Permit filings show Popeyes plans a new outlet at 21467 FM 1314 in Porter, with construction expected to begin in May 2026 and finish by early 2027.

Houston's BB's Tex‑Orleans is opening an 8,200-square-foot restaurant in Beaumont's Old Town with a big patio and family-friendly features.

A state‑by‑state analysis from Escoffier finds Texas will add roughly 52,000 culinary jobs by 2032, outpacing other states as restaurants warn hiring remains tight.

Porter-based Cinco Vidas Coffee Company plans a second mobile trailer in New Caney early this year, expanding its flavored-latte lineup beyond Porter.

HTeaO opened on Loop 336 in Conroe on Jan. 10, offering 20+ iced‑tea flavors, coffee and a drive‑thru from local franchise owners.

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.