Need to catch up on Community Impact’s coverage from last week? Check out six trending stories from the South Houston area from July 13-17.
1. Mockingbird Books creates ‘third space’ in Katy
Since opening last year, Katy residents Stephanie Pitcock and Julie Foster have transformed Mockingbird Books into a welcoming gathering place, offering customers a safe space where they can connect with others and build community.
The two co-owners opened Mockingbird Books last July after spending 18 months planning the business. Pitcock and Foster have been friends for more than a decade and share a lifelong love of reading and books.
Get the full story by Connor Behrens.
2. New menus for Houston Restaurant Weeks go live ahead of fall event
Produced by The Cleverley Stone Foundation, Houston Restaurant Weeks is a multiweek event from August through September that helps raise funds for the Houston Food Bank through specially priced, prix fixe menus at participating restaurants.
HRW is now entering its 23rd year, and menus for the 2026 event officially went live July 15.
Read more by Editor Cassandra Jenkins.
3. Mia’s Table now serving Southern comfort food in Sugar Land
Mia’s Table has opened its eighth Greater Houston location in Sugar Land, officials confirmed.
The casual family-friendly eatery serves burgers, tacos, sandwiches and other comfort food options inspired by Southern cooking, according to its website. It also offers milkshakes as well as a variety of wine and beer.
Learn more from Editorial Intern Sarah Knowlton.
4. New barbeque spot now serving Friendswood
Pearl’s BBQ opened on July 11 in Friendswood, located inside Super Ranchero Supermarket, a representative from the restaurant said.
Named in honor of the founder’s mother, Pearl’s BBQ is a family-owned restaurant with more than 15 years of barbecue experience, specializing in slow-smoked barbecue prepared with pecan wood, featuring favorites such as brisket, ribs, sausage and seasonal desserts.
Continue reading with General Assignment Reporter Catherine White
5. New clothing boutique opens in League City
So Unique Boutique had its soft opening in June and is planning a grand opening celebration in August once a few final touches on the interior are completed, owner Tiffany Nelson said.
The boutique sells clothing, such as dresses, shorts, blouses and jewelry, as well as luxury cleaning products from H&W Bath Haus.
Get the details from Government Reporter Rachel Leland.
6. West U officials celebrate groundbreaking on Poor Farm Ditch reconstruction project
West University Place held its groundbreaking ceremony for the Poor Farm Ditch reconstruction project July 13.
The Poor Farm Ditch reconstruction project will replace, widen and deepen the concrete-lined channel between University Boulevard and Bellaire Boulevard. The project will help with stormwater capacity and provide drainage relief.
