The Ticket

If you've noticed something new about THE BLACK WALNUT at 2520 Research Forest Drive in The Woodlands, it's because the restaurant was acquired a few months ago by CARY ATTAR, president and CEO of Hubbell & Hudson Market, and Black Walnut Cafes. Attar studied in Europe,and acquired restaurant expertise at the Culinary Institute of America and the Cornell School of Hotel Administration. His corporation also owns Black Walnut eateries in Sugar Land and Houston's Rice Village. It is contemplating expansion into other Texas cities.

The restaurant's name derives from its black walnut paneled walls. Attar said the menus (American with an Italian twist in a pub setting) in The Woodlands have been updated, re-organized and expanded.

He introduced a new color scheme to the dècor, and added plants and flowers on the patios. Plus, breakfast is now available at 7 a.m. with pastries and other delectable "morning start foods."

Attar plans to utilize locally grown produce, and serve house-roasted coffee and high-end meats. Some of the mouth-watering dishes include Fiesta Jalapeno Chicken with bow tie pasta, cheddar, Pavia sauce and lightly cooked veggies; Eggs Benedict with toasted English muffin, poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, Canadian bacon and red breakfast potatoes.

Then there's the fabled Black Walnut Salad with grilled chicken breast, gorgonzola cheese, green apples, field greens; and don't forget the Steak Frites featuring a 10-ounce Angus steak and more. Most entrees cost from $9 to $12, with certain signature creations priced a bit higher. Breakfasts range from $2 to $8. Desserts include gelatos, and a generous array of other sweets. The corporate executive chef is EDEL GONCALVES, with PATRICK RIBIERE overseeing pastries, both own impressive credentials from well-known establishments.

Exciting news is that Hubbell & Hudson plans to open a one-of-a-kind artisan food market with specialty foods, full service bistro, catering and a cooking school on The Woodlands Waterway this fall.

The Black Walnut has customer friendly hours, daily from 7 a.m., until 10 p.m. or later. Reservations are not needed to enjoy this cozy atmosphere with free Wi-Fi. Call (281) 362-1678 with questions.