to reimagine the region as one vast, natural expanse, without consideration of borders.” And it’s not only the food that inspired Ortega, but also his family’s immigration to California, though Hugo himself settled in Houston instead. Over the years, he has traveled around Mexico extensively to bring back to his adopted city authentic Mexican flavors and traditional techniques. Even the name itself, Zaranda, is based on the traditional wire basket used to cook seafood over open flames. 

    Who knew soft shell oysters was a thing? Credit: Paula Murphy

    The zarandeado technique will be used to showcase fresh seafood like lobster, octopus, shrimp and fish, plus more exotic aquatic treasures like abalone, geoduck and sea urchin. There will also be dishes that pay homage to the Mexican vaqueros who helped to create a thriving ranching culture in the region. Guests will find premium beef cuts along with plates like Borrego Tatemado, charred, slow-cooked lamb. Paella-like dishes will highlight seafood, meat and vegetables as well. 

    The wine list at Zaranda, curated by sommelier Elvis Espinoza, will introduce guests to wines they may not be very familiar with, including varietals from both the Alta and Baja areas. In addition to more well-known regions like Napa, Sonoma, Russian River and Cisneros, the offerings will include Mexican wines from the Valle de Guadalupe. 

    Carlos Serrano will lead the craft cocktail program. With over 20 years of experience with H Town Restaurant group, his expertise means guests will find unique flavor profiles and unexpected ingredients. 

    Zaranda brings a taste of Las Californias to Houston. Credit: Paula Murphy

    The restaurant’s interior was designed by Christina Wilburn of gin design group and takes advantage of its park setting. With floor-to-ceiling windows and light wood finishes, the dining room is bright and airy, giving diners a feel that they have been transported to the California coast. There is an outdoor patio for watching the action at Discovery Green as well as two private dining spaces. 

    Mikki’s Soul Food Cafe is taking over the former home of This is It. Credit: Gwendolyn Knapp

    Houston This is It, 2712 Blodgett, closed its doors October 12 in the Third Ward. It is slated to reopen as Mikki’s Soul Food Cafe October 26 with a grand opening celebration. Owner Craig Joseph Sr. is passing This is It to his son Craig Joseph Jr. who, along with his sister Jeanelle Williams, owns and operates two locations of Mikki’s in Houston and in Pearland. The duo took over the restaurant after the passing of their mother and its founder, Jeanette Williams, in 2019. The legacy is simply changing hands and names, but will still remain part of the family’s culinary portfolio.

    The surprising announcement was made via its Facebook page with many devoted customers bemoaning the shuttering. However, locals will still be able to find satisfying soul food when Mikki’s opens. Also, the Humble location of This is It, which opened in 2023, remains in operation.

    Founded in 1959 in the Fourth Ward originally, the restaurant made a move to its Blodgett location in 2010. It has continued in the family for four generations and many members of the extended family hold various positions in the business. 

    Known for its oxtails, smothered pork chops and fried chicken, the restaurant was popular among locals, but also celebrities. Houston natives Beyonce and her former band mate, Kelly Rowland, were fans and former First Lady Jill Biden made a visit to the iconic comfort food eatery in November 2022, accompanied by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and the late congresswoman, Sheila Jackson Lee. 

    Tender barbecued ribs get a Thai twist at Charm. Credit: Raydon Creative

    Charm Taphouse & BBQ, 525 Woodlands Square Boulevard, will celebrate its grand opening October 25 in Conroe, after launching last month. Owners Wanalee and Adam Gorelick already operate several local concepts including Charm Thai Kitchen & Bar in The Woodlands, as well as Charm Thai Bistro and Noe’s Cafe in Spring. 

    Charm Taphouse has a brisket sandwich and red curry mac and cheese. Credit: Raydon Creative

    The restaurant has an extensive menu of traditional barbecue like slow-cooked brisket and pulled pork, as well as traditional Thai dishes, including pad see ew and pad kee mao. Some of the menu items are fusions of both cuisines with plates like Tex-Thai BBQ Fried Rice and Charm Special Red Curry Brisket. The red curry even shows up in that barbecue staple, mac and cheese. Green beans are served tom yum-style and there are appetizers such as chicken satay and pork belly bao buns. The house-made sausages are infused with Thai flavors like basil and peanuts. 

    True to its taphouse name, there is a wide selection of Texas craft beers, plus an impressive whiskey list and signature cocktails. 

    The Bell and Crane, 908 Henderson, is having a grand opening celebration October 18, starting at 7 p.m. Guests can order tickets for custom bbq plates, provided by nearby shop and restaurant, Henderson & Kane. The tickets include a swag pack, reserved seating and three cocktails. There will also be music from DJ Waldo. Tickets are not necessary to enter the bar, but then you don’t get any barbecue or swag.

    The new concept is a rebrand for owner and bartender Ashley Bell. The space once housed Henderson Heights, but Bell bought the bar in 2023 and operated it as Hendo’s for a couple of years, according to CulturemapHouston.

    Guests can expect neon lights, craft cocktails and a spacious outdoor patio.

    When it’s hot outside, 7 Brew has cool smoothies and frappes. Credit: Photo by Abby Gowen

    7 Brew, 16968 Concord, will open in Conroe November 3. It’s the 8th stand-alone stand in the Greater Houston area, if you count that bustling city north of us as part of the Houston sprawl. There will be a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m., along with a $10,000 check presentation to Texas Children’s Hospital Woodlands Campus. 

    Located in the Harpers Preserve enclave, the drive-thru coffee stand offers a multitude of beverage options for thirsty travelers or commuters looking for a caffeine buzz. It has a variety of coffee and espresso drinks, teas, sodas and its signature chillers and energy-infused drinks, plus smoothies and shakes. 

    The opening week will host “Friends and Family” hours, followed by a Swag Day on November 13 from 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.. Check its website for more information for dates and times. 

    Owned and operated by franchise group Texas Coffee partners, the new location is part of the group’s expansion across Texas. In addition to Houston, Texas Coffee Partners has opened successful stands in Austin and San Antonio.

    Buy a combo, get some swag, while supplies last. Credit: Photo by Raising Cane’s

    Raising Cane’s is having grand reopening celebrations for three of its Greater Houston locations. Each store underwent a complete transformation with new signage, updated colors and refreshed design details like new seating and artwork.

    The first is the newly remodeled location at 7531 Westheimer October 18. Beginning at 10 a.m., the first 50 customers in line will receive a swag bag and a box combo card. The card is limited to one per combo purchase and does not include the kids combos. The same deal will be offered at 1501 Research Forest in Shenandoah October 25, while Pearland’s grand reopening, 1601 Broadway, will take place November 1 with the same giveaway offers, plus a fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the Pride of Pearland Marching Band.

    The chicken finger restaurant now has 52 Houston area locations after making its debut in the city in 2005.

    The Best Friends Rendezvous just needs some wine or bubbles to complete the party. Credit: Randolph Daniels-Kolin

    A Cheese Affair, 5302 Morningside, opened September 13 in Rice Village. The cheese shop is modeled on a French fromagerie, full of glass cases displaying cheeses from the United States, Italy, England, and of course, France. In fact, the shop is the first U.S. member of La Federation des Fromagerie de France.

    What cheesy delights await? Credit: Randolph Daniels-Kolin

    Owner Randolph Daniels-Kolin says that the shop stocks more than 100 cheeses and there are plans to add even more. But humankind cannot live on cheese alone, though some of us may try. The store also offers all the necessary treats to create a stunning charcuterie board including salumi, jams, local honey and crackers. There is also a selection of wine to pair with the meats and cheese.

    Daniels-Kolin and his crew have also begun creating pre-designed boards and now have six on offer, from a truffle-centric option to a board curated for blue cheese aficionados. For Daniels-Kolin, the shop is a dream come true and he wants to share his joy. He said, “The beautiful thing is everyone that comes by leaves with a smile on their face.”

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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  • Openings and Closings: Sparrow Italia is Coming, Cyclone Anaya’s Tanglewood Departs – Houston Press

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    Sparrow Italia, 2000 Post Oak Boulevard, will be one of the new tenants at Central Park Post Oak, a 17-acre mixed use development from Midway that broke ground this past April. The project is expected to be completed by Fall 2026, with the restaurant’s debut following soon after. Another high-vis restaurant, The Henry from Fox Restaurants, will also join the development. 

    Wagyu is here, there and everywhere. Credit: Anthony Nader

    The Italian steakhouse is part of the Noble 33 hospitality group and was first launched in London’s Mayfair district in 2022. It expanded with a second restaurant in Miami in 2024. In addition to its upcoming Houston location, there are plans to open Sparrow Italia in New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood. 

    The Italian-inspired menu features dishes like grilled branzino with Sicilian pistachios and Mikey’s Spicy Rigatoni alla Vodka. Its signature The B.I.G. Meatball is a half pound of A5 wagyu in arrabiata sauce. Sparrow’s steak selection offers premium cuts including a six-ounce prime rib cap and a massive 34-ounce prime Fiorentina. 

    Guests get a snack with the C.R.E.A.M. cocktail. Credit: Anthony Nader

    Leading the cocktail program is Juan Carlos Santana, beverage director for Noble 33. His accolades include being a Michelin Guide “Exceptional Cocktails” award-winner and he is also a certified sommelier. Patrons can expect Italian inspiration in beverages like C.R.E.A.M., a clarified milk punch with basil and tomato juice or The O.D.B., a vodka martini infused with Calabrian chilis, housemade spicy pickle brine, Cocchi Americano and chili oil. 

    When the Houston location opens, it will join another Noble 33 concept, Toca Modera, which opened its Houston spot in 2024. The restaurant group also plans to open a location of Meduza Mediterrania off Allen Parkway in 2026. 

    Crawfish Cafe and Pho Prime will share an outrageously unique space in Bellaire. Credit: Arterior Studios

    Mamba Hospitality Group launched this month under the ownership and operation of Kiet Duong and Julie Nguyen. The married couple founded their Viet-Cajun concept Crawfish Cafe in Bellaire in 2013 and have since added four more locations across the Houston Metro area.

    Earlier this year, they debuted Pho Prime, a Vietnamese Restaurant with three locations. However, the duo closed the Galleria spot this past August along with their original Bellaire location of Crawfish Cafe in June, in order to renovate the Bellaire space and create a dual concept location for both. The Bellaire space is shooting to open in late December or early January. The couple also operate Ocean Palace, a large dim sum restaurant in Bellaire.

    Kiet Duong and Julie Nguyen have big plans on the horizon. Credit: Christine Nguyen

    The new dual concept space is just the beginning of the Mamba Hospitality expansion. For 2026, there are plans to grow the corporate team and to build an infrastructure that can support its very busy crawfish season. Going forward, Duong and Nguyen, along with team members Xenia Martiniez, Vanessa Huynh and Luis Martiniez, plan to implement a rewards loyalty program as well as initiatives for a Viet-Cajun catering service and a franchise expansion in 2026. 

    Maison Chinoise is expanding to Houston. Credit: Lombardi Family Concepts

    Maison Chinoise, 1958 W. Gray, is slated to open this winter in River Oaks. The contemporary Chinese restaurant comes from Lombardi Family Concepts, a Dallas-founded company that operates local establishments like Lombardi Cucina Italiana and Toulouse, as well as Texas restaurants like The Baci Room in Austin and Lounge 31 and Taverna in Dallas. It also opened its first location of Maison Chinoise in Dallas. 

    Leading the kitchen will be executive chef Jordan He. Raised in China, the chef has spent more than a decade working in world-class fine dining restaurants such as Wing Lei at Wynn Las Vegas and taking on leadership roles with renowned hospitality companies like Hakkasan Group. The menu will offer dishes like Imperial Peking Duck and xiao long bao. 

    The space has been designed by NDD Design, a Houston firm, that has created a contemporary interior inspired by traditional Chinese aesthetics. The 3,700 square-foot restaurant will also feature a 900-square-foot-patio. 

    Coco has more than crepes.
    Coco Crepes has more than just crepes. Credit: Becca Wright

    Coco Crepes & Coffee, 24818 Morton Ranch, is now open in Katy and will celebrate its grand opening October 16. Located at The Market at Katy Park, the 2,500 square-foot cafe anchors the strip center corner and features floor-to-ceiling windows, a warm interior and an open patio. 

    For the grand opening, the first 100 guests through the door October 16 will receive free small drip coffee for 100 days.  The shop will also be giving out free t-shirts and hats while supplies last. Guests will also receive a choice of a free Duffin, Nutella Crepe or Berry Berry Smoothie from 7 a.m,. to 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

    Get there early to grab a comfy spot. Credit: Becca Wright

    The menu at Coco offers sweet crepes like Cinnamon Roll and S’mores, plus savory versions such as Merguez Moroccan Sausage and Chicken + Spinach. There are also waffles, soups, salads and paninis. 

    It’s the 10th location for the locally-owned concept founded by chef and restaurateur Youssef Nafaa in 2005. Nafaa owns and operates Bella Restaurant Groups known for Mia Bella, ZOA and Mi Luna. 

    There are still six open locations to get your Cyclone Anaya’s fix. Credit: Jenn Duncan

    Cyclone Anaya’s, 5761 Woodway, has closed its doors after more than 20 years of operation in the Tanglewood area. The shuttering does not affect the other six locations.

    We have reached out for more information regarding the sudden closure. 

    Brisket is available as a sandwich and much more. Credit: Quit Nguyen

    Truboy BBQ, 8035 Highway 6, opens October 9 in Missouri City. It’s the first brick and mortar for the hala barbecue company that has previously been focused on shipping its smoked brisket and ribs nationwide. 

    Jereis Khawaja is opening his first brick and mortar. Credit: Quit Nguyen

    Founded by Houston native Jereis Khawaja, the project originally began when the young entrepreneur and aficionado of smoked meats began packaging ready-to-eat barbecue for Denver Broncos tailgates while living in Colorado. It soon blossomed into a larger business model with wholesale shipping across the U.S. and Canada. Truboy now provides supplies to more than 70 restaurants including Abu Omar, Mad Dogs and Dripped Birria. 

    The new storefront will have both dine-in and take-out options including a grab and go market with frozen meals. For guests, there are build-your-own options in which diners can customize meals with a choice of BBQ sliced brisket, chopped brisket or pulled chicken. There are sandwiches, melts, burritos, paratha wraps and bowls. 

    Trufans can load up on Truboy merch along with halal barbecue. Credit: Quit Nguyen

    For take and bake, there are brisket eggrolls, beef ribs, jumbo brisket tamales and more. There are also spices, treats and plenty of Truboy merch.

    The grand opening begins at 1 p.m. with a ribbon cutting, followed by a public opening at 3 p.m. For grand opening day, all menu items are 25 percent off. 

    There’s a slider for everyone at Slip Sliders. Credit: Juliana Workman

    Slip Sliders, 1801 Binz, has opened in the Museum District. The quick-service restaurant puts a twist of its own on the slider sandwich from burgers to chicken tenders. The Backyard Burger is a classic while The Signature Slip adds a smear of its house sauce. Another beef slider, Hickory Dickory, is topped with bacon and onion rings. 

    On the chicken side is the Southern Comfort, a crispy fried chicken slider with lettuce and pickles, along with the Buffalo & Blue. There are also seafood sliders like the Shrimp Shack, a crispy shrimp cake topped with mayo and avocado, and the Captain Jack salmon slider. For vegetarians, there’s the Happy Cow, featuring a house-made veggie patty made with lentils, mushrooms and beets. 

    Each slider gets its own dressing. Credit: Juliana Workman

    The veggie patty is a recipe from owner Rasheed Refaey’s family and he says that the team at Slip Sliders is passionate about doing things the right way. “From freshly ground beef loins to house-made sauces prepared daily, our goal is to create sliders that satisfy everyone who craves a good burger.”

    Besides a variety of sliders, the restaurant offers Cajun cheese fries, truffle parmesan fries, fried cheesy pickles and fresh salads. Beverages include soft drinks, agua frescas and hand-spun milkshakes. There are hot beignet bites with dipping sauce for dessert. 

    Steven Chiang (Kirkwood) and David Cordua (The Lymbar) are collaborating on a special dinner. Credit: Quit Nguyen

    Kirkwood, 11720 Katy Freeway, is expected to open in March 2026, so we’ve been told, but in the meantime its executive chef and culinary director Stephen Chiang is all over town collaborating and popping up at festivals, most recently last weekend’s Chefs for Farmer’s event.

    One of his first showcases will be at The Lymbar, 4201 Main, with chef and owner David Cordua October 15. The talented duo have created a multi-course wine dinner in partnership with DAOU Vineyard that will take place at The Lymbar as a one-night-only experience.

    Some of the dishes include a starter of brandade de bacalao, paired with DAOU Chardonnay 2023, followed by duck confit nachos and DAOU’s Reserve Merlot 2024. Guests will also indulge in lobster ballotine with a pairing of DAOU Reserve Cabernet 2021. There will also be braised short rib and a trio of sweet and savory bites.

    The October 15 dinner begins with arrivals at 6 p.m. and is $110 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

    Restaurants Reported Open September 2025:

    Black Rock Coffee Bar, 9437 FM 1960 Bypass W., opened September 5

    Black Rock Coffee Bar, 1811 Grand Pkwy, opened September 25

    Blue Claw seafood, 13232 Northwest freeways, opened September 21

    El Tiempo Cantina, 2360 S. Loop W., opened September 8

    Flipp’N Chcikens, 211 W. Crosstimbers, reopened late August

    Freebirds World Burrito, 20330 Fort Bend Parkway Toll Rd., opened September 18

    Hacienda Los Arcos, 4625 Kingwood, opened late August

    Local Spot, 6450 Cross Creek Bend, grand opening September 1

    Piada Italian Street Food, 2630 Pearland Pkwy, opened August 28

    Raising Cane’s, 1529 Highway 6, opened September 6

    Saltgrass Steak House, 300 Gulf Gate Mall, opened September 16

    Truluck’s, 5350 Westheimer, reopened mid-September

    Restaurants reported Closed September 2025:

    Bosscat Kitchen, 4310 Westheimer, closed September 28

    Ostia, 2032 Dunlavy, closed September 13

    Pinstripes, 3300 Kirby, closed mid-September

    Salad and Go, all Houston locations, closed September 19

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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  • Openings and Closings: Soliz Tacos Expands, Ford’s Garage Houston

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    Soliz Tacos des Casa & Cafe, 11131 Harlem, will open October 9 in Richmond. It’s the second brick and mortar for the fast-casual taco brand which also operates a stand-alone spot in Stafford and a food stand at Fair Food Co. Food Hall in the Galleria area. The taco restaurant was founded in 1984 by Connie Soliz and many of the recipes are hers. In 2014, grandson Eric Otto took over the operations. Last year, he created Soliz Tacos Inc. with business partner Michael Miller and the duo are looking toward franchising next year.

    click to enlarge

    The Richmond location hints at things to come.

    Photo by Jay Ford

    According to Miller, the Richmond location will serve as both the flagship and model for further expansion. The design was executed by Dallas-based Fusion AE, in collaboration with Otto and Miller. The 1,400 square-foot interior space is vibrant and welcoming, with seating for 20 guests. There is also a drive-thru window, a first for the restaurant.

    Everything is made in-house including the salsa and made-fresh-daily tortillas. The breakfast tacos are served all day and a number of the tacos are named for loyal diners. There’s the Darlene, a breakfast version with eggs, potatoes, bacon, refried beans and cheese, or the Hughie, a flour tortilla filled with grilled chicken breast, sauteed onions, bacon, refried beans and cheese. Other menu items include dips, salads, tamales and entree plates. For beverages, there are canned sodas and bottled water.

    d’Alba is expanding north to Magnolia.

    Photo by d’Alba

    D’Alba Craft Kitchen & Cocktails, 32823 FM 2978, is shooting to open the first week of October in Magnolia. It opened its first spot in the Garden Oaks/Oak Forest area in September 2021, followed by a location in Midtown in 2023. The Midtown location has since shuttered.

    The restaurant will have an indoor-outdoor feel with operable glass walls.

    Photo by d’Alba

    According to an email from owner Daut Elshani, the Magnolia restaurant will begin with the dinner menu only and gradually add the lunch and brunch services. The menu will be similar to the GOOF location, but there will be some different options for the happy hour specials.
    Like its first location, there will be an extensive patio for enjoying one of its wood-fired pizzas accompanied by a spicy margarita.

    We’ll have more information next week about the definitive opening date.

    click to enlarge

    It’s not a full-service gas station, it’s a full-service restaurant.

    Photo by Ford’s Garage

    Ford’s Garage has signed an agreement to open three full-service restaurants in the Houston area. The first site is currently being determined. It’s part of a development deal between the vintage-inspired eatery and local restaurateur Baryalay Razi of the family-owned SVR Hospitality LLC. Razi’s experience includes 30 years with major brands like Whataburger, Bojangles and Aloha Poke, but Ford’s Garage is an opportunity for Razi to fulfill his dream of opening a full-service restaurant.

    In a press release Razi said, “When I visited a Ford’s garage, I realized it wasn’t just a great place to eat, but it was also an amazing experience. From the moment you walk in, you’re stepping into something unique, almost like a museum that celebrates Americana and the Ford legacy.”

    click to enlarge

    You don’t often see an automobile inside the bar.

    Photo by Ford’s Garage

    The concept was founded in 2012 in Fort Myers, Florida and is backed by The Ford Motor Company as the only official licensee to be able to use the logo and brand imagery. The restaurants are decorated in 1920s style and offer guests American-style burgers and craft beers. Since franchising in 2015, it has expanded with 32 locations across 8 states.

