Houston’s Dining Scene Experiences a Wave of Change
As Houston settles into its last months of summer, the city’s dining scene is undergoing significant changes. New restaurants are emerging, while others are closing their doors due to ongoing economic pressures and weather-related setbacks.
Recent Closures
The list of closed restaurants in Houston is growing, with Riel being the latest addition. This modern American restaurant in Montrose is closing its doors for good on Saturday, August 30, after an eight-year run. Riel was known for its eclectic menu, which featured dishes like butter burgers, housemade caviar tater tots, and crawfish rolls.
Riel: A Beloved Restaurant Says Goodbye
Riel’s chef and owner, Ryan Lachaine, attributes the closure to economic uncertainty and industry changes. The restaurant’s lease is up, and Lachaine has decided not to renew it. "It’s really tough out there right now," Lachaine said in a statement. "It’s as bad as I have ever seen it. Our lease is up, and we’ve just decided not to go forward with Riel anymore." Despite the closure, Lachaine plans to stay in Houston and has hinted at exciting announcements to come.
The Upside Pub: A Garden Oaks Favorite Closes Its Doors
The Upside Pub in Garden Oaks officially closed its doors on Saturday, July 5. The closure was announced on Instagram, but the owners did not provide a reason for the shutdown. The pub was known for its monthly burger specials, fun game-day events, and no-frills drinks. In their farewell post, the owners stated, "While we may not have been successful by traditional business standards, we like to think we were successful in creating a place within our neighborhood to come and enjoy good food, good drink and good company."
Conclusion
The closure of Riel and The Upside Pub marks a significant change in Houston’s dining scene. As the city continues to evolve, it’s likely that more restaurants will open and close. While it’s sad to see beloved restaurants go, it’s also exciting to think about the new dining experiences that will emerge. Chef Ryan Lachaine’s plans to stay in Houston and announce new projects are a promising sign for the city’s food scene. As Houstonians say goodbye to Riel and The Upside Pub, they can look forward to the new restaurants and dining experiences that will soon arrive.
