Grim Burgers and tater tots are coming to The Woodlands. Lankford’s, the beloved Houston burger joint with locations in Midtown and Bellaire, will arrive in The Woodlands next year.

Slated to open in January, Lankford’s has claimed the former Baja Cantina space at 24 Waterway Ave. for its third Houston-area location. It will offer a number of amenities, such as a 12-tap, self-serve tap wall; a milkshake bar with both traditional shakes and boozy options for adults; and dog-friendly dishes that will include a donation to the Montgomery County Animal Shelter.

Of course, the new Lankford’s in The Woodlands will serve the same menu of comfort food and burgers as the almost 90-year-old original. That includes signature items like the Grim Burger, a bacon cheeseburger topped with mac and cheese, jalapeños, and a fried egg; the spicy Firehouse burger; daily specials like chicken fried steak; and a weekend breakfast menu.

Behold the Grim Burger.Courtesy of Lankford's

In addition to opening a new location in The Woodlands, Lankford’s will upgrade its original location in Midtown. They’ve purchased an adjacent property that will house a new coffee and wine bar with fresh pastries from chef Jenny Finch, specialty coffee drinks, and wine. Like The Woodlands location, it is also expected to open in January.

Along with the new wine list, Lankford’s is launching a wine club that will give members access to select vintages, events, and other perks. It will also be available in The Woodlands.

Owners Jessica and Paul Prior have recruited their son Nicolas van der Does and his wife, publicist Sydney Prior van der Does, to serve as co-owners of the new location. Paul took over full control of Lankford’s after his mother Eydie retired in 2021.