For the family behind Chachi’s Next Door, hospitality has always been personal. What began with Chachi’s Mexican Restaurant in 2008 has grown into a second concept that brings together elevated cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and the warmth of a family-run business.
Luis and Kathie opened the original Chachi’s before expanding next door in 2020. Their daughter, Nicole, helps lead the restaurant’s marketing and social media and has also become part of the business, creating a place where guests feel welcome.
“We want all of our guests to feel welcome from the second they walk through the door,” Nicole says. “For us, it’s about more than offering great food and drinks—we want the service, decor, music, and overall atmosphere to come together to create an exceptional experience from beginning to end.”
Chachi’s Next Door was designed to offer something different from the original restaurant. While Chachi’s remains a neighborhood favorite, Next Door leans into modern Mexican cuisine with a refined twist. The menu features items such as grilled octopus and tuna tostadas, while rotating weekend specials can include fresh oysters, lamb chops, cowboy steak, and surf and turf.
That elevated approach carries over to the bar. Cocktails are handcrafted with fresh juices and ingredients prepared in-house, giving the drink menu the same thoughtful attention as the food. One standout is the Kingwood Margarita, a top-shelf cocktail featuring Avión 44 tequila and a name that pays tribute to the community the family has called home for years.
Even with its polished menu and presentation, the atmosphere at Chachi’s Next Door always remains warm, welcoming, and approachable. The family wanted to create an experience that feels special while still being accessible, whether guests are stopping in for Taco Tuesday, enjoying live music on Thursday, meeting friends for weekend brunch, or celebrating a milestone.
Fun is built into the calendar. Every Tuesday brings three off-menu Mexican street tacos; Wednesdays are Teachers Night, when teachers receive 20% off appetizers and happy hour is offered all night long; Thursdays feature live music; and Saturday and Sunday brunch give guests another reason to gather. The restaurant also regularly introduces new chef specials, themed events, and seasonal offerings, keeping the experience fresh for returning customers.
Opening in 2020 was not easy. The family had already invested heavily in completely remodeling the former restaurant space when the pandemic changed everything. Despite the difficult start, they stayed committed to the concept. Guests who discovered Chachi’s Next Door quickly responded to the quality, atmosphere, and distinctive menu.
That loyalty is especially meaningful to a family that believes independent restaurants offer something chains cannot replicate. Luis has always emphasized sourcing quality ingredients, and the family works hard to protect both the guest experience and the value they provide.
The restaurant has also become a popular setting for private events, including engagement parties, baby showers, rehearsal dinners, and wedding receptions. Because of its intimate size, groups can reserve the entire space, personalize the decor and music, and even work with the team on customized menus.
Giving back is important. Chachi’s Next Door supports local schools, youth sports, and organizations throughout Kingwood, including Addi’s Faith Foundation. Teachers are celebrated with Wednesday specials, and the family regularly looks for ways to support the community that has supported them.
For Luis, Kathie, and Nicole, Chachi’s Next Door is more than an extension of a successful restaurant. It is a family-owned business built around food, creativity, and connection.
Whether the night calls for oysters and cocktails, tacos and live music, or a table full of friends, the invitation is simple: come next door, settle in, and enjoy.
“We want them to feel welcome from the second they walk in the door,” their daughter said.