The Rice Box
Houston-based retro-futuristic American Chinese takeout concept opening its first Austin location at 2129 E. 7th St., a space formerly occupied by Flyrite Chicken. Menu features house fried rice, General Tso, sesame, sweet and sour, Kung Pao chicken, Chongqing wings, and nitro teas. Brand was founded by John Peterson and currently operates multiple Houston locations.
Chicken Salad Chick
Chicken Salad Chick fast-casual chain is opening a new franchise location in Rockwall, TX within a Kroger-anchored shopping center. Franchise owner Meggie Schissler of J&M Hospitality confirmed an opening expected by end of 2026. Construction is set to begin soon. Grand opening will include a full week of giveaways including free chicken salad for a […]
Workaround Cafe
New co-working coffee shop concept planned for the Greater Heights/Lazybrook-Timbergrove area. 3,001 sq ft tenant improvement project estimated at $450,000. Construction planned to start December 2026 and wrap up by end of January 2027, with opening anticipated by early 2027. Will feature a coffee shop with various seating environments for different work settings.
Tacos La Bala
Family-owned Mexican restaurant chain expanding to Caney Crossing shopping center. New 2,482 sq ft location with estimated $250,000 construction cost. Construction set to begin September 2026 and wrap up end of January 2027, with opening expected early 2027. Co-owner Alejandra Gonzalez confirmed the opening. Chain has 8 existing locations in Greater Houston area.
Gong cha
Gong cha bubble tea chain has signed a 50-unit exclusive franchise deal with Bakers Acres & Cattle Company (BACC) to open locations across Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas over the next seven years. This is the largest direct franchising deal in Gong cha history. BACC Managing Member is Brett Walker. No specific opening dates […]
Peachwave
Peachwave is planning a new self-serve frozen yogurt, gelato, and dairy-free dessert shop at Cottonwood Point. The 1,680 sq ft location involves a full interior build-out from shell space with an estimated construction cost of $345,000. Construction was scheduled to begin February 2, 2026, with completion targeted for May 10, 2026. Wendi Torres confirmed as […]
Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens franchise planned for New Braunfels, TX. A 2,897-sq-ft existing restaurant at 1395 I-H 35 North Frontage Road will be renovated for approximately $200,000. Construction scheduled to begin September 1, 2026, with completion targeted for April 1, 2027. Franchise owner is Dan McGrath; property owner is Big Star Hospitality. Permit filed with Texas Department […]
Everbowl
Everbowl franchise expanding to Alamo Ranch area of San Antonio. 1,100 sq ft interior remodel of existing space. Construction scheduled to begin September 7, 2026, with completion targeted for November 18, 2026. Estimated construction cost $107,000. Build-your-own açaí bowls, smoothies, and superfood-based menu. Permit filed with Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Dice Fortress Gaming Restaurant and Shop
Game-themed restaurant and retail shop offering a free-to-play board game library of 250+ games, full kitchen (pizza, sandwiches, wings, desserts, beer, wine), and a retail shop carrying board games, gaming accessories, and trading cards. Will also host gaming events, clubs, and tournaments. Owned by Chris and Monica Cabaniss.
Trill Burgers
Trill Burgers, the Houston smash burger brand co-founded by rapper Bun B, will open a new location at Rice University’s Rice Memorial Center on Aug. 17, 2026, coinciding with new student orientation week. The location will operate during fall and spring semesters, Mon-Fri 11am-5pm, serving OG Trill Burger and Vegan OG Burger. Will accept Rice […]