The Halal Guys are on the move again. The popular, NYC-based Halal food cart turned global cultural phenomenon will open its second inner Loop location in the Medical Center at 6609 Main St., local franchisee Masroor Fatany tells CultureMap.
"We do so many deliveries here on UberEATS that we just knew there was pent up demand," Fatany says. "We've had our eyes on this site for almost a year, and we were finally able to get the deal done."
At only 1,200-square feet, the location will be geared towards take out and delivery, but it will have a few tables outside to accommodate patrons with a little more time to dine. Work has already begun on the space; Fatany expends to open in early or mid-September.
For those who missed its frantic opening at the beginning of 2016 — when the lines snaked out of the building and police officers were on hand to direct traffic — The Halal Guys serves gyro and chicken as either wrap sandwiches or over rice. The combination of the tender meat with the restaurant's signature tangy white and spicy red sauces produces an addictive flavor. Late night hours help make it the a popular choice for those who need sustenance after a few drinks.
The concept remains popular. Fatany says his second location in Westchase has built a growing following and sales at both stores (he owns Houston's first Halal Guys on Farnham Street) are up year-over-year. Currently, he's negotiating for two more locations inside the Loop and contemplating expanding to San Antonio in 2019. Credit the signature flavors for the success.
"The menu's been the same since 1990. We don't plan our changing it," Fatany says. "Same recipes as the cart in New York at 53rd and 6th."
The Halal Guys are coming to the Medical Center.