    The deal allows for Razi to open three locations within the next three to five years. Helping him in the new venture is his daughter, Lema Hudson Razi, who oversees operations, marketing HR and financial management at SVR Hospitality.

    click to enlarge

    The bar is inspired by underground cenotes, giving the space the feel of a hidden oasis.

    Rendering by Jennifer Moreno

    1111, 1111 Westheimer, is slated to open in Montrose this December. Whether you call it One-One-One-One or Eleven Eleven is up to you, but it’s sure to be a hotspot considering the talent behind the venture. Local hospitality entrepreneurs Army Sadeghi and Brandon Duliakis are the visionaries behind the cocktail bar and dining destination and they’ve already made a splash in the nightlife scene with the ultra-chic Melrose, which opened this past January.

    click to enlarge

    Army Sadeghi and Brandon Duliakis are

    Photo by Alex Montoya

    Not only are the duo bringing in award-winning cocktail consultants for what promises to be a an elevated bar program, they’ve also tagged superstar chef Emmanuel Chavez to create the progressive menu for 1111. Chavez is a James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef: Texas and his restaurant, Tatemo, earned its first Michelin star in 2024. Born in Mexico City, the chef’s travels through regions of Mexico and around the world have shaped his culinary point of view and those influences are echoed in the menu. Guests can indulge in one-bite wagyu empanadas and tuna tostadas finished tableside. There will also be stunning entrees such as Contramar-style whole grilled fish, served with house-made mini tortillas and two salsas.

    The sophisticated and sculptural interior will have a centerpiece bar that measures 26 feet long, offering an interactive omakase-style experience for patrons with mixology stations with expert bartenders creating cocktails with rare ingredients and unique infusions.

    All of these elements are meant to give guests an experience beyond just a night out. Duliakis says, “It’s an invitation to escape into something more refined, more beautiful, more intentional.”

    click to enlarge

    Sometime, you need a cool dose of caffeine.

    Photo by Black Rock Coffee

    Black Rock Coffee Bar, 1811 Grand Pkwy, celebrated its grand opening September 25 in Katy. It momentum in Texas just keeps on rolling and it recently opened a location in Humble September 5. The Katy store will make number 23 in the Houston metro area and the 45th in Texas, making the Lone Star State one of its most successful markets.

    Its signature design is modern industrial, but still welcoming and relaxing. Guests can enjoy one of its many beverages including gourmet coffee drinks, a variety of teas and delicious smoothies. It also offers its proprietary Fuel energy drinks. It also offers a few pastries and breakfast items.

    Ryan Lachaine has already found a new kitchen.

    Photo by Rocket Farm Restaurants

    State of Grace, 3258 Westheimer, has brought in Ryan Lachaine as executive chef. The Canadian-born chef very recently made the decision to close his modern bistro, Riel, after 8 years. In a press release, Lachaine had hinted that there exciting things to come and apparently, this is it.

    Lachaine has known founder Ford Fry of Rocket Farm Restaurants for over ten years, as well as RFR’s culinary director Bobby Matos. The trio will be working together to usher in a new chapter for the upscale River Oaks restaurant. Anitra Broussard, Lachaine’s former sous chef at Riel, joins him at State of Grace as lead line cook, according to CultureMap Houston.

    Lachaine will be introducing new items like Pan-Roasted Halibut with maple-miso, Duck Agnolotti and Hearth-Roasted Hakf Chciken with pommes puree and Burgundy truffle. Fans of Riel will be happy to know that the Butter Burgers and Caviar Tater Tots will now have a place on the menu at State of Grace.

    Doc’s Houston, 1201 Westheimer, is slated to open in December 2025. Taking over the Tower Theater space, which most recently housed Acme Oyster House, the new supper club will feature a world-class line up of musical performers along with a full-service upscale restaurant, headed by chef Jose Avila. The bar program will also be impressive with sommelier Sergio Valladares in charge of the wine curation.

    Owner Doc Watkins is a well-known jazz pianist and band leader. He opened Jazz, TX in San Antonio in 2016 and performs there regularly with his orchestra.

    click to enlarge

    Mayahuel will now offer lunch.

    Photo by Brian Kennedy

    Mayahuel, 811 Buffalo Park, will launch its lunch service October 1. Guests can enjoy the new menu Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chef Luis Robledo Richards has created a midday lineup of fresh Mexican flavors like tortilla soup with a tomato and ancho broth or grilled hearts of palm with salsa verde. There are also entrees such as Cochinita Torta and Chicken Milanese. There’s also a prix-fixe lunch option with a trio of tacos based on seasonal ingredients, plus a starter and dessert. 

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Candente Bellaire, Tacos A Go Go Times Two

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    Candente, 5101 Bellaire Boulevard, is shooting to open by the end of this year. It will be the second location of the Tex-Mex restaurant from Sambrooks Hospitality, which received a recommendation in the first-ever Texas Michelin Guide last year. Owner Michael Sambrooks is taking over the lease of the spot which currently houses Mandito’s Tex-Mex, or did until this past weekend. Mandito’s apparently shuttered its Bellaire restaurant quietly. It still operates locations in Katy and Round Top.

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    Frosty margaritas are rimmed with sea salt or Tajin.

    Photo by Alex Montoya

    Candente debuted in 2019 and was a hit immediately. Houstonians were already familiar with Sambrooks’ barbecue spot, The Pit Room, which itself received a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide last year. The Pit Room opened in 2016 and expanded with a second location in 2024. Now Candente will also have a twin.

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    Queso can be meatless as well.

    Photo by Duc Hoang

    The menu at Candente emphasizes the Tex in Tex-Mex. Smoked meats appear in dishes like Smoked Chicken Flauta and Brisket Nachos. There’s even a Smoked Campechana. The steak fajitas are made with Prime Niman Ranch skirt or ribeye and there are true Texas add-ons like jalapeno cheddar sausage links. There’s still plenty of Mexican-inspired dishes including cheese enchiladas and tortilla soup. Its chile con queso can be ordered plain, but many guests like to add on the chopped brisket.

    As for the Mandito’s Bellaire closure, Matt Johns, director of marketing at Palacios Murphy hospitality group, told the Houston Press in an email that the company is heavily engaged in the expansion of its luxury hotel, Hotel Lulu, in Round Top.

    He added, “We have successfully transferred the lease to our friends at Candente. Mandito’s currently operates locations in Round Top as well as Katy with the latter continuing to offer full-service catering, boxed lunches and bulk pick-up options to the Bellaire and surrounding communities.”

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    Bobby Heugel, Sharon Haynes and Maribel Gomez are collaborating on two new locations.

    Photo by Dylan McEwan

    Tacos A Go Go is opening two new locations this winter. Its Heights location on White Oak will soon be relocated to 1102 Yale in the former Lola Neighborhood Diner building which will allow for more space and more parking, a much-needed asset in the area. Lola closed earlier this year.

    Tacos A Go Go, 2231 S. Voss, will take over the former home of Killen’s STQ. It will be a new neighborhood for the funky taco brand that was founded in Houston by Sharon Haynes in 2006. Its menu is led by chef and co-owner Maribel Gomez who has shaped the menu over the years with unique tacos like Lamb Barbacoa and Crispy Fried Chicken. There’s even a veggie Tater Tot Taco with refried black beans.

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    The new Heights location will offer more space inside and more parking outside.

    Photo by Dylan McEwan

    The larger space at both new restaurants means that Haynes can finally achieve her dream of having a real bar inside Tacos A Go Go. To help her realize that vision, she’s brought in two-time James Beard Award finalist Bobby Heugel. Known for such cocktail meccas as Anvil Bar & Refuge, Better Luck Tomorrow and  now-shuttered The Pastry War, Heugel will create a cocktail program with Mexican spirits like tequilas and mezcals from family-owned producers and distillers.

    Tacos A Go Go has breakfast tacos, too,

    Photo by Shannon O’Hara

    Heugel says he’s been a fan of Tacos A Go Go for nearly 20 years and he’s excited about the project. He added, “I’m working to bring the same creativity and care their team puts into the food into the bar program, so guests can enjoy an experience that feels just as fun and delicious as the tacos.”

    Though the tacos are indeed delicious, the menu also features other items such as quesadillas, burritos, nachos and breakfast plates.

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    Seafood towers and coastal delights are headed to Northwest Houston.

    Photo by Kristen Wells

    Blue Claw Seafood Restaurant & Bar, 13232 Northwest Frwy, will have its grand opening September 21 in Northwest Houston. Located in the former home of Red Lobster, the seafood concept from Ye’s Group of Companies, based in Canada, is not only making its Texas debut, but its U.S. one as well. The nearly 8,000 square-foot space can accommodate 272 guests.

    Founders Ivan Ye and Dr. Mandi Lei were inspired by the seafood and flavors of the East Coast and the energy and bounty of the Gulf. Lei said in a press release. “Houston welcomed us with open arms and warm smiles. This city’s culture of connection, comfort and community made it the perfect place to start our next chapter.”

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    The mini lobster rolls are filled with carefully-sourced lobster meat.

    Photo by Kristen Wells

    Ye and Lei are both seafood industry veterans and the sourcing of products for the restaurant is focused on sustainability and quality. The lobsters are sourced directly from the company’s proprietary fisheries in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick and show up in menu items like the Signature Lobster Roll, Lobster Cakes and Lobster Chowder. Other fresh seafood includes the East Coast Seafood Boil filled with snow crab, mussels, calamari, shrimp, corn and potato, plus coastal sushi options like Salmon Sushi and Blue Claw Roll.

    In addition to seafood, there are burgers and steaks, plus house-made desserts like chocolate mousse and creme brulee. The surprisingly inexpensive cocktail menu lists drinks like the East Coast Mule, Pink Cowgirl and Lychee Martini.

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    The new dining room welcomes guests with stunning olive trees.

    Photo by Truluck’s

    Truluck’s, 5350 Westheimer, has reopened after a temporary closure for remodeling. The restaurant first debuted in 1992, serving prime steaks and delicious seafood in an elegant, upscale atmosphere. The multi-million-dollar renovation includes a more relaxed environment that transports guests to the Mediterranean coast with cool marble, leather booths and lush olive trees. The piano-key tile floors add a striking note to the new interior.

    The dining room has been reconfigured to include a semi-private dining space that can accommodate up to 56 guests. Moveable screens allow for the TRU Room to be partitioned off from the rest of the dining area. The bar itself has undergone a transformation with gleaming chandeliers and more petite olive trees that echo the feel of the main dining room.

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    Surf and turf is an elegant pairing at Truluck’s.

    Photo by Truluck’s

    Truluck’s is famous for its signature fresh Florida stone crab, which is sustainably harvested from its own fishery. Other seafood standouts include South African cold water lobster, Texas redfish and Norwegian salmon. In addition to its hand-cut prime steaks, there is a three-course Prime Rib Sunday menu for $59.

    Partner and beverage director Dave Mattern, who has spent most of his career at Truluck’s, says that the renovation is more of a rebirth than a facelift. In a press release he said “We wanted to preserve the soul of Truluck’s while creating an experience that resonates with longtime guests and appeals to a new generation and our upscale Uptown neighborhood that draws residents and visitors from around the world.”

    The press release also gave a shout out to server Rosemarie Foster who has been with Truluck’s for 32 years.

    Chefs Felipe Botero and Alain Verzeroli are Michelin-recognized chefs at The Bastion Collection.

    Photo by Alex Montoya

    Moon and Soleil, 1800 Post Oak Boulevard, are coming to Houston this fall. The new concepts are a collaboration between The Bastion Collection and its off-site catering company, Cafe Natalie. Moon and Soleil will both be located above another concept from The Bastion Collection, Tavola. The Bastion Collection also includes Michelin-starred Le Jardinier at The Museum of Fine Arts Houston and Cafe Leonelli, plus establishments in New York City and Miami.

    The Bastion Collection and Cafe Natalie are also launching Bastion Events which will offer its culinary artistry for special events such as weddings, corporate gatherings and social celebrations. Soleil will be a private events venue while Moon will operate as an intimate bar that takes inspiration from the lunar cycles for its design and cocktail program.

    Picos extends its stay a little longer.

    Photo by Doogie Roux

    Arnaldo Richards Picos, 3601 Kirby, will remain open until the end of the year and possibly into early January. The longtime Tex-Mex favorite (44 years!), announced that it was shuttering in August, though a closing date had not been decided. Now, after an outpouring of support from the community and the restaurants loyal diners, the Richards family has made the decision to keep the restaurant open through the end of 2025. The owners anticipate that it will actually close in the first few weeks of 2026.

    Founder and chef Arnaldo Richards said that the closing announcement showed how deeply the restaurant had touched the lives of so many people, from heartfelt messages and visits, to encouragement to keep the doors open a little longer. “We’re humbled to have the opportunity to stay open through the holidays, a time that is so ingrained in tradition and full of memories for us.”

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    Yaay! Picos tamales will be available for the holidays this year.

    Photo by Nick de la Torre

    Some of the holiday traditions at Picos include its 12 Days of Mole celebration and its much-craved handmade tamales, which will be available from mid-November through the beginning of January. The restaurant has also kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 through October 15) with a special menu of dishes like Machete de Huitlacoche, Chiles en Nogada and Tequila Tuna Tartare.

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    Saltgrass can always be relied on for a well-seasoned steak.

    Photo by Saltgrass Steakhouse

    Saltgrass Steakhouse, 300 Gulfgate Mall, opened September 16. One of the featured brands at Landry’s Inc., the Houston-born restaurant serves Angus beef steaks, chargrilled over open flames, that are then seasoned with its signature Saltgrass 7-Steak Spice. Other menu favorites include BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Double-Bone Pork Chops and Salmon Oscar.

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    The Country Fried Steak is Texas-sized.

    Photo by Saltgrass Steakhouse

    In addition to its entrees, Saltgrass has a menu befitting its Texas-themed decor. Guests will find appetizers like Range Rattlers, jumbo jalapenos stuffed with shrimp and cheese, and Bourbon-glazed Bacon. There are also burgers, chicken sandwiches, Vaquero tacos, plus scratch-made soups and salads.

    Senior vice-president and COO of Saltgrass, Terry Turney, said in a press release, “This location offers our largest private dining room to date, accommodating over 60 guests, giving us even more opportunity to host celebrations and special gatherings.”

    Salad and Go is going out of Houston.

    Photo by Lorretta Ruggiero

    Salad and Go is closing all of its Houston and Greater Houston area locations September 19. It is also shuttering locations in Austin, San Antonio and some in Oklahoma. There will also be a few closures in the DFW area.  We reached out for more information and were given an email statement from CEO Mike Tattersfield in which he said the decision to close all the Houston stores was difficult and extended his gratitude to the local community in Houston. He added, “We continue to believe in the Texas market and its long-term potential and will continue to operate many stores in the Dallas Metro area.”

     

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Sandoitchi FlagshipThis Year, Bosscat Bows Out Soon

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    Sandoitchi    , 1603 N. Durham, is expected to open by the end of 2025. It will be the flagship for the Japanese sandwich pop-up which has been serving its creative concoctions at festivals in Dallas, Houston and California, as well as collaborating with various restaurants for pop-up dinners.

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    This ain’t your grandma’s egg salad.

    Photo by Sandoitchi

    The experimental concept was founded in Dallas in 2020 during the pandemic under the culinary direction of chef Stevie Nguyen and business partners Keith Tran, Andy Sirois and Angel Acosta. Chef Nguyen’s resume includes stints at such renowned eateries as Uchi, Momofoku Ko and Morimoto. It earned its cult-like status from celebrity gushes (Chrissy Teigen and John Legend are fans) and influencers galore raving about the unique Japanese sandos made with airy milk bread.

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    The creations are endless.

    Photo by Sandoitchi

    Its cold Egg Salad Sando takes the normally pedestrian sandwich filling to a whole new level by filling the thin bread slices with soft-boiled, hard-boiled and scrambled eggs, plus Kewpie mayo. Another cold option is the Strawberry Cream, a creation based on the Japanese fruit sandwiches whose origins are debated, but have been around for a hundred years or so. The hot sandos include Classic Chicken Katsu with tonkatsu sauce and even one with truffles. The menu varies from pop-up to pop-up, so it will be interesting to see if the Lobster Roll or Smoked Ribeye Katsu make it onto the permanent menu.

    Some of the drink offerings include house-made seasonal flavors like Strawberry Matcha Latte and Mango Ube Lassi.

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    The whiskey room would have made Jim Morrison happy.

    Photo by Jennifer Wales

    Bosscat Kitchen & Libations, 4310 Westheimer, will close its doors September 28, after nine years. The Daily Dose Hospitality team have decided not to renew the lease. Instead, the owners will convert the space to a private venue until the end of 2025, finishing out its ten-year lease. The group, which also owns restaurants in California, will continue to operate Bosscat in The Woodlands and TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar on Westheimer.

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    The gilded cages of whiskies were a spectacular and practical decoration.

    Photo by Jennifer Wales

    Co-founder JT Reed said that the milestone is bittersweet. “Nearly a decade in this city is truly something to celebrate. I live here. I love Houston and, since Daily Dose Hospitality started, there was nowhere else we wanted to be.” However, according to the press release, the company has decided to consolidate its portfolio and focus on potential new opportunities, in and around Houston.

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    The Fruity Pebble French Toast brings out everyone’s inner child, and glutton.

    Photo by Jennifer Wales

    Bosscat Kitchen first opened its Houston location in February 2017. Its hearty (and critically-acclaimed) whiskey list and playful brunch dishes made it a hotspot for cocktails, conversation and socializing. Its menu reached back into our childhoods for over-the-top dishes like Fruity Pebble French Toast and the Donut Burger. However, it also served more serious showstoppers such as 12-Hour Beef Short Rib and Sugar Barrel Steak, mouth-watering plates that just begged for one of its amazing whiskies.

    Bosscat Houston will continue to serve its full menu until its final day and the hope is that Houstonians will  come in and enjoy their favorites before it closes. For its last weekend, September 27 through September 28, there will be a “Bosscat Style Weekend” and guests can enjoy its signature brunch and a DJ on September 28.

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    There are healthy options and splurge treats, too.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    On the Kirb, 6777 Woodlands Pkwy., will open in the former El Tiempo space later this year. It is currently hiring for a number of positions. It will be the fifth location for the organic eatery and sports bar, which opened its most recent location in Greenway Plaza last January.

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    Happy Hour at On the Kirb means drink specials and a tasty menu of bar bites.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    While the image of a sports bar is one of dark walls, blaring televisions and greasy food to most people,  On the Kirb has built a reputation for its fresh menu and inviting spaces. Yes, guests can still enjoy a cold beer while watching the big game, but the chicken wings here are organic and the burgers are made with grass-fed beef. Guests can enjoy comfort bar food like the Giant Pretzel with sriracha queso or healthier fare such as the Kale Caesar or Shawarma salad.

    There are plenty of beers on tap, a wine list, plus craft cocktails like the Brojito or Gin Weasley.

    The fresh strawberry version of its cheesecake is the most popular, out of 30.

    Photo by The Cheesecake Factory

    The Cheesecake Factory, 29216 Hempstead, will open at Houston Premium Outlets November 18. Currently the Cypress restaurant is looking to hire 270 staff members. That’s nearly one person per item on its menu. The Cheesecake Factory has been recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” for 12 consecutive years.

    Its massive menu has sometimes drawn criticism for the massive calorie counts, but diners have their favorites, whether its the Avocado Eggrolls, Shepherd’s Pie or Louisiana Chicken Pasta. There are loads of burger, sandwich, salad and flatbread choices as well. For those watching their calories, the SkinnyLiscious menu features Crispy Crab Bites, Asian Chicken Lettuce Wrap Tacos and Sesame Ginger Chicken over quinoa.

    El Tiempo has frosty margaritas, too.

    Photo by Troy Fields

    El Tiempo Cantina, 2360 S. Loop W.,  officially opened September 8. Like its other 12 locations, the spacious interior is colorful and rustic, with old family portraits lining the walls, including ones of “Mama Ninfa” Laurenzo herself. There’s also a bar area.

    The menu starts with appetizers like chile con queso with beef picadillo and ceviche and continues with soups, entree salads and a variety of nachos. The Mama Ninfa’s Favorites includes the Pork Tamale Plate, Carne Guisada and Chile Relleno a la Ninfa. There are more than a dozen fajita platters, plus steaks, fresh fish and lunch specials.

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    What’s better than a burrito? A stack of burritos.

    Photo by The Nix Company

    Freebirds World Burrito, 20330 Fort Bend Pkwy Toll Rd., is celebrating its grand opening September 18 beginning at 10:30 a.m. The new Stafford location will have giveaways, games and free samples that day, plus the first 25 guests in line will receive free burritos for a year, one per week. The next 26 to 100 attendees will get free burritos for a year, one per month.

    The BYOB (build-your-own-burrito) restaurant currently operates more than 60 locations. It also features house-made salsas, tacos, nachos and salads.

    Bye-bye bocce and bowling.

    Photo by Christopher Mann

    Pinstripes, 3300 Kirby, closed this week. The closure is part of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by Pinstripes Holdings Inc., according to the Houston Chronicle. The Houston location is one of 10 that are closed, including the other Texas location in Fort Worth. Its debts are listed in excess of $143 million.

