The Galleria is Growing

It’s still not completely clear if we’re the fattest city or the skinniest, but either way, Houston will soon have a few more restaurants in the Galleria. The space that used to be occupied by Lord & Taylor has been divided so that it can hold 12 businesses. The eateries will include The Kona Grill, which will be the first to open in August. It will be followed by The Oceanaire Seafood Room in November and Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House in 2007.

As far as retail space goes, the first store in the defunct L&T space will open today. The J. Crew will be 6,500 square feet of men and women’s clothing, accessories and shoes. Soon, we’ll be graced with a new Chico’s (We love their ultra-modern commercials. No, really!), and a two-story Borders.

Almost a third of the 24 million annual shoppers at the Galleria are tourists. (Which isn’t surprising as it’s just as common to hear a mother and daughter arguing outside of Lacoste in French as it is in English.) Simon Property Group, who owns the Galleria, hopes that the new additions will bring in more visitors and keep them shopping longer.

Photo: flickr user matahari sky