Guru, located in Sugar Land Town Square, is known for its gourmet burgers, poke bowls and other Asian-inspired menu items. It’s co-owned by Robert White and Victor Litwinenko, who made the announcement in a March 5 Facebook post and an email to customers.
“Everybody knows the restaurant business is kind of tough, so we're blessed to have gone 12 years,” Litwinenko said in a phone interview. “Twelve years is a lifetime in many restaurants, so we are happy with that.”
The details
As the business approached its leasing renewal in April, Litwinenko said several factors contributed to the owners’ decision to close, including rising costs for food, labor, rent and insurance.
Additionally, he said the office occupancy in Sugar Land Town Square declined after the COVID-19 pandemic, which lessened the eatery’s customer base.
“I encourage anybody that likes going anywhere, it doesn't have to be our concepts, ... to continue supporting those places 'cause they need the continuous support,” he said.
White and Litwinenko also own three other Houston-area eateries, including two others in Sugar Land Town Square—Japaneiros and Jupiter Pizza & Waffles Co. Any Guru gift cards will be accepted at Japaneiros, Jupiter and Ginger Mule, the duo’s vegan eatery in the Heights, according to the email announcement to customers.
Additionally, employees from Guru will be absorbed by the other restaurants’ locations.
What’s next
Guru will host themed spirit weeks leading up to its closure, so patrons who dine at the business during that time will help support local schools, Litwinenko said.
- Closing April 21
- 2268 Texas Drive, Sugar Land
- www.guruburgers.com
