Friday, March 29, 2024

Houston’s Restaurant Targeted in T.I. Boycott to Close on March 31

*The Houston’s restaurant in Atlanta targeted by a boycott over alleged racial discrimination will close its doors for good on March 31, according to reports.

Last October, the 3321 Lenox Road location became the subject of a national boycott of Houston’s by T.I. He, along with fellow rapper Rick Ross, called for the boycott following claims of racial profiling by actress Ernestine Johnson who said she and her party were denied service.

T.I. called off the boycott last week after announcing he had come to an agreement with management.

But Eater Magazine reports that the restaurant on Lenox, known for its steaks, burgers, and spinach dip appetizer, is closing its doors after 40 years in business:

According to the restaurant (owned by Hillstone Restaurant Group,) the reason for the closure is due to “failed lease negotiations.” However, further reporting by Tomorrow’s News Today seems to indicate this may not be the case. A source used in the story claims Houston’s owns the Lenox Road property.

In a February 2 Facebook post, Houston’s said discussions with T.I. and Johnson had been productive, prompting Hillstone to “evaluate potential issues.” The statement read in part:

“Hillstone does not and will not tolerate discrimination on any level and is committed to ensuring that guests from all backgrounds are treated fairly and feel welcome. Our belief is in equal treatment of all. Hillstone’s commitment to inclusiveness is vital to our long-term success and we will continue to work and be actively engaged to foster a strong inclusive culture.”

T.I. put an end to the boycott via Twitter saying, “Very Thankful for everyone’s support on this matter. Because of you all, & the Hillstone Group’s passion for progress we were able to make a difference. I’m happy to say… We may now enjoy the spinach dip again!!!!”

In 2015, Atlanta attorney Yussuf Abdel-Aleem sued Hillstone Restaurant Group for similar allegations claiming he as well as other people of color were asked to leave the Peachtree Road location on separate occasions.

It is unclear what effect, if any, the boycott had on the decision to close the Lenox Road Houston’s.

Eater Atlanta has reached out to Hillstone Restaurant Group for further comment and clarification on the closure.

The Lenox Road location opened in 1978. The Peachtree Road Houston’s as well as the Northside Parkway location remain open.

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