Table to Stage:
Johnny Carrabba

On Monday, September 25, Chris Shepherd Houston hospitality industry royalty and noted restaurateur Johnny Carrabba for a dynamic conversation.

Proudly born and raised in the East End of Houston, Texas, Johnny Carrabba III was raised in his parent’s family-owned grocery store, Carrabba’s Friendly Grocery, and attended St. Thomas High School. In 1986, Johnny opened The Original Carrabba’s on Kirby Drive. The second location on South Voss Road opened its doors in 1988. In 1993, Outback Steakhouse created a joint venture partnership, consequently opening over 230 Carrabba’s Italian Grill Restaurants nationwide, ten locations in Brazil, and future locations in Mexico. Johnny and his family continue to own and operate the two original Carrabba’s locations. In 2012, the family’s new fast-casual concept, Mia’s Table, opened one block behind the Original Carrabba’s on Kirby. In 2014, Grace’s, affectionately named after Johnny’s grandmother, Grace Mandola, opened its doors, forging the fourth family-owned and operated restaurant for the Carrabba family. Mia’s Table now has five additional locations and continues to grow throughout the greater Houston area. Johnny is a philanthropist at heart and gives back to the community through many venues and charities, especially those benefiting children. Johnny has two beloved children, Johnny IV and Mia. The family enjoys traveling, playing golf, and simply spending quality time together.