Jason Cho Launched Pop-Up Series in Houston
The chef has returned to the former Dak & Bop space to support the owner of Kokee Kitchen.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Dining Out
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Chef Jason Cho has launched a pop-up series at Kokee Kitchen in Houston to support the restaurant owner, who was diagnosed with lung cancer in January 2026. The series runs through the end of October at the site of the former Dak & Bop.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to provide financial support to the Kokee Kitchen owner during a health crisis. It brings back familiar menu items to the Museum District space following the closure of Dak & Bop in 2025.
The pop-up series operates at 1801 Binz St. in the Museum District. A previous Labor Day event at the location sold out of its chicken supply in just 45 minutes.
The players
Jason Cho
He is the chef organizing the pop-up series to benefit the owner of Kokee Kitchen.
Kokee Kitchen
It is the restaurant hosting the pop-up series at its 1801 Binz St. location.
Dak & Bop
This former Museum District eatery closed its doors in 2025.
The details
Jason Cho is utilizing the Kokee Kitchen restaurant space to host the series on a first-come, first-serve basis. The pop-up serves as a return for the Dak & Bop brand, which previously closed its location in the same neighborhood in 2025.
Timeline
January 2026: The Kokee Kitchen owner received a lung cancer diagnosis.
September 7, 2026: A Labor Day pop-up event occurred at the restaurant.
September 21, 2026: The current pop-up series officially began.
October 31, 2026: The pop-up series is scheduled to conclude.
Culture Shift
This series follows the trend of local chefs using pop-up residencies to fill vacated culinary spaces in Houston. It marks a departure from traditional permanent openings, prioritizing community-driven temporary dining to support local restaurateurs.
Patrons should arrive early as the pop-up operates on a first-come, first-serve basis and items sell out quickly. Residents can support the cause by visiting the 1801 Binz St. location throughout the duration of the series.
The takeaway
This event highlights how local chefs can leverage community goodwill to aid peers facing personal health challenges. Readers can implement this model by supporting local pop-up initiatives that provide tangible relief to neighbors in need.
Further reading
For more on the local food scene, browse the Dining Out section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chron.
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