Officials with Sambrooks Hospitality first announced in September that Candente would replace the former Mandito's Tex-Mex restaurant in Bellaire and open as the restaurant's second location, following its original outpost in Montrose, which has been operating since 2019.

Owner Michael Sambrooks said in a Dec. 22 news release that the new location represents a commitment to the expansion of his two brands—Candente and The Pit Room—at the top of the culinary game in the Houston restaurant scene.

“It’s a privilege to open in Bellaire and get to know and serve a new clientele,” Sambrooks said. “We’re excited to introduce our style of authentic, handcrafted Tex-Mex that has made us a Houston dining staple.”

What they offer

The Bellaire location will serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. According to the news release, the restaurant's menu is identical to Montrose with customer favorites such as the house nachos, chile con queso, tortilla soup, Frito pie and ceviche, as well as birria tacos, chile gravy enchiladas and carne guisada.

Large entrees also include combo dinners, burritos, enchilada plates and a variety of wood-grilled fajitas. A cocktail menu will also be provided and features classics such as premium margaritas, palomas, mojitos, ranch waters, aguas frescas and sangrias.

• Opened Dec. 22
• 5101 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire
• www.candentehtx.com