Candente Expanding to the Heights With New Location Planned for 2027

One of Houston's most popular Tex-Mex destinations is headed north.

Candente, the Montrose restaurant known for its wood-fired Tex-Mex menu and extensive agave-focused cocktail program, is planning a second Houston location in the Heights. The new restaurant is expected to open in 2027 at 2020 Lawrence Street, near the busy intersection of 20th Street and Shepherd Drive.

The project first gained attention after city records connected to the development surfaced over the weekend. Shortly after, Candente owner Michael Sambrooks confirmed the plans, giving Heights residents a glimpse at what could become one of the neighborhood's most anticipated restaurant openings.

Since opening in Montrose, Candente has built a loyal following for dishes that blend Texas barbecue influences with classic Tex-Mex flavors. Favorites such as wood-fired fajitas, brisket enchiladas, and birria tacos have helped the restaurant carve out a unique place in Houston's competitive dining scene.

The Heights location is expected to bring those signature menu items to one of the city's fastest-growing neighborhoods. Diners can also look forward to Candente's well-known agave spirits program, featuring tequila- and mezcal-focused cocktails that have become a major draw at the original restaurant.

The announcement comes as the Heights continues to attract new restaurants, retail concepts, and mixed-use developments, further transforming the area into one of Houston's most active dining destinations. A Candente outpost at 20th and Shepherd would add another recognizable local brand to an already thriving food scene.

While 2027 is still a few years away, the news is likely to generate excitement among Heights residents who have long hoped for easier access to Candente's menu without making the trip to Montrose.

For now, details remain limited, but with ownership confirming the project, Houstonians can officially add Candente's Heights expansion to the growing list of restaurant openings to watch in the years ahead.

What do you think about Candente coming to the Heights? Is this the right fit for the neighborhood, or are there other Houston restaurants you'd rather see expand into the area?

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