ChopnBlok Houston, a West African restaurant in Houston’s Montrose district, has quickly become a culinary hotspot, offering a vibrant dining experience that has long been overdue in the city.
A Culinary Journey from Pop-Up to Brick-and-Mortar
Chef and owner Ope Amosu, originally from Nigeria, transitioned from a career in oil and gas to the culinary world. He began by working at Chipotle to learn the fast-casual dining model before launching ChopnBlok as a pop-up. After a successful stint at Post Houston food hall in 2021, ChopnBlok expanded to its first brick-and-mortar location in Montrose in October 2024.
A Menu Celebrating West African Flavors
ChopnBlok excels in introducing and celebrating West African cuisine through its diverse and flavorful menu. Diners can enjoy small plates like plantain chips served with a dip made from Liberian greens and suya skewers—marinated steak skewers. Entree-sized bowls feature halal meats paired with various types of rice, including the renowned Jollof rice, a staple in West African cuisine.
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Ambiance Reflecting Cultural Richness
The restaurant’s ambiance combines modern minimalism with African aesthetics. Custom wallpaper adorned with intricate patterns, books and vinyl records by Black authors and artists displayed on shelves, and vibrant artwork create an inviting atmosphere that reflects Houston’s multicultural spirit.
Beyond Dining: Promoting West African Culture
Amosu’s commitment extends beyond the restaurant. He founded the Chopd & Stewd food festival to promote West African cuisine and culture, further establishing ChopnBlok as a welcoming gateway to West African flavors for all diners.
ChopnBlok serves as a testament to Houston’s embrace of diverse immigrant cuisines, offering a thrilling and long-overdue addition to the city’s dining scene.
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
