Two and a half years after making its highly anticipated debut at The Ion, Late August will be shuttering its dining services as its shifts its focus to private events and catering.
At the time of its opening, Late August was a highly anticipated dining destination. Housed at The Ion in Houston, at 4201 Main St., Ste. 120, the Afro-Mexican restaurant was a concept of Lucille’s Hospitality Group under the culinary leadership of James Beard-recognized chef, Chris Williams.
The hype was validated upon opening; in the restaurant’s first year, it received Michelin recognition in the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Texas – earning a “Recommended” distinction. Additionally, Esquire Magazine named Late August among its list of the Best New Restaurants in America in 2024.
Earlier this week, however, the Lucille’s Hospitality concept announced that it would be shuttering its dining services at the Ion. In partnership with The Ion, the restaurant will instead pivot to an event-focused model through Lucille’s Hospitality Group, shifting to private catering and event services.
Lucille’s Hospitality Group is presently focused on expanding its portfolio, focusing on its coming projects that include The Branch, which is expected to open at The Forme later this summer.
Per a press release, Late August will honor all events booked through the end of the year.
“Late August has been an incredibly meaningful chapter for our team, and we are proud of what we created together with the Houston community,” said Chef Chris Williams, founder of Lucille’s Hospitality Group, in a press release.
“This transition allows us to continue building through private events and catering while putting our energy behind the next chapter for Lucille’s Hospitality Group. We are grateful for our team that will also be coming with us to The Branch and everyone who has supported us, and we are excited about what’s ahead with The Branch and our other concepts.”
