Atlanta restaurateur Ford Fry (The Optimist, St. Cecilia) is expanding to Houston. CultureMap Houston reports that Fry, who grew up in Houston, will feature an "oyster bar, wood-burning cooking elements, and a chef's pass dining element." Eater Atlanta notes that Fry is creating his restaurant space by combining a former beignet shop, dry cleaners, and Subway.

Fry is also in the midst of opening a variety of concepts in Atlanta including a "Mexican-influenced restaurant," a "Mex-tex" project, and a sister restaurant to his popular seafood-centric establishment, The Optimist. Eater Atlanta reports that the food at the yet-to-be named restaurant in Houston will be "American that's inspired by the many influences Texas has" and is slated to open as soon as 2015.

· Atlanta's Ford Fry is coming to Houston [CultureMap Houston]

· Ford Fry Expanding to Texas with Houston Restaurant [Eater ATL]

· All Expansionwire Coverage on Eater [-E-]

[Photo: The Optimist/Facebook]