The frenzy of development around the convention center continues. A series of restaurants will open on the ground floor of the George R. Brown Convention Center and in the forthcoming Marriot Marquis Houston. In addition to a new concept from acclaimed Houston chef Hugo Ortega, the Avenida de las Americas will welcome:

• B&B

• Bud's Pitmaster BBQ

• Cueva & Texas T

• Grotto Downtown

• High Dive

• Kulture

• McAlister's Deli

The restaurants are part of an overhaul in the area. Retail, restaurants and a grand entrance will be added to the GRBCC as well as a new light rail stop at the northwest corner of the building. Soon the Marriott Marquis, a 29-story, 1,000-room hotel connected to the convention center, will be complete. The new facilities and restaurants will be put to good use next year as Houston has already tripled its citywide convention count.