Celebrity Coverage
Simone Biles to Bring ‘Taste of Gold’ to George Bush Airport in Houston – Essence
PARIS, FRANCE – AUGUST 5: Simone Biles of Team United States poses together with her Paris 2024 Olympic medals after the ladies’s free exercise final in artistic gymnastics on day 10 of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Bercy Arena on August 5, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
Simone Biles — or reasonably, probably the most decorated female gymnast in U.S. history — is taking her talent to recent heights, but this time it is not on the mat.
Biles is preparing to raise the bar on airport dining with the opening of its first restaurant, scheduled to open on George Bush Intercontinental Airport Houston in early 2025. Known for her grace, strength and determination in gymnastics, Biles is now bringing that very same winning spirit to a wholly recent arena: the culinary world.
“I’m a foodie at heart” – Biles commonexpressing her excitement on the thought of offering travelers something unique at her hometown airport.
Partnering with The Playmakers Group, Biles will likely be strategically situated in Terminal A near Gate A8. The menu will highlight daring flavors inspired by Tex-Mex cuisine, drawing on the culinary creativity of renowned restaurateur Mark Brezinski. Renowned for his work on prestigious dining projects, Brezinski leverages his experience to create a menu that reflects the excellence that Biles embodies. With dishes designed to provide each comfort and a touch of luxury, travelers could have a reason to stop and savor before their flights.
“Simone Biles is the ultimate symbol of excellence,” said Derek Missimo, managing partner, in a press release. “Her incredible accomplishments, inspiring leadership and spirit align with our values at Playmakers Group. We are incredibly honored to partner with her on this restaurant, which will offer something truly special to our guests and the Houston airport community.”
The restaurant’s design and offerings can pay homage to Biles’ storied profession, combining her passion for food together with her commitment to excellence. Whether you’re a weary traveler or a Biles fan passing through Houston, you’ll have the opportunity to sample flavors that resonate together with her journey—from childhood favorites to globally inspired cuisine.
Biles shared her excitement about creating a singular experience for those passing through the busy airport: “We hope to offer a wonderful culinary experience, including award-winning signature menus that feature my favorite flavors, for our guests.”
Just because it revolutionized gymnastics, it now wants to bring a fresh, sophisticated touch to airport dining, which for a lot of is unfortunately an unimpressive experience.
For Biles, the restaurant is greater than only a business enterprise—it’s a private project. It reflects her love of food and her desire to share her journey with the world. Her foray into the culinary industry reflects her determination to proceed to construct on her legacy, even outside of the world of gymnastics.
“I always want to give my all in everything I do,” she said, and that’s exactly what she does.