Michelle Obama’s Favorite Houston Restaurant Closes For Good

Shutdown Hits Acclaimed Spot On Super Bowl Sunday

By Jailyn Marcel // Feb 7, 2017

Chef Ryan Hildebrand of FM Kitchen & Bar is one of four maestros of the kitchen cooking at the "Best Cellars" benefit dinner at River Oaks Country Club.

After five years of serving the city’s posh set, Triniti Restaurant and Bar is closing its doors for good. The Shepherd Drive restaurant run by chef/partner Ryan Hildebrand picked up plenty of national attention during its lifespan, including a visit from former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Despite its well-regarded progressive American food and the highly-publicized addition of its revamped Sanctuari Bar, it seemed that as years passed, Triniti’s popularity still continued to fade. Super Bowl Sunday was Triniti’s official last day of service.

It is with a heavy hear that we announce Triniti’s closure. I want to thank our staff. I have had the opportunity to work with amazingly talented people that have become more than friends. They become family, and I will miss them dearly. We have enjoyed successes and have executed dinners and menus I never dreamt possible,” Hildebrand said in a statement. “The Mercury Dinners, pairing food and win to the signs of the zodiac, and creating 20 menus in five years will all continue to inspire me. I want to thank this city for the venue in which to practice our craft and share our visions. I am excited for the next chapter — for myself, my family, and for the staff of Triniti, who I know will continue to lead and inspire. Cheers, all!”

Of course, this isn’t the end of the road for Hildebrand, who is on track to open a new restaurant concept, FM Burger, next month. The forthcoming eatery, which previewed its signature burger on Sanctuari bar’s happy hour menu (it’s not to be missed, trust me), is located at 1112 Shepherd Drive.

The backyard-style burger joint will feature a trademark patty crafted with brisket, chuck, and sirloin, which will lend itself to classic burgers as well as Frito pie and Salisbury steak renditions. Chicken pot pie sandwiches, griddled peanut butter and jelly, loaded milkshakes and more also grace the menu.