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"Similar to Snooze’s local take-over, I see Mendocino Farms as another out-of-state chain that might just saturate the Houston market with its delicious, healthy fare. The California fast-casual eatery is known for bright, casual fare using local, responsibly raised meats and also offers vegan and gluten-free options; the forthcoming Houston locations — a third outpost in Uptown, a Rice Village debut next year, a location at The Star in Downtown, and an additional Uptown Park outpost next fall, per its website — mark the brand’s first out-of-state expansion. In California the menu features Peruvian steak sandwiches, pork belly banh mi, and salads and sandwiches topped with prosciutto or free-range chicken; an especially delectable sandwich is the “El Cadillac en Fuego,” made with chicken, Yucatan habanero sauce, spicy grilled pineapple escabeche, Oaxacan cheese, chili aioli, and black bean crema on a panini-pressed soft roll. I'll be watching for its Houston debuts." - Alaena Hostetter