You’ve probably heard of the renowned fast-casual eatery, Portillo’s, in Chicago. Originally established in 1963 as a modest hot dog stand, it has evolved into a cherished Midwestern gem with widespread acclaim.
Houstonians will soon be able to get a taste of the Windy City and the iconic beef sandwiches and all-beef Vienna hot dogs that gave rise to the Chicago-style hot dog known nationwide.
In Houston Portillo’s plans to open two locations, one at the Willowbrook Mall the other at Richmond’s The Grand at Aliana shopping center by the end of the year. It’s first Houston location is hosting a grand opening ceremony in Richmond on October 22, with a soft opening on October 18.
According the Houston Chronicle, and confirmed on its website, Portillo’s will also open a location on Grand Circle Boulevard in Katy at 1021 Westside Parkway. The company hasn’t yet released any details about an opening date for its location.
Starting from its modest origins in 1963, Portillo’s has grown its presence across the Midwest, reaching states such as Wisconsin, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, and Minnesota. Additionally, the company has expanded its footprint to include Florida, Arizona, and California. Portillo’s made their Texas debut in the Dallas area early 2023 with an 8,000-square-foot, garage-themed outpost.
In Houston, Portillo’s has slotted out a 7,700-square-foot space at 1021 Westside Parkway in Richmond fitting up to 170 patrons where the fast-casual restaurant with outdoor patio dining and drive-thru services opening on Tuesday, October 22. A soft opening is scheduled for October 18.
The restaurant’s “rustic southwest garage-themed” Willowbrook location will be sized at 6,000-square-feet with 130 indoor seats, and 40 outdoor seats. The venue will also feature Portillo’s signature double drive-thru lanes.
Earlier in 2023, the company celebrated their 60-year anniversary. The anniversary the company commemorated by bringing back its iconic Dog House hotdog trailer in which Dick Portillo first launched the business in April of 1963. The Chicago mayor also pronounced August 5 to be Portillo’s Day in the city.
See also: 10 sensational new Houston restaurants that opened this year