Jonathan Levine, the culinary force behind Jonathan’s the rub, is set to expand his beloved Houston dining brand with a fourth location in the burgeoning community of Bridgeland. Slated for 20203 Bridgeland Creek Pkwy in Cypress, TX, this new spot marks a strategic move for Levine, who has been eyeing the area for the last four years as the “next frontier.” Drawing comparisons to the rapid growth of The Woodlands, Levine believes Bridgeland is on the cusp of a similar transformation, driven by the same developer.
Jonathan’s the rub, founded by Jonathan Levine in 2008, is a culinary haven born from a blend of spicy, salty, sweet, and savory flavors known as The Rub, perfected after 100 days of experimentation. This special ingredient symbolizes both the tangible essence and emotional passion behind the restaurant, inspired by Shakespeare’s phrase “To be or not to be.” As Houston’s self-proclaimed oldest line cook, Jonathan opened the restaurant with a mission to deliver exceptional food and a unique dining experience, a mission he continues to uphold. Featuring an open kitchen where guests can witness the culinary process, Jonathan’s the rub is a welcoming space where you can feel at home, enjoy great food, and leave with a satisfied appetite.
The new restaurant will be located at Village Green within Bridgeland Central, an emerging urban district in Northwest Houston. Spanning 925 acres at full buildout, Bridgeland Central is designed to be a dynamic blend of office spaces, retail, multifamily housing, dining, and entertainment. Village Green, where Jonathan’s the rub will be anchored, is set to feature a modern agrarian design, environmentally focused elements, and a mix of inline retail opportunities.
Levine is excited about this expansion, noting the area’s transition from “dirt to lease to construction” as a significant journey. The project is currently in its initial stages, with interior buildout expected to commence soon. Levine emphasizes that being one of the first concepts like his to break ground in this new district gives them a head start in establishing a strong foothold in the community.
In line with his commitment to quality and innovation, Levine plans to introduce Brooklyn-style pizza to the Bridgeland menu, a nod to his roots and a popular addition at their Navigation location. While the baseline menu and operations remain consistent with his other locations, Levine is known for adapting his offerings to fit the environment, ensuring that each restaurant resonates with its surroundings.
As Jonathan’s the rub prepares to join the growing landscape of Bridgeland with a September 2025 opening target, Levine is confident that the community will welcome his concept with open arms. With great reviews, a fine-tuned menu, and a robust bar program, the restaurant is poised to become a local favorite, adding a new chapter to the culinary narrative of Northwest Houston.
