Houston’s Restaurant Scene Faces a New Wave of Closures
The trend of restaurant closures has continued into the new year, with several fan favorites shutting their doors in January. This list highlights some of the notable closures in the Houston area, including Kazzan Ramen & Bar, Superica, Mutiny in the Heights, and more.
Recent Closures in the Heights
The Heights neighborhood has been particularly affected by the recent closures. Kazzan Ramen & Bar served its last meal on January 24, after making a splash on the Houston food scene with its unique steamy presentation. The ramen restaurant thanked its loyal customers by offering half off all alcoholic beverages in its final days.
Superica to Make Way for New Concept
Superica, another Heights favorite, will close its doors on February 15 to make way for a new concept called Star Rover. Chef Ford Fry’s new honky-tonk, steakhouse concept promises to bring a nostalgic vibe to the area, while still serving up some of the popular dishes that made Superica a hit, including its famous pancakes.
Mutiny in the Heights Closes After Six Years
Mutiny in the Heights will close its doors on January 31, after nearly six years in business. The decision to close was fueled by rising costs of food, rent, and insurance, which would have compromised the quality and care that the owners felt defined the business.
Other Notable Closures in Houston
Verde Garden
Verde Garden, a popular Tex-Mex destination in the Montrose area, poured its last drink on January 17. However, the brand is not going away just yet, as the owners plan to open a new concept in the same space.
The Union Kitchen
The Katy location of The Union Kitchen closed its doors on January 11, but the restaurant still has four other locations remaining in the Houston area.
Loft18
Loft18, an interactive sports bar and grill, closed its Washington Corridor location on January 1 due to rising market costs and increased crime in the area. The team is hopeful of returning to Houston soon and is currently eyeing spots in Katy, The Woodlands, and Sugar Land.
Graffiti Raw
Graffiti Raw, a West Coast-inspired restaurant in the Montrose area, shut its doors on December 31. The reason for the closure is unknown, but the hospitality group behind the restaurant remains "focused on what’s ahead."
The Oceanaire Seafood Room
The Oceanaire Seafood Room, a Landry’s Inc. restaurant, decided not to renew its lease in the Galleria after nearly 20 years in operation. The hospitality group aims to relocate the restaurant to a more accessible location.
Conclusion
The recent wave of restaurant closures in Houston is a reminder of the challenges faced by the hospitality industry. Despite the closures, many of the affected restaurants have promised to continue serving the community in new and innovative ways. As the city’s food scene continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see what new concepts and restaurants emerge to take the place of these beloved favorites.
