Lisa and Nick first met at UC Berkeley in an Asian American student theatre group called Theatre Rice. Our passion for building community and bringing people together under a shared cause was a foundational part of their friendship from the beginning, and is now foundational to Agnes and Sherman.
As a new restaurant, we're testing the limits of what we're able to give -- time, money, resources -- all while building a sustainable future for Agnes and Sherman. The uncomfortable reality is that more than 50% of restaurants don't make it past their first year. As a small business, the more focused we are, the more we're able to give.
By sharing Agnes and Sherman's Giving Philosophy and Focus openly, we hope to partner with organizations with shared alignment. We don't have all the answers; what we do know is that we will be intentional in how we give and challenge ourselves to make a lasting impact. Lisa and Nick circa 2005Our Giving Philosophy - How We Give
1.
Give Locally
We embrace our role as a part of a diverse ecosystem. and when our community thrives, we do too.
2.
Less is More
We work with a few key organizations vs. many organizations so we can give more to drive systemic change.
3.
Empower our Team
Our team is plugged into many communities around town and we empower them to help direct where/how we give to have the most impact.
A.
Amplify Asian American Voices
As Asian American kids who grew up rarely seeing people like ourselves represented in arts, media, and politics, we work alongside other progressive Asian American voices to tackle important issues that impact our community and inspire to get engaged.
Our Focus - Where We Give
B.
Uplift Marginalized Communities
We are building in the most diverse city in America. We direct our resources to protect and uplift marginalized and underserved communities because our formative experiences have taught us that diversity is a key ingredient of success.
C.
Strengthen the
Restaurant Industry
We strengthen our industry by being in community with other operators, sharing business practices and knowledge, and getting involved with organizations that work to improve the quality of life for hospitality workers.
Upcoming Community Events
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Agnes and Sherman at Bon Vivant 2026
Monday, May 11th
Join us at Bon Vivant to raise critical funds for Houston Third Ward’s Youth Development Center after-school program helping inspire, equip, and guide urban youth.
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Agnes and Sherman x Golden Diner
Thursday and Friday, May 21st and 22nd
We’re going double diner mode and teaming up (ahem holding hands) with Golden Diner to bring to New York our greatest hits! For two nights only during dinner time, not only can you order some of our signature dishes, you’ll also be able to try a special collab dish and of course Golden Diner favorites. Rumor has it that there will be special merch for sale too!
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Drag Brunch - FIFA Edition
Saturday, June 13th
Fierce Icons in Football Attire anyone? Celebrate Pride Month with us as we host another fabulous DRAG BRUNCH Saturday, June 13th from 10 am - 2 pm.
You’ll be graced by the presence of Queen Persephone, Kitty Kontour, and Teresa Larue performing to the beats of DJ Chopped Liver. Performances will take place from 11 am - 1 pm, with the queens coming out from 1 pm - 2 pm to mingle, take pics, and blow kisses.
$10 per person for admission (not including tax & fees) with proceeds going to a Meals on Heels, a local mutual aid initiative that provides food and care to the local LGBTQ+ community and youth in need. Our full brunch menu and specialty cocktails will be available for purchase throughout the performance!
Past Community Events
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Agnes and Sherman x Mimi Cheng's
Sunday, April 12th
We’re hosting our friends from NYC, Mimi Cheng’s Dumplings, at Agnes and Sherman in celebration of their launch in Whole Foods nationwide!
Dumpling specials all night until sold out.
Walk-in’s welcome and reservations encouraged.
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Agnes and Sherman x Food Mahjong Club
Sunday, March 22nd
Food Mahjong Club from NYC comes to H-Town!
Entrance will include open play time (no experience needed!), amateur-friendly tournament, and food and drink specials!
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Agnes and Sherman x Khoi Barbecue
Sunday, February 1st
Saddle up for the Year of the Horse - a Lunar New Year kick off at Agnes and Sherman with Khoi Barbecue! Each ticket comes with three courses. Think smoked duck leg confit wontons, direct heat char siu spare ribs, and 8 treasure toasted rice panna cotta! Food is served communally, family-style.
Beats by DJ Meganswave, lion dance by the Houston Lion Kings sponsored by the 19th Street Merchant's Association to grace our space, and a whole lot of community love to fill us up for 2026.
A part of the celebration's proceeds will benefit Asian Texans for Justice.