Icehouse Conroe to Close Permanently Feb. 29

Conroe is set to lose a popular dining and live music venue as The Icehouse Conroe will permanently close its doors on February 29, 2024. Owners Justin and Jennifer Johnson announced their decision on February 6, attributing the closure to an upcoming move out of state.

Located at 1310 Grand Central Parkway, Suite 100, The Icehouse Conroe first welcomed patrons in June 2020. Its launch coincided with the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting immediate and unprecedented challenges for a new hospitality business. Despite navigating initial restrictions and evolving health guidelines that included limited capacity and a focus on takeout during its nascent stages, the establishment quickly carved out a niche for itself. It became a beloved local spot known for its “elevated pub fare” alongside a consistent lineup of live musical performances, offering a vibrant gathering place for the community.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision for us, but a necessary one as we prepare for a new chapter out of state,” Justin Johnson stated in an announcement shared on the restaurant’s social media. Jennifer Johnson added, “We are immensely proud of what we built here and deeply grateful to our incredible staff, who have been like family, and to our loyal customers who supported us through thick and thin, especially during those challenging early days of the pandemic. Conroe has truly embraced us, and we’ll cherish the memories made here.”

The news has been met with sadness by many regular patrons. “The Icehouse was our go-to spot for Friday night dinner and a show,” commented Sarah Chen, a Conroe resident who frequented the establishment. “Their truffle fries and the local bands were always fantastic. It’s going to leave a big hole in our community.” Mark Davies, another frequent visitor, echoed the sentiment, saying, “You could always count on a great meal and a lively atmosphere. We’ll truly miss Justin and Jennifer’s welcoming spirit and the unique vibe they created.”

Before its final day of service, The Icehouse Conroe plans to host a “Final Farewell” event on Saturday, February 24. This special evening is designed to give patrons one last opportunity to enjoy the venue’s offerings, reminisce, and celebrate the memories made there. Details regarding specific live music acts or any special menu items for the event are expected to be announced on their social media channels.

The Icehouse Conroe was a key tenant in the burgeoning Grand Central Park development, an area that has seen significant growth in residential and commercial properties in recent years. Its closure highlights the inherent challenges within the competitive restaurant industry, even in expanding markets. A representative from the Conroe Chamber of Commerce noted, “The hospitality industry, especially for independent restaurants, is incredibly demanding. While we’re always sad to see a local business close, The Icehouse certainly made a significant contribution to our local dining and entertainment scene, becoming a true community hub. We wish the Johnsons the very best in their new endeavors.”

The departure of The Icehouse Conroe will undoubtedly be felt by the local music scene, which relied on the venue as a consistent platform for local and regional artists to perform. It also marks the loss of a distinctive gathering place that became a cornerstone for many Conroe residents seeking quality food and live entertainment in a comfortable, welcoming setting.