Damian's Cucina Italian, a mainstay of the neighborhood dining scene for 41 years, served its last plates of pasta over the weekend, biding Houston farewell to an era. Drawing crowds for one last round of celebrations, regulars and newcomers alike filled the establishment, each eager to partake in a piece of Houston's culinary history before its doors shuttered. According to Eater Houston, the admired Midtown restaurant had been a go-to spot for important life events, attracting personalities including former U.S. President George H.W. Bush and actors like Kevin Costner.
Owners of Damian's announced the imminent end nearly two months prior on social media, sparking a rush of patrons hoping to secure a final reservation. As reported by the Houston Chronicle, the surge of attendees, and a loyal base of customers, failed to save it from rising food costs and decreased downtown traffic post-pandemic. Co-owner Johnny B. Mandola was quoted in the Chronicle, saying, “It’s rare to find a restaurant in Houston with this much history.”
"We measure everything by Damian's," Kirk Tate, a customer from Missouri City, reminisced during the final evening, according to the Houston Chronicle. Tate’s statement reflects the sentiment many Houstonians appear to share. Eater Houston reported a poignant account from diner Kristen Percenti Ritz, who celebrated numerous family milestones at Damian's, stating, “It was truly one of the best nights of our lives,” as she recalled her wedding and other cherished moments at the beloved restaurant.
The staff at Damian’s were more than just employees; they were regarded as a second family, a sentiment shared by server Andy Benites who had spent 20 years working at the restaurant. Eater Houston detailed how the restaurant's team came together for one last effort, even as to-go orders were halted and the bar could only serve drinks due to overwhelming demand. For those like Benjamin Garcia, another longtime server, Damian’s was akin to home, where he could say, “People come and talk to me, and I feel like I’m beaming because this place is like my house.”
