Honest Mary’s, the Austin-based fast-casual concept known for its healthy, chef-crafted grain bowls, is making its way to Houston. Restaurateur Nelson Monteith, who launched the brand in 2017, is thrilled to bring Honest Mary’s to his hometown with its first Houston location. The restaurant will be located at 2047-A West Gray St., at the South Shepherd Drive intersection in the historic River Oaks Shopping Center.
“It’s a joy and honor to bring a brand we’ve worked hard to create in Austin and finally be able to share that concept with friends and family in Houston,” said Monteith, a Houston native. “There’s a bit of built-in comfort in knowing there are folks here who are already fans of Honest Mary’s. They’ve been asking us for years to open a location in Houston, and now it’s happening.”
Honest Mary’s was born from Monteith and his wife Mary’s personal journey to improve their health through mindful eating. The brand embodies their mission to provide “life-giving fast food,” combining fresh, high-quality ingredients with the convenience of fast-casual dining. Partnering with seasoned Austin chef Andrew Wiseheart in 2022, Monteith expanded the menu to feature signature bowls, sipping broths, and aguas frescas. The menu is entirely gluten-free and caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free options.
Monteith is particularly excited about expanding into Houston’s vibrant River Oaks area. “River Oaks Shopping Center has a unique blend of history and vibrant new concepts, making it the ideal home for us,” he explained. “Bringing our healthy, locally-inspired flavors to a community that values quality food and wellness feels like a natural fit.”
The 2,200-square-foot restaurant will feature design elements inspired by the Art Deco aesthetic of River Oaks Shopping Center, with warm wood tones, lush greenery, and signature terra cotta and blue tilework. With seating for 38 indoors and 44 on the patio, the space will offer an inviting atmosphere for communal gatherings and everyday dining.
“We do intend to add more locations in Houston. Always looking in great areas for great opportunities. Nothing set at the moment,” Monteith told What Now Houston in regards to further Houston Metro expansion possibilities. So future patrons can prepare for the future to bring at least one other outpost for their newest health brand.
Construction for the Houston location will begin in May 2025, with the architecture and design led by Mark Odom Studio. Honest Mary’s will serve lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering dine-in, takeaway, and online ordering options. Catering services will also be available, ensuring the brand’s fresh, creative offerings reach all corners of the community.
