Speciality roaster the Merit Coffee Company, based in the US state of Texas, has announced plans to expand into the city of Houston in 2026.

Two Houston sites are presently being developed: one in Houston Heights and the other on Buffalo Speedway, serving the River Oaks and West University areas.

The Buffalo Speedway location will launch by the end of the first quarter of 2026, to be followed by the Heights café in early summer.

The Houston outlets will offer the company’s signature products.

These include ethically sourced beans roasted in Texas, brewed by baristas and served in modern, welcoming spaces intended to foster community.

Established in 2009 in San Antonio, Merit operates 13 cafés across Texas — five in San Antonio, three in Austin and five in Dallas.

Its freshly roasted beans are already available to Houston customers via online orders and through grocery retail partners including HEB, Whole Foods Market and Central Market.

Merit Coffee CEO Bill Ellis stated: "We're beyond excited to finally bring the Merit café experience to Houston.

"This is something our customers have been asking for, and we're thrilled to create new community spaces where our guests can enjoy world-class coffee, thoughtfully designed environments, and genuine connection."

In other Texas news, bakery café concept Paris Baguette opened a new location in East Plano in August. The move forms part of the company’s aim to operate 1,000 units across the US and Canada by 2030.

In July 2025, Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café launched a new outlet in Cypress, Texas.