Houston is saying goodbye to one of its culinary landmarks. This Is It, a soul food institution since 1959, has closed its original location after 66 years. The closure isn’t the end, though—fans can still visit its sister location in Humble, Texas. The move marks a shift toward rebranding, innovation, and the next generation taking the reins. Meanwhile, the restaurant industry continues to face closures nationwide, from Mexican eateries to craft breweries. Here’s a closer look at what’s closing, why, and what this means for fans and foodies alike.
Legendary 66-Year Run Ends
This Is It opened its doors in 1959 in Houston’s Fourth Ward. After decades of serving soul food favorites, the original location closed on October 12, 2025. The closure marks the end of an era, but memories of shared meals and celebrations linger. Fans have cherished the community and history the restaurant built over six decades.
Sister Location Keeps the Legacy Alive
The Humble, Texas, location at 1600 Bypass Road West remains open. Mikki’s Soulfood Cafe will open at the original Blodgett Street location on October 26. This transition allows the brand to focus on rebranding and growth while maintaining a presence in Houston. Fans can still enjoy classic dishes without losing the soul of the restaurant.
Family-Run and Multi-Generational
Founded by Frank Jones, This Is It later passed to his grandson, Craig Joseph. Craig has been training his children to continue the family legacy. The multi-generational approach ensures that the recipes and traditions survive beyond the original location. Family ownership adds authenticity and community connection to the dining experience.
Celebrity Visitors Loved It
This Is It attracted high-profile visitors over the years. Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and former First Lady Jill Biden have all dined at the historic location. Celebrity visits added to the restaurant’s reputation and helped showcase Houston’s soul food culture. It became more than just a local favorite—it was a must-visit culinary landmark.
Signature Soul Food Menu
The menu featured iconic dishes like oxtails, ham hocks, chitterlings, chicken and dumplings, smothered meats, and fried fish. Beef short ribs and pepper steak rounded out hearty entrées. Side dishes included black-eyed peas, pinto beans, greens, okra and tomatoes, and candied yams. Desserts like peach cobbler and sweet potato pie offered a sweet ending to every meal.
Specialty Drinks and Daiquiris
This Is It also specialized in a variety of daiquiris and cocktails. Popular choices included watermelon, electric lemonade, hypnotical, and purple stuff daiquiris. Margaritas and hurricanes added adult-friendly options. Drinks complemented the rich, soulful menu, making it a full dining experience.
Industry-Wide Restaurant Closures
This closure reflects a broader trend in the restaurant industry. Many establishments, including Mexican restaurants, pizzerias, and brewpubs, have shuttered in 2024 and 2025. On The Border, Abuelo’s, and Tijuana Flats closed multiple locations and filed for bankruptcy. Even pizza chains like Domino’s and Little Caesars have downsized, highlighting ongoing economic pressures.
Craft Breweries Also Feeling Pressure
Popular craft breweries are also closing locations. Jekyll Brewing in Atlanta and Device Brewing Company in Sacramento both shut all locations in 2025. San Francisco’s 21st Amendment Brewery is closing its San Francisco and East Bay locations. Many closures are due to financial strain, legal issues, or shifting market conditions rather than bankruptcy alone.
Economic Struggles Post-Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic devastated the restaurant industry in 2020, causing lasting financial challenges. Even well-loved establishments have faced economic pressures. Rising costs, labor shortages, and changing dining habits have contributed to closures. The industry continues to adapt while preserving iconic flavors and brands where possible.
Rebranding and Growth Strategy
This Is It is using the closure to focus on innovation and rebranding. Mikki’s Soulfood Cafe at the former Blodgett location will carry forward the soul food legacy. Growth strategies include enhancing the menu, updating the brand, and attracting a new generation of diners. It’s a modern twist on a historic concept while honoring its roots.
Community and Cultural Impact
For decades, This Is It was more than a restaurant—it was a cultural institution. Generations of Houstonians and visitors shared meals, celebrations, and memories. Closing the original location marks the end of an era but also highlights the importance of preserving food heritage. The soul food community continues to thrive through remaining locations and successor establishments.
Celebrate, Remember, and Visit
This Is It may have closed its original doors, but its soul food legacy lives on. Whether you’ve dined at Blodgett Street or Humble, the flavors and memories endure. Have you tried the legendary oxtails or peach cobbler? Share your favorite dishes or memories in the comments and keep the legacy alive.
