Popular Soul Food Chain Lo-Lo's Opens First Restaurant in Houston

The new location in the Third Ward neighborhood aims to bring community spirit and scratch-made soul food to the city.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles, a nationally recognized soul food brand, is opening its first Houston location this weekend in the city's Third Ward neighborhood. The restaurant, known for its signature fried chicken and made-from-scratch waffles, will serve brunch, lunch, dinner and late-night meals. Founded in 2002, Lo-Lo's has grown from a neighborhood favorite into a concept with multiple locations across the country.

Why it matters

The opening of Lo-Lo's in Houston's historic Third Ward neighborhood is significant, as the area has long been a hub of African American culture and community. The restaurant's focus on scratch-made soul food and Southern hospitality aligns with the neighborhood's identity and is expected to be a welcome addition for local residents.

The details

Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles will open on Saturday, February 21, at 3611 Gulf Freeway in Houston's Third Ward. The restaurant will operate Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to midnight. The grand opening weekend will include special promotions, music, giveaways and other activities.

  • Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles will open on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
  • The restaurant will operate Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to midnight.

The players

Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles

A nationally recognized soul food brand that was founded in 2002 and has grown to multiple locations across the country.

Lucious and Aundria Barnum

The owners of Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles, who are excited to bring the brand to Houston, a city they describe as built on culture, flavor and community.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This isn't just about opening a restaurant. It's about creating a space where people come together, celebrate and enjoy food that feeds the soul.”

— Lucious and Aundria Barnum, Owners, Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles (khou.com)

What’s next

The grand opening weekend, from Friday through Sunday, will include special promotions, music, giveaways and other activities to celebrate the new Houston location.

The takeaway

The opening of Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles in Houston's Third Ward neighborhood is a significant addition to the local community, bringing a beloved soul food brand and its focus on scratch-made recipes and Southern hospitality to an area rich in African American culture and history.