Seven-time Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles recently hosted the grand opening of “Taste of Gold,” her restaurant in the George Bush Intercontinental airport in Houston. It’s the perfect location as she currently resides in Houston, and she grew up in Spring, Texas with her grandparents. This is her first restaurant, and makes her the first female athlete to own a restaurant in an airport. Located in terminal A, customers were able to meet and take pictures with the decorated gymnast, and received gold medals themselves for attending.
The menu features classic American comfort foods, ranging from appetizers like spinach dip and loaded fries to bbq chicken sandwiches, soup and salads, and desserts; a skillet cookie sundae and a root beer float. The most exciting item on the menu is Simone’s Skewers; patrons can choose from five options; chicken, steak, shrimp, veggie, and a combo for those who can’t decide. With a wide range of options, “Taste of Gold” is fit for anyone needing a bite as they travel, whether they want a balanced meal for an energy boost, a place to relax at the bar, or a sweet treat before takeoff.
Cocktails at the restaurant are inspired by the airport and Houston’s unique culture. Drinks include the Control Tower with Casamigos Silver, grapefruit, and club soda, the Texas to Mexico with Reposado, cucumber, jalapeño, lime and agave, Flight Deck with Bacardi, pineapple, orange and grenadine, and many more. With a full bar, customers can also choose from a variety of spirits. The Don flight that is heavily suggested by Biles, where customers are given shots of Don Julio Blancp, Reposado, Anejo, and Mezcal.
3D art of Simone at her highest moments (literally) are featured throughout the restaurant to match the “winner” feel, created by Texas artist Jody Dodson who specializes in dimensional design. There are many more framed pictures of the athlete doing her famous tricks, like the Biles. Decorated with TVs throughout the establishment, people can watch her highlights as well as other sports while they pass the time in the terminal. The environment is comfortable yet sleek and modern, with cushioned black booths and marble countertops.
Biles started her gymnastics journey at six years old, training under Aimee Boorman for 11 years. She competed in the Olympics three times in her career, becoming the first female U.S. gymnast to win four gold medals during one olympic season in 2016. Since competing, the most decorated gymnast has expanded to other areas of the sports world, including a partnership with GK elite consisting of her own line of leotards.
Taste of Gold will be open every day from 6 am to 9 pm in terminal A, located near gate A-8.