Iconic Texas-Mexican restaurant, Arnaldo Richards' Picos Restaurant, is closing in 2026 after more than 40 years in Houston, according to the restaurant's social media.

The details

Picos is a Tex-Mex restaurant started by Executive Chef Arnaldo Richards. Picos has dedicated years to cooking Tex-Mex foods, such as:
  • Mole coloradito: Boneless leg of lamb stewed in a rich red oaxcan mole served with Mexican rice and stewed black beans
  • Chile relleno: Roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a choice of beef picadillo or cotija cheese covered with entomatada sauce and crema mexicana, served with Mexican rice and refried pinto beans
  • Pulpo zarandeado: Charbroiled octopus basted with huichol style salsa, served with pickled red onions, roasted potatoes, white rice and stewed black beans
On Aug. 5, the restaurant announced their plans for imminent closure after 44 years serving in Houston.

"We are proud of what we’ve accomplished and so thankful for the relationships we’ve built," the statement read. "We will truly miss our daily interactions, the laughter and all the memories we’ve shared."

Something to note


However, the restaurant made another announcement on Sept. 16 saying that Picos will remain open until the remainder of 2025.

"The wave of support following our closing announcement showed us just how deeply our restaurant has touched the lives of so many," restaurant officials said. "Your heartfelt messages, visits and encouragement have inspired us to keep our doors open a little longer."

As Picos continues to operate, they hope patrons will come and celebrate the upcoming holidays including Hispanic Heritage Month with a specialty menu from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, and Christmas with the 12 Days of Mole special, where the restaurant will feature 12 mole dishes during the winter holiday.