A place where the whole family can find something to love on the menu. A place to meet after work for cocktails and apps. A place that’s as spot-on for hosting a special occasion as it is for hosting a laidback brunch with the gals. Local Table recently opened its doors on Research Forest with the mission of creating a gathering place for The Woodlands community that spans all these categories.
This is the fifth iteration of Local Table, which over the years has become a go-to spot in neighborhoods across the Houston area, including Cinco Ranch, Fulshear, Garden Oaks, and Cypress. “The Woodlands was a natural next step for us,” says Shervin Sharifi, who co-owns the restaurant along with his brother Neima and their cousins Arash, Ashkan, and Alex Nowamooz, who are brothers. Shervin says there is a dynamism and a focus on innovation and quality in The Woodlands community that naturally meshes with the concept behind Local Table. The warm and spacious mid-century décor of the new Research Forest location is punctuated by a huge light-up sign that spells out “TWTX” in a dazzle of bulbs. A handsome bar extends along one side of the restaurant and is flanked by an inviting patio.
The idea for Local Table came about because there was a need for the kind of local gathering place where neighbors, friends and families could come together for a great meal, where everyone could find something to love on the menu, a hub that provided the kind of warm hospitality, ambiance and menu options that could satisfy a variety of tastes, says Shervin.
Ashkan’s daughter, Nousha Nowamooz is marketing and development director for the restaurant. She says Local Table uses fresh ingredients and sources locally whenever possible. Menu items run the gamut of tastes and preparations, including woodstone pizzas, short rib tacos, burgers and hand-cut fries, gourmet salads and sandwiches, meatloaf, pasta, and fried chicken, as well as croissant French toast, chicken and waffles, omelets, and smoked salmon avocado toast during weekend brunch service. “We always strive to bring new flavors and variety to the table—it keeps our menu unique and exciting,” says Ashkan’s wife, executive chef Sue Nowamooz. That includes vegetarian and gluten-friendly options, as well as an array of vegan bowls.
Sue says that she expects the menu to evolve as the tastes of The Woodlands become apparent. “We are always experimenting in the Local Table kitchens to bring new items and improve existing items – we are always cooking!”