Gulf Coast Favorite BB's Tex-Orleans Shutters Houston Location, Blames Soaring Costs

BB’s Tex-Orleans, a beloved establishment from the Gulf Coast famous for its po’boys, crawfish, and lively zydeco music, has officially shut down its Oak Forest-Garden Oaks location, the company announced on Monday. This closure comes as the chain faces challenges from increasing costs and changing customer preferences.

The establishment located at 1737 West 34th St., within the Ella Oaks shopping center, welcomed its final patrons over the weekend. A message shared on the establishment's social media platforms expressed gratitude to its patrons for their loyalty and cherished memories while also announcing the closure of the site.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our guests and friends—your support, your visits, and the cherished memories we have created together at this location mean the world to us,” the message conveyed. The doors of this restaurant have now closed for the last time.

Brooks Bassler, the founder of BB’s, established the business in 2007 at the intersection of Montrose Boulevard and Westheimer Road. He revealed that the choice to make a significant change was prompted by years of grappling with the challenge of aligning costs with revenue.

“At this particular location, we consistently fell short of the revenue per square foot we had expected to generate,” Bassler stated to the Houston Chronicle. “Concurrently, every expense tied to operating a restaurant has surged to unprecedented heights.” 

The rise in property taxes has reached a concerning point for commercial real estate. At the same time, insurance premiums have surged beyond reasonable limits, and the expenses associated with goods and labor continue to increase persistently.

Bassler observed a notable change in dining habits, highlighting that customers are now more discerning about their spending choices. “Despite our utmost attempts, the figures at this site simply do not align anymore,” he stated.

In the face of challenges, BB’s has stressed that it remains committed to the Houston market. The chain remains active, with 11 additional locations in the Houston area, including one situated approximately 10 miles away in the Heights at 2701 White Oak Drive, as well as a branch in San Antonio.

The closure of Oak Forest-Garden Oaks represents another significant chapter in Houston's ongoing restaurant departures, joining the ranks of Montrose's Ostia, Helen Greek Food and Wine, B.B. Lemon, and Bistro Menil.

Bassler emphasized the brand's unwavering strength. “We are dedicated to providing Houston with top-quality seafood infused with a Tex-Cajun flair,” he stated, expressing that BB’s eagerly anticipates the opportunity to host guests at its other locations.