Dutch Bros has opened a drive-thru at 2301 University Blvd near Rice Village, converting a former Salad and Go after a $200K renovation. The shop began serving customers Oct. 26, 2025.

Aki Sushi is opening at 509 University Drive in College Station this spring, bringing sushi, ramen and late-night options to Northgate near Texas A&M.

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen has filed permits for a new 5,864‑sq‑ft restaurant at Texas Heritage Marketplace in West Katy, with construction slated to start in April and finish by Christmas 2026.

The Juicy Crab has listed a Pasadena address at 4002 Spencer Highway and a comp report shows a lease starting in March, with a likely spring opening. The chain’s Cajun boil combos are expected at the new site.

A compact Bagel Co. Express from the Galveston Bagel Company is headed to 61st Street; permits show construction Feb 20–Apr 30, 2026. Owners say it’s the first of several in Greater Houston.

Houston-born Gyro Republic announced nine new Texas restaurants for 2026, with a heavy push into Austin and franchise opportunities on the table.

A robot-powered Asian-fusion spot, iWok, opens Jan. 30 near the Texas Medical Center. The founders plan multiple Houston locations and robot-made, made-to-order bowls.

Grant Pinkerton’s barbecue is opening an Upper Kirby spot on Jan. 20 with whole‑hog service, retro neon and an expanded menu. The new location revives the old 59 Diner footprint.

Edgy's Pub opened Saturday at Copper Grove on Hwy. 6, offering an outdoor patio, pool tables, darts and TVs for sports fans.

A state permit shows 7Brew plans a drive‑thru at 1718A 11th Street in Huntsville and names Riley Enright as the franchisee. The filing points to a TDLR project record.

Buzz Treats, a soft‑serve ice cream shop, has filed permits for a Missouri City location at 6850 Hwy 6; construction is underway and a Summer 2026 opening is planned.

Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade has opened a new Fulshear shop with a drive‑thru and island‑style menu. The move marks the brand's third Greater Houston location.

Nothing Bundt Cakes is opening a new bakery at the Retail Center at Conroe; construction is set to begin in February with a spring 2026 opening targeted.