    The bowling alley venue debuted in Houston in 2019. It also featured bocce courts, a gorgeous patio and an Italian bistro with dishes like espresso-encrusted filet mignon and fried calamari.

    We first heard the news when we were contacted by a spokesperson from Boat People S.O.S., the local non-profit that is hosting its annual Banh Mi Cookoff September 16, 2025. Pinstripes was supposed to be the event venue, but the banh mi competition has now been moved to Lam Bo Ballroom, 6159 Westheimer. The dates and times are still the same and yours truly is fortunate enough to represent the Houston Press as one of the judges. Tickets are still available at eventbrite.

    Hacienda Los Arcos, 4625 Kingwood, opened this month, according to HKA Texas. It’s the second location for the Mexican restaurant which also operates a spot in Humble/Atascocita. In addition to authentic dishes like tortilla soup, hand-rolled enchiladas and sizzling fajitas, there are Los Arcos Specialties including Gulf Red Snapper and Steak Ranchero.

    There’s a bright and open dining room, a small outdoor patio and a bustling bar.

    Mo’ Brunch +Brews will host a pop-up September 18 at the University of Houston in collaboration with the UH Dining Services. Chef Courtney Lindsay will share samples of his vegan boudin sushi balls from 11 a.m. until sell-out at the Cougar Woods Dining Commons, 4277 Wheeler. 

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  • Openings and Closings: Local Spot Now, Hypsi Coming, Ostia Departing

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    Local Spot, 6450 Cross Creek Bend, opened softly in late August in Fulshear. The newest concept from the Local Table team will celebrate its grand opening September 6 beginning at 4 p.m. with music and giveaways.

    Owners Ashkan Nowamooz, Arash Noamouz, Alex Nowamooz, Shervin Sharifi and Neima Sharifi are a team of brothers and cousins who have built their Eat Local Concepts restaurant group around the spirit of gathering friends and family together while serving tasty and healthy dishes made with fresh and local ingredients. Sue Nowamooz, Ashkan’s wife, serves as executive chef and co-owner in charge of the menu development for Eat Local restaurants like Hungry’s, Local Table and Local Bar.

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    The casual ambiance is perfect for happy hour or happy families.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Shervin Sharifi says the group’s foundation is built around homegrown communities and he just so happens to be a long-time resident of the Cross Creek community. He said in a press release, ” We really wanted a unique understanding of what the community and greater Fulshear area wanted in terms of a place to dine out and gather, and born was Local Spot.”

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    The outdoor seating is spacious and inviting.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Chef Sue has curated a menu of American fare including The Spot Smash Burger, The Spot Sampler Wings and a charcuterie board. There are also sandwiches like an Italian sub and crab roll, plus specialty pizzas such as the Spicy Buffalo and Meatworks. There’s a kids menu with chicken tenders, pizza and cheeseburgers.

    The beverage program offers signature cocktails like Cucumber Confidential as well as an exclusive Local Spot-only drink, The Kickback, made with vodka, jalapeno and strawberry lemonade.

    In keeping with the community theme, Local Spot is planning events in the fall including gameday watch parties, family-friendly movie nights, bourbon tastings and more.

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    Whether it’s a glass of wine or a summery spritz, the bar will be a chic escape.

    Watercolor rendering by Viewpoint Studios

    Hypsi, 347 W. 20th, is slated to debut this November at the upcoming Hotel Daphne. Led by executive chef Terrence Gallivan, the Italian-inspired restaurant will open in phases, first debuting its dinner service before launching its all-day menu as the hotel itself gets underway in January 2026.

    The new Heights-area hotel is part of Bunkhouse Hotels, an Austin-based hospitality brand responsible for Houston’s Hotel Saint Augustine, which opened softly in December 2024. It brought in James Beard Award nominated chef and restaurateur Aaron Bludorn to open his restaurant,  Perseid, at the hotel in January 2025.

    Chef Terrence Gallivan has a new project.

    Photo by Julie Soefer

    Like its predecessor, Hotel Daphne will also have a James Beard Award-nominated chef with Gallivan at the helm of Hypsi. Gallivan, whose experience includes a stint at the Michelin-starred Alto in New York City, is a familiar face to Houstonians for his former eateries, The Pass & Provisions and Elro Pizza & Crudo. The menu is Italian inspired with culinary treats like Crispy Skin Vermillion Snapper with salsa verde, plus a tableside mozzarella cart that offers a multitude of cheeses, plus a rotating selection of pickled vegetables, aged vinegars and cold-pressed olive oil.

    Taking its cue from the private drinking clubs that once thrived in the dry days of the Heights, the style is both opulent and whimsical with various seating areas spread out, including a lounge.  An indoor fireplace with an antique mantel adds to the cozy vibe, while a lush courtyard offers an intimate oasis. The bar, with its leather Cassina chairs, promises to be an elegant spot for an Italian aperitivo or a craft cocktail.

    Gallivan says of the new project, “This is an incredible opportunity to cook for a city I love in a neighborhood with such a unique history and my hope is that Hypsi becomes a place where locals and visitors alike will return time and time again…”

    Ostia’s dining room had the vibes of a lush greenhouse.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Ostia, 2032 Dunlavy, will shutter September 13, according to an Instagram post made by owner and chef Travis McShane. In the post, McShane cites the “current climate and strains, along with some personal reflections,” for the difficult decision. Thanking his guests and regulars, he added, “When I first started cooking 16 years ago, I dreamed of opening my first restaurant and because of y’all I was able to live that dream. Thank you.”

    McShane debuted Ostia in September 2020. Despite the obstacles of the COVID pandemic, the restaurant became a Montrose go-to eatery for elegant Italian fare as well as wood-fired pizzas. His restaurant was listed here in the Houston Press as Best of Houston 2021: Italian and Best of Houston 2023: Brunch.

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    The Mediterranean menu was fresh and delicious.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    A Houston native, McShane graduated from the University of Texas and also the Culinary Institute of America in New York. It was in The Big Apple that McShane worked his way up in the kitchens of lauded chef Jonathan Waxman, eventually becoming executive chef at Barbuto and then Waxman’s corporate chef.

    We reached out to a restaurant spokesperson who told the Press in an email that “Ostia is experiencing challenges similar to many beloved Houston restaurants that have recently closed.” And indeed, the past couple of months have seen the closures of restaurants like the 44-year-old Arnaldo Richards’ Picos  Mexican Restaurant and Ryan Lachaine’s eatery, Riel.

    Chef Travis McShane says “Ciao” for now.

    Photo by Laura Defrehn

    The email also said that McShane and his wife are expecting their third baby and that there are other exciting opportunities on the horizon. McShane himself referenced his family in his Instagram post, writing, “I will be stepping away from cooking for a while and turning my attention to focusing on my growing family and some other exciting projects.”

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    These wings are drippin’.

    Photo by The Smoke by Chef Reginald Scott

    Flipp’N Chickens, 211 W. Crosstimbers, reopened last month after a year-long hiatus and had its grand re-opening September 1. The food truck originally served its smoked menu at Eighth Wonder Brewery and Distillery. Owner Reginald Scott, says he is excited to welcome old friends and new guests to the Crosstimbers location, right off the 610 Loop. He added, “This reopening is more than just serving food-it’s about giving the community a place they can gather, laugh and enjoy Houston’s best fried chicken.”

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    Chef Reginald Scott (front and center) takes a moment to pose with guests.

    Photo by The Smoke by Chef Reginald Scott

    Chef Scott is also known for his barbecue concept, The Smoke, which operated downtown until he decided to focus on opening a brick and mortar location for The Smoke, while also working on rebuilding Flipp’N Chickens. The Smoke continues to pop up at festivals and local markets like Urban Harvest Market, plus catering events. Some of the menu items at The Smoke have even made it onto the menu at Flipp’N Chickens like the 48-hour brined smoked chicken, brisket sandwiches and the MacRib sandwich.

    The truck and its Best Damn Everything team will also be serving a variety of wings, dripp’n or seasoned. Flavas include bbq, 22k hot, 22k honey gold and smoke dust. There are also chicken tenders and a chicken sandwich. For veg-heads, there are options like fried cauliflower and vegan popcorn chicken. The combos and kids meals come with fries.

    Thirteen revamped in 2024.

    Rendering Studio Five

    Thirteen, 1911 Bagby, had its doors locked temporarily for unpaid rent totaling in excess of two million dollars, as reported by CultureMap Houston. A notice to the tenant, listed as Thirteens Hospitality Group, was posted on the door and dated September 1, 2025. The notice also listed James Harden, NBA superstar and former Houston Rockets point guard, as the guarantor.

    The restaurant debuted in Houston in March 2021 as a fine dining steakhouse with Tobias Dorzon as executive chef. In October 2023, the restaurant closed temporarily as it transitioned to a different chef, Siddartha Cadena, and also made changes in management, staff, decor and menu items.

    We have reached out to a spokesperson, but have received no response. The telephone service at the restaurant is currently experiencing “technical difficulties”.

    Meanwhile, Harden recently signed a $81.5 million dollar contract with the LA Clippers for two years.

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    Buy a combo, get some swag, while supplies last.

    Photo by Raising Cane’s

    Raising Cane’s, 1529 Highway 6, will reopen to the Sugar Land community September 6 after closing temporarily to do renovations on the interior. The drive-thru remained open during the refresh. The restaurant will host a community event from 10 a.m. to noon. The first 50 dine-in guests who purchase a combo will receive a special gift along with a Free Box Combo Card, to be used on a future visit. There is one swag bag and card limit per combo purchased for ages 13 and up and it excludes the Kids Combo.

    Raising Cane’s, 9530 Main, will reopen its renovated dining room later this fall. Its drive-thru remains open for business.

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    Houstonians can’t get enough caffeine.

    Photo by Black Rock Coffee Bar

    Black Rock Coffee Bar, 9437 FM 1960 Bypass W., is having its grand opening, September 5 in Humble. Guests who attend the all-day opening will receive free 16-ounce drinks. There will be more promotions and giveaways throughout the week.

    The Humble store makes number 22 for the Houston metro area. Black Rock now has over 160 retail locations across 7 states. It offers coffee and espresso beverages and teas along with its signature Chillers and Fuel Energy drinks. There is a breakfast and pastry menu with items such as savory croissants, blueberry muffins and bagels.

    Piada Italian Street Food, 2630 Pearland Parkway, opened August 28. The fast-casual concept offers piadas, a freshly-baked, thin-crust dough that is filled with Italian-inspired ingredients. Customers can choose from signature items or build their own piadas, salads or pastas. There is a wide variety of toppings and sauces plus protein add-ons such as Italian sausage, grilled chicken, calamari and grass-fed meatballs. 

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  • Openings and Closings: Katz’s Memorial Opens Soon, LOCAL Public Eatery Now

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    Katz’s Memorial City, 10321 Katy Freeway, opens September 2. With its slogan of ‘Katz’s Never Kloses’, the casually upscale eatery will be a 24/7, around-the-clock restaurant just like its other locations. Before its official opening, Katz’s Memorial will host Charity Day, a practice-run service that is open to the public August 31. The entire day’s proceeds will go to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund to support the victims and communities devastated by the July 4th flooding in the Texas Hill Country. Guests may sign up for the event online.

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    Owner Barry Katz is all smiles about the new location.

    Photo by Shawn Chippendale

    For its opening day. there will be a symbolic “key-cutting” ceremony at 11 a.m. with a tossing away of the keys, since the 24-hour eatery never “kloses.” Owner Barry Katz says it’s a dream come true to open this fifth location in the Houston area. “We strive to be the industry leader in food quality, service and ambiance, and can’t wait to NEVER Klose our doors again!”

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    Katz’s is coming to Memorial City 24/7.

    Photo by Shawn Chippendale

    Founded in Austin in 1979, the concept moved to Houston in 2000 when owners Barry and Lisa Katz opened the Montrose location on Westheimer. It was a perfect spot for a 24-hour eatery, especially with the late night people of Montrose. However, it also became popular for its lunch, dinner and brunch services with its offerings of Reuben sandwiches, beef stuffed cabbage roll and matzo ball soup.

    The food menu has expanded over the years as has the cocktail program. Breakfast dishes include three-egg omelettes, a variety of Belgian waffles, a griddled Monte Cristo and the Texas Brisket Benedict. There are sandwich options like Yankee Pot Roast, French Dip and Deluxe vegetarian Reuben, plus salads such as Nicoise, Cobb and Mediterranean Chicken. There is a selection of burgers as well as entrees like Blackened Sea Bass Acapulco and The Manhattan Steak Dinner.

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    Katz’s is more than a deli restaurant. It has slushy cocktails, too.

    Photo by Shawn Chippendale

    Katz’s is also known for its decadent desserts and this September’s Monthly Signature Slice is Lemon Italian Creme Cake. The line up of summer sips includes cocktails like Vodka Cherry Limeade and Sangria Swirl Margarita.

    In addition to the Montrose location and the upcoming Memorial City restaurant, Katz’s has eateries in the Galleria, the Heights and The Woodlands. There is a plan to return to Austin with a 6th Street location in 2027.

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    Guests can watch sports right at the bar, while enjoying a frosty beer or cocktail.

    Photo by Quit Nguyen

     LOCAL Public Eatery, 9595 Six Pines, opened August 21 in The Woodlands. It’s the second Texas location for the brand and the first for the Greater Houston area. LPE was founded in Vancouver, British Columbia in 2009 and is under the umbrella of JOEY Restaurant Group, which also operates a JOEY Restaurant in Houston’s Galleria.

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    The interior is both rustic and modern.

    Photo by Quit Nguyen

    The eclectic 5,140 square-foot space features both vintage and modern elements with retro-style light fixtures, contemporary furniture and curated artwork. The beer board above the bar lists the huge offering of beers available and also doubles as a sports screen. A wrap-around patio with a retractable roof is prepared for Houston weather all year-round. A mix of comfortable booths, banquettes and tables means there is seating for a variety of parties, be it couples, families, or groups of friends. The open kitchen adds to the energy of the dining room, while a central back bar awaits sports fans.

    Regional chef Oliver Lewis says that The Woodlands community is an ideal spot for its elevated comfort food and welcoming space. He says, “Celebrated for its dynamic culinary scene, deep-rooted sports pride and warm Southern hospitality, the Houston area is the perfect place for LOCAL Public eatery’s next Texas home.”

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    The Fried Chicken Ramen is a flavorful fusion of ingredients.

    Photo by LOCAL Public Eatery

    Lewis has also helped to create the menu of classic comfort foods and creative bites with innovative dishes like Fried Chicken Ramen and the Korean-inspired BBQ Rice Bowl. Its Fully Loaded Crispy Potatoes aren’t your typical sports pub grub. This shareable (or not) loads pair potatoes with delicious toppings including parmesan, horseradish aioli, bacon, jalapenos and shaved Grana Padano cheese. There are mains like Steak & Fries, plus a selection of pizzas, including The Texan made with organic tomato sauce, Spianata salami, bacon, fennel sausage and mozzarella. The restaurant also offers a weekend brunch.

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    Guests can play a round of shuffleboard by the stylish bar.

    Photo by Quit Nguyen

    The large beer menu and curated wine list are joined by fun cocktails, including a couple of frozen drinks. The LPE Bloody Mary, exclusive to the two Texas locations, is made with Tito’s vodka and gets a kick from a pickled pepper.

    For its launch, LPE is offering the first 300 guests who book and complete reservations via OpenTable, and also join its loyalty program, a $20 digital gift card for use on the next visit.

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    Houston has a new staycation hotspot.

    Photo by Vivian Leba

    Berwick’s Bird of Paradise, 2020 Studewood, will celebrate its grand opening August 24 from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Guests are encouraged to wear their best Hawaiian shirt and come ready to enjoy specials on oysters and a select martini, a $7 La Bruja frozen cocktail, plus half-price burgers and fries. From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be music from DJ Roots Vibah, followed by the Shame on Me band at 8 p.m.

    Quietly opened this past July, the hideaway’s island resort theme entices guests to stay a while and enjoy a tropical cocktail while listening to the smooth Calypso sounds of Harry Belafonte. There are also palm trees swaying, outdoor patios and tasty burgers and bites.

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    If you like pina coladas, meet us at Berwick’s.

    Photo by Vivian Leba

    Owner Robin Berwick, a Galveston native, says “Tropical is not a design thing. It’s literally in my DNA.” With the opening of her second bar, she can satisfy her obsession with the sea and boats. Having operated Double Trouble Caffeine and Cocktails for over a decade, and lasting through the COVID pandemic, Berwick was persuaded by her friend Robert Sussman of Ancorian Development to take a chance on a second bar. The space they found was perfect and the two palm trees out front seemed to be a sign.

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    The pretty patio is primed for Houston’s fall weather.

    Photo by Vivian Leba

    As a hospitality professional, Berwick hopes the intimate space fosters conversations among friends, but also invites guests to mingle, enjoying the beachy cocktails and lush space. It was renovated by Pruitt Structures and it boasts a custom bar built by Objektfab. There’s room for 58 guests inside with additional space on its patios for another 100.

    Some of the cocktails include Take the Rye Tai, a complex mix of rye whiskey, yuzu curacao, lime, mint and orgeat. Other concoctions include the Day-O’ Fashioned, a coffee-banana rum drink, and a zero-proof San Pellegrino Sanbitter, an imported soda reminiscent of Campari.

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    Chef Jacob Pate has created a resort-worthy menu.

    Photo by Vivian Leba

    Berwick has chef Jacob Pate in charge of the kitchen and many Houstonians may recognize him as the former chef at Savoir and Patton’s. His resume also includes Agricole Hospitality and The Toasted Coconut. Pate’s menu includes the No-Brainer, a double-patty smash burger with American cheese, lettuce, onion and pickled jalapenos, plus lighter bites like a refreshing cucumber salad and labneh.

    Kirby Ice House Heights is almost here. Cheers to that!

    Photo by Alex Montoya

    Kirby Ice House Heights, 1421 N. Loop W., is expected to open August 30. It will be the fourth location for the backyard bar and patio and promises to have the longest bar in Texas at 146 feet in length. It will also be located on three and a half-acre property.

    We wrote about the project in September 2024 when it was slated to open in fall 2025. Now it looks as if it is going to be a little bit earlier than expected. Stay tuned next week when we will have new photos and additional information about the new hotspot.

    When it’s hot outside, 7 Brew has cool smoothies and frappes.

    Photo by Abby Gowen

    7 Brew Drive Thru Coffee, 4800 Fairmont Parkway, open August 27. It’s the first location of the coffee stand in Pasadena. There will be a ribbon cutting at 10 a.m. and 7 Brew Pasadena will present a $2,000 donation to the Pasadena Animal Shelter. Three days later, August 30, the business will host a Swag Day in which customers who purchase a large drink will get a free 7 Brew t-shirt, while supplies last.

    Though the drive-thru stand offers a number of classic coffee and espresso drinks, it also features its 7 Originals, in flavors like Cinnamon Roll and White Chocolate Mocha. The extensive menu of beverage includes teas, lemonades, infused sparkling waters, shakes and energy drinks.

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    The Kerabu Prawns are a light and delicious beginning to a Phat feast.

    Photo by Isabel Protomartir

    Phat Eatery Katy, 23119 Colonial Parkway, reopened August 18 after a two month closure. The Katy Asian Town location was in the midst of expansion when they discovered an issue with the water heater compliance. Permits and details have been ironed out and the team is ready to serve its famous beef rendang and roti canai once more.

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    Chef Alex Au-Yeung was a constant presence at his Katy restaurant.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    The Malaysian restaurant was founded by chef Alex Au-Yeung in 2018 and quickly became a destination restaurant for its unique cuisine. Its popularity inspired Au-Yeung to expand with a location in The Woodlands. Unfortunately, Au-Yeung passed away from cancer in March 2024, just three months before the Woodlands location made its debut. He was only 52.

    Today, Kevin Lee and Martin He, directors of operations, carry on his legacy with both restaurants.

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    Milton’s is so busy, it is adding another dinner service.

    Photo by Carla Gomez

    Milton’s, 5117 Kelvin, will add Sunday to its dinner service beginning August 31. The trattoria from Local Foods Group is coming up on its first anniversary this September and its bustling dining room has been at capacity for most of that year. Adding an extra dinner service will mean less disappointment for diners trying to wrangle a table at the second story eatery above Local Foods. Currently, the restaurant only offers dinner Wednesday through Thursday.

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    Milton’s is the place to be for chicken parmesan and an amazing glass of Italian wine.

    Photo by Julie Soefer

    The restaurant will celebrate its first Sunday service, 4p.m. to 9 p.m., with a complimentary glass of bubbly for guests 21 and up, while supplies last. Executive chef Kent Domas and creative director Seth Seigel-Gardner have created a menu of Italian American classics such as chicken parmesan, lasagna and rigatoni Bolognese. There are also elegant entrees like chicken piccata and branzino with salsa verde and almond salmoriglio.

    Milton’s wine list was recognized recently with an Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator‘s Restaurant Awards.

    White Castle is bringing its first ever Texas location to the Lone Star State in 2026, according to PR Newswire. Unfortunately for us, it will be located at Grandscape at The Colony, a suburb near Dallas. The fast food slider company is 104 years old, so it’s about time.  Credited as the first fast food hamburger joint in the country, White Castle has 335 restaurants nationwide. You’d think it would have taken advantage of the fact that Texans love beef, in any shape or form, way before now.

    Perhaps Houstonians will be enjoying the oniony square patties in the near future. 

