AJ Meat and Eat is heading to Rosenberg with a halal meat counter and homemade Indian‑Pakistani plates, aiming for a spring 2026 opening. The owner says the shop was chosen to serve the local Muslim community.

Italiano's quietly opened its fifth Houston‑area location in New Caney on Dec. 1, adding pizzas, pastas and catering to the Centre at Gene Campbell retail center.

A father-and-daughter team will open Nonno's Kitchen in Katy in January 2026, serving handmade pastas, specialty pizzas and classic Italian desserts.

Tifa Chocolate & Gelato opened in Webster this October, offering 24 house-made gelato flavors and artisan chocolates at The Shops at Baybrook.

Owner Michael D. Moore announced on Facebook that the Stuffed Baked Potato Factory closed all Houston locations on Dec. 3 after a 10-year run. He cited economic pressures and shifts in his customer base.

Morelia Gourmet Paletas has opened a Woodforest location in Montgomery and will hand out free paletas during a two-day grand opening this weekend.

A new Fuzzy’s Tacos & Margs is under construction at 7250 Hwy 6 N, with filings showing a quick remodel and an early‑2026 opening. The site is part of NGE’s wider Houston expansion.

Austin’s Home Slice is heading to the Heights with a reported $1.5M buildout, taking on a block locals say is "cursed" after multiple closures. The chain already operates in Midtown.

Trader Joe's is expected to open at Kingwood Commons this Friday, occupying about 17,180 sq ft at 600 Kingwood Drive. Local shoppers will soon have a nearer store.

Ronnie Killen says the Woodlands Killen's Barbecue will close Sunday, Dec. 7, as talks advance to sell the building to Whataburger. Pearland and Cypress locations will remain open.

A revived Fulshear barbecue shop is opening a downtown stall at The Finn, joining a new hot‑chicken neighbor and adding breakfast and barbecue specials.

Lin's Grand Buffet is opening a second Houston-area location near Highway 6, with a soft opening expected in December and a grand opening planned for January 2026.

Travis Scott and Michael Jordan have teamed on Cincoro Jack Añejo — a limited 750ml bottle aged 26+ months and priced at $149.99. Pre-orders are live now.