About Zee’s Kitchen – in Hondo, TX
At Zee’s Kitchen, we believe in doing more than just serving great food and refreshing frozen yogurt: we believe in creating a welcoming place where community, flavor, and family can come together. With this in mind, we’re proud to be a family-owned restaurant in Hondo, TX, that’s rooted in perseverance, love for our community, and a passion for serving delicious food and drinks with heart. And whether you’re here for a quick bite, a relaxing cup of boba tea, or our popular self-serve frozen yogurt in Hondo, TX, we’re here to make you feel right at home.

The Journey That Started It All
Our story begins in 1985, when Rick Virani made a bold move — leaving his home country at just 18 years old with only $1,800 to his name. It was a leap of faith that would eventually lead him to the U.S., where he built a life and career over nearly three decades. Today, we’re grateful for his journey, because it’s the foundation of everything Zee’s Kitchen has become.
Rick’s entrepreneurial spirit, love for people, and tireless work ethic are woven into each and every corner of our space. From our frozen yogurt machines to our boba tea bar to the remodeled dining area, his hands and heart are behind it all.
From Zee’s Mart to Zee’s Kitchen
Zee’s Kitchen is part of the vibrant story of Zee’s Mart, the original convenience store and gathering spot that Rick poured his energy into for years. After overcoming major challenges, Rick and his family reimagined the space into something truly special. Today, our newly remodeled shop includes Zee’s Kitchen, a modern kitchen with a full menu, a self-serve frozen yogurt section, and a vibrant boba tea counter known as Froyo Mama Papa Boba.
As you walk through our doors, you’ll notice the Texas star in our stained concrete floors, the welcoming glow of LED lights, and the comforting sounds of 80’s music playing in the background. It’s a space designed to be enjoyed — a reflection of Rick’s love for Hondo and the people who live here.
- Overcoming Challenges, Embracing the Future Like any small business, our journey hasn’t been easy. From the 2007 financial crisis to the challenges of the 2020 pandemic and the devastating Hondo tornado in 2021, we’ve been tested. But through every setback, we’ve found opportunity. The tornado may have damaged our building, but it gave us the chance to remodel and reimagine our space into what it is today.
Resilience is at the core of who we are. Rick’s motto — “you have to want it” — has carried us through tough times and pushed us to keep growing. Every scoop of froyo, every plate of wings, and every refreshing cup of boba tea represents more than a transaction. It’s a symbol of perseverance, family, and heart.
- Community First, Always We’re more than a place to eat — we’re part of the Hondo community. Rick and his family are absolutely dedicated to supporting local schools, clubs, and organizations, often hosting events and fundraisers that strive to bring people together. We love being a space where friends gather after school, families come in for a treat, and neighbors meet for lunch or dinner.
Our mission truly goes beyond business. We want to create a space that feels welcoming to everyone, a place where laughter, connection, and good food are always on the menu.
- Looking Ahead We’re always thinking about what’s next for Zee’s Kitchen. From expanding our menu to introducing new frozen yogurt flavors and seasonal boba drinks, we’re committed to keeping things fresh and exciting. But no matter how we grow, one thing won’t change — our dedication to Hondo and the people who make it special.
This town has given us so much, and we’re honored to keep giving back through great service, delicious food, and a warm, family-run environment that welcomes everyone through our doors.
Come Visit Us in Hondo, TX
At Zee’s Kitchen, we’ve created something special — and we’d love for you to be part of it. Whether you’re here for a hearty meal, a cup of flavorful boba tea, or a swirl of self-serve frozen yogurt, we’re here to serve you with the care and hospitality you can only get from a family-owned restaurant in Hondo, TX. So come visit us, see the transformation for yourself, and enjoy the flavors, fun, and heart behind everything we do. Rick’s journey is one of perseverance and passion — and you’re always welcome to.