Late August

Late August opened in March 2024 in the Ion mixed-use development in Midtown Houston, in a building that was once a Sears department store -- the restaurant's name nods to the nostalgia of the annual Sears holiday catalog arriving in late summer. It's a concept from chef Chris Williams, a James Beard-recognized chef behind Lucille's Hospitality Group, working alongside executive chef Sergio Hidalgo. The Afro-Mexican menu draws on both chefs' childhood and professional culinary experiences and leans on produce grown at Lucille's own 1913 farm in Kendleton, Texas.

The restaurant carries a Michelin Guide 'Recommended' designation -- per CultureMap Houston, it is Houston's only Black-owned restaurant to earn a spot in the Michelin Guide -- and was named one of Esquire's Best New Restaurants in America for 2024, with critic Joshua David Stein praising the kitchen's 'bravura acts of culinary invention.'

In fall 2025, Late August revamped its format around a tasting menu ($95); Houstonia Magazine reported the restaurant reworked its concept with a tasting menu and bold new dishes.

Alongside its cocktail list, Late August has featured named non-alcoholic drinks -- per CultureMap Houston's Dry January coverage, the Savannah (herbed peach syrup, candied ginger beer, $8) and the Nopalito (prickly pear, orange juice, habanero tincture, Tajín rim, $7). As these were highlighted in seasonal Dry January coverage rather than a standing printed mocktail section, continued availability of these two drinks should be reconfirmed at the next verification pass.

Late August closed for daily service at the Ion in August 2026. CultureMap Houston reported that the space was moving to an event-focused model, and the restaurant's own site now says it is relocating to a new home at The Branch at Forme Houston, 5501 LaBranch St, with the grand opening still to be announced as of September 2026. Everything above describes the restaurant as it traded at the Ion; check its own channels before making the trip.