From Fridays to Woody’s: Raising the Bar with Ray Risley

Original Article: Nation's Restaurant News - December 12, 2025

We are excited to share that Crux Capital portfolio company Woody’s Brands is bringing a seasoned restaurant operator on board as it looks to grow its collection of neighborhood bars and “eatertainment” concepts.

The Houston-based operator of Little Woodrow’s, Woody’s Hideaway and Eddie’s Tavern has recently named hospitality veteran Ray Risley president. Risley previously served as president and chief operating officer of TGI Fridays, where he oversaw a 650-unit operation spanning 51 countries.

His résumé also includes leadership roles at Via 313 Pizzeria, Whiskey Cake, Ida Claire and Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse.

At Woody’s Brands, Risley will oversee the company’s 42 locations across Texas and Louisiana, with a focus on expanding the portfolio and sharpening operations.

“Ray has 30 years of experience with top brands,” CEO Bob Wilson said, calling the appointment a pivotal moment as Woody’s accelerates its growth.

The timing is right: Woody’s has two new locations on deck. A Woody’s Hideaway featuring golf simulators, karaoke, pool and full-service bars and kitchens is slated to open in Conroe in December. Little Woodrow’s is also expanding to Frisco, with its 24th Texas location planned for Stonebriar Centre this spring.

With Risley at the helm, Woody’s is hoping its next chapter is a hole-in-one.