Houston is no stranger to the opening and closing of high-quality restaurants. However, over the last few months, the city has seen a few more closures due to various reasons. Some of these establishments had become crowd favorites during their time. Others had only been around for a while before shutting down. Nevertheless, they all had their moment in the spotlight, and the community will miss them.
Highlights
- In May, Houston saw a host of restaurant closures in the city.
- A barbecue spot closed abruptly on May 12 owing to the owner’s health problems.
- An ice cream shop, a fine dining restaurant, and a beloved nightclub also ceased operations.
Restaurant Closure in Houston in May
Houston’s food scene is always evolving, and new spots are opening every week. During this time, it can be easy to overlook the restaurants that close their doors. In May 2025, four favorites closed in the city. While each had a unique story, their exit left a gaping hole in the city’s culinary landscape.
Sweet Bribery by Craft Creamery
Sweet Bribery, founded by Steve Marques and Kimberly Kaase, closed its doors on May 31, 2025. On May 28, the co-founders took to social media to express their final goodbye in the form of a heartfelt Facebook post to the community that loved and cherished their many unique flavors of ice cream.
They stated, “We both agree that the connections we’ve made with our customers and community have been the sweetest part of this journey and that the relationships have made every early morning and late night worthwhile.” They signed off by saying, “Thank you, Houston, for your enthusiasm, curiosity, and support. It has meant everything to us.”
The ice cream shop opened in November 2021. However, in 2023, it changed hands and became part of the Craft Creamery team.
Gessner’s BBQ
Gessner’s BBQ in Spring, Texas, was a popular smokehouse known for its generous portions of smoky barbecue. However, on May 12, 2025, it closed its doors, citing owner Phil Gessner’s declining health as the primary reason for the closure.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Gessner wrote, “It is with a heavy heart that I have to say, at the end of the day of Monday, May 12th, Gessner’s Grub BBQ will be closing. Due to health issues I obtained while in the military, my only course of action is to close.”
“I would like to thank everyone for your patronage and support. I have met many new people I never would have met without the BBQ, especially those from other countries. Again, thank you for your support,” he continued.
Artisans Restaurant
Artisans, a fine-dining French restaurant in Houston, closed its doors on May 29, 2025. It originally opened in February 2012 in Midtown and relocated to Westheimer in December 2023. The restaurant operated for over 13 years before its closure.
The Facebook post, penned by Executive Chef Jacques Fox, said,” Through our Chef’s Table concept and open kitchen, we proudly showcased the skills of our “Artisans,” immersing guests in the vibrant spirit of French gastronomy—where dining is truly an art form.” He also wrote, “This is a difficult farewell for me and my investors, but we will always treasure the memories and experiences created at Artisans.”
Sixes and Sevens
This nightclub and food establishment was known for its food and ambiance in the Houston culinary circle. Sixes and Sevens was popular for its cocktails and themed nights. An Instagram post on May 16 announced the establishment’s closure after a five-year run.
The post also mentioned that their sister bar, Rudyard’s, will remain operational despite the closure of Sixes and Seven. The team also hinted at future plans and said, “Keep your eyes peeled for what you can have coming.”
Houston is not a stranger to change in the hospitality space. The ever-evolving economy and changing consumer habits have prompted many closures across the city. The community will miss these establishments for their unique offerings. Nevertheless, they remain hopeful and excited about the ever-growing food and beverage scene.
