Bringing Iconic Big Whiskey’s To The Lone Star State

By: Big Whiskey's American Restaurant & Bar® | 0 Shares 266 Reads

March 11, 2025 // Franchising.com // Willis, TX: Big Whiskey's American Restaurant & Bar is turning up the heat in the South with an exciting expansion into Texas. As part of a multi-location deal, the franchise is gearing up to open its very first Texas location. The new Big Whiskey’s will serve up their signature dishes and drinks along Interstate 45, just outside of Houston, in Willis with plans for expansion into other areas such as The Woodlands and Conroe. These locations are ideal for bringing Big Whiskey’s dining experience to life, nestled between vibrant universities and close-knit communities that are eager to embrace what the brand has to offer.

Tony and Mary Cook, the dynamic duo behind this expansion, bring a wealth of experience to the table. With a proven track record of managing the construction of 46 restaurant locations across Nevada in just six years, Tony’s expertise in restaurant development has shaped the couple’s desire to open their own franchised restaurant. After years of working within their family development business, the Cooks were inspired to bring Big Whiskey’s to Texas following a visit to the birthplace of the brand in Springfield, Missouri. Seeing firsthand how the local stores are woven into the fabric of their communities further solidified their decision. Now, the Cooks are ready to bring Big Whiskey’s to Texas, combining their passion for great food and community with their vision for success.

Tony Cook shares his excitement about the venture and bringing more business to the Willis community, “After years of working on restaurants, we are excited to open our own franchised restaurant. After visiting their headquarters, we see they are committed to supporting the community around them and serving delicious food. Willis is an up-and-coming part of Texas and we are really excited to be a part of that development and the community.”

They bring new limited-time menu items for different seasons, creating exciting games with rewards to create engagement and increase loyalty. Big Whiskey’s blends fun, family-friendly atmosphere with bold, crave-worthy flavors that cater to the heart of the communities.

Austin Herschend, CEO at Big Whiskey’s, speaks on behalf of the corporate team and their excitement with the new stores, “Our vision includes bringing our diverse food and drink menu and our fun, family-friendly brand throughout the region. Franchisees like Tony and Mary Cook help us bring that vision to life. As always, we are excited to contribute to the communities we are in and can’t wait to celebrate the new Big Whiskey’s with them.”

SOURCE Big Whiskey’s

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