Greg Gatlin Reveals New Houston Restaurant Coming to Independence Heights

tray of fried chicken and biscuit

Greg Gatlin opened his eponymous barbecue concept, Gatlin’s BBQ in the Heights in 2010 — and moved to Oak Forest in 2014 —, and has fed a steady stream of loyal patrons ever since. It’s popular for slow-smoked meats, hearty sides and exceptional desserts. Now, Gatlin is spreading his wings (so to speak) with Fins & Feathers, a new concept specializing in Gulf seafood and fried chicken. It’s expected to open in late June at 301 West Crosstimbers in Independence Heights.

“It’s a neighborhood place, and we wanted it to feel that way: rustic, comfortable, and historic,” Gatlin said. “It’s part of Independence Heights and we’re embracing that. I hope people enjoy really good food in a really good atmosphere –– a place that will connect them to a childhood experience or even an elevation of that childhood memory, [and make them think], ‘This is so damn good.’”

According to the press release, the new location is a “love letter” to the neighborhood where Gatlin grew up, and an avenue for honoring and preserving the food history with which he was raised. The 3,000 square-foot building even has special meaning: it once housed a Mexican restaurant that Gatlin and his family frequented when he was a child. Now, it seats about 80 guests in a space designed by Craig Schuster of H3D Hospitality Design and built by CTC Contractors.

Man in front of a restaurant sign
Greg Gatlin of Gatlin’s BBQ is opening Fins & Feathers in late June 2022. Photo by Lindsey Cooper.

In addition to lunch and dinner, Fins & Feathers will serve brunch, which is expected to be  “booming” thanks to the quickly growing neighborhood. The menus are developed in collaboration with Gatlin’s BBQ executive chef Michelle Wallace, and are intended to be appealing for modern diners while honoring the neighborhood’s history. 

The website is still under development, but hours, menus and other details are coming soon.

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