NBA star James Harden is facing a major setback off the court as his Houston-based restaurant, Thirteen, has been locked out by its landlord due to more than $2.2 million in unpaid lease payments. A notice posted on the door of the Midtown establishment at 1911 Bagby Street confirms that the locks have been changed and access will be denied until the outstanding balance is paid in full.
The lockout marks a dramatic turn for Harden’s high-profile dining venture, which opened in early 2021 shortly after his departure from the Houston Rockets. Initially launched with a Southern-inspired menu curated by chef Tobias Dorzon, Thirteen underwent a rebrand in 2024 under chef Siddartha Cadena, whose globally influenced cuisine helped refresh the restaurant’s identity.
Despite the restaurant’s upscale reputation and Harden’s celebrity status, the landlord alleges that the business failed to meet its financial obligations. According to court filings, Harden personally guaranteed the lease, meaning the financial burden could fall directly on him if the debt remains unresolved.
As of September 3, Thirteen was still accepting reservations through OpenTable, and its social media accounts remained active, suggesting that management may be working behind the scenes to resolve the dispute. However, attempts to reach Harden’s team or restaurant representatives for comment have gone unanswered.
Whether the lockout signals the end of Thirteen or a temporary pause remains to be seen. Legal proceedings could determine whether the restaurant reopens or faces permanent closure. For now, the Midtown space sits quiet, its doors sealed and its future uncertain.
