Houston, February 6, 2026
Recent additions of Maggie’s Coffee and Kirkwood restaurant in Houston’s Energy Corridor mark a vibrant transformation in the area. These establishments, backed by local entrepreneur Mac Haik, reflect a significant commitment to enhance business and dining options, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of Houston. The developments also signal a broader revitalization effort aimed at supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth in one of the city’s key commercial hubs.
Houston: Energy Corridor Welcomes New Culinary Ventures, Signaling Robust Economic Growth
Houston’s dynamic Energy Corridor is experiencing a significant revitalization, marked by the recent debut of Maggie’s Coffee and the eagerly anticipated opening of Kirkwood, a new full-service restaurant. These additions, spearheaded by local entrepreneur Mac Haik and the Mac Haik Restaurant Group, underscore a broader trend of private investment and entrepreneurial spirit contributing to Houston economic growth. The initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing local amenities and attracting further business to one of the city’s vital economic hubs. The thoughtful development, which provides new gathering spaces and culinary options, is a testament to the ongoing resilience and innovative drive of Houston TX business. It also highlights how strategic private development can invigorate commercial districts, fostering a more vibrant environment for both tenants and the wider community.
The introduction of these new dining establishments within Energy Tower II at 11720 Katy Freeway comes as part of an extensive renovation project by Mac Haik Enterprises. Such proactive investments in infrastructure and amenities are crucial for maintaining Houston’s competitive edge and supporting its diverse economy. They demonstrate how local leaders and enterprises are consistently striving to improve the quality of life and business operations within the city, creating opportunities for local partnerships and job creation. This strategic approach by Texas TX entrepreneurs illustrates a belief in the market’s potential, investing in high-quality offerings that serve both the existing professional community and draw in new patrons.
A New Chapter for Energy Tower II
Energy Tower II, a prominent structure within the Energy Plaza Office Park, is undergoing a substantial amenity-focused makeover by Mac Haik Enterprises. This renovation, which began in December 2024 and is projected for completion by September 2025, aims to modernize the 17-story tower and enhance the experience for its tenants and visitors. The upgrades are designed to attract new office tenants by offering state-of-the-art facilities and a more engaging environment. Such significant private investment in existing commercial properties is a key driver of urban renewal and sustainable Houston economic growth.
The Energy Plaza Office Park, also owned by Mac Haik, encompasses three office towers and an Embassy Suites Hotel. The ongoing enhancements to Energy Tower II are part of a larger vision to create a comprehensive and appealing campus. These improvements reflect a proactive response to evolving market demands, ensuring that the Energy Corridor remains a leading destination for businesses in Houston.
Maggie’s Coffee: A Fresh Local Brew
Maggie’s Coffee, a 500-square-foot coffee shop, officially opened to the public on February 2, 2026, following a soft opening for building tenants on January 8, 2026. Situated on the first floor of Energy Tower II, the establishment provides a convenient and upscale amenity for those within the building and accessible to the broader public.
The coffee shop, named after CEO Mac Haik’s dog, offers a selection of coffee drinks, teas, matcha, and light bites. It partners with local Houston-based Kraftsmen Bakery for pastries and sources its specialty coffee beans from Bastrop-based Independence Coffee Co. The interior design, crafted by Gin Braverman of Houston-based Gin Design Group, contributes to a welcoming atmosphere. This emphasis on local partnerships and quality products highlights a commitment to supporting Houston small business and regional enterprises, fostering a sense of community within the corporate environment.
Kirkwood Restaurant: An Elevated Dining Experience on the Horizon
Anticipation is building for Kirkwood, a full-service restaurant slated to open in Fall 2025 within Energy Tower II. The restaurant, announced in May 2025, will occupy a larger footprint of 5,500 square feet, offering an expansive dining experience compared to the coffee shop. Kirkwood is designed to serve “elevated American classics seen through a Houston lens,” promising a distinctive culinary offering for the area.
Executive Chef Stephen Chiang will lead the culinary program, bringing expertise to the new establishment. The restaurant is projected to accommodate up to 154 guests, featuring a 16-seat private dining room named “Francis” in honor of Mac Haik’s mother, and a 72-seater sunroom, known as the “Sunny Room,” dedicated to his wife. The design, also overseen by Gin Braverman of Gin Design Group, is expected to incorporate elements reflecting Mac Haik’s personal interests in classic cars, sports, and family, adding a unique character to the venue. The name “Kirkwood” itself pays homage to a significant thoroughfare in the Energy Corridor and the legacy of Mac Haik’s early real estate investments in the area, which transformed former farmland into a thriving business district. While initially conceived as an amenity for building tenants, Kirkwood has evolved into a full-service concept intended to serve the broader Houston community, indicating a vision for expansive local engagement.
