Text and photos by Charlotte Aguilar Christopher Arcidiacono has assembled a crack team to help him create his new business — but ultimately, it’s his heart and his gut instincts that are guiding him. “An idea that comes from what I’ve lived,” is how he describes it. With roots deep in West University, the 34-year-old’s local knowledge is reflected in the design, menu and … [Read more...] about Finding the joy in sobriety: Christo Mio puts owner’s life lessons into action

West U Business
Promising start, abrupt ending: Pizza Motus closes West U café
A surge of positive publicity and reviews about its unusual food and family-friendly style, an engaging owner, and a cooperative City Council weren’t enough: Pizza Motus at 6119 Edloe St. in West University has closed after 11 months in business. The announcement comes via a note tacked to the eatery’s front door: “Thank you for the memories…Unfortunately, Pizza Motus is out … [Read more...] about Promising start, abrupt ending: Pizza Motus closes West U café
From sketchy to chic: Bissonnet center getting a makeover
A rundown business development in the 2700 block of Bissonnet Street in West University — which was the site of a 2016 massage parlor prostitution bust — is about to be transformed into an upscale center more befitting West U, with the old businesses already demolished. The Shoppes of Upper Kirby will feature about 20,000 square feet of space to be built out for “service … [Read more...] about From sketchy to chic: Bissonnet center getting a makeover
Another longtime eatery leaves Weslayan Plaza: The comings-and-goings
The business boom in the Bellaire-West University area has struck Weslayan Plaza, which is experiencing more “comings” than “goings” in the tough retail leasing business — despite the news this week that one of its longtime restaurant tenants is departing. Panda Garden, which has operated in the plaza for a quarter-century, announced Monday on its website that Wednesday … [Read more...] about Another longtime eatery leaves Weslayan Plaza: The comings-and-goings
Beware! Gas pump credit card skimmer discovered near Rice Village
If you have pumped gas at the Valero station on Kirby Drive at Sunset Boulevard near Rice Village and West University recently and paid with a credit card, you should be on the alert. ABC-13 is reporting that a credit card skimmer was found on Pump No. 1 at the station on Tuesday, according to an advisory from the Texas Department of Agriculture, which regulates the pumps. … [Read more...] about Beware! Gas pump credit card skimmer discovered near Rice Village