Houston’s culinary scene is set to welcome a new addition as Watami Japanese BBQ plans its first U.S. outpost at 1616 Post Oak Blvd, Suite C. Lovam Restaurant Group, led by owner Christopher Lav, is spearheading the project, with plans to remodel a 5,228-square-foot space into an upscale dining destination.
Known in Japan for its all-you-can-eat buffet model, Watami will take on a more refined identity in the United States. “Pretty much farm to table,” said Lav, describing the experience diners can expect. The concept will feature full-service dining with tableside grilling and premium A4 and A5 wagyu flown in directly from Japan.
Lovam Restaurant Group, which also operates Japanese and Hawaiian poke restaurants, saw an opportunity to elevate its portfolio. After being introduced to the Watami brand a few years ago, Lav and his team visited Japan to experience it firsthand. Impressed by the quality and potential, they decided to bring the concept stateside, starting with one location to gauge its success before considering expansion.
According to the project’s permit, the estimated renovation cost is $950,000, privately funded to transform an existing 3,033-square-foot ground floor with an additional 2,195-square-foot mezzanine into the new restaurant. The opening is currently targeted for the first quarter of 2026.