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Mexican Sugar Regent Square, Katz’s Deli Memorial

    Openings and Closings: Mexican Sugar Regent Square, Katz’s Deli Memorial

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    Mexican Sugar, 3505 Dallas, is opening this December at Regent Square. Part of the FB Society portfolio, it already has Texas locations in Plano, Las Colinas and Uptown Dallas. The upcoming Houston location will be a two-story restaurant as is FB Society’s most recent Houston foray, Haywire. It will span nearly 13,000 square feet with seating for 375 guests. It will also feature two patios on each level that offer views of Buffalo Bayou Park.

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    A modern Mexican restaurant is coming to Regent Square.

    Rendering by Zebra

    Inspired by the cosmopolitan vibe of Mexico City, its luxurious textiles and locally-produced artwork give it a modern feel while vibrant colors and woven pendant lights evoke the natural beauty of Mexico as well. Justin Beam, Director of Operations for Mexican Sugar says, “Our goal is to create a dining experience that blends bold, Mexican flavors with our signature style of hospitality that stays two steps ahead… We’re excited to offer Houstonians an immersive Mexican experience in a fresh, light and approachable way.”

    The from-scratch menu centers on seasonal ingredients. The hand-pressed tortillas are made daily with heirloom masa from Oaxaca and are used for dishes such as Pescado Tacos with adobo-marinated striped bass and Pork Carnitas tacos with wood-grilled tomatillos. There are raw bar options including Tuna Crudo and Marinated Shrimp as well as shareables such as Queso Blanco and Lobster Fundito.

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    House-made tortillas take tacos up a notch.

    Photo by The Nix Company

    In addition to classic Mexican plates such as Fajitas and Roasted Chicken Enchiladas there are entrees like Bone-In Pork Chop and Marisco Veracruz. Its version of a burger, the Hamberguesa, starts with wagyu beef, chile-spiced bacon and roasted pobalano then gets topped with Monterey Jack cheese, pico de gallo, lettuce, avocado spread and adoba crema, served on a brioche bun. It comes with yucca fries for a reasonable $14.

    There will also be a weekend brunch with dishes that include Cajeta French Toast, Vanilla Cinnamon Pancakes and Benedictos Rancheras.

    The Houston location will have an Agave Library similar to its predecessors. It offers more than 150 tequilas and mezcals with knowledgeable staff to guide guests through curated tequila flights.

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    Katz’s Deli will bring its 24-hour service to Memorial City.

    Rendering by Katz’s Deli

    Katz’s Deli, 10321-A Katy Freeway, is coming to Memorial City in early 2026. The lease has been signed for the 6,381 square-foot space which will house the fifth location of the popular 24-hour restaurant. Construction will begin in early 2025 at the mixed-use development from MetroNational. Michael Hsu Office of Architecture is leading the design.

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    Katz’s Memorial will feature a full bar.

    Rendering by Katz’s Deli

    Its decor will echo its sister locations in the Heights and the Galleria with New York City-inspired elements such as subway tile, curved archways and a concrete u-shaped bar. Along with the 5,260 square-foot dining room, it will offer outdoor seating on its large patio.

    Though it’s known as a deli-style eatery, Katz’s offers a full bar program with homemade margaritas and Kraft Kocktails like its vodka-based Lavender Lemonade or Malibu Pina Colada. There are Bloody Marys, micheladas and martinis as well.

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    A huge dining room is laid out with mosaic tile floors.

    Rendering by Katz’s Deli

    Its menu will feature the sandwiches that Katz’s is famous for including its The Reuben, Monte Kristo and Kountry Klub along with traditional deli favorites such as Corned Beef, Pastrami,, BLT and Chicken Salad. Other items include Matzo Ball Soup, Cobb Salad plus a wide selection of burgers, hot heroes and main plates like Southern Fried Chicken, Mouth-Watering Yankee Pot Roast and The Manhattan Steak Dinner.

    Its slogan of “Katz’s Never Kloses” means that late night partiers and early risers can enjoy breakfast, too. Guests can soak up the booze with its new Stuffed French Toast or get the day going with one of its Klassic Breakfast dishes such as Pastrami Hash & Eggs or David’s Spinach Frittata.  Its to-go service operates 24/7 as well.

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    The General Tso’s is a favorite at The Rice Box.

    Photo by Troy Fields

    The Rice Box 9201 Katy Freeway, is expected to open this December in the Memorial area, as reported by CultureMap Houston. It will be the fifth location for the American Chinese eatery which originally began as a food truck in 2011 serving University of Houston students and late-night Montrose party people. Six years later, it opened at 5 Greenway Plaza in the food court. In 2017, owner John Peterson opened a storefront in the Heights while getting rid of the food truck model permanently. In the past few years, Peterson has expanded The Rice Box to River Oaks and Rice Village.

    Known for its colorful neon lights and futuristic decor, it offers American Chinese staples such as General Tso’s Chicken and a selection of dishes like Kung Pao, Sesame and Sweet and Sour that can be made with chicken, cauliflower or tofu. There are beef dishes like Mongolian Beef and Pepper Steak plus fried rice, lo mein, dumplings, soups and eggrolls.

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    Cecil’s Pub shown here in 2016 on its 26th anniversary.

    Photo by Bryan Williams

    Cecil’s Pub, 600 W. Gray, has a tentative closing date of November 10, as reported by Chron.com. It’s a loss of a longtime Montrose neighborhood hangout that has been popular with locals, visiting celebrities and daytime drinkers in its nearly four decades of business.

    It began originally as Blythe Spirits in 1985 in what is now PJ’s Sports Bar. Owner Kimberly Blythe moved it next door to its current spot in 1990, and named it after her father, Cecil, according to Chron.com. Blythe sold it in 2016 but now its current owners say in an Instagram post that “the landlord of our property has decided to sell and the incoming landlord has elected not to sign a lease with Cecil’s.”

    There’s a possibility of a new home for Cecil’s in the future but the fabric of Montrose has been ripped at the seams yet again. 

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    We’ll take one of each.

    Photo by Alex Montoya

    SOSH Coffee + Cocktails, 2221 W. Dallas, launched its cocktail service this week. SOSH debuted at Us Bayou Park last year offering its morning and afternoon coffee program that utilizes beans from local small-batch roastery, Rivas Coffee. It has now added afternoon and evening hours for its craft cocktail service. Along with the extended hours comes live music and a happy hour.

    Taking its place among other upscale Allen Parkway destinations such as Toca Madera and Clarkwood, SOSH’s cocktail experience features seasonal beers, wines by the glass and on-trend cocktails such as espresso martinis, spicy margaritas and ranch water. For autumnal flavors, there are signature drinks like its Maple Old Fashioned and Apple Cider Mule.

    It also offers guests a small food menu with items such as gourmet pizzas, snacks and fruit smoothies plus breakfast tacos from Tacodeli and pastries from Omar Pereney’s Love Croissants.

    Restaurants Reported Open October 2024:

    Andy’s Home Cafe, 2121 N. Main, opened October 30
    Bashi, 800 Capitol, opened September 12
    Big City Wings, 23402 Kingsland Boulevard, opened October 20
    Black Rock Coffee Bar, 22219 FM 529, opened October 18
    Blacksmith, 820 Gessner, opened October 8
    Coffee Fellows, 1127 Eldridge, opened October 22
    Haywire party Barn, 947 Gessner, opened October 21
    HTeaO, 1935 Avenue D, opened October 18
    Juicy Joint, 5550 Val Verde, opened October 18
    Leo’s River Oaks, 2009 W. Gray, opened October 22
    Maven at Sawyer Yards, 1501 Silver, opened October 18
    Mi Luna, 888 Westheimer, opened October 7
    Pho Guru, 6191 Highway Boulevard, opened September 10
    Piper’s Cantina, 1815 Mangum, opened October 3
    Portillo’s Hot Dogs, 11005 W. Grand Parkway, opened October 22
    P. Terry’s Burger Stand, 9207 FM 723, opened October16
    Saigon Hustle, 1223 Witte, opened October 11
    Seareinas, 1910 Bagby, opened October 2
    Seven Brew, 13353 FM 1488, opened October 26
    Talespin Pizza, 11300 Katy Freeway, opened September 27
    Tejas Brewery and Taproom, 2102 Summer, opened September 12
    Trader Joe’s, 13550 University Boulevard, opened October 24
    Traveler’s Cart, 1401 Montrose, opened October 23
    Via 313, 1541 N. Shepherd, opened September 23

    Restaurants Reported Closed October 2024:

    Benny Chow’s, 1818 Washington, closed September 30
    HiWay Cantina, 1201 St. Emanuel, closed September 28
    Lightnin’s Good Times, 1201 St. Emanuel, closed September 28
    Nippon Japanese Restaurant, 4464 Montrose Boulevard, closes November 17
    PS-21, 2712 Richmond, closed early October
    Vinny’s, 1201 St. Emanuel, closed September 28

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Traveler’s Cart Arrives, Coffee Fellows EC Opens

    Openings and Closings: Traveler’s Cart Arrives, Coffee Fellows EC Opens

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    Traveler’s Cart, 1401 Montrose, opened October 23. It’s the second restaurant for Thy and Matthew Mitchell, a married couple who also own and operate Traveler’s Table, which first opened on Westheimer in 2019. The globetrotting couple have drawn inspiration from their world travels to create both food and cocktail menus that bring international flavors to a city known for its diversity.

    The inspiration for the concept began nearly two decades ago when Matthew Mitchell was a student at Oxford University in England. His time abroad also included traveling as a writer and journalist which meant nights of dining on street food from markets and local food carts. His partner Thy has also been a world adventurer as owner of Foreign Fare, a travel apparel company that was inspired by her travels to Italy, Morocco, Japan and Vietnam. Besides her hospitality experience as an HR professional, her mother and grandmother operate a small Vietnamese restaurant here in Houston.

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    An Indonesian chef means guests will find dishes such as Beef Rendang.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Matthew Mitchell said in a press release, “Both of our lives have been greatly enriched by our travels and those experiences have shown us how important food can be for learning about other cultures and for connecting with people all over the world.”

    And it’s not just the cuisine that is international. The Mitchells say they are lucky to have talented chefs from all over the world at both their restaurants. Executive chef Miguel Torres was born and raised in Puerto Rico while Indonesian chef Adrian Brantoro has worked in kitchens across Europe. Culinary director Stanton Bundy hails a little closer to Houston, coming from the Texas Hill Country then working his way through the New Orleans and South Florida culinary scenes.

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    The Fried Chicken Muffaletta looks good to Lorretta.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    The experiences available at Traveler’s Cart are just as varied. Guests can enjoy street snacks like its Arancini all Carbonara or Butter Chicken Samosas at its full-service bar or dine tapas-style with friends on the patio while sharing dishes like Thai Fried Chicken Wings, Puerto Rican Carne Frita and Pan-Fried Lamb Dumplings. There’s also a main dining room for indulging in a unique entree like Khao Soi, a dish of soft egg noodles topped with yellow coconut chicken curry. There are handheld items such as the American Roadside Burger or Churrasco Steak Sandwich plus a range of culinary offerings including Pappardelle with Brisket Ragu, Jamaican Jerk Pork Ribs and Peri Peri Chicken.

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    The signs reflect both global and local businesses.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    The cocktail program is no less globally-inspired. Guests can accompany the pork ribs with Da Jerk Shack Punch, a Jamaican rum punch that gets a kick of jerk spices. Or diners can mix up their cuisines and cocktails whether it’s a Mangonada Margarita or the frozen Pandan Cream Vietnamese Coffee Cocktail.

    The counter-service restaurant was designed by Gin Braverman of gin design group, a local firm known for its stunning restaurant creations. Diners will feel the vibe of a night street market with wall-mounted canopies and colorful signs including one that is a re-creation of Thy’s grandmother’s Houston restaurant, Quan Ba Tho.

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    The Everyday Bundle will make the staff happy.

    Photo by Becca Wright Photography

    Coffee Fellows, 1127 Eldridge, opened October 22 in Houston’s Energy Corridor. The European-style cafe was founded in Munich, Germany by Katherin Tewes and is co-managed by her husband Stefan Tewes. The duo have built the family-owned business with franchise partners to more than 230 locations; some stand alone cafes and others located at gas stations across Europe. The newest Houston store is the third for the city with three more expected to open soon.

    The cafe is open daily with breakfast, lunch and dinner services. Guests can dine-in or use its convenient mobile pick-up, drive-thru or delivery. It also offers catering options. The signature coffee blends have been developed by its sister company in Germany and the coffee is locally roasted and brewed fresh each day. The baristas go through a comprehensive training program that focuses on hospitality and proper espresso machine operation for the perfect shot or cup.

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    Guests can sit a spell at Coffee Fellows.

    Photo by Becca Wright Photography

    The interior and outdoor patio have been designed for comfort, mimicking a living room atmosphere which invites guests to linger with friends, read a book or just enjoy a cafe-style meal. Daniel Ogbonna, CEO of Coffee Fellows North America says, “Our ‘Feel at Home’ promise is more than just words – it’s a commitment to making each guest feel like part of the family…”

    In addition to its commitment to cultivating local partnerships within the community, the company practices sustainability by serving in-house food and drink on china and using recyclable take-away packaging. It also offers its customers free alternative milks.

    Nippon Japanese Restaurant, 4464 Montrose Boulevard, will close its doors for good November 17. Founded by the Yoshida family in 1986, it has been a neighborhood go-to for nearly four decades. While many online speculations have been about the development in the area and the obstacles restaurants face in a city that’s saturated with eateries, the true reason behind the closing is more human. Owners Naomitsu and Emi Yoshida are ready to retire as their son, Naoki Yoshida, told the Houston Chronicle.

    Claiming to be the oldest Japanese-owned restaurant in Houston, it was serving sushi to a city that was unfamiliar with the now ubiquitous cuisine, along with a number of traditional and authentic Japanese dishes. It moved to its current location on Montrose in the 1990s and the Yoshidas currently own the building.

    Naomitsu Yoshida was, and will remain until closing, the main sushi chef at Nippon. He and wife Emi will continue to be part of its final services with the help of their son Naoki, who is also a chef and the former owner of Shun restaurant which shuttered in June 2023.

    The family are currently searching for new tenants for the property, according to the Chronicle.

    Andy’s Home Cafe, 2121 N. Main, will open October 30. It’s actually a reopening for the family-owned restaurant which closed its original Heights location on West 11th in late July 2023. The reasons cited for closing the Heights spot included financial issues and lack of parking. It had operated at the original location for 46 years and was known for its late night service.

    It began when Thomas Morales’ parents took over the business, then called Home Cafe, in 1977. His parents began introducing more Tex-Mex dishes to the menu. It was renamed Andy’s Home Cafe for the youngest of the Morales siblings, according to the Chronicle.

    During the interim between closing and reopening, the restaurant held pop-ups and special events. Unfortunately, the Morales family lost their patriarch David Morales in February of this year. Thomas Morales and daughter Monica Morales are taking up the mantle with the reopening and are excited to see their loyal customers return for the carne guisada and enchiladas that were some of the most popular dishes. According to its Facebook posts, the jukebox is ready to go, breakfast will be served all day and there will still be slices of homemade cake.

    It will open with limited hours with extended service as more staffing gets underway. For those who plan to go the first day, be prepared for long lines of Andy’s fans.

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    Rejoice, good people of Sugar Land!

    Photo by Trader Joe’s

    Trader Joe’s, 13550 University Boulevard, opened October 24 in Sugar Land. Located in the University Commons, it’s the 6th location for the Greater Houston area. The 10,000 square-foot store has hired over 60 new crew members from the area while bringing in a few from other Houston locations. From our personal experience, TJ staff members are the friendliest around.

    Trader Joe’s was founded in 1967 in Pasadena, California but its first Houston store didn’t open until 2012 when it took over the Alabama Theater space which had previously housed Bookstop. It’s still one of the most popular locations and the holiday season is particularly busy. Customers would be wise to pick up a frozen cheesecake and puff pastry before Thanksgiving week.

    Trader Joe’s popularity is fueled in part by its snack items and an array of frozen dishes that span the globe culinarily. It offers a variety of pre-packaged salads and sandwiches as well as fresh produce and meats. It also features a number of vegetarian and vegan items as well as organic foods. Its reasonable prices, along with quality namesake brands, are another reason that its fans take to the internet with pleas for stores to open in their neighborhoods.

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    Memorial City has a party barn.

    Photo by Jacob Power

    Haywire Party Barn, 947 Gessner, opened October 21 in Memorial City. Part of Haywire restaurant which opened this past June, The Party Barn offers more than 2,000 square feet of event space that will accommodate 100 guests plus an outdoor courtyard with room for 60 more and firepit seating. There’s an indoor/outdoor bar that seats 18 and the building offers full audio-visual capabilities.

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    This is the fanciest barn we’ve ever seen.

    Photo by Jacob Power

    In keeping with its Texas setting, the decor is rustic and warm with Western-style touches. Jack Gibbons,  CEO of FB Society, says the goal has always been to create spaces that feel authentic to Texas. He added, “The Party Barn is going to be a game-changer for memorial City. It’s all about bringing folks together in a laid-back, comfortable setting – whether it’s brunch with friends, a big event or enjoying a drink on the patio. We’re thrilled to keep expanding what Haywire has to offer in Houston.”

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    Viet Tran is bringing sim racing to Sawyer Yards.

    Photo by Dylan McEwan

    Velocity-Sim Racing Lounge, 2110 Edwards, is slated to open in early 2025 at Sawyer Yards. It will be the first premium simulation racing experience for Houston with 16 world class racing simulators set in a fun-filled motorsports, racing-inspired lounge. In addition to options such as simulated racing on world famous tracks such as Circuit of the Americas and Laguna Seca, guests can drive their dream car across a Virtual Interstate 610 thanks to a partnership with Authentic Simulation.

    Vietnam-born and Texas-raised, Viet Tran is the founder and owner of the new concept. The 37-year-old is a motorcycle club enthusiast who discovered sim racing while recovering from an on-track accident. Velocity will make racing more accessible to a wider audience with all the thrills and none of the risks.

    The 5,000 square-foot space will accommodate guests for both public and private events. The lounge will feature racetrack-themed chandeliers with vintage motorcycles on display. Its cocktail program will celebrate the racing world as well. The globally-inspired food menu will offer the flavors of Japan, Europe and North America.

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    Paris Baguette is headed to The Woodlands.

    Photo by Armando Cordova

    Paris Baguette, 2501 Research Forest, is shooting to open this December in The Woodlands. The duo behind the franchised project are Mexico City native Armando Cordova and his business partner Jorge Molina. Cordova  moved to the U.S. 11 years ago and has taken on different roles in the restaurant industry since then including as minority partner. Seeing a need for a high-quality bakery in The Woodlands/Tomball area, he realized the franchise opportunity with Paris Baguette was a perfect fit.

    Paris Baguette began in South Korea in 1988 and its French-inspired pastries and bread eventually made it the number one bakery in the country. It soon expanded to other countries before coming to the United States in 2005 and there are now more than 180 locations in the U.S. including four in the Greater Houston area.

    The menu features cakes such as Maple Pecan and Blueberry Chiffon, by the slice or whole. There are tarts, scones, doughnuts, and, of course, a variety of croissants. In addition to sweet pastries, there are freshly-baked breads, buns and quiches plus coffee drinks, breakfast sandwiches and wraps.

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    Golden Chick is making good time on its Grant Road location.

    Photo by Lorretta Ruggiero

    Golden Chick, 10966 Grant, was slated to open in early 2025 but a Google listing says November 5, 2024. We spotted crews busy at work and the renovations look to be nearing the end so it may be sooner than expected.

    The Texas-born chicken restaurant offers its Original Golden Tenders, Golden Fried Chicken, Wicked Wings, Golden Roast Chicken, Signature Chicken Salad Sandwich and Southern Fried Catfish. It has a number of Southern-style sides to choose from such as mashed potatoes, green beans, fried okra, dirty rice and mac and cheese.

    Flying Biscuit Cafe, 12020 FM 1960, is coming to Cypress. A spokesperson told the Houston Press that the grand opening will be announced soon.

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    The sign is all we know for now.

    Photo by Lorretta Ruggiero

    Thunapaha Sri Lankan Restaurant, 13337 Jones, has put up signage but that is all we know about it at this time. 

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  • Openings and Closings: Mi Luna is Coming, Benny Chow’s Has Closed

    Openings and Closings: Mi Luna is Coming, Benny Chow’s Has Closed

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    Mi Luna Tapas Restaurant & Bar, 888 Westheimer, opens October 7 at the Montrose Collective. It’s sort of a comeback for the Spanish dining concept which operated in Rice Village from 1998 to 2018. It was on the forefront of tapas-style dining in Houston when it first opened, introducing locals to the small plates of traditional Spanish bar food while also offering larger entrees as well. Under the ownership of  restaurateur Youssef Nafaa and his Bella Restaurants Group, the new location will immerse guests in the Spanish dining experience offering live entertainment as well as an extensive menu. While the menu has been expanded upon, there will still be some of the restaurant’s original dishes as well.

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    The new Mi Luna blends traditional Spanish elements with modern design.

    Photo by Dylan McEwan

    Nafaa says, “I want to keep the new Mi Luna as close to the old Mi Luna as possible. The idea is to experience different dishes that create great conversations, that create a social atmosphere that people are losing these days…Eating out needs to be an experience-meeting people and trying things you cannot make at home.”

