Texas Borders Bar & Grill to Open New Location in Katy’s Cane Island
Texas Borders Bar & Grill, a longtime staple in the Katy dining scene, is set to open its newest location in Cane Island this July, taking over the space formerly occupied by The Oaks Kitchen & Bar. Known for its unique blend of All-American, Cajun, and south-of-the-border flavors, the family-owned restaurant brings nearly three decades of local history to its latest chapter.
Founded in 1996 by Kellie Messer, Texas Borders began with a simple concept: serve great food from around the borders of Texas, pair it with solid service, and create a place where people feel welcome. Raised in New Orleans, Kellie credits her passion for hospitality to her late grandmother, Mary Francis, who ran several restaurants and bars throughout her life. After working her way through the industry—including stints at Chi Chi’s, Pappasito’s, and Houston’s Restaurant—Kellie launched the first Texas Borders location with a vision shaped by both heritage and hands-on experience.
“We’re bringing more than a restaurant to Cane Island—we’re bringing a full experience,” she said. “This community is the perfect match for our family-forward, fun-loving culture.”
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The new location will continue the Texas Borders tradition while offering several features tailored to its setting within the Cane Island community. Guests can expect:
- Poolside service with a casual menu featuring kids’ meals, ice cream, snow cones, and frozen drinks
- Live music on the patio and inside, ranging from acoustic sets to full bands
- Family-friendly programming, including arts and crafts and seasonal kids’ events
- Wine and whiskey tastings, showcasing regional selections
- Seasonal crawfish boils
- An expansive menu, including burgers, tacos, quesadillas, po’boys, wings, pastas, steaks, brunch, and more
- Catering options for on-site and off-site events, including birthdays, pool parties, and game-day gatherings
In the kitchen, longtime culinary lead Jorge Mujico has worked with Kellie’s mother, Jo Ellen, to refine the restaurant’s gumbo — now dubbed “Jo’s Spicy Gumbo” — which has become one of the most frequently ordered items across all locations.
Building on the success of their popular locations at 1251 Pin Oak Rd #141, Katy, TX 77494 near Katy Mills Mall and 26440 FM 1093 #400, Richmond, TX 77406 near Cross Creek Ranch and Westheimer Lakes, Texas Borders has earned a loyal following over the years — not just for its food, but for its approachable, community-centered atmosphere. regulars often describe it as a neighborhood spot “where everyone knows your name,” a nod to its familiar greetings and longstanding staff.
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The Cane Island opening also comes on the heels of another new addition to the community: the recent debut of Humble Grounds Coffeehouse, which opened just steps away from The Oaks space that Texas Borders will soon occupy. The pair of openings reflects the growing momentum in Cane Island’s town center as it evolves into a walkable destination for local food, drinks, and events.
The grand opening is planned for July 2025. Stay tuned for more details about the launch and other local business news from Katy and Cane Island.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
