UPDATE: Sadly, Pappas Restaurants just announced that they have permanently closed 5 of their restaurants. According to the Houston Chronicle, the locations are:
- Yia Yia Mary’s Mediterranean Kitchen at 4747 San Felipe St.
- Pappas Seafood House at I-45 North at Aldine Bender
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen at 2410 Richmond Ave.
- Pappas Shrimp Shack at 6945 I-45 South
- Little Pappas Seafood House at 3001 S Shepherd Dr.
Restaurants and bars have been hit hard over the past few months by the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures put in place to flatten the curve. Bars, clubs, and restaurant dining rooms in Harris County were forced to close starting March 16 and most counties had similar restrictions in place. Eateries were forced to switch to 100% carryout and delivery, or close temporarily.
Restaurants statewide were eventually allowed to reopen, first at 25% capacity on May 1, then bumping it up to 50% capacity on May 22, with an increase to 75% just a few days away. Some haven't been able to weather the storm as well as others and the Houston area has lost some beloved local restaurants and great chain locations.
Bernie's Burger Bus
The popular burger restaurant first had to close their Heights, Katy, and Missouri City locations. They worked to keep the original Bellaire restaurant open, but were forced to close indefinitely at the end of May. Chef Justin Turner doesn't rule out resurrecting the brand at some point, but he doesn't sound optimistic.
Barry's Pizza
A Houston institution for nearly 40 years, Barry's Pizza had to call it quits on May 26. They were unable to make curbside delivery work financially, tried a temporary closure to weather the economic storm, and eventually decided that the situation was untenable.
Penny Quarter
According to Eater, laid-back Montrose bar and cafe had been open less than a year. They announced last week that they would be closing indefinitely.
Sweet Tomatoes
This national salad bar chain, known as Souplantation in some parts of the country, was forced to close all locations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pie Town
The popular dessert spot in The Woodlands closed its doors permanently after more than 18 years in business.
Frank's Backyard
OK. This one was a bar, but it was great place to have a beer and enjoy a slice from sister restaurant/next door neighbor Frank's Pizza. The restrictions put in place to deal with COVID-19 made it impossible to keep operating. Frank's Backyard closed permanently on April 1.
The Chicken & Rice Guys
Houston's location of this Boston-based chain closed their doors in mid-May.
Hard Rock Cafe
A great place to grab dinner before a concert right next door at Revention Music Center, the Hard Rock Cafe closed permanently on May 27.
Indika
The acclaimed Indian restaurant in The Montrose closed its doors due to the coronavirus pandemic, and has announced that it will not reopen.
Patrenella's
The beloved family-owned Italian restaurant said goodbye after 28 years at the end of May.
And here are ten of our favorites that are still going strong, in case you're looking for great local restaurants to support:
Hubcap Grill
Specialty hand crafted burgers at five Houston-area locations.
The Pit Room
Old-school, wood-cooked, handcrafted Texas BBQ in the Montrose.
Good Dog
A gourmet hot dog truck grew into two brick and mortar locations.
Breakfast Klub
Awesome family style breakfast restaurant in Midtown.
Star Pizza
This family-owned Houston institution has been making pizza with only the freshest ingredients since 1976. They recently opened their third location.
Kulture
They describe themselves as "An Urban Southern Comfort Kitchen in Downtown Houston."
Cali Sandwich & Fast Food
Great family-owned Vietnamese restaurant in Midtown.
Cabo Baja Tacos & Burritos
Tacos, burritos, bowls, elote, carne asada fries, and more...all prepared Baja style.
Pizaro's
Home to Houston's original Napoletana pizzeria, now offering Detroit and New York style pizzas as well. Two locations.
Photo: Facebook/Barry's Pizza