Ton Tran, known to most as Kolben, is a Swabian native born in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg. Growing up at the crossroads of cultures—with France nearby, a large Turkish community at home, and Vietnamese heritage in his roots—Kolben’s relationship with food has always been dynamic, diverse, and evolving.

After moving to Houston, he found even more inspiration in the city’s rich mix of people and the ways they connect through food. His pop-up is a reflection of that journey—a place where German and Vietnamese influences meet the flavors and stories of those he’s encountered along the way.

Kolben’s goal isn’t to chase strict authenticity, but to expand horizons. Through new flavors, textures, and techniques, he aims to show that great food is about curiosity and connection. As one of his mentors taught him, “the details of a product can’t lie to you.” With that philosophy in mind, Kolben is proud to serve honest, thoughtful food to Houston.

Menu

Thit Kho Trung

Braised Pork Belly with Eggs over jasmine rice

Currywurst mit Reis

German sausage with Korean curry over jasmine rice