This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Houston, Texas—a nostalgic look back and a helpful resource for those seeking available restaurant spaces. These are the places that we miss. This is our restaurant history. A forgotten piece of our heritage. No matter how long each of these eateries was open, on a daily basis they paid someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or were just part of the community. So please join us and do not forget this part of our town.
Houston, the vibrant metropolis of over 2.3 million residents located in Southeast Texas, boasts a dynamic food scene that reflects its rich cultural tapestry. With a diverse culinary heritage, the city is renowned for its Tex-Mex staples like breakfast tacos and barbacoa, alongside authentic Vietnamese pho and Southern barbecue. One standout is the acclaimed restaurant **Hugo’s**, where chef Hugo Ortega showcases traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Houston’s history as a gateway for immigrants has influenced its gastronomic landscape, while its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico ensures a bounty of fresh seafood, making dishes like Gulf shrimp and fish tacos local favorites. Nestled near the San Jacinto River, the city’s geography offers a unique fusion of flavors that celebrates the heart of Texas cooking.
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided as a resource, but it may not always be 100% accurate. While we strive to research and verify details, errors can occur, and businesses frequently change names, locations, or reopen after closing. Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect. Use this information at your own risk. If you spot an error, please contact us here, and we will do our best to update it promptly.
Closed Down Restaurants in Houston, Texas
Houston’s restaurant scene has long been a reflection of the city’s energy, diversity, and creativity. Over the decades, many beloved establishments have come and gone—some due to economic shifts, others due to changing tastes or unforeseen challenges. Here’s a decade-spanning look at some of the most notable restaurants that have closed their doors.
🕰️ Recent Closures (2023–2025)
Auden (Closed April 2025): A standout in Autry Park known for vegetable-forward fare and seasonal elegance, Auden closed just one year after opening.
Karne Korean Steakhouse (Closed February 2025): This premium Korean BBQ hotspot in the Heights didn’t survive beyond its first year, despite strong buzz.
Andiron (Closed February 2025): A live-fire steakhouse in Montrose that closed within a year, highlighting the competitive nature of Houston’s dining scene.
Shanghai River (Closed February 2025): A fixture in River Oaks for over 55 years, this elegant Chinese restaurant served generations before shuttering.
Front Porch Pub (Closed January 2025): A Midtown classic for over 24 years, known for casual vibes, beer, and trivia.
Prego (Closed May 2024): A Rice Village institution serving upscale Italian fare for over 30 years.
Urban South – HTX (Closed April 2024): A popular brewery in the Sawyer Yards area, known for local beer and community events.
Pastore (Closed March 2024): An elegant new concept located inside Montrose Collective, closed just months after its debut.
Dinette (Closed February 2024): A contemporary Vietnamese-inspired eatery nestled in Shepherd Row.
Golfstrommen (Closed February 2024): Known for Nordic seafood and chic design in downtown’s Post Market.
Alice Blue (Closed February 2024): This Heights gem known for its new American cuisine closed after seven years.
Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company (Temporarily Closed, January 2024): Located in Sawyer Yards, the innovative brewery paused operations due to economic strain.
Urban Eats (Closed January 2024): A dual-concept eatery and market on Washington Ave.
Picnik (Closed January 2024): Known for catering to dietary restrictions like paleo and gluten-free at 888 Westheimer.
Dish Society (Downtown) (Closed January 2024): The Main Street location of this local chain shut down, though others remain open.
📉 Mid-2010s to Early 2020s
Damian’s Cucina Italiana (Closed 2024): After 41 years in Midtown, the classic Italian restaurant bid farewell.
Nippon Japanese Restaurant (Closed 2024): A longtime Montrose sushi bar beloved for its authenticity and consistency.
Yia Yia Mary’s (Closed 2020): A Pappas family Greek restaurant with locations in Uptown and Hobby Airport, both shuttered during the pandemic.
Benjy’s (Closed 2020): A Rice Village favorite for contemporary cuisine, cocktails, and brunch.
Dolce Vita (Closed May 2020): A cult-favorite pizzeria in Montrose known for its wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies.
Inversion Coffee House (Closed March 2021): An artsy community coffee space in Montrose.
Spaghetti Warehouse (Closed August 2017): A downtown fixture damaged by Hurricane Harvey and never reopened.
🍔 Classic Chain Closures in Houston
Hooters
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99 Woodlake Square – Closed in 2009
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2519 S.W. Parkway – Closed (date unknown)
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12914 Northwest Fwy – Closed in 2021
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2200 S Texas 6 – Closed (date unknown)
Burger Chef
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Multiple locations across the city, including:
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3818 Reveille St
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6760 Bellfort Ave
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6508 Westheimer Rd
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2728 S Richey St (now Las Morenitas)
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Once a fast-food staple, the Burger Chef brand faded in Houston by the 1980s–90s.
Howard Johnson’s
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Locations included:
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2360 S Loop W
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3939 North Freeway
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6161 Gulf Freeway (still shows the original roofline)
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7901 Southwest Freeway
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7953 Katy Rd
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4201 Bellaire Blvd
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4825 Airline Dr
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13301 N Shore Dr
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Once synonymous with American road trip dining, the decline of HoJo’s marked the end of a mid-century dining era in Houston.