    That social atmosphere is set in a 3,805 square-foot space that accommodates 110 guests along with an outdoor patio with seating for 75 to 80 more. The decor is modern and traditional at the same time, blending Spanish style with contemporary furniture. The raised platform stage will allow for weekend entertainment including flamenco dancing. The first performance will be October 11 by Solero Flamenco, a locally-based national touring company.

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    The stylish bar allows guests to people watch through floor-to-ceiling windows.

    Photo by Dylan McEwan

    The menu itself is heavily Spanish with some Moorish influences as well. Nafaa was born in Morocco and graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago before arriving in Houston in 1998. Just 31 when he opened the original Mi Luna, he has added to the Bella portfolio with restaurants such as Mia Bella Trattoria, CoCo Crepes and Coffee and ZOA Moroccan Kitchen.

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    Mi Luna’s Paella Valenciana is a golden saffron rice dish filled with seafood, rabbit and chicken.

    Photo by Dylan McEwan

    While some favorites return such as Paella Valenciana, Gamabas al Ajillo and Patatas Bravas, the menu also offers new creations like Branzino Asado and Rabo de Toro a la Sevillana, a dish of braised oxtail with chickpeas. There’s a hearty Jarret de Credo Estodao which is braised pork shank served with white beans and chorizo ragu.

    To pair with the cuisine, guests can choose from a list of more than 100 Spanish wines. There will also be house-made sangria, and signature cocktails like the Meet Me at Mi Luna which blends gin, Campari, egg white, lemon juice and agave.

    HiWay Cantina has closed.

    Photo by Morgan Weber

    Agricole Hospitality announced via social media that it would close its three East Downtown concepts, HiWay Cantina, Vinny’s and Lightnin’s Good Times, September 28. The decision was made by its partners, Ryan Pera, Morgan Weber and Vincent Huynh due to the I-45 expansion, the multi-billion dollar North Houston Highway Improvement Project.

    The three concepts were all located in the 1201 St. Emanuel block. Originally, Agricole Hospitality opened Vinny’s, a pizzeria, in late October 2018 followed closely by Miss Carousel and Indianola’s. Miss Carousel closed to be transformed into Lightnin’s Good Times which opened in October 2023. Then, in December 2023, the Indianola’s space reopened as HiWay Cantina.

    It’s a tough business decision to make for a hospitality group made up of three talented industry veterans. The trio still have a strong portfolio with Coltivare, EZ’s Liquor Lounge and two locations of Eight Row Flint. We reached out to Agricole for additional details but were told to refer to the social media announcement.

    Where will all this luxurious decor go?

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Benny Chow’s, 1818 Washington, closed September 30. Originally opened in June 2023, the Cantonese concept from Berg Hospitality was inspired by the New York Chinese restaurants for which BH owner, and native New Yorker, Benjamin Berg had fond memories. The interior was lavish with red and gold hand-painted wallpaper while the outdoor patio called to mind NYC’s Chinatown with Chinese lanterns and recreated Chinese storefront signs.

    Berg chose Chef Shirong Mei to open the restaurant and the duo claimed to have the best Peking Duck in Houston.  A year later, Berg brought in Junnajet Hurapan to take over the role of executive chef. In the beginning there was controversy surrounding the name itself and the fact that Berg was a white chef/restaurateur, which didn’t sit well with some in Houston’s Asian community.

    We reached out to Berg Hospitality for some more information regarding the closure and were given the exact same press statement  as other publications, revealing little about the shuttering itself. However, the statement did say, “As we move forward, we are excited to reimagine the Washington Avenue space and explore new creative possibilities.”

    With Benjamin Berg, the new concept could be anything.

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    The Culichito blends Mexican flavors with Japanese sushi techniques.

    Photo by Carlos Reyes

    Seareinas Houston, 1910 Bagby, opened October 2 in Midtown. Originally slated to be an expansion of Gabriela’s Group’s taqueria concept, the decision was made to open a sister location of its Austin Seareinas instead. This is the second Houston concept for Gabriela’s Group which opened its first, Mala Vida nightclub, in 2023. Gabriela’s Group was founded in 2018 by siblings Gabriela and Arturo Bucio. The brother and sister are natives of Michoacan, Mexico.

    Besides the two Houston concepts, the longtime Austin duo have a number of hospitality projects across Texas including Seareinas ,Taquero Mucho, Revival Coffee and Rosa Mami.

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    The Don Cangrejo Steam Pot is a seafood lover’s dream.

    Photo by Carlos Reyes

    The Houston location of Seareinas is a 10,000 square-foot restaurant which will serve Sinaloa-inspired cuisine. Known as the ‘bread basket of Mexico” for its agricultural bounty, Sinaloa also boasts one of the largest fishing fleets in Mexico. Seareinas will showcase seafood staples such as ceviche and sushi plus offer Tex-Mex favorites like enchiladas, choriqueso, fajitas and birria tacos.

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    Co-founder Gabriela Bucio shows off the neon.

    Photo by Victor Vallencillo

    There is a full bar at Seareinas plus a dining room with plenty of booth seating for getting comfortable. Neon signs line the walls, adding to the vibe and an outdoor patio offers al fresco dining. Some of the same design elements of its Austin location appear here like the large statues of Jesus Malverde, a Robin Hood-like folk hero and spiritual icon whose origin story began in Sinaloa.

     There are more than two dozen big-screen televisions spread out the restaurant adding a little sports bar atmosphere to the mix and the owners plan to feature local Latin DJs plus its own banda of local Latin musicians who will serenade guests tableside.

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    Bashi’s chili oil wontons won Best Bite at Chefs for Farmers 2024.

    Photo by Cydny Olteanu

    Bashi, 800 Capitol, celebrated its grand opening at Understory Food Hall September 12. Owners Cydny Olteanu and Milo Lu are the couple behind the concept who began their culinary journey by cooking at home. Chef Lu is originally from Chengdu in Sichuan China. Co-owner and wife Cydny began sharing his dishes on social media during the COVID epidemic. Friends encouraged the pair to start selling their food and they ended up doing just that at Urban Harvest Farmers Market in 2021. They also added Rice Village Farmers Market to their venture. When the couple found a spot at Understory Food Hall, Chef Lu quit his oil and gas career to pursue the dream of opening a restaurant.

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    Understory Food Hall has a new Sichuan eatery.

    Photo by Cydny Olteanu

    The duo also believe in supporting local and small farmers when possible. The menu offers Sichuan favorites and everything is made from scratch including the sauces and stocks. The honey is from local purveyor bee2bee and the micro greens come from Verdegreen Farms. The menu also features wagyu beef from Wagyuru.

    Cydny Olteanu said in an email to the Houston Press, “We want to break the stigma that Chinese food is cheap quality or unhealthy. We were part of Chef to Farmers Food and Wine festival this past weekend and we were voted Best Bite.”

    We at the Press attended Chefs for Farmers last Saturday and tasted the chili oil wontons that Bashi was serving. We agree that it was one of the best bites of the day.

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    Chef Milo Lu is cooking up Sichuan cuisine with lots of spice.

    Photo by Cydny Olteanu

    Olteanu describes her chef-husband as very creative and customers can expect weekly specials that draw on his culinary skills. Her personal favorite is the Chicken and Taro Stew Rice Bowl because, “it’s literally the utmost comfort food.”

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    Owner Ahmad Kilani and rapper Paul Wall pose in front of the Juicy Joint food truck.

    Photo by Christian Pena

    Juicy Joint, 5550 Val Verde, will have a grand opening celebration from October 18 through October 20. Not only will the food truck be giving away a limited number of complimentary food items for the first three hours and a chance to win Juicy Joint food for a year but there will also be a special appearance by Texas rap artist Paul Wall. 

    The food truck will offer a menu of halal wagyu beef burgers and gourmet hot dogs. Juicy Joint comes from Ahmad Kilani and is a sister concept  to his Clutch City Cluckers brand which serves halal Nashville hot chicken sandwiches.

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    Juicy Joint may not be health food but it is halal.

    Photo by Christian Pena

    The new menu offers burgers like the Walkin’ on Sunshine with wagyu beef, crispy beef bacon, Swiss cheese, truffle mayo, sauteed mushrooms and caramelized onions on a soft potato bun. If that’s not over the top enough, there’s the Jalapeno Groove Sizzler which has two wagyu smash patties, American cheese, Juicy Joint’s signature sauce, crisp jalapenos and shredded lettuce.

    The gourmet 100 percent wagyu beef hot dogs include the Eastside Sachi Dog topped with fried onions, gochujang sauce, chives, beef bacon and sesame. For those who still have room, there are two choices of milkshake: Buttery Caramel Bliss and Cookies n Cream Heaven.

    The grand opening begins October 18 at 5 p.m. with Wall doing a meet and greet  from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. with local radio host Kiotti Brown.

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    Show your American spirit with the Red, White and Blue Waffle.

    Photo by Eggs Up Grill

    Eggs Up Grill, 2816 Interstate 45, is coming to Conroe this November. It’s the first Greater Houston area location for the chain and it’s being brought to Conroe by real estate broker and entrepreneur Chris White and son Kyle White, who, with his wife Megan Mejias, is an attorney and partner at White & Mejias in The Woodlands. The father-son duo have been searching for franchises and chose Eggs Up Grill because of its family-oriented ethos. The Conroe location is the first of five that the Whites are planning to open.

    The chain opened its first location in Pawleys Island, South Carolina in 1997. Founder Chris Skodras began the franchise expansion 11 years later. The brand was acquired by WJ Partners, a family-owned investment firm, in 2018. The first Texas store opened in Dallas in November 2023.

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    Conroe gets the first Eggs Up Grill in the Greater Houston area.

    Photo by Eggs Up Grill

    The new I-45 location will be 4,000 square feet with both indoor and outdoor seating. There will also be a 16-seat private dining room called “The Coop”. The breakfast and lunch restaurant will be open daily and serve its full menu from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Some of its brunch menu items include Coastal Crab Cake Benedict, Steak and Eggs and Shrimp and Grits. There are breakfast plates, an array of omelets, Bananas Foster French Toast, waffles and pancakes. For lunch, guests can order sandwiches such as the Cheesesteak Melt, Triple Stack Burger or BBQ Chicken Melt or entree salads like the Praline Pecan Chicken or Cobb Salad.

    Beverage options include cold brew coffee, Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade, French Vanilla Cappuccino and mimosas.

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    Chef Matt Marcus joins the Treebeards team.

    Photo by Sergio Trevino

    Treebeards has announced a director of culinary operations for the first time in its 46 years in Houston. Chef Matt Marcus brings with him a lengthy resume that includes stints with James Coney Island, Bagel Shop Bakery, Perry’s Steakhouse, New York Deli Eatsie Boys and more.

    His initial relationship with the company began four years ago when he helped owners Jolie and Charles Stinneford open their fourth location at Bunker Hill as a consultant. Marcus says of that experience, “I really jived with their staff and Jolie and Charles, of course. They were impressed by my food and they ended up using a lot of my recipes that are still on the menu today such as the mac & cheese, deviled eggs and the roasted salmon.”

    While Marcus will be adding to the Southern fare for which Treebeards is known, the core items will remain, according to owner Charles Stinneford. He added, “We do, however, want to keep the menu new and seasonal and keep people interested.” Marcus says that some of the seasonal specials he is looking forward to introducing include oyster roasts and crawfish boils.

    Currently, Treebeards has three downtown locations and the larger Bunker Hill restaurant. With the hiring of Chef Marcus, the Stinnefords plan to expand its legacy with additional locations.

    Piper’s Cantina, 1815 Mangum, opens October 3, according to CultureMap Houston. It comes from Piper’s Hospitality, the group behind Preslee’s, Woodland Social and the now-closed Piper’s Burger, though Google describes the burger concept as temporarily closed. However, an Instagram post from Piper’s Burger over a year ago said it was moving to 1815 Mangum. Apparently, the cantina idea was chosen instead. We have reached out for more information.

    Guests will find casual Mexican fare such as tacos and quesadillas plus tortas, breakfast tacos and quesabirria. It will be open for breakfast from 6:30 a. m. to 10:30 a.m. and will also serve lunch and dinner.

    There are frozen drinks like Pina Colada and Mangonada plus frozen margaritas.

    Restaurants Reported Open September 2024:

    The Burger Joint, 4455 University Drive, opened early September
    Buttermilk Baby, 600 N. Shepherd, opened September 4
    ChopnBlock Montrose, 507 Westheimer, opened October 1
    Dandelion Cafe, 611 W. 22nd, opened September 17
    Drip Dessert Lounge, 18321 W. Airport Boulevard, opened September 27
    Fish Company Taco, 1914 23rd, opened early September
    The Fox Trap, 11470 Westheimer, opened early August
    Flying Biscuit Cafe, 2404 Navigation Boulevard, opened September 9
    Gold Tooth Tony’s Detroit Pizza, 5225 Bellaire Boulevard, opened August 30
    Good Vibes Coastal Cantina, 3500 W. Main, opened September 16
    Gyro Republic, 20340 Fort Bend Parkway, softly opened August 20
    Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar, 5333 Kirby, opened September 28
    Milton’s 5117 Kelvin, opened September 27
    Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse, 4331 Kingwood, opened September 16
    Talyard Brewing Co., 1033 Imperial Boulevard, opened early September
    The Taco Stand, 4455 University Drive, opened early September
    Yogurtland, 13590 University Boulevard, opened September 14


    Restaurants Reported Closed September 2024:

    Killen’s STQ, 2231 S. Voss, closed September 30
    Wild Oats, 1222 Witte, closed September 7

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  • Openings and Closings: ChopnBlock Soon, Milton’s Tonight

    Openings and Closings: ChopnBlock Soon, Milton’s Tonight

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    ChopnBlock Montrose, 507 Westheimer, will open October 1, which also happens to be Nigerian Independence Day, a fitting brick and mortar debut for the concept which celebrates the cuisine and ingredients of the African Diaspora. It began as a pop up from founder and chef Ope Amosu who then, in 2021, turned it into a 670 square-foot food stall at POST Houston, the international food hall and recreation hub located in the former Barbara Jordan Post Office.

    That location earned Amosu a 2024 James Beard Award Semifinalist nod for Emerging Chef. Now, his rocket is taking off with a much-anticipated and larger venue to express his culinary point of view while showcasing West African cuisine. Amosu said in a press release, “This space is our love letter to the African Diaspora and we want our patrons to celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of West African culture in tandem with the creativity that defines Montrose.”

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    Chef Ope Amosu welcomes diners for a cultural and tasty experience.

    Photo by StuffBenEats

    That space is almost as important as the cuisine itself. Led by Gin Braverman of Gin Design Group in collaboration with AMAO Creative’s founder and ChopnBlock creative partner, Zainob Amao, the atmosphere is meant to be that of a cultural crossroads of both Africans and African Americans, creating a community gathering place. There are plans for live music, panel discussions and special dinners in the future.

    Some of the main design elements include Aso Oke, a traditional West African woven fabric that shows up in the restaurant’s bar facade and community tables with a pattern created by Nigerian American textile designer Shade Akanbi. The limewash walls, including the Artwall and Stenciled Mud Wall were done by Republic Finishes while custom wallpaper from Nigerian artist Uzo Njoku is featured throughout. Meanwhile, there are African products from Root to Home and books from Black authors, supplied by Kindred Stories, some of which are available for purchase.

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    Chef Ope Amosu and wife Janelle sit at one of the soon-to-open restaurant’s booths.

    Photo by StuffBenEats

    The food menu is an explosion of West African flavors, expanding upon Amosu’s current POST menu. Favorites such as the Motherland and Trad Blok Pairings remain but there are new soon-to-be faves as well including Buka Blok Pairing, a traditional West African stew with boneless short rib, served with steamed rice and beans. Aunt Mawa’s Maafe is a collaboration dish with JBA Semifinalist and Aspen, Colorado restaurateur Mawa McQueen, resulting in a creamy Senegalese peanut curry.

    The Small Chops menu offers Nigerian street foods like marinated steak skewers with Yaji peanut pepper spice and Deviled Scotch Egg which combines the colonial Scotch egg with the Southern pot luck standard, the deviled egg. Plantains are also a strong player on the menu with both stewed and classic versions available along with items such as Plantain Bread Pudding or even a cocktail like the Dodo Old Fashioned which blends bourbon with spiced plantain, palm sugar and Angostura bitters.

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    There will be a new cocktail program plus non-alcoholic refreshers.

    Photo by StuffBenEats

    Speaking of cocktails, it’s a first for ChopnBlock. While it offers non-alcoholic refreshers like the Olga Palmer, a blend of hibiscus tea and fresh lemonade, at its POST location, it will add to its zero-proof options at ChopnBlock Montrose while incorporating a cocktail program that includes spirits and a curated wine list from Danny Davis, a Level III sommelier. Cocktail consultant Alexis Mijares helped create the bar program and guests will find a number of drinks made with African spirits as well as West African ingredients.

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    Italian American cuisine gets the Local Foods treatment.

    Photo by Julie Soefer

    Milton’s, 5117 Kelvin, opens September 27. The Italian-American concept comes from Houston restaurateur Benjy Levit, chef and culinary director Seth Seigel-Gardner and the talented team at Local Foods Group. The space was previously Eau Tour, a modern French concept from Local Foods Group which closed June 2, 2024 in order to transform into Milton’s. While Eau Tour received consistently great reviews, it was its fresh pasta dishes that seem to capture the palates of its frequent diners. With this knowledge in hand, the team decided to pivot and create a trattoria that would not only appeal to its current clientele but also allow its culinary team, who are also particularly fond of Italian American cuisine, to expand on the Italian offerings.

    The new menu from Chef Kent Domas centers around handmade pastas and fired meats from the Josper grill. Guests can begin their experience with the Tigelle Platter which features baked-to-order Emilia-Romagna-style flatbreads with a choice of salumi, house pickles, and antipasto or chicken liver mousse with whipped ricotta. Its Sourdough Garlic Knots are made with three-day fermented dough to build the flavor and served with burrata and freshly-shaved truffles, pickled fried onions and caviar creme fraiche. Other starters include Fritto Misto, Baked Clams, Chargrilled Oysters and Arancini.

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    This is the perfect setting for dining on Veal Parm.

    Photo by Milton’s

    The pasta program offers diners hand-crafted dishes such as Ricotta Gnocchi, Bolognese Rigatoni and Agnolotti del Plin. There will be the usual Parms including chicken, veal and eggplant along with a decadent 100-layer Lasagna that will be available in a limited quantity daily with the fillings changing weekly. Entrees include Branzino, Roasted Chicken and Steak Florentine. For dessert, there’s tiramisu made with house-made coffee liqueur.

    Beverage Director Mate Hartai has created an array of cocktails that combine classical elements with a focus on quality ingredients. The Milton’s martini is a gin-based version that gets a special kick from the use of Barolo Chinato, an aromatized wine, and a dash of champagne bitters. Instead of the popular Italian digestif limoncello, Martai has created Rubycello, using Southern Texas ruby red grapefruits instead of lemons. It can be enjoyed on its own or as a highball cocktail with Cocchi Rosso and rose bubbles.

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    Nightfall brings a romantic vibe.

    Photo by Julie Soefer

    Located atop the company’s Local Foods eatery in Rice Village, the second-floor restaurant is long and lean with a mix of comfortable half-circle booths, mini two-seat booths and a line of banquette seating along the wall. Brittany Vaughan of Garnish Design led the interior design with Irish green complemented by golden yellows. Velvet-backed upholstery adds a touch of glamour while Tiffany-style clerestory windows add a touch of retro pizza parlor nostalgia. The Brunswick-style bar allows visual access to the open kitchen and has room to seat eleven guests. An enclosed patio offers additional space for private gatherings. Vaughan is also leading the revamp of adjoining concept, Lee’s Den.

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    Omar Pereny’s croissants are coming to Market Square Park.

    Photo by Gonzalo Picon

    Petit Lucie, 301 Milam, will debut in Market Square Park in spring 2025 and Houstonians will be excited to see that it will be operated by a familiar face, Omar Pereney. A culinary child prodigy, he began his career at the age of 11 in Venezuela, became a teenage star on El Gourmet’s Yo and opened his first restaurant when he was just 16. He eventually landed in Houston when he was 20 becoming executive chef at Peska Seafood Culture and had a stint as President George H.W. Bush’s private chef. He is the founder of Culinary Matters as well as owner of Love Croissants.

    The new concept will be both a sit down cafe and takeaway counter, transforming the kiosk that once housed Niko Niko’s into a restaurant and bar. While many of us were sad to see our favorite gyros exit Market Square, a French-inspired cafe in the heart of the square may be just the perfect spot to feel as if one is in a European piazza surrounded by some of Houston’s oldest buildings (and a few parking garages).

    Petit Lucie will also feature a French bistro-style bar, a charming spot to have a drink while relaxing at the park or prior to taking in a play or musical performance downtown.

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    Omar Pereny will bring a taste of France to downtown Houston.

    Photo by Kirsten Gilliam

    Pereney is no stranger to the area. As Kris Larson, President and CEO of Downtown Houston+ said in a press release, “Chef Omar’s Love Croissants are a prized delicacy among Downtown Houstonians, selling out every weekend at the Market Square Park Farmers Market.” Larson added that the chef’s delicious creations will now be available early morning until evening. The cafe will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

    Pereney calls Petit Lucie his ‘love letter’ to Downtown Houston noting that Houstonians will be able to enjoy a freshly baked croissant and steaming cup of coffee in the morning. He added,  “As the day progresses, the cafe transforms into an inviting lunch spot, offering a variety of savory dishes and refreshing beverages as well as an expertly curated selection of wines, handcrafted cocktails. aperitifs and premium beer.”

