Just ‘cause there’s a few of them doesn’t mean they’re not spectacular. Take note of these impressive small chains from outside Texas that have made a name for themselves in our foodie town.

An entire menu of french fries? Yes please. Choose from herbed, shoestring, veggie frites or falling-apart onion rings to go with your smashed-on-the-grill burger. The sleek casual SmashBurger stands apart from the rest. The fare is super fresh and positively addicting, and a West U location just opened.

Think less clubby and more chic. We’re swooning over the brand new location of West Coast hot spot RA Sushi in buzzy CityCentre, which draws a very different crowd from the Highland Village location. (Think less sake shots, more sauvignon blanc.) The design is positively gorgeous inside and out, and classic rolls like the Viva Las Vegas are just as fresh. Print this Tidbit and receive a complimentary appetizer at the CityCentre location through August 27th.

The two cuties behind Zoës have opened a new location on Washington, with another one coming near the Galleria in the fall. We’re positively hooked on the chicken roll-ups, Greek salad and pasta salad at this lunchtime mainstay. It’s hard not to be cheery in the bright set-up where local elementary students’ artwork covers the walls. Mention Houston Tidbits for a free large drink with the purchase of an entree through August 27th.