Ouisie’s Table in River Oaks Celebrates 50 Years With 5 Days of Festivities

Houston restaurant Ouisie's Table in River Oaks

Editor’s note: a reader pointed out that there was a six-year gap between when owner Elouise “Ouisie” Adams Jones closed the original Ouisie’s Table on Sunset and when the current one on San Felipe opened. So, we’ll clarify that while the restaurant has been in operation for only 44 years, this year marks the 50th birthday of when it opened in 1973 — and the five days of specials noted below celebrate that. 


With it hitting the half-century mark, it’s even more appropriate to consider Ouisie’s Table at 3939 San Felipe a “historic” Houston restaurant. From May 8 through 12, the restaurant founded by the late Elouise “Ouisie” Adams Jones — helmed these days by her former general manager, Wafi Dinari — is hosting five days of festivities to mark its 50th anniversary. According to a press release, when it opened in 1973, Ouisie’s was one of the first woman-owned and -led upscale restaurants in Houston. 

Some of the restaurant’s special features include a big patio in a garden-like setting, private event rooms, and quirky Southern charm mirroring Ouisie’s fun-loving personality. Just one example is Miss Ruby, Jones’ sister’s red debutante dress that once served as Jones’ makeshift Christmas tree. Every year, it becomes part of the restaurant decor from Thanksgiving through Valentine’s Day. 

Below is a list of the special events, and what days these are available.

Elouise Adams Jones
Elouise Adams Jones, founder of Ouisie’s Table, passed away on her birthday at age 79. Courtesy photo.

Ouisie’s 50th Anniversary Events

May 8 through 12: $25 lunch and $50 dinner pre-fixe menus featuring dishes refined or developed by Adams Jones, some dating as far back as 1973, when Ouisie’s was on Sunset Boulevard. Examples include Shrimp and Cheese Grits — which she is credited with introducing to Houston – World War II Pimento Cheese, Splendid Spud With Caviar, Red Snapper With Brandied Oysters and Chicken a la Juanita, a dish that was developed by one of Ouisie’s kitchen workers and has been on the menu for 35 years. Dessert selections include black & white cake and lemon ice box pie. Cost does not include tax and gratuity. 

May 10 through 12: For the run-up to the actual anniversary date, which is May 12, the Charlie Perez Trio will perform live jazz (Ouisie’s favorite music) in the evenings. 

Ouisie’s Table is open every day. The hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.  For information and reservations visit the website, or call (713) 528-2264.

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