    Andiron is adding a new patio to accompany its stunning interior.

    Photo by Julie Soefer

    Andiron, 3201 Allen Parkway, is temporarily closing Monday through Wednesdays in the coming weeks and will reopen with normal hours in mid-October, according to a press release from owner Michael Sambrooks. It’s not a revamp as much as a recalibration “as a more relaxed and approachable indoor and outdoor experience.” Sambrooks also said that the food and cocktail menu would be changing to reflect a restaurant “more conducive to our neighborhood.”

    Sambrooks said, “When opening Andiron in 2023, we dreamed of setting the standard in ultra fine dining experiences in the city. However, after listening to our customers and recognizing a noticeable shift away from fine dining across the restaurant industry, we realize this isn’t what best serves our neighborhood or the Greater Houston dining community.”

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    Some dishes will be reimagined.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Sambrooks, owner of Sambrooks Hospitality, said that he and Chef Michael O’Connor would be carefully recreating new offerings. The team will also be putting the final touches on the new 2,800 square-foot patio. He added, “We are deeply thankful for our Andiron patrons and look forward to embracing a new, more modest era of Andiron, soon.”

    Andiron will still be open its normal hours Thursday through Saturday.

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    Richmond’s Spring Green will be Houston’s first P. Terry’s location.

    Rendering by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture

    P. Terry’s Burger Stand, 9207 FM 723, is expected to open this October at Spring Green. It will be the first Greater Houston area location for the Austin-based burger brand. In an email to the Houston Press, Group Vice President Monty Montgomery said, “Houstonians have voiced their need for a P. Terry’s and we listened.” Though Montgomery admits it takes time and strategy to move into a new market, the company has secured three additional sites with another one close to being announced, resulting in five P. Terry locations in the Houston Market by 2028.

    The Houston locations will be serviced by its commissary based in Austin with many items being produced and delivered on a daily basis, which is why, according to Montgomery, the 99 corridor made sense, not only for transportation but also for the economic growth that has boomed in the surrounding communities.

    When the Richmond location opens it will feature a double drive thru, along with indoor and patio dining. A location at 22000 Champion Forest is expected to open in the second quarter of 2025, followed by another Richmond location at 10305 West Grand Parkway South in the last quarter of the year. There is also a location planned for Bridgeland in Cypress for the first part of 2026.

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    Kirby Ice House Heights will have the longest bar in Texas.

    Rendering by Prism

    Kirby Ice House Heights, 1421N. Loop W., is shooting to open in fall 2025. It will be the fourth location for the Houston backyard bar and patio which has three current spots in Upper Kirby, Memorial and The Woodlands. And this one is going to be massive.

    Over a 3.5 acre property, the venue will be 24,000 square feet, boasting a 146-foot-long bar that surpasses the previous record held by its Woodlands location for longest bar in Texas. With signature cocktails, an extensive wine list and more than 50 beers on tap, it will have a similar layout to the Memorial location but offer even more seating and space, perfect for large groups and events. It will also have the most covered patio space and indoor seating of any of its previous ice houses.

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    The Heights will have even more social opportunities with a new, and huge, neighborhood bar.

    Photo by Alex Montoya

    As with its other spots, there will be outdoor games, a state-of-the-art television and audio-visual system and a line-up of food trucks.

    Parry’s Pizzeria & Taphouse, 4331 Kingwood, had its grand opening September 16 in Kingwood. It’s the second Houston area location for the pizza franchise which opened its first in Webster in July 2023. And it’s just getting started with its expansion to the region. An upcoming restaurant is planned for Sugar Land this fall.

    It first opened in Parker, Colorado in 2007 as a New York-style pizza joint and opened several more in the state over the years. In 2020, it expanded to the Dallas area, eventually opening a total of eight Texas stores with seven more planned in 2024. It also has locations in Las Vegas and Arizona.

    The menu begins with appetizers such as Parmesan Fries, Knickerbocker Cheesy Bread, the South Street Meatball Bake and its large Bavarian-style pretzel served with Parry’s beer cheese. The menu also offers chicken wings and salads plus a selection of calzones. Guests can build-their-own pizzas or opt for one of its signature pies such as Zest Lady Liberty with pepperoni and Parry’s Parmesan Mix or the SoHo Veggie loaded with mushrooms, green peppers, black olives, red onions, tomatoes and minced garlic. For those who like chicken on their pizza, it offers the Brooklyn BBQ Bird, Buffalo Chicken and the New Mexican Yankee which has a base of spicy green chili.

    It also features an extensive selection of draft beers, signature cocktails (more reasonably priced than in the city) and a small wine list. Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and all day Sunday. We know what we’re doing this Sunday. After church, of course.

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    Chefs Daya Myers-Hurt and Matt Sweeney share a laugh with F&B Manager Tara MacMullen.

    Photo by Samantha Wiley Photography

    Hotel Lucine, 1002 Seawall Boulevard, has a new culinary duo leading the kitchen at the beachfront Galveston hotel including its restaurant, The Fancy, its all day dining room, The Den and its poolside dining area, The Rooftop. Houstonian Matt Sweeney has taken on the role of executive chef, having previously served in that capacity at Georgia James Steak in Houston. During his GJ stint, he cultivated relationships with local producers and ranchers like RC Ranch, adding more Texas ranchers to the mix. His focus in his new culinary venture is to incorporate more seasonal and local ingredients, Gulf seafood and handmade pasta into the multi-concept offerings.

    Daya Myers-Hurt, who previously served as sous chef at Hotel Lucine, will now be chef de cuisine at the hotel. A graduate of Houston’s Culinary Institute Le Notre, Myers-Hurt also earned a loyal clientele at her Galveston restaurant Fish Company Taco which she sold this year to local restaurateur and businessman Raz Halili.

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    The Fancy will focus on local and sustainable ingredients.

    Photo by Dima Velyush

    With all of this talent, The Fancy will feature an array of new dishes on the menu this month with items like Tuna Crudo with green apple mignonette and sustainably-raised and roasted Mermaid Tears oysters. There will be Texas wagyu from RC Ranch and homemade pasta dishes like Maltagliati en Brodo with blue crab.

    The Fancy will also launch its weekend Unplugged Brunch September 28. It will run Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  and feature live music along with classic comfort food like Fancy Eggs Benedict, Hot Honey Chicken Biscuit and Steak and Eggs with 44 Farms hanger steak.

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    These desserts are drippin’.

    Photo by Phavur Media

    Drip Dessert Lounge, 18321W. Airport Boulevard, is having its grand opening September 27 in Richmond beginning at 7 p.m. Known for its chocolate covered strawberries, parfaits and cookie skillets, this is the first Houston area venture for the Chicago-based viral dessert shop.  When the doors open at 7 p.m., the first 100 customers will receive a free chocolate-covered strawberry cup. There’s also an opportunity to win a year’s worth of free desserts. 

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Loro Kirby Opens Soon, Wild Oats Bows Out

    Openings and Closings: Loro Kirby Opens Soon, Wild Oats Bows Out

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    Loro Asian Smokehouse & Bar, 5333 Kirby, opens September 28 near Rice Village. It’s the fifth location for the Austin-based restaurant and the second for Houston. The first Houston location opened in the Heights in 2022. The concept is under the umbrella of Hai Hospitality which operates a number of upscale sushi hotspots including Uchi, Uchiko, Uchiba and Oheya.

    Loro is the brainchild of Hai Hospitality co-founder Tyson Cole and Franklin Barbecue owner Aaron Franklin. Both men are James Beard Award winners for Best Chefs: Cole in 2011 and Franklin in 2015. The combination of Cole’s multi-level experience with Asian cuisine plus Franklin’s pit mastery has created a unique menu that combines Texas barbecue and smoked meats with Japanese-inspired sauces and Southeast Asian flavors.

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    The Tokyo Shoyu Ramen is only available Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.

    Photo by Bethany Ochs

    Some of those menu items that will show up on the Kirby menu are shareables like Crunchy Sweet Corn Fritters, Chicken Karaage, Oak Grilled Edamame and Smoked Wings with hot sauce and miso blue cheese. The Wonton Chips & Dip is a perfect example of the Tex-Asian fusion with its Thai green salsa. Two items exclusive to the Kirby location will be Pork Tostadas and Smoked Shishito Queso.

    The ever popular Char Siew Pork Belly remains on the new menu along with The Sake Can Half Chicken with a Gochujang glaze and Oak Smoked Salmon. After 4 p.m., the restaurant will offer Smoked Beef Brisket. Sandwich options include Crispy Smoked Chicken, the Loro Cheeseburger and, unique to the Kirby restaurant, a Double Smash Burger with yuzu and Thousand Island dressing.

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    The Kirby location will include an expansive patio.

    Rendering by Hai Hospitality

    Loro Kirby will also offer the Lunch Two Step ($15), a lunchtime offer in which guests can enjoy a choice from three different sandwiches plus a half-side of options such as Crispy Potatoes, Texas Sweet Corn or Crunchy Cabbage Salad.

    Leading the kitchen as chef de cuisine will be Houston native Esai Negrete whose professional resume includes Yia Mary’s Greek Kitchen, Xochi, Backstreet Cafe and a stint as executive sous chef at Kiran’s Houston. He joined Loro Heights in 2023 as sous chef and his talents and skill have elevated him to a new role at Loro Kirby.

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    Esai Negrete will take the kitchen helm at Loro Kirby.

    Photo by Hai Hospitality

    On the cocktail side, there will be Boozy Slushees like the Frozen Gin and Tonic, Mango Sake, and Killer Colada. Loro Kirby will also launch its first frozen margarita. If the choices are too overwhelming, there’s always the Slushee Flight. There are Zero Proof options such as the Spicy Cucumber, Ginger Cooler and Frozen Pina Horchata. Loro Kirby is also debuting a Dole Whip soft serve with yuzu marmalade and candied pineapple for a cool dessert.

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    Frozen cocktails make life a little chiller.

    Photo by Bethany Ochs

    The design follows along with the Texas Hill Country dance hall inspiration of its Austin and Dallas locations with the added idiosyncrasy of the structure having once served as an autobody shop. In addition to the interior which seats 120, there’s a dog-friendly patio with an overhead pergola that can accommodate 70 more guests. There’s also a patio walk-up bar and outdoor games. It will feature a separate entry and dedicated pickup area at the bar for to-go orders.

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    Wild Oats served hearty Texas fare like beef short ribs.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    Wild Oats, 1222 Witte, closed September 7. The announcement was made September 5 via social media posts on its Facebook page and Instagram. It stated: “The unanticipated departure of our longtime chef, along with other challenges such as Derecho, Beryl and slower-than-desired growth, has expedited our decision to close our doors.” It went on to say “We’re also excited to be in discussions with some fantastic restaurant operators who are exploring new possibilities for this space.”

    It’s been a bit of a bumpy ride for Wild Oats despite a loyal clientele which appreciated its chicken fried steak and Armadillo Eggs. It first opened in February 2022 at Houston Farmers Market with James Beard Award-winning chef/restaurateur Chris Shepherd and culinary director Nick Fine collaborating to create a Texas-inspired culinary vehicle for Fine in the Underbelly Hospitality portfolio. However, Shepherd made a surprise departure from Underbelly in July 2022 to focus more on his non-profit Southern Smoke Foundation as well as other projects. Fine left a couple of months later.

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    Goodbye, chicken fried steak. We hardly knew you.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    In September 2023, Wild Oats closed to relocate to Spring Branch as Comalito took over the Airline space.  Comalito closed June 16,2024, making way for an upcoming second location of Alamo Tamales. Needless to say, Houston Farmers Market has seen a bit of turnover in its culinary tenants.

    In December 2023, Wild Oats reopened in Spring Branch, as we reported here in the Houston Press. Now, eight months later, it has ridden off into the sunset.

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    Some previous favorites remain at the newly-opened Fish Company Taco.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    Fish Company Taco, 1914 23rd, has opened for lunch and to-go service in Galveston. After the original closed in October 2023, business owner and restaurateur Raz Halili approached owner and chef Daya Myers-Hurt about acquiring the award-winning taco shop. A deal was worked out regarding the space and recipes and after being sold to Halili in the spring of 2024, work began in order to refresh the space, create some new menu items and an all-new beverage program.

    The taco restaurant was opened in 2018 by Myers-Hurt and wife Laura. Its global flavors took the simple taco to new heights in a spot minutes away from Galveston’s seawall. Part of its lure was the freshly-caught seafood and the use of seasonal ingredients, aspects that caught Halili’s attention. His family-owned business, Prestige Oysters, and restaurant Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House have the same dedication to the Gulf Coast and its bounty.

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    The renovations keep a casual and coastal vibe.

    Photo by Raz Halili

    Joining Halili in the venture is his culinary team including Joe Cervantez, executive chef at Pier 6, and Lexy Garcia, chef de cuisine at the same. Halili is excited to be build on the foundation of the previous Fish Company. He said in a press release, “There was a lot of thought behind it and we’re honoring that ethos and taking it a step further. It’ll allow our chefs to have fun and showcase their talents.”

    The menu is still anchored by some of the tacos developed by Myers-Hurt including the Korean, Vietnamese, Empire and Dirty South tacos. The Baja tacos are served on house-made corn tortillas made with Masienda’s heirloom blue corn masa harina. Flour tortillas are also made in-house.

    Cervantez and Garcia have added to the offerings with daily crudo specials that will be limited in supply due to the reliance on fresh catch. The Corn Cup and seasonal Pickle Bits stay on the menu, joined by new sides like Chili-Marinated Cucumbers and Onion Rings with curry ketchup.

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    Tropical drinks add to the beachy vibe.

    Photo by Kate Skaggs

    The restaurant will no longer be BYOB. Instead, guests will find a cocktail program created by Ladies of Libation owners Laurie Harvey and Kris Sowell. There are frozen specialties such as the Third Coast Margarita and Grapefruit Guava Frose plus tropical juice-based drinks that can be non-alcoholic or spirit-spiked.

    Soft opening hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The restaurant is counter-service and cashless. Dinner and happy hour service will be announced soon.

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    Guests can go hot or not with the spice levels.

    Photo by Greg Powers

    Nando’s Peri Peri, 1111 Westheimer, is opening its third Houston area location in mid-2025. Located in the Tower Theater space, which previously housed restaurants such as ACME Oyster House and El Real, it’s part of the redevelopment of the Tower Theater center undertaken by Radom Capital whose other projects include M-K-T Heights and Montrose Collective.

    The interior will accommodate 84 diners while the shaded patio will have room for 34 more. In an area bustling with activity, the location will offer ample parking, a scarce amenity in the Montrose neighborhood.

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    Salad is a hearty choice at Nando’s.

    Photo by Greg Powers

    The South African restaurant , known for its flame-grilled chicken, was founded in 1987 in Johannesburg. Its PERi PERi chicken became  so craved that it has expanded to 24 countries across five continents. It opened its first U.S. restaurant in 2008 and currently has almost 50 restaurants across six states. The first Nando’s  arrived in Houston in August 2023 in Post Oak.

    The chicken is marinated for 24 hours before being flame-grilled and basted to the customer’s flavor and spice preference. It’s named for the spicy Bird’s Eye Chili pepper, or Peri Peri, which was introduced to the Portuguese by indigenous West Africans. Nando’s serves the PERi PERi chicken by half and quarter, thighs, breasts and wings. There are chicken bowls, salads, wraps and sandwiches as well.  Vegetarian options include the Veggie Burger and Rainbow Vegetarian Bowl.

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    Sarah Lieberman and J.C. Ricks are in a dream come true.

    Photo by Hearts On Fire Studio

    Dandelion Cafe, 611 W. 22nd, is coming to the Heights. The new location held a friends and family brunch last week and originally planned on opening September 16. However, the debut has been pushed back to possibly late September. We have been promised an update as soon as the debut has been cemented.

    It’s the second brick and mortar for the coffee shop and cafe which first opened in Bellaire and also has an outpost at Rice University. Owners Sarah Lieberman and Chef J.C. Ricks are thrilled to open in the historic Heights Clock Tower, a space that provides a kitchen six times larger than the one in Bellaire. That added space will allow double production with upgraded equipment and an in-house pastry chef.

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    Barry Katz has a lot to smile about with two new Katz’s planned for Houston and Austin.

    Photo by Shawn Chippendale

    Katz’s  Deli, 10321 Katy Freeway, is shooting to open sometime between 2025 and 2026. It will be located in the former home of Jason’s Deli, according to CultureMap Houston. The New York-style deli restaurant, with its tag line “Katz’s never kloses”, first opened in Austin in 1979. It expanded to Houston in 2000 on Westheimer in Montrose. It has since opened three more locations in The Woodlands, Heights and Galleria areas. Unfortunately, the Austin original closed in 2011. However, with the info about a new Houston location comes the good news that the Austin Katz’s will reopen in its original spot at 618 W. 6th. Its opening date has yet to be decided.

    As for the Memorial City location, it will have the same architect as the upcoming Austin restaurant. Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, which has been Katz’s design partner for all the current locations, will be busy with the two new locations.

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    Sugar Land is sweeter than ever with the new Yogurtland.

    Photo by Yogurtland

    Yogurtland, 13590 University Boulevard, is celebrating its grand opening September 14 in Sugar Land. The event begins at 10:45 a.m. and runs through 6 p.m. There will be a ribbon cutting at 10:45 a.m. and an in-store BOGO offer from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Later, there will be music, raffles and family-friendly activities including face painting and balloon artistry from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The store originally opened this past July.

    The self-service frozen yogurt shop has more than 200 flavors and a variety of toppings. Classic flavors such as Fresh Strawberry and French Vanilla are available alongside seasonal treats such as Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Swirl. Guests can enjoy their choices in-store or on the patio. There are also options for pickup, delivery and catering.

    Mountain Mike’s Pizza has signed three multi-unit development deals to bring more locations to Houston, Austin and the DFW Metroplex. While Austin is a new market for the pizza brand, it opened its first Houston area location this past spring in Cypress. The deal will bring five new locations to Austin and three more each to the Greater Houston and Dallas areas.

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    Is that the booth for the Rat Pack?

    Photo by Milton’s

    Milton’s, 5117 Kelvin, is expected to open late September. The restaurant from Benjy Levit and Seth Siegel-Gardner will be an American trattoria with fresh, homemade pastas, wood-fired meats off the Josper grill and a unique array of antipastos. Bartender Mate Hartai willl be in charge of creating its classic and craft cocktail recipes while a fun wine list will offer Old World varietals as well as some more adventurous options.

    Located in a building that once served as a bank in the 1960s, the original walls, made with bricks from the D’Hanis company in San Antonio, and its terrazzo floors have been preserved. Adding to the warmth of the interior is mid-century stained glass and plaid curtains that recall old school Italian bistros of the era.

    We will have more about Milton’s as it gets closer to opening.

    Talyard Brewing Co., 1033 Imperial Boulevard, officially opened this past Monday after a series of soft opening events. Taking the time to train its staff and work out its service-style, the brewery and taproom says in an email that it has landed on counter-service with floating servers (figuratively not literally). Orders can be placed in the tap room, the outdoor tap wall and the Black Pearl BBQ Trailer for food and drink orders. Beepers will be given to alert guests when their orders are ready for pickup. The “floaters” will be on hand to assist with questions, order corrections and tab closeouts and payment can be taken at the counters as well.  There will be bussers to clear away plates and glasses. 

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings Okto Arrives, Karbach Pizza and Pints Tonight

    Openings and Closings Okto Arrives, Karbach Pizza and Pints Tonight

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    Okto, 888 Westheimer, opens August 31 at the Montrose Collective. The new Mediterranean concept from Sof Hospitality is the fourth for the company, owned and operated by James Beard Award-nominated restaurateurs Itai Ben Eli and Itamar Levy. The duo’s other Houston ventures include the upscale steakhouse Doris Metropolitan, Badolina Bakery and the modern Israeli restaurant, Hamsa.

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    Chef Yotam Dolev moves from Hamsa to Okto.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    The name Okto is taken from the Greek word for 8, inspired by its address at 888 Westheimer. There will be Greek dishes on the menu as well as cuisine from Italy, Spain and other Mediterranean countries. In charge of this culinary amalgamation is Chef Yotam Dolev who is moving from his executive chef role at Hamsa to take over the kitchen at Okto. To create the menu, he has collaborated with Hai Avnaim, lead chef at Doris Metropolitan. Melissa Rogers, who helped to oversee operations at Doris Metropolitan in New Orleans and also Hamsa, will do the same at the new concept. With its management roles coming from within, Sof Hospitality has sought to keep its staff with training that helps them grow with the brand and build careers with the company.

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    The Tiger Shrimp at Okto get a kick from the arak.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    The menu items at Okto include seafood starters such as Tuna Crudo with feta, olive and parsley gremolata and main dishes such as Tiger Shrimp with arak buerre blanc or Octopus with Romesco. The Branzino en Papillote with roasted tomato, garlic and asparagus is an example of the fresh Mediterranean ingredients incorporated into the offerings. There are other proteins as well including, Steak Rossini and Lamb Chops plus vegetarian delights like the Eggplant Carpaccio. Regular patrons of Sof Hospitality will find familiar sides like Greek Salad, Snow Peas and Lemon Zest Fries. And of course, there will the amazing bread service including Frena, a flatbread often called Moroccan focaccia.

