Farewell to Favorite Eats: Houston Restaurants Closing Their Doors
As fall approaches, the Houston dining scene is experiencing a wave of change. New restaurants are opening, while beloved spots are saying goodbye. Economic pressures and last year’s weather-related setbacks have taken a toll on owners, leading to some tough decisions.
The Current State of Houston’s Dining Scene
Fall is nearly here, and with it comes another wave of change in Houston’s dining scene. New restaurants are opening their doors even as beloved spots prepare to close. Economic pressures continue to weigh on owners, and many are still working to recover from last year’s weather-related setbacks.
Ostia: A Montrose Favorite Says Goodbye
After a five-year run, Ostia, an Italian restaurant in Montrose, is closing its doors. Chef Travis McShane announced the decision on Instagram, citing the current economic climate, industry strains, and personal reflections. McShane will be stepping away from cooking to focus on his family and other exciting projects. Diners still have some time to savor Ostia’s best-sellers, including homemade pastas, pizzas, and the iconic roasted chicken with salsa verde. Ostia will officially close on Saturday, September 13.
El Venado: A Washington Avenue Staple Closes Abruptly
El Venado, a Mexican bar and street food restaurant on Washington Avenue, closed abruptly over the weekend on Sunday, August 31. Owner John Offield and his team made the announcement on Instagram, thanking diners and bargoers for their support over the restaurant’s three years in business. El Venado was known for its lively environment, agave cocktails, and dishes like street tacos, tostadas, and birria tamales. Its Steak Night was particularly well-known for adding Mexican flair to a popular Houston weekday tradition.
A Call to Action
This list of closing restaurants is not exhaustive. If you know of a spot that’s not on the list, send tips to Sofia Gonzalez at email.
Conclusion
As the Houston dining scene continues to evolve, it’s essential to appreciate the restaurants that have made a mark on the city’s culinary landscape. Ostia and El Venado will be remembered for their unique offerings and the memories they helped create. As new restaurants open their doors, we look forward to seeing what the future holds for Houston’s dining scene. In the meantime, be sure to visit Ostia before it closes on September 13 and bid farewell to these beloved eateries.
