HOUSTON – The COVID-19 pandemic devastated Texas’ restaurant industry — and for many, the recovery has been painfully slow.
In Houston, some eateries were forced to close permanently. Those that survived say they’re still struggling with reduced profit margins, ongoing staffing shortages, and rising operational costs.
“Since the pandemic, restaurants took a hit in the gut,” said Tracy Vaught, president of H-Town Restaurant Group, which operates five restaurants in the Houston area. “What I’m seeing is a much lower profit picture for us — and I believe it’s the same across the industry.”…