    The bar program will feature a producer-driven wine list plus classic and craft cocktails. The Okto G&T made with Shishito-infused Still Austin gin is an example of one of its signature beverages along with the Olive Oil Martini and Pajarote Punch.

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    The interior is both moody and magical.

    Photo by Becca Wright

    The 4,200 square-foot space was designed by Sof’s interior designer Lindsay Madrigal of LM Designs. Guests are greeted by the attractive bar which sets the mood with its DJ booth and energetic atmosphere. An expansive kitchen with large windows adds to the kineticism. Dim lighting and dark green green colors create a moody atmosphere while velvet upholstery and marble tables add a luxurious feel. An expansive patio lies behind sliding glass doors offering a Mediterranean oasis of greenery.

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    These appetizers will get the party going.

    Photo by Karbach Brewing Co.

    Karbach Pizza and Pints, 2032 Karbach, will celebrate its grand opening August 30 at Karbach Brewing Co., one of the largest breweries in Houston. Located behind the brewery off Mangum, the 5,000 square-foot restaurant offers guests wood-fired pizzas made with Neapolitan-style dough plus an array of Italian-inspired appetizers and salads. In addition to the food, there are 20 Karbach brews on tap with rotating seasonal beers and unique flavors from its limited, on-site only F.U.N. Series.

    Chef Edward Hoyos is heading the kitchen at the restaurant. He said in a press release, “Our focus on creating exceptional pizzas made from scratch daily sets us apart and allows us to showcase Karbach’s commitment to quality and innovation.”

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    The Big Tex offers Lone Star flavors.

    Photo by Karbach Brewing Co.

    The menu offers a variety of pizza in 10-inch and 16-inch sizes. Guests will find pies such as Hot Honey Pepperoni, The Greek, Al Pastor, and The Pub, a classic pizza loaded with pepperoni, pork sausage and mushrooms. Thinking out of the pizza box, the team has also created The Big Tex made with smoked, brisket, Love Street BBQ Sauce and cilantro and onions. Guests may also create their own pizza with a variety of toppings.

    There are hearty appetizers such as Baked Ricotta, Meatballs and some of the biggest mozzarella sticks we have ever seen. To counteract the sauce and cheese, customers will find a selection of salads like The Chop, Caesar and The Antipasto.

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    Beer keg lights, neon brights and colorful imagery create a casual and up tempo vibe.

    Photo by Karbach Brewing Co.

    Karbach’s General Manager of Retail Operations, Ted Rowell, said that pizza has been a staple of its brewpub menu since 2015 and it has wanted to expand its pizza program for some time. He added, “This new space provided us with the perfect opportunity and integrates seamlessly with our Biergarten for a complete brewery experience.”

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    Owners Surpreet Singh and Preet Paul Singh flank Chef Jassi Bindra (center).

    Photo by Kahani Social Group

    Pok Pok Po, 3201 Louisiana, is coming to Houston this fall. We first reported about the fried chicken concept from the owners of Amrina back in May. Now, the team at Kahani Social Group have announced a new concept to open adjacent to the upcoming Pok Pok Po. Slated to open a few weeks after the fried chicken eatery, Bol will be a fast and fresh bowl concept of Indian flavors.

    The menu will feature grilled meats, vegetables and grains paired with house-made hummus, sauces and dressings, showcasing local farms and quality suppliers. It will open for lunch and dinner with counter service.

    Co- founder of Kahani Social Group, Preet Paul Singh, said in a press release, “With Bol, we wanted to create a concept that blends the vibrant, bold flavors of Indian cuisine with the simplicity and convenience of a bowl. It’s a fresh take on tradition, designed for modern lifestyles without compromising on quality or taste.”

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    Shake Shack is closing two Houston stores.

    Photo by Evan Sung

    Shake Shack is closing nine locations across the country by September 25 due to poor performance and two of them are in Houston. Both the Galleria location at 5015 Westheimer and the Montrose store, 1002 Westheimer, have permanently closed according to internet listings. We reached out to both stores with no answer and the online ordering is unavailable for either location.

    Shake Shack first arrived in Houston with the opening of the Galleria restaurant in November 2016, followed by locations across Houston including Downtown, Katy Freeway, Rice Village, Montrose and Minute Maid Park.

    The company revealed the closures in a filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission August 27, 2024.  One statement read “These closings are expected to optimize the company’s footprint in these states and maximize profitable growth moving forward, and are not anticipated to impact the company’s plans to open additional Shacks in these states.”

    Google lists a Shake Shack location at 700 Town and Country Boulevard and we have reached out to see if that location will open as expected.

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    The Tavern sign remains.

    Photo by Anthony Rathbun

    Tavern by Hearsay, 737 Preston, opened last month at Market Square Tower, a luxury apartment complex in the heart of Houston’s Downtown District. Houstonians may recognize the address as the former space of Underbelly Hospitality’s Georgia James Tavern which closed in July 2023. GJ Tavern may be gone but, conveniently, its lighted Tavern marquee still remains. A grand opening is in the works for the new tavern.

    Landmark Hospitality recently opened another Hearsay location at Levy Park bringing the Houston locations up to five plus one in Galveston. The ‘chic antique’ style of the other Hearsay iterations is seen at the Tavern version as well with dark woods adding a traditional flair while modern lighting and furnishings keep it contemporary.

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    Cocktails and Indian-inspired dishes are some of the specialties at Tavern by Hearsay.

    Photo by Anthony Rathbun

    The menu is eclectic with American cuisine and globally-inspired fare mingling together to create a menu that has something for everyone including vegetarians. In keeping with the tavern theme, there are British pub favorites like Fish & Chips while a number of Indian-inspired dishes like Paneer Steak Sandwich and Tandoori Pizza offer creative fusions of flavors. Every tavern should have a burger and this one does along with a grilled chicken tandoori sandwich, a wagyu hot dog and Crunchy Ahi Tuna tacos.

    An extensive list of cocktails includes Georgia on My Mind made with Old Forrester and El Pepino, a lime and tequila cocktail that gets a hint of cucumber and cilantro. There are also mocktails such as the Watermelon Chile and Pineapple Express. Guests may add 5mg of CBD to the mocktails for an additional cost.

    Tavern by Hearsay is also open for brunch from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m with a menu of pastries, breakfast sandwiches, chilaquiles, biscuits and gravy, omelets and more.

    Buttermilk Baby, 600 N. Shepherd, is getting very close to debuting at M-K-T Heights. Slated to open this September, the ‘cool casual’ concept from Berg Hospitality will blend fine-dining elements with fast-casual service, as a twist on the All-American soda fountain and diner. With a menu of comfort food and a partnership with Carvel, the iconic American ice cream shop, it will transport guests to the 1950s with vintage-inspired decor that promises to be Instagram-worthy.

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    Cuban sandwiches are popping up all over thanks to Yuma HTX.

    Photo by Miriam Leek-Meira

    Yuma HTX began popping up at Catbirds, 1336 Westheimer, this month and will continue to do so every Wednesday beginning at 6 p.m. It has also added additional pop-up locations including Rice Village Farmers Market on the first and third Sundays of the month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Heights Mercantile Farmers market on the second and fourth Sundays of each month.

    Owners Miriam Leek-Meira and Michael Hartley, along with partner and co-founder Alexandra Quintana, are aiming to bring the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine to Houston via their eclectic menu of sandwiches.  The duo are the culinary brains behind the concept creating traditional Cuban sandwiches as well as creative fusion versions. The couple have a great deal of combined experience in the industry and currently operate a micro-bakery, MMH Provisions, though according to a Facebook post they will be scaling back MMH as they roll out Yuma HTX.

    It was through MMH Provisions that Leek-Meira and Hartley met Quintana, who is of Cuban heritage. She approached the couple with the idea for Yuma HTX. The partners are hoping to eventually open a brick and mortar location.

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    Michael Hartley and Miriam Leek-Meira are cooking up inspiration.

    Photo by Yuma HTX

    Everything is made from scratch including the bread, for which they are well-known. The menu is still being tweaked as the owners experiment with different flavors and inspirations. There will be trad sandos like the Cubano, Pan con Bistec and Pan con Lechon but also fusion creations such as the El Penny, a Cubano/banh mi sandwich that was inspired by one of the partners’ nieces who is of Cuban and Vietnamese heritage. Leek-Meira herself is Brazilian so she is working on a pan con bistec that incorporates Brazilian flavors. And because of Chef Hartley’s background in Cajun and Creole cuisines, there will more than likely be some influences from those as well. There’s also a Pan con Croqueta with croquetas, ham, Gruyere, pickled onions and mustard on Cuban bread.

    Sides vary from pop-up to pop-up but might include tostones, yucca frita and pao de quijo, a delicious Brazilian cheese bread.

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    Rap artist and entrepreneur Bun B welcomes U of H fans to have a trill experience.

    Photo by Dylan McEwan

    Trill Tenders will debut at TDECU Stadium at the University of Houston beginning with the Cougars’ season kick-off August 31. The sister brand of the insanely popular Trill Burgers will be located in the concession area at Section 138 near the student entrance at ICON Gate 2.

    Trill Tenders will share the space with Trill Burgers, giving sports fans the opportunity to try both. In addition to the OG Burger Combo, there will be the Trill Tenders Combo with three tenders, Cajun cut crinkle fries, Soy OG and Pink OG dipping sauces. The combos will be served in special scarlet red UH-branded Trill Burgers and Trill Tenders packaging.

    Restaurants Reported Open August 2024:

    Credence and Sidebar, 9757 Katy Freeway, opened August 20
    Dough Zone Dumpling House, 11805 Westheimer, opened August 19
    Doves Restaurant, 3103 Main, opened August 23
    Dozier’s BBQ and Meat Market, 6222 FM 359, reopened August 20
    Hearsay Levy Park, 3728 Wakeforest, opened July 19
    Hong Kong Food Street, 23015 Colonial Parkway, opened mid-August
    Hungry’s, 5750 Woodway, opened August 19
    La Cocina de TJ, 9101 Sienna Crossing, opened July 20
    Lady M Confections, 12270 Westheimer, opened August 14
    Lavish Eats HTX, 8318 Southwest Freeway, opened late July
    The Monk’s Indian Bistro, 9626 FM 1960 bypass, opened June 2
    Plume, 100 W. 23rd, opened July 26
    Seaside Poke, 7670 Katy Freeway, opened August 3
    7-Brew Drive-Thru Coffee, 3830 SH-105, opened August 1
    Tumble 22, 10403 Katy Freeway, opened July 22

    Restaurants Reported Closed August 2024:

    La Calle Tacos, 3321 Ella Boulevard, closed temporarily due to fire (other locations still open)
    Proud Pie, 3522 S. Mason, closed its storefront July 1

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Doves Debuts, Coffee Fellows Expands, Dozier’s Reopens

    Openings and Closings: Doves Debuts, Coffee Fellows Expands, Dozier’s Reopens

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    Doves Restaurant, 3103 Main, is having its grand opening August 23 beginning at 4 p.m.. Located in Houston’s Midtown, the upscale restaurant will offer a modern approach to Southern cuisine with Asian influences, creating contemporary dishes that still offer the nostalgia of comfort fare.

    Guests will find dishes such as Curry Lamb Tacos, Gumbo Dumplings, Pagoda Shrimp and Coconut Thai Curry Mussels on the shareables menu as well as a selection of soups and salads. The whimsical Bao Down Slider is a steamed bao bun filled with a choice of Akaushi beef or Southern buttermilk- fried chicken. The Etouffee Woncho is a mix of shrimp and crawfish etouffee mixed with mozzarella and gouda atop crispy wonton strips.

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    General Wilson’s Wings are sweet and spicy.

    Photo by Visual Influence

    Hearty and luxurious entrees include Teriyaki Glazed Lamb Chops, Pontchartrain Pad Thai, Miso Meuniere Seabass and a 32-ounce Prime Tomahawk. The menu also features its Pearl River Peking Duck.

    Taking its cue from boutique dining spaces in cities like New York and Los Angeles, the restaurant goes all in on glamour with marble and gold accents, set off by emerald velvet upholstery and tea candle lamps. Designed by Niki Dooms of NHI Design, the space can accommodate 94 guests with a private outdoor patio and a second-level dining terrace.

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    The second level terrace is glamourous.

    Photo by Visual Influence

    Along with a premium cocktail program and a list of fine wines, the restaurant and bar will offer late night service and live entertainment.

    Owners Fred Wilson of Wilson Hospitality Group and Samuel Williamson of GoldCoast Properties both bring experience in the hospitality industry as well as diverse portfolios of business ventures and real estate acquisition. Williamson said in a press release, “We are proud to bring this intimate, boutique dining experience to life and look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy the magic we have created.”

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    A tall cold brew and an egg white frittata muffin make a great breakfast or a midday pick-me-up.

    Photo by Kirsten Gilliam Photography

    Coffee Fellows, 1127 Eldridge Parkway, is shooting to open this September with two more Greater Houston area locations to follow soon after, including 5000 Katy Mills Circle and 11637 Telge before the end of the year. Another will open in 2025 at 8809 Broadway in Pearland. The European-style coffee cafe brand already has two Houston area shops in Bellaire and Katy. The Bellaire location was the first U.S. flagship location for Coffee Fellows North America.

    Founded in Munich, Germany in 1999, it is celebrating its 25th anniversary with an aggressive expansion into the North American market, continuing the the style and ethos of its sister company which operates primarily in Germany with a small number of locations across Europe as well as a couple in Mongolia.

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    Warm and welcoming is Coffee Fellows’ mission.

    Photo by Leah Wilson Photography

    Its founders, Kathrin and Stefan Tewes saw a need for a welcoming coffee experience in Germany and over the past couple of decades, it has opened 230 locations, more than half of those located at gas station and rest stops across Germany. Carrying its mission across the pond, each new cafe features comfortable, upholstered furniture, cozy nooks, communal tables and bar-top seating. Guests can take advantage of its wireless chargers, numerous electrical outlets and complimentary Wi-Fi (no password required) while lingering over one of its many beverage options.

    It also offers a dog-friendly patio as well as eco-friendly to-go packaging, a food menu and a variety of community events. Those who don’t do dairy will be pleased to find milk alternatives such as soy, oat, almond and coconut at no additional cost.

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    Pups have their own cups at Coffee Fellows.

    Photo by Becca Wright Photography

    Its coffee menu boasts a number of classics such as espresso, cortado, macchiato, flat white and Americano. Other hot beverages include tea and chocolate. There are iced beverages as well and cold brew. Decadent frappiato comes in several flavors and the trio of smoothies includes Berry, Green and Tropical. It also features homemade sodas.

    The breakfast menu has sandwiches, berry waffles, its signature Egg Bites and overnight oats. It also has a food menu of bagel sandwiches including salmon, avocado, turkey or three-cheese. There is a Caprese or Chicken Caesar on ciabatta. Pastries include croissants, muffins and pound cake with other sweets such as cheesecake, cookies and brownies.

    Dozier’s BBQ returns to the family.

    Photo by Katherine Hinnant

    Dozier’s BBQ and Meat Market, 6222 FM 359, reopened to the public August 20, as reported by Community Impact. The community newspaper had previously reported this past July about the new ownership which is actually a somewhat return to the original ownership.

    The longtime smoked meat favorite was originally opened in 1957 by Ed Dozier who took the top honors at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s first ever Bar-B-Que Cook-Off. It became a hotspot for politicians, celebrities and locals alike. Dozier sold the barbecue joint to brothers Smedley and Scott Evans in 1985. It changed hands again in 2019 when its was acquired by Jim Cummins and Steve Baur, two local businessmen who brought in pit master Jim Buchanan, former owner of Buck’s Barbecue Co. in Galveston.

    The business added a big backyard deck and live music. However, the barbecue restaurant wasn’t seeing the customer traffic it needed and closed March 30, 2024. Now, it has reopened with Ed Dozier’s great-grandson, Tyler Risinger, leading the way. Risinger and his business partner Keith Brochhausen have taken over the lease for the property and purchased the name from Baur and Cummins, according to Chron.com. Risinger also owns 2M’s Malt N Burger Mart in Rosenberg.

    Dozier’s will host a grand opening event August 24 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be live music and free shaved ice. And plenty of smoked meat and cold beer for purchase.

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    A vent hood fire does a lot of damage.

    Photo by La Calle

    La Calle Tacos, 3321 Ella Boulevard, is temporarily closed due to a fire which caused significant damage to the property. The incident, which occurred August 20 around 4:30 p.m., is believed to have been caused by a malfunction in the vent hood per the Houston Fire Department. Fortunately, there were no injuries to staff or customers.

    If this incident seems like deja-vu to Houston Press readers, it’s because we reported about an electrical fire at La Calle’s Bagby Park location in January 2023. That damage caused the location to be closed for almost a year. For owner Ramon Soriano, this has been a shocking and devastating disaster to happen less than two years after the first one.

    Soriano, who owns not only three La Calle locations but also La Diabla Retro Bar, said that he couldn’t believe it when he got the call. He added, “I’m so thankful that my team was safe and we are incredibly grateful for the Houston Fire Department who, within minutes of the initial call to 9-1-1, were at La Calle to put out the fire and prevent further damage. It’s going to take some time for us to rebuild and recover, but we will work day and night to get back to business.”

    The staff will be moved to the locations at 909 Fannin and 401 Gray so Houstonians will still be able to enjoy the restaurant’s street tacos, tostadas and quesabirria while the Ella location is repaired. La Calle is also planning a location at the East River development at 2920 Riverby soon.

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    The new development in the East End is getting ready for fall events.

    Photo by East River

    Meanwhile, the East River development from Midway has finished its first phase of construction and has moved in retail tenants along with residents at The Laura, a multi-family luxury apartment community. Beginning in September 2024 and going  through December 2024, East River will begin to host events including free Beats on the Bayou concerts the first Friday of every month. Each second Saturday, it will feature BLCK Market from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., showcasing more than 30 Black-owned small businesses and vendors. There will be live music, fitness activities and food trucks, too.

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    BLCK Market is the largest gathering of Black-owned business in the country.

    Photo by East River

    A new addition to the event calendar, East River Fall Farmers Market, will be hosted by Harris County General Store BBQ Co. The market will take place the fourth Saturday of each month, September through November, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be local produce and artisanal goods available.

    To get a taste of the Fall Farmers Market to come, Harris County General Store is having a farmers market at Eureka Heights Brewery, 941 W. 18th, August 31 from noon to 5 p.m.

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    A son continues his parents’ legacy.

    Photo by Johnny Cheung

    Hong Kong Food Street, 23015 Colonial Parkway, began its soft opening last week in Katy. It’s a relocation and revival of the family-owned restaurant that first opened in 2002 in Bellaire’s Asiatown. Founders Hansun Cheung and wife Christine Wong operated the Cantonese restaurant for 20 years and earned a loyal following. The couple immigrated to Houston from Hong Kong in the 1990s, according to the Houston Chronicle.

    Their son, Johnny Cheung told the Press that the COVID pandemic and a water pipe accident “threw everything into limbo.” He said in an email, “After working hard for 20 years, at the late age of 60s, they decided to just retire.” The original Hong Kong Food Street closed in December 2020.

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    Hong Kong Food Street welcomes return customers and a new generation.

    Photo by Johnny Cheung

    However, Johnny Cheung says that for the past three years he has consistently received requests and inquiries about when the restaurant would reopen. “In 2023, I finally decided to take on the task. I am using the same name to carry on my parents’ legacy, but since my parents are not in the picture this time, it is my interpretation, hence the new location, new decor and updated menu.” Cheung added that the restaurant was a huge part of his adulthood since he had worked along side his parents from the age of 17.

    “I want this new HKFS to be the evolved version of what my parents started. My parents served their generation and now it is my job to cater to mine.”

    Talyard Brewing Co.    , 1033 Imperial Boulevard, is currently hosting soft opening events ahead of its official September opening. Information can be found on it social media or interested beer lovers can subscribe to  its newsletter per the website to get more information on the planned events.

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    The new bread service at State of Grace is perfection.

    Photo by Rocket Farm Restaurants

    State of Grace, 3258 Westheimer, is unveiling a new menu and a new ‘persona’ September 9. Owner Ford Fry , his VP of Culinary Drew Belline, culinary director Bobby Matos and executive chef John Quinn are joining forces to bring back the nostalgia of the golden age of dining with its classic cuisine and professional hospitality.

    The Oyster Room will still turn out fresh oysters and seafood towers while a revamped menu will offer classic fare such as Onion Soup Gratinee and Classic Caesar Salad a la minute, meaning it will be made fresh, to-order. The familiar hushpuppies become Blue Crab Beignets while steaks prepared to the temperature preferences of its customers will include choices such as the massive 42-ounce Bistecca alla Fiorentina or the Le Entrecote with frites and sauce verde. Its menu of Les Plats Continental will offer dishes like Roasted Maine Scallops, Veal Chop Schnitzel and Smoked Ricotta Tortaloni.

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    Snapper Crudo joins the menu at State of Grace.

    Photo by Rocket Farm Restaurants

    Its extensive wine list of more than 400 hand-picked wines means there is something for everyone’s taste while new cocktails like the Bull in Heather and Leonard’s Iced Tea will join classic beverages.

    The transition will include a change in decor. Different tones of green and gray along with brass accents  and chandeliers will add to the elegance. Vintage leather banquettes and ornate antiques will evoke the charm of a Parisian brasserie while quirky artwork and whimsical florals will add a modern touch. 