Impact on the Energy Corridor
The introduction of Maggie’s Coffee and Kirkwood, alongside the broader renovation of Energy Tower II, represents a strategic move by Mac Haik Enterprises to invigorate Houston’s Energy Corridor. These developments are more than just new places to eat and drink; they are tangible signs of continued private sector confidence and investment in the region. The enhancements aim to create a more attractive and dynamic environment, which can positively influence occupancy rates and draw new businesses and talent to the area. For instance, after losing a major tenant, Energy Tower II’s occupancy rate is already projected to increase from 10% to 29% with the signing of a new engineering firm.
Such private initiatives contribute significantly to Houston economic growth by generating jobs, fostering local commerce, and improving the overall quality of commercial properties. The Mac Haik Restaurant Group, which also operates franchises like First Watch and concepts such as Slapfish, The Original ChopShop, and Due’ Cucina, demonstrates a long-standing commitment to the hospitality sector and the local economy. These ventures exemplify how entrepreneurial vision, coupled with strategic investment, can lead to beneficial outcomes for communities and the wider urban landscape, solidifying Houston’s reputation as a prime location for business and innovation.
Conclusion
The debut of Maggie’s Coffee and the forthcoming Kirkwood restaurant within Houston’s Energy Corridor signal a vibrant period of growth and entrepreneurial innovation for the district. Mac Haik Enterprises’ significant investment in renovating Energy Tower II and introducing these new culinary concepts reflects a robust private sector commitment to enhancing local amenities and fostering economic vitality. These developments are set to benefit building tenants and the wider Houston TX business community by creating new gathering spaces, employment opportunities, and contributing to the dynamic appeal of the Energy Corridor. We encourage readers to explore and support these new local ventures, playing an active role in Houston’s continued economic success and community development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new establishments are opening in Houston’s Energy Corridor by Mac Haik?
Mac Haik Enterprises has opened Maggie’s Coffee and is preparing to open Kirkwood, a full-service restaurant, in Houston’s Energy Corridor.
Where are Maggie’s Coffee and Kirkwood restaurant located?
Both Maggie’s Coffee and the upcoming Kirkwood restaurant are located within Energy Tower II at 11720 Katy Freeway, in Houston’s Energy Corridor. This is part of the larger Energy Plaza Office Park, owned by Mac Haik.
When did Maggie’s Coffee open to the public?
Maggie’s Coffee opened to the public on February 2, 2026, after a soft opening for tenants on January 8, 2026.
What type of cuisine will Kirkwood restaurant offer and when is it expected to open?
Kirkwood restaurant will offer “elevated American classics seen through a Houston lens” and is scheduled to open in Fall 2025.
What is the broader context of these new openings?
These new openings are part of an extensive amenity-focused makeover of Energy Tower II by Mac Haik Enterprises, aimed at modernizing the tower and enhancing the experience for tenants and visitors.
Key Features of Mac Haik’s Energy Corridor Developments
| Feature | Maggie’s Coffee | Kirkwood Restaurant | Energy Tower II Renovation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of Establishment | Coffee shop with light bites | Full-service restaurant | Office Tower Enhancement |
| Location | First floor of Energy Tower II, 11720 Katy Freeway, Houston’s Energy Corridor | Ground floor of Energy Tower II, 11720 Katy Freeway, Houston’s Energy Corridor | 11720 Katy Freeway, Houston’s Energy Corridor |
| Opening Date/Timeline | Opened to public February 2, 2026; soft opening January 8, 2026 | Scheduled to open in Fall 2025 | Began December 2024, expected completion September 2025 |
| Size | 500 square feet | 5,500 square feet | 17-story, 428,831 square feet |
| Offerings | Coffee drinks, tea, matcha, pastries, light bites from Kraftsmen Bakery, specialty beans from Independence Coffee Co. | “Elevated American classics seen through a Houston lens”; seafood platters, salads, steak frites, wines, cocktails, beers | Expanded lobby, tenant lounge, renovated fitness center, outdoor greenspace, new conference rooms, valet drop-off, updated parking garage |
| Chef/Design | Designed by Gin Braverman of Gin Design Group | Executive Chef Stephen Chiang; designed by Gin Braverman of Gin Design Group | Architect HOK, General Contractor E.E. Reed Construction LP |
| Seating Capacity (Restaurant only) | N/A | Up to 154 guests, including a 16-seat private room and a 72-seater sunroom | N/A |
| Accessibility | Accessible to both building tenants and the public | Intended to serve both the campus and the broader community | Improved “arrival experience” for all users |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
