Owner John Gentempo opened Cipresso in March 2013 and has seen business grow through December, his most successful month yet.

Gentempo said he updates his menu regularly to keep customers coming back. Several items added to the lunch menu over the past few months include pizzas and paninis. Recently introduced dinner options include the Pasta Mary—seafood and spaghetti with a spicy marinara sauce baked in parchment paper.

"These are dishes that I've cooked for years," Gentempo said. "We play around with different ideas, put them on the menu and see how they do."

Gentempo said he enjoys being in a walkable location and hopes to become a staple in the neighborhood.

11910 Louetta Road

Houston 281-257-3900

www.cipressorestaurant.com

Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–2 p.m., 5–8:30 p.m.

Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Closed Sun.