As Thanksgiving week unfolds, the pace of new restaurant openings tends to slow down. This week, we take a look back at the new establishments that opened in November, as well as some dining spots that may soon close their doors for good.
Exciting New Playground for All Ages
Recess, located at 1500 Waugh, is set to debut in River Oaks in early 2026. The name hints at a playground, and that’s precisely what it offers—though it caters to both children and adults. This two-story venue features custom play areas for kids, alongside workspaces and a full bar and bistro for parents.
The adult playground on the upper floor provides a different type of entertainment. Designed by Rootlab, a Houston-based firm recognized for its family-oriented environments, the supervised play area allows parents to relax while trained caregivers oversee the children’s activities. Parents can enjoy a meal in the upstairs dining area, which offers a clear view of the play areas, and smart wristbands will help monitor the children’s whereabouts at all times.
The second floor is designed for adult comfort, featuring cozy seating where grown-ups can socialize or catch up on work while sipping coffee or cocktails. A diverse dining menu will be available, including a special menu tailored for kids.
Golden Chick Expands in Baytown
Golden Chick has opened its second location at 2300 Main in Baytown, marking a significant expansion for franchisee Sheazab Kapadia. The brand has seen notable success within Texas and is planning to extend its reach into Nevada, Arkansas, Missouri, and Arizona in the coming year.
In a community-focused initiative, Houston locations of Golden Chick are currently donating 10 percent of their Mini Funnel Cake sales to local schools for classroom supplies and projects, a campaign that will run through January 4, 2026.
Farewell Visits Before Closures
Several restaurants have announced their impending closures in recent months. Here’s a list of establishments to consider visiting before they close for good.
Ninja Ramen, located at 4219 Washington, will be closing on December 30. Owner Christopher Huang launched this whiskey-centric ramen bar in 2014, earning a reputation as a pioneer among Houston’s ramen offerings. However, increased competition has impacted business, as diners gravitate towards new dining experiences.
In a Facebook post from January 2024, Huang shared the challenges faced by the restaurant and his plans to attract customers with specials and new menu items. Despite efforts to innovate, the increasing trend of Americans drinking less and the rise of expensive craft cocktails have contributed to a decline in patronage at whiskey bars.
Huang mentioned that he was working 100 hours a week and decided it was no longer viable to continue operations at Ninja Ramen. The restaurant will celebrate its final days with its annual snow party from December 19 to December 21.
The closure of Ninja Ramen will allow Huang to concentrate more on his unique burger concept, Narwhal Jousting Club, which he operates with chef David Ramos, and there are hints of potential expansion.
Pico’s, located at 3601 Kirby, has been bidding farewell since August, with its closure anticipated in January 2026. Currently, the restaurant is hosting Farewell Dinners, including a recent taco omakase, and its annual tamale stand is open just in time for the holidays, offering Oaxaquenos and Nortenos tamales by the dozen. For Black Friday, customers can enjoy a special deal of buying five dozen tamales and receiving one dozen free.
Paulie’s and Camerata, situated at 1834 Westheimer, will be closing their doors on December 31, giving loyal patrons more than a month to savor Paulie’s home-cooked pastas and paninis, or to enjoy a glass of wine at Camerata.
New Restaurants Opened in November 2025
Several new restaurants opened in November, including:
- Cupbop, 5116 Fairmont Parkway, opened November 14
- Doc’s Jazz Club, 1201 Westheimer, opened November 15
- Fuzzy’s Tacos and Margs, 4630 Kingwood, opened November 6
- The Henry, 700 Town and Country Boulevard, opened November 12
- Lazy Lane, 923 Wakefield, opened November 25
- Liberty Kitchen, 5212 Morningside, opened November 5
- Live Mas Cafe, 19400 Interstate 45, opened November 20
- On the Kirb, 6777 Woodlands Parkway, opened November 15
- Oru, 746 W. 24th, opened November 18
- Paris Baguette, 18203 Egret Bay Boulevard, opened November 3
- Pizza Twist, 10760 Barker Cypress, opened November 7
- Seven Sushi, 9889 Bellaire Boulevard, opened November 20
- The Taco Stand, 1503 Westheimer, opened October 30
- Tripping Tacos, 5600 Richmond, opened November 8
Restaurants Closed in November 2025
Some establishments also closed in November, including:
- Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, 20920 Katy Freeway, closed temporarily November 1, reopening March 2026
- Kitsune, 13251 Jones, closed October 30
- Outback Steakhouse, 9753 FM 1960, closed early November
