Mama Fu's Opens First Houston Location

Austin-based Asian fusion chain Mama Fu's opened its first Houston store in the River Oaks area Wednesday (November 20), with plans to open a total of 18 stores. After September's announcement that Dunkin' Donuts would be opening 60 Houston locations, including the already open spot on Shepherd in River Oaks, more and more chains are taking high-priced buildings around town and announcing that several other locations are in the works. It's a trend that's been growing since the spike in inside-the-Loop rental rates.

As far as Mama Fu's goes, the concept is a quick, form-your-custom-bowl experience: walk in, choose rice or noodles, and top with your choice of veggies and cuisine, from Chinese to Korean or Japanese. It's somewhere between the Pei Wei and Chipotle dining experiences, but with servers waiting on diners after they order: flex-casual, if you will. This chain from local franchisee Stephen Chappelear is set to make a widespread presence in the Houston area.
· Mama Fu's [Official Site]
· All Other Opening Reports [-EHOU-]