Watson-Backed Cheesesteak Place Heads East, Opening Second Location off I-10

THE SECOND LOCATION of Lefty's Famous Cheesesteaks, Hoagies & Grill opens today in East Houston, at Federal Road and I-10. Founded by 36-year-old cancer survivor Sam Berry in Michigan — where there are 25 locations of Lefty's — the chain newly boasts Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson as a co-owner.

The Federal Road outpost opens less than a month after Lefty's first entered the Houston market; the original bowed on Kirby near NRG Stadium, and has been frequented in the weeks since by Texans players and local rappers like Z-Ro. Watson and Berry also packaged up meals for frontline workers at nearby Houston Methodist last week. The new location is the first with a drive-through, an acknowledgment of the importance of takeout and to-go during Covid times.

Expect 8- and 12-inch classic cheesesteaks, and innovative versions like the Munchin with Michael — fried popcorn chicken, buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. There's also burgers, reubens and cold-cut subs. The franchise is expected to add 150 Texas restaurants in the coming years, including a location at 5588 North Freeway, slated to open by the end of the month.