The owner of Sambrooks Hospitality, Michael Sambrooks, announced in a Sept. 16 news release that he has taken over the lease at Mandito's Tex-Mex in Bellaire, which closed over the weekend, and intends to rebrand it as Candente.

What we know

Candente is an industrial-style Tex-Mex restaurant that opened in Montrose in 2019. It is known for fajitas, carne asada, chicken and seafood cooked over a wood-fired grill. The spot also provides classic cocktails, such as margaritas, tequila flights and ranch waters.

Sambrooks said that the Bellaire location will serve the same menu of handcrafted Tex-Mex staples and classic cocktails as the Montrose location.
The drink menu at Candente showcases flavored margaritas, sangrias and classic cocktails such as the Blood Orange Mule. (Courtesy Duc Hoang)
The drink menu at Candente showcases flavored margaritas, sangrias and classic cocktails such as the Blood Orange Mule. (Courtesy Duc Hoang)
“We’re excited to bring Candente’s energy and authentic, handcrafted Tex-Mex menu to the Bellaire community,” Sambrooks said in the release. “Just as we’ve forged strong ties with Houston’s Montrose neighborhood, we’re eager to build a lasting friendship with Bellaire residents, which is actually in my backyard! We can’t wait to bond over nachos and margaritas.”

Candente Bellaire is expected to open before the end of 2025, according to restaurant officials.


Something to note

Sambrooks Hospitality also owns both locations of The Pit Room, a barbecue joint that earned a Bib Gourmand distinction in 2024.