A popular Houston-based Sichuan restaurant is preparing to expand into The Woodlands, bringing bold flavors and a growing reputation for authentic Chinese cuisine to one of the area’s revitalized retail destinations.
Cooking Girl is expected to open in Spring 2026 at Grogan’s Mill Village Center, located at 7 Switchbud Place in The Woodlands, according to a recent announcement tied to the redevelopment of the longtime shopping center. The addition marks another step in the transformation of the historic Grogan’s Mill area, which has seen significant investment and renewed commercial interest over the past two yea
Known for its spicy Sichuan cuisine and contemporary presentation, Cooking Girl has built a loyal following in Houston for dishes that balance heat, texture and traditional Chinese flavors. Signature menu items include dry-fried green beans, spicy yu xiang eggplant, dan dan noodles and Sichuan beef. The restaurant also serves familiar favorites such as orange chicken and Mongolian beef, helping attract both adventurous diners and those seeking more approachable Chinese fare.
The restaurant’s Houston-area concept has become increasingly recognized for bringing authentic Sichuan-style cooking to a broader audience. Sichuan cuisine, originating from southwestern China, is famous for its use of chili peppers, garlic, fermented sauces and the numbing spice sensation created by Sichuan peppercorns. Cooking Girl’s menu emphasizes those traditional flavor profiles while presenting dishes in a modern, casual dining atmosphere.
The Woodlands location will join the restaurant’s existing Houston operations. Another expansion is planned for Katy.
The opening also reflects the ongoing revitalization of Grogan’s Mill Village Center, one of the original commercial hubs in The Woodlands. The center recently underwent redevelopment led by Howard Hughes Holdings, with new retail spaces, restaurants and public gathering areas designed to reinvigorate the property.
Originally developed as the first village center in The Woodlands, Grogan’s Mill has long served as a gateway into the master-planned community. Local residents have increasingly voiced enthusiasm online for redevelopment efforts in the district, viewing the project as a way to restore energy and walkability to one of The Woodlands’ oldest commercial corridors.
Cooking Girl’s arrival is expected to add to the growing culinary diversity in the area, joining nearby dining concepts such as Phat Eatery and Back Table Kitchen & Bar. The addition of another Asian dining destination could further position Grogan’s Mill Village Center as an emerging restaurant hub within The Woodlands.
For fans of bold flavors and authentic Sichuan cooking, the upcoming opening offers another reason to watch the continued evolution of Grogan’s Mill as it blends longtime community roots with a new generation of retail and dining experiences.
