Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group is heading to Houston. Known for its chef-driven, Texas-rooted restaurants, the group has officially announced plans to open a brand-new concept at Autry Park, a 14-acre development blending luxury living and retail with some of the city’s buzziest restaurants along the western edge of Allen Parkway.
The upcoming space, a striking standalone circular retail pod at 3711 Autry Park Dr., Suite 100, marks Emmer & Rye’s first move outside of Austin and San Antonio. It’s a major step for the acclaimed group, whose restaurants have helped shape Texas’s evolving food scene and earned honors in the state’s first Michelin Guide last year.
Previously home to MF Lobster, the space became available after chef Chris Kinjo chose to close the seafood-focused concept to focus on his strengths in Asian cuisine. “As much as we loved MF Lobster, it sat in an American dining genre that’s outside our natural wheelhouse,” Kinjo said in a statement. “We decided it made sense to sell the restaurant and concentrate on culinary ventures that reflect our Vietnamese and Japanese heritage.”
Now, Emmer & Rye is stepping in to make the pod its own. “We’ve had our eye on Houston—and specifically Autry Park—for quite some time,” said Tavel Bristol-Joseph, a partner in the group. “When the opportunity to take over such a unique space came along, we couldn’t pass it up. Houston has such a vibrant and diverse culinary community, and we look forward to opening our doors and contributing to the city’s incredible culinary landscape.”
This new chapter comes after a landmark year for the group. In 2024, Hestia, its live fire restaurant, received a Michelin star, while its flagship, Emmer & Rye, earned a Michelin Green Star and Bib Gourmand. The group’s San Antonio Mediterranean concept, Ladino, was also awarded a Bib Gourmand, adding to the growing list of accolades across their portfolio.
The new restaurant will join other notable names at Autry Park, including Annam, Turner’s Cut, Annabelle Brasserie, Doko, and Mayahuel. Tristan Simon of Rebees, the development group behind Autry Park’s retail mix, shared his excitement: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group. They are one of the most exciting independent restaurant groups in Texas today, and their restaurant will notably elevate Autry Park as a culinary destination.”
Emmer & Rye’s new Houston concept is set to open in late 2025.