    The Brewistas are ready to make the perfect brew.

    Photo by 7 Brew

    7 Brew Drive-Thru Coffee, 3830 SH-105 W. began its soft opening in Conroe August 19. It’s the third for the Greater Houston area with the other two in Spring and Houston. There are two more planned for the Houston area in the coming months. The Grand Opening Swag Day for the Conroe Crossing Shopping Center location is September 7. Customers who order a large drink will receive a limited-edition Conroe-themed 7 Brew t-shirt, while supplies last.

    It offers convenient drive-thru service with ‘Brewistas’ creating personalized beverages for customers with thousands of drink combinations for different dietary preferences. There are espresso-based coffees, teas, sodas and infused energy drinks. Its 7 Classics are offered hot, iced or as a Chiller and include Blondie, Brunette, Smooth 7, White Chocolate Mocha, German Chocolate, Cinnamon Roll and Sweet & Salty.

    DR Delicacy    , 1291 North Post Oak, is celebrating the grand reopening of its retail store August 22 through August 24. The newly renovated space had a few delays due to Hurricane Beryl but now it’s ready to welcome the public to enjoy 25 percent off all store items and to enjoy exclusive caviar tastings this Thursday through Saturday. There will also be light bites, champagne and caviar bumps August 24 from noon to 2 p.m. 

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Turner’s Cut Swans In, Azumi Debuts

    Openings and Closings: Turner’s Cut Swans In, Azumi Debuts

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    Turner’s Cut, 811 Buffalo Park, opened June 28 at Autry Park, almost hand in hand with another Berg Hospitality Group concept, The Sylvie, which also opened June 28 at Texas Tower. Sophistication and luxury have become a hallmark for a number of Berg restaurants and Turner’s Cut will join the portfolio as an opulent and indulgent steakhouse. Its white glove service, sparkling chandeliers and well-placed antiques evoke the nostalgic glamour of the Gilded Age, along with the Golden Era when Prohibition lit the flames of decadence and discreet naughtiness.

    And that’s exactly what Benjamin Berg, CEO and Founder of Berg Hospitality Group, is going for. He said in a press release, ” Turner’s Cut is more evocative of a dinner party in a luxurious estate than a modern-day restaurant-but yet with all of the bespoke touches and elevated food and cocktails that our clientele would want.”

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    Live music will be played on the mezzanine.

    Photo by Brian Kennedy

    Guests enter the restaurant under a dome awning inspired by establishments once visited by New York’s high society. The exterior architecture includes a facade of Venetian glass bricks while the interior mixes dark, rich colors with touches of white and gold. Behind the host stand is a large-scale piece of art titled  “The Chef with Knife”, an acrylic and charcoal work from New Orleans artist Willie Berch. The design was done by Berg and Gail McCleese of sensitori, a Houston-based hospitality design firm.

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    King Crab gets an elegant presentation at Turner’s Cut.

    Photo by Brian Kennedy

    The menu’s design was just as visionary with Berg bringing in Franck Savoy, Chief Operations Officer to assemble a talented team. Savoy is the son of Michelin-starred phenom chef Guy Savoy. He enlisted Senior Corporate Chef Eric Damidot, Regional Culinary Director Pablo Penalosa and Executive Chef Chelsea Cummings to curate the array of dishes.

    The menu includes rare cuts of meat from America and Japan with pricey familiars such as Japanese A5 and Prime Dry Aged Ribeye. There’s the Raw Bar Cart which allows guests to choose tableside their preferences including sashimi, lobster, oysters, King Crab and caviar. In keeping with the white glove service, there’s the Carving Cart with bone-in prime rib as well as the Martini Cart for the perfect quaff. In addition, there are six and nine-course tasting menus with optional wine pairings.

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    The bar at Turner’s Cut is made from gold cut crystal glass, backed by Venetian glass bricks.

    Photo by Brian Kennedy

    The bar offers signature drinks, spirit-free cocktails, beer and an extensive wine list created by Sommelier Royston Remick whose resume includes Houston businesses such as Backstreet Cafe, Max’s Wine Dive and Antica osteria.

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    The Short Rib gets a Japanese touch at Azumi.

    Photo by Atlas Restaurant Group

    Azumi, 4444 Westheimer, opened June 24 in River Oaks District. The modern Japanese restaurant comes from Atlas Restaurant Group which opened the first Azumi in Baltimore in December 2014. The hospitality group is based in “Charm City” and operates over 50 concepts across Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Texas and Florida. Atlas currently operates two other concepts in Houston, Marmo and Loch Bar. It closed its Ouzo Bay restaurant in 2023 to transform it into Azumi.

    The fine dining concept is led by executive chef Timur Fazilov, a chef with years of Michelin-star experience and working with esteemed chef Masaharu Morimoto as executive chef at Morimoto in Qatar and as brand executive chef for Sa’Moto.  The Japanese menu will incorporate fusion elements while focusing primarily on sushi.

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    Chef Timur Fazilov knows a thing or two about Japanese cuisine.

    Photo by Atlas Restaurant Group

    Highlights of the new menu include Scallop Tiradito and  Hirame (flounder) Crudo plus larger plates such as Wagyu Short Rib and Yakisoba Noodles. There is also an extensive list of nigiri, sashimi and maki rolls. Guests will also be able to indulge in some of the delights from Azumi Baltimore such as Flaming King Crab Roll, Miso Black Cod and Chicken Gyoza. Some of the tasting options include a Japanese A5 wagyu flight and the Toyosu Nigiri Plate which offers 12 assorted pieces of the chef’s best sushi.

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    The 11-seat sushi bar is a prized seating.

    Photo by Brian Kennedy

    Designed by Baltimore-based Patrick Sutton, the 6,500 square-foot restaurant is elegant and dramatic with light colors and natural materials inspired by Tokyo’s refined dining scene. White oak is used throughout as an homage to its River Oaks location. In addition to seating 80 in the main dining room and 11 guests at the sushi bar, there are two covered terraces for 66 guests, with the south-facing terrace opening to the 20-seat cocktail bar and a 20-seat chef’s table.

    There are signature cocktails, an extensive wine list, 16 different rare bottles of Japanese whiskey and over 60 sakes.

    Parking is free in the River Oaks District parking garage or guests can opt to pay for valet.

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    New combos make for delicious lunch choices.

    Photo by Andrew Hemingway

    Common Bond Bistro & Bakery, 5740 San Felipe, opened softly June 26 in the Tanglewood area with a grand opening planned for August. The 5,500 square-foot restaurant is the largest for the brand to date and spans two floors, including an upstairs area that can be used for private events.

    The counter-service restaurant is bright and airy with a hand-painted mural adding a pop of color along with the turquoise and pink colors of the company’s palette. There are tables, booths and banquettes inside plus a patio sporting turquoise umbrellas along the storefront.

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    It will eventually be patio weather again.

    Photo by Andrew Hemingway

    Along with its newest spot, comes a new Bistro & Bakery menu as well from Chef Jason Gould. In addition to the breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings and its artisanal baked goods, there are new burgers such as Classic Bistro, Bacon BBQ and Mushroom Goat Cheese. There are also new combos with a choice of half-sandwich and soup or salad. Guests on the go or heading back to the office can choose one of its lunch boxes like the Tomato & Burrata, Vegan Fall Greens or Texas Club. The new menu also offers dishes such as Cavatappi Pasta with black pepper sausage, creamy tomato sauce, roasted red peppers, pistou and fresh basil.

    Summer beverages at Common Bond include an array of Frozen Lemonades in Peach, Mango, Passionfruit, Strawberry or Traditional flavors. For those needing a caffeine jolt but a cool drink, there’s the Cold Brew with Sweet Cream and Cold Foam Iced Lattes. Common Bond Bistro also features a full beer and wine list.

    Brazos Bagel ceased operations in Houston this week. The announcement for the sudden departure was made via social media by owner Zac Wilson who posted that Brazos Bagel would be shutting down the retail and wholesale operations in Houston. He wrote, “The reasons are varied and many. Perhaps one day it will be worth going deeper into the how and why, but for now it just is. I will miss all of the joy that you brought to my life, it was transformative and inspiring.”

    Wilson went on to say that his artisanal bagels would now be available, starting July 7, at Fall Creek Farmers Market in Atascocita every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Buy Local Market in Humble every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. He also mentioned his partnership with Summer Lane Coffee in Huntsville. On July 1, Wilson again posted on the Brazos Bagel Facebook that he finally had a plan for reopening at Summer Lane Coffee, 701 Avenue M, listing the hours for Wednesday through Sunday.

    In the most recent post, he wrote about the struggles of being closed for days as a small business owner, adding “It can be a scary time just to take time needed to rest.”

    He also said, “I’ve at last turned the corner I’ve been desperately waiting for and finally feel like an actual human being again.”

    Wilson debuted his much-craved bagels with various pop-ups, finally landing a brick and mortar in the Heights. It debuted as Brazos Bagel February 1, 2024 but was closed within the first week as Wilson sold out of the extremely popular bagels daily and then split ways with his partners and investors, according to the Houston Chronicle. It then reopened February 12 as the rebranded Space City Bagels with Wilson no longer involved.

    Nyammings Fusion Bistro Express, 2626 Blodgett, opens July 10 at Blodgett Food Hall. It’s an outpost of Nyammings Fusion Bistro on Wilcrest owned by former NFL football player and chef, Victor Allotey, who also owns Empire State Jazz Cafe.

    The express version of Nyammings will offer a full menu of Caribbean, Creole and Soul dishes featuring Jamaican Patties, Jerk Lambchops, Sausage Gumbo, Shrimp and Crawfish Etoufee and Coco Bread. There’s also a selection of pastas such as Cajun Shrimp Pasta, Mardi Gras Pasta and Rasta Pasta which is made with a creamy jerk sauce. Entrees include Blackened Fish, Shrimp Creole, Jamaican Oxtails and Jamaican Curry Goat.

    Beverage options include Jamaican sodas like D&G Kola, D&G Cream Soda and Pineapple Soda as well as Coke products. There is a wide array of homemade lemonades and iced teas in a variety of flavors.

    The Giant can feed you and a couple of friends.

    Photo by Jersey Mike’s Subs

    Jersey Mike’s Subs, 1358 W. 43rd, opened July 3. Franchise owner John Enterline began the grand opening and fundraiser the same day and it will run through July 7 with special fundraising coupons benefitting the Harriet and Joe Foster Family YMCA.

    Known for its premium meats and cheeses and baked-in-store bread, it also has a devoted following for its Mike’s Way order in which the sub is topped with lettuce, tomato and onion then given a kiss of “the juice”, its signature blend of red wine vinegar and olive oil.

    Customers may order online or through the app for pickup. There is also delivery available through the app as well as third-party delivery partners in most areas.

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    Trill Burgers fans can order the Triple OG through DoorDash and enjoy it in the privacy of their home sans judgment.

    Photo by Dylan McEawn

    Trill Burgers, 3607 S. Shepherd, has partnered exclusively with DoorDash to offer its award-winning smashburgers for delivery. The Trill Burgers full menu will be available on the DoorDash app and its ordering hours will be the same as its in-store operations, daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

    Co-founder and rap artist Bun B is excited to take the Trill Burgers experience to a new level. He said in a press release, “You can’t always make it out when you’re craving a Trill Burger and DoorDash is the perfect partner to help get our burgers directly in the hands of our guests.”

    It beats standing in the line that usually wraps around Trill Burgers’ restaurant, especially in Houston’s summer heat. 

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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  • Openings and Closings: Duck N Bao Now, Eau Tour Transforms

    Openings and Closings: Duck N Bao Now, Eau Tour Transforms

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    Duck N Bao, 5215 Kelvin,  opened May 28 in Rice Village. It’s the third location for the Sichuan restaurant from husband and wife team Grace and Leo Xia who operate two other Duck N Bao spots in Cypress and Memorial. The restaurateurs also opened their all-you-can-eat Korean concept Hongdae 33 in April 2023.

    Leo Xia came to the United States from Sichuan province at the age of 18. His family eventually purchased the Cajun Cafe & Grill in Friendswood and it’s there Leo learned how to cook alongside his father, a trained chef. Leo would later go on to open Green Garden, a traditional Sichuan restaurant, in Cypress.

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    Comfortable leather bar stools and a marble-topped bar offer a stylish spot for a whimsical cocktail.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Grace Xia’s path was a little different. After emigrating from Beijing to Houston at the age of 20, she earned her B.S. and M.S. in accounting. Working her way through college as a server at a sushi and hibachi restaurant, Grace discovered a passion for hospitality. Still, she accepted a position with Deloite’s Private Wealth group, eventually leaving her position in 2018 to open a Kung Fu Tea franchise. After meeting Leo, the duo realized their ambitions in the hospitality industry were aligned and they opened their first Duck N Bao in May 2020 in Cypress.

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    A perfectly crisped Peking Duck awaits at Duck N Bao.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    The cuisine at Duck N Bao is a happy marriage of the duo’s culinary backgrounds. The restaurant has become a hot spot for diners seeking a perfectly presented Peking duck experience and xioa long bao (soup dumplings). The new location will still feature the dim sum and Sichuan dishes that diners expect from Duck N Bao but there have been some newly developed items added to the offerings including Triple-Cooked Short Ribs, Duck-Fried Rice, Black Truffle Soup Dumplings and the Sichuan-Style Rice-Battered Beef Shank.

    There are even more luxury upgrades such as the opportunity to add caviar to the house Peking duck set-up or the addition of lobster to the mapo tofu.

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    The cocktail lineup is as impressive as the food.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Duck N Bao is also known for its cocktails and Grace has curated a cocktail menu that showcases the Chinese fermented spirit baiju, which shows up in drinks like Dragon’s Breath along with bourbon, St. Germain, Cointreau and orange peel.

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    Modern Chinese design blends with traditional elements in the interior.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    The new drinks and dishes are served in a 2,600 square-foot space that has been renovated and imagined by the same Chinese designer who oversaw the renovations at Duck N Bao Memorial and Hongdae 33. Colors of dusty blue and deep rose cover the tufted leather banquettes, mixing with red and gold for a Modern Chinese ambiance. Lacquered wood structures are an homage to the art of Chinese lacquer and wood paneling creates a cozy, intimate feel. There’s also a stylish bar plus a 1,000 square-foot outdoor patio.

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    Chef Kent Domas will be rolling out the pasta dough at Milton’s.

    Photo by Carla Gomez

    Eau Tour, 5117 Kelvin, will have its final brunch service June 2 before it transforms into Milton’s. It’s a major shift for Local Foods Group who first opened Eau Tour in March 2023. The modern French restaurant consistently received glowing reviews in a town that doesn’t exactly teem with French cuisine. However, as the menu evolved, more guests seemed to opt heavily for the fresh pasta dishes so the owners and team decided to pivot toward American-Italian cuisine which happened to be more in line with how they themselves love to cook and eat, according to a spokesperson for the group.

    When it changes over to Milton’s, it will be an American trattoria with an emphasis on fresh house-made pastas and wood-fired meats from the Josper grill . Chef Dylan Murray, co-owner of Local Foods Group with restaurateur Benjy Levit, is creating the new menu with a culinary team that includes Houston chef Seth Seigel-Gardner and concept chefs Kent Domas and Geoff Hundt.

    While the space undergoes its revamping, some of the Eau Tour favorites will be available at the adjoining  Lees Den. Guests will be able to savor the House Ground Short Rib and Duck Double Cheeseburger as well as the Mushroom + Raclette Dumplings. While there will still be Ravioles du Dauphine, the chefs will also be creating new dishes for Milton’s during the changeover giving guests a hint of what’s to come at Milton’s.

    Lees Den, which was designed by Brittany Vaughan of Garnish Design, will be transformed into a speakeasy.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    And the transformation of Eau Tour, spearheaded by Brittany Vaughan of Garnish Designs, is not the only change. After Milton’s debuts in the space in late summer, Lees Den will undergo renovations to expand the bar and seating, connecting the two upstairs areas in a speakeasy manner. During all of these changes, beverage director Mate Hartai will host a summer cocktail series as he experiments with different takes on classic, craft cocktails for the upcoming concepts. Wine director Chrisanna Shewbart will be leading the wine program for the concepts with a eye toward Old World wines along with some funky producers for glass and bottle options.

    Meanwhile, Local Foods Market downstairs will offer grab-and-go house-made pastas, Old World wines and other items from the upstairs trattoria.

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    Chef Jassi Bindra (left) is collaborating with brothers Surpreet Singh (center) and Preet Paul Singh (right).

    Photo by Alex Montoya

    Pok Pok Po, 3201 Louisiana, is coming to downtown late this summer. A lease has been signed for the fried chicken concept which comes from Kahani Social Group, the team behind modern Indian restaurant, Amrina, in The Woodlands. Pok Pok Po will occupy the space which previously housed Artisans before it relocated to Westheimer.

    The Kahani Group was founded by brothers Surpreet and Preet Paul Singh and their stunning restaurant Amrina showcases the talents of India-born chef Jassi Bindra, who was a champion on the Food Network’s hit show Chopped last year. Now he’s collaborating with the brothers to bring his version of craft fried chicken to Houston. Guests can also expect creative side dishes and house-made condiments and sauces.

    While Houston has its fair share of fried chicken, especially hot versions, Pok Pok Po will have a uniqueness that stands out. Surpreet Singh said in a press release, “The inspiration for Pok Pok Po stemmed from the overwhelming success of our fried chicken brunches at Amrina. We knew there was something truly special about our fried chicken and we’re excited to bring that magic to Pok Pok Po.

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    Chef Dawn Burrell is popping up at Sawyer Ice House this June.

    Photo by Jenn Duncan

    Sawyer Ice House, 1420 Sawyer, will be hosting brunch pop-ups this June with chef Dawn Burrell. No longer affiliated with the recently-opened Late August, it’s a return to the Houston dining scene for the James Beard Awards semi-finalist. Burrell will be taking over the kitchen for Social Sundays Brunch each Sunday in June from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Some of the dishes on the menu will be Whole Smoked Oxtail and Rice Grits for Two ($35) and the Big Ass Summer Salad Bowl ($16) with crunchy rice, baby gem lettuce, green beans, asparagus, local lettuces, crispy shallots, fresh cheese, citrus and avocado dressing. Customers can add Berbere-spiced salmon or pork belly for an extra $6.

    Though walk-in orders will be available, guests are encouraged to pre-order by the Thursday prior to the following Sunday.

    Houston TX Hot Chicken, 23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard, will open June 15 in Katy. It’s the second location for the Nashville hot chicken concept in Houston. Despite its moniker, it was actually founded in 2020 in Las Vegas by entrepreneurs and exotic car buffs Edmond Barseghian and Houston Crosta. Savory Fund announced in November 2023 its strategic investment in the brand which will likely mean a nationwide expansion. Currently, there are two dozen locations in Nevada, California, Utah, Arizona, Idaho, Michigan, Washington and Texas.

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    Sichuan Pepper Express will open in an A-frame structure familiar to Texans.

    Photo by Bob Ruggiero

    Sichuan Pepper Express, 10843 FM 1960 W., will take over the spot which previously housed a Whataburger. That Whataburger moved across the street to 11020 FM 1960 West last year. We have reached out for an opening date and will let our readers know once we have the details.

    It’s the third Houston location for the Sichuan fast food restaurant which offers appetizers like egg rolls, crab rangoon and fried chicken wings plus soups, salads and combo meals with choices such as orange chicken, Mongolian beef, coconut shrimp, mapo tofu and Kung Pao chicken.

    Jason’s Deli, 19507 Interstate 45 N., softly opened May 6 with a grand opening May 9 in Spring, Texas. The deli brand was first founded in Beaumont, Texas in 1976 by Joe Tortorice Jr. and his partners Rusty Coco, Pete Verde and Pat Broussard. It began franchising in 1988. Currently, there are around 250 locations across 28 states.

    Restaurants Reported Open May 2024:

    B.B. Lemon, 1100 Louisiana, opened early May
    The Curry Pizza Company, 18420 FM 529, had its grand opening May 26
    The Curry Pizza House, 9814 Fry, had its grand opening April 21
    Derby Restaurant, 13150 Breton Ridge, opened April 30
    Fancy’s, 1947 W. Gray, opened May 17
    Gloria’s Latin Cuisine, 18484 Interstate 45, opened May 13
    House of Coffee Beans, 2348 Bissonnet, opened May 1
    Ishtia by Eculent, 709 Harris, opened softly May 16
    Jethro’s Cocktail Lounge, 95 Tuam, opened April 30
    Jonathan’s the Rub, 2929 Navigation, opened May 23
    Maven Coffee + Cocktails, 1717 Allen Parkway, opened May 1
    Mountain Mike’s Pizza, 24320 Northwest Freeway, opened May 6
    Oiler Studio, 1700 City Plaza, opened early May
    Papito’s Pizzeria and Pasta, 24002 Northwest Freeway, opened May 2
    The Pit Room, 10301-A Katy Freeway, opened April 29
    SoHou, 1925 Washington, opened mid-March
    Tacodeli, 1715 Post Oak, opened May 22
    The Taco Stand, 118 El Dorado, opened May 16


    Restaurants Reported Closed May 2024:

    Acadia Bar & Grill, 3939 Cypress Creek Parkway, closed April 28
    Love Buzz Pizza Pub, 408 Westheimer, closed May 13
    Red Lobster, 302 FM 1960 W., closed mid-May

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    Lorretta Ruggiero

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