A gumbo booth operated by businesswoman Tina Knowles was temporarily shut down this week following a health department investigation at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
The stand, known as “Mama Tina’s Gumbo,” was closed Monday after officials responded to a complaint. It reopened the following day after passing inspection, according to city authorities.
The Houston Health Department confirmed the action in a statement released Wednesday.
“On Monday, March 16, 2026, the Houston Health Department issued a temporary closure of Mama Tina’s Gumbo booth at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo as a result of a complaint investigation,” said Dr. Theresa Tran, the department’s director.
“The vendor was cooperative with the department’s recommendations and passed a subsequent inspection. It was authorized to reopen on Tuesday, March 17, 2026,” Tran added.
Inspection and Reopening
Officials said the closure was precautionary while inspectors reviewed the complaint. The specific nature of the complaint was not disclosed.
Event organizers emphasized that all vendors must comply with city health regulations and safety standards.
The booth met those requirements after corrective steps were taken. It resumed serving customers less than 24 hours later.
The Houston Health Department noted that the vendor worked closely with inspectors during the process.
The quick turnaround allowed the popular booth to return during one of the rodeo’s busiest weeks.
Popular Debut Draws Attention
Knowles, the mother of global music star Beyoncé, debuted the gumbo stand at this year’s rodeo. The pop-up quickly attracted long lines and widespread attention.
The dish is based on a family recipe that Knowles has said she refined over decades.
The booth’s location near high-traffic attractions helped fuel its popularity among attendees.
Despite the temporary shutdown, customer interest appeared strong after reopening. Reports from the event described steady crowds returning to the stand.
The brief closure also drew attention on social media, where fans discussed the situation and shared updates about the reopening.
City officials did not indicate any ongoing concerns following the inspection.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo continues through late March, featuring food vendors, concerts and exhibitions.
Knowles’ booth remains open as scheduled for the remainder of the event.