From specialty ramen bowls to traditional Greek dishes and pastries, check out five dining updates and an upcoming food festival in the Greater Houston area, as reported by Community Impact.
Impacts of the week
North Italia slated to open 4th Greater Houston location in La Centerra
North Italia is set to open its fourth Greater Houston area location in La Centerra. The Italian restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including cacio e pepe pizza, smoked salmon avocado toast or Sunday night lasagna.
Leighton’s expands with new location in Montrose
Known for its lamb, ramen bowls and seafood dishes, Leighton’s first opened in Houston’s Third Ward four years ago. The restaurant’s specialty ramen bowls include flavors such as seafood, gumbo, oxtail and surf-and-turf ramen.
New bar inspired by secret drinking clubs opens inside Hotel Daphne
Bar Daphne opened inside its namesake hotel and includes its own dedicated entrance in the Heights. The new bar is inspired by the secret drinking clubs that thrived during the neighborhood’s dry days and is designed to feel like a neighborhood staple and its own destination.
Texas Roadhouse announces opening date for new Cypress location
Texas Roadhouse officials told Community Impact the new Cypress location plans to open in June. Known for its steaks and scratch-made rolls, the eatery boasts a variety of dishes from its Texas-sized combos to hand-cut steaks and country dinners.
Dining spotlight
D’Alba blends global flavors with Texas-sourced ingredients in The Woodlands area
Founded on Alba Street in the Heights, owner Daut Elshani said he opened D’Alba in 2021 to bring a modern and timeless eatery with locally sourced ingredients. Years later, in 2025, the eatery expanded with a new location at FM 2978 in the Magnolia area. Made with ingredients locally sourced in Texas, Elshani said D’Alba offers cuisine reflecting Houston’s diversity.
Food fests
The 27th Annual Houston Greek Fest will feature traditional Greek food, pastries, beverages, cookbooks and other cultural items.
Guests can also get free admission by bringing three canned goods per person, which will be donated to Target Hunger to help support local families.
- May 14-16, times vary
- $10 (adults), free admission (children 10 and under)
- 1100 Eldridge Parkway, Houston
- www.houstongreekfest.com