Introduction to Hungry’s
Hungry’s has been a staple in Houston for 50 years, growing from a small international sandwich shop to a citywide institution with three locations. The restaurant’s menu caters to all types of diets, offering a diverse selection of international cuisines.
A Brief History of Hungry’s
In 1975, Fred Sharifi, a petroleum engineer, opened the first Hungry’s location in Montrose. Sharifi didn’t enjoy his job as an engineer and decided to start his own business. The restaurant quickly became popular, boasting over 20 different types of sandwiches and 100 imported beers. Over the next decade, Hungry’s expanded its services to include takeout and delivery, offering more than just the typical pizza and Chinese food.
Expansion and Transformation
Ashkan Nowamooz, Sharifi’s nephew, joined the business and helped expand the catering program. The restaurant changed its name to Hungry’s Café and Bistro and began to grow its menu to reflect a diverse selection of international cuisines. In 1998, Ashkan’s wife, Sue, joined the team, and the menu continued to evolve, focusing on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors with a Southwestern twist.
The Next Generation
Sue decided to formalize her culinary training at the Culinary Institute LeNôtre, becoming the executive chef of Hungry’s. The restaurant underwent its third and final name change, becoming simply Hungry’s. Nousha Nowamooz, Ashkan and Sue’s daughter, joined the business and brought a fresh perspective to the restaurant. She pursued a degree in math and economics, with a minor in entrepreneurship and innovation, and later earned a master’s degree in hospitality leadership.
Celebrating 50 Years
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Hungry’s created a five-item throwback menu, featuring items from past decades, including the original Reuben and the beef fajita wrap. The restaurant also brought back some decades-old menu items, such as the kabob plate, which has been a bestseller since the beginning.
The Secret to Success
Nousha attributes the restaurant’s success to the "three Fs": freshness, flavor, and family. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh ingredients, providing flavorful dishes, and treating customers like family has helped it thrive in a competitive market.
Expansion and Growth
In 2024, Hungry’s expanded to a third location in Tanglewood, with Nousha at the helm. The new location is strategically situated between the Rice Village and Memorial restaurants, making it a natural addition to the Houston community.
Conclusion
Hungry’s has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1975. With a diverse menu, a commitment to freshness and flavor, and a focus on family, the restaurant has become a staple in Houston. As Nousha takes the reins, she is poised to take Hungry’s to the next level, ensuring that the restaurant will continue to thrive for generations to come. Her goal is to continue offering something for the neighborhoods of Houston, fueling generations and generations to come. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and dedication to customer satisfaction, Hungry’s is sure to remain a beloved institution in Houston for years to come.
