National and international brands have flocked to the Katy area bringing the first Texas locations of many franchises in the first half of 2025, according to trends identified by Community Impact staff through monthly reporting.

The latest arrival is Chocho Hot Pot, which opened its doors in Katy on June 21. Scoops, an ice cream shop is set to open in the area this fall.

Learn more about what brands chose Katy to open up their first locations in the area. This list is not comprehensive.

Game Over Escape Rooms

The escape room franchise is in 28 countries with eight locations in the U.S. and two more coming to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Jacksonville, Florida, according to its website. The Katy location offers five themed rooms including Lost City of Atlantis, Nightmare Hotel and School of Magic.
The entertainment venue offers batting cages as well as racing simulators, mini bowling and electronic darts. (Courtesy Taroko Sports)
The entertainment venue offers batting cages as well as racing simulators, mini bowling and electronic darts. (Courtesy Taroko Sports)


Taroko Sports

The entertainment group, which opened its first U.S. facility in Katy, offers batting cages, among other sports-centric games, an arcade and food and drinks, per a news release.76 Fence

The franchise—which began operations in late 2023 and offers fencing services to both residential and commercial customers—has 10 locations in Illinois, North Carolina and Tennessee with plans to add four more Houston locations in Cypress, the Energy Corridor, North Houston and Brenham by the beginning of 2026, according to a news release.Chocho Hot Pot

The all-you-can-eat restaurant, which is managed by The Dolar Shop International Group, has two locations in Canada with two more set to come in Frisco and Boston, according to its website. The restaurant offers tableside service for its premium meats and broths as well as a market table featuring appetizers, vegetables, fresh noodles and house-made sauces.


Scoops

The ice cream chain—which originated in Madison, Georgia—was founded by Susan Kirk, according to the business’ website. The Fulshear location will be the chain’s first location outside of Georgia and will offer 32 homemade ice cream flavors including chocolate covered cherry, banana pudding, Hawaiian coconut and cotton candy.