Houston’s Heights Neighborhood to Gain New Cocktail Bar from Anvil Owner and rising Star Bartender
A new cocktail destination is slated to open this fall in Houston’s Heights, spearheaded by Anvil owner Bobby Heugel and bartender Jacki Schromm.The yet-to-be-named bar will occupy the former Ready Room space at 2626 White Oak Drive, promising a fresh perspective on the city’s vibrant cocktail scene.
Did you know?– Bobby Heugel co-owns several popular Houston bars and restaurants. He is also a partner with James Beard Award-winning chef Justin Yu in Thorough Fare.
The project represents a meaningful expansion for Thorough Fare,the hospitality company operated by Heugel in partnership with James Beard Award-winning chef justin Yu. Thorough Fare’s existing portfolio includes popular Heights restaurants Squable and Better Luck Tomorrow,alongside cocktail bars Anvil and Refuge,neighborhood spots Catbirds and Blue Lagoon Club,and Theodore Rex,Yu’s Michelin Guide-recognized fine dining establishment.
This new venture marks heugel’s first entirely new concept since opening Refuge in 2022. Though, he notes that refuge was an evolution of his previous Japanese-inspired cocktail bar, Tongue-cut Sparrow, retaining elements of its predecessor. “While I love Refuge and still think it’s one of the best bars we’ve ever done, it was a continuation of some disjointed history,” Heugel explained. “It’s exciting to do a cocktail bar where we get to talk about a fresh concept, fresh ideas – really update those ideas for where the scene is at today.”
Pro tip:– The new bar aims to bring fresh ideas to the Houston cocktail scene. Heugel and schromm are developing a unique concept for the Heights community.
A key driver of these new ideas is Schromm, who Heugel describes as a vital partner. Since relocating to Houston from Boston in 2019, Schromm has honed her skills working alongside Heugel at both Better Luck Tomorrow and Anvil. She currently serves as the general manager of Reserve 101, a downtown cocktail bar celebrated for its extensive whiskey selection and knowledgeable staff.
Schromm expressed her surprise and delight at Heugel’s invitation to collaborate. “I think it’s every bartender’s dream – when you’ve worked in X amount of spaces with X amount of owners – you start to think, I could do this,” she saeid. “I thought that was still five-plus years away. We’re jumping into it maybe a little sooner than what my goals were, but it’s incredibly exciting.”
The Ready Room, originally launched in 2018 by restaurateur Ken Bridge, quickly gained recognition for its intimate ambiance, vintage aesthetic, and live music offerings. Permission Whiskey owner Peter nolan took over operations in 2023, but the bar ultimately closed last year following Bridge’s decision to shutter his Korean resturant, Mapojeong, and terminate his lease on the property.
Reader question:– What makes this new bar different? The owners are keeping the concept under wraps, but it will fill a unique niche in the Heights.
While Heugel and Schromm are keeping the bar’s specific concept under wraps, Schromm assures the community that it will fill a unique niche in the Heights. “What this cocktail bar will become is something that we don’t have in the Heights yet,” she stated. “I think it will be a really fun and exciting addition to the Heights community.”
Schromm is preparing for the transition, with approximately one month remaining at Reserve 101 before dedicating herself fully to the new project.She is eager to contribute to a neighborhood already experiencing growth with recent additions like Starduster Lounge and The Kid. “It does not sit lightly with me. This is an unbelievable prospect,” Schromm said. “I don’t think I’ve stopped smiling from the moment that we talked about it. It’s a really rewarding feeling to be recognized like that. Just feeling really blessed and grateful.”
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Houston’s Cocktail Scene Renaissance
The upcoming cocktail bar in Houston’s Heights, spearheaded by Bobby Heugel and Jacki Schromm, arrives at a pivotal moment for the city’s cocktail culture. The burgeoning scene boasts an impressive array of establishments. These range from sleek cocktail lounges to dive bars with a certain charm [[1]]. Houston has been experiencing a cocktail renaissance, evolving from a latecomer to a city brimming with options [[3]]. The new bar, set to inhabit the former Ready Room space, is poised to contribute to this dynamic habitat.
Heugel and Schromm’s project has the potential to push boundaries in the cocktail world. With backgrounds from established bars like Anvil and Reserve 101, they bring experience and a fresh perspective. Their venture will be a welcome addition to houston’s diverse cocktail landscape, known for its innovation and high standards [[2]].
The Rise of Houston’s cocktail Culture
Houston’s cocktail scene is experiencing explosive growth, fueled by the evolving preferences of consumers and the ambition of bar owners. The trend is evident in the increasing number of new cocktail bars opening throughout the city [[1]]. The focus is no longer just about drinks; it’s about the entire experience, from the ambiance and decor to the service and music.
- Craft Cocktails: The emphasis on fresh ingredients, homemade syrups, and well-balanced flavors underscores bars’ commitment to quality.
- Unique Concepts: Bartenders are getting creative, designing menus that feature original drinks. Many bars boast distinctive themes and concepts.
- Community focus: Many bars cultivate gathering spaces for locals. They frequently enough host events, collaborations, or themed nights.
Many of Houston’s best cocktail bars are dedicated to perfecting classic cocktails.You can also find bars that experiment with unique flavor combinations and innovative techniques. This blend is creating a vibrant scene [[3]].
Beyond the Drinks: What Makes a Great Cocktail Bar?
A great cocktail bar is more than just well-crafted drinks. It’s about the atmosphere, the service, and the details that elevate the experience. Consider what separates good bars from truly exceptional ones:
- Ambiance: The decor, music, and lighting work together to create a distinct atmosphere.
- Expert Service: Informed bartenders are well-versed in the menu and can recommend options. They also engage in conversation.
- Quality Ingredients: Fresh fruits, custom syrups, and premium spirits are essential for outstanding cocktails.
- Innovation: while classics are crucial, the willingness to experiment elevates the bar. New techniques and unique flavors are a must.
- Consistency: Repeat patrons expect consistently excellent drinks and service.
The new bar in the Heights has the potential to establish itself as one of Houston’s best. The partners bring all the ingredients to the table to succeed.
What’s Next for Houston’s Cocktail Scene?
with Heugel and Schromm’s new venture, Houston’s cocktail scene looks set for exciting developments. The ongoing trend of innovation and experimentation indicates a promising future for the city’s nightlife. Here are some trends to watch:
- Themed Bars: Expect to see more bars with specialized themes, from Tiki bars to themed bars.
- Sustainability: Many bars commit to sourcing local ingredients and reducing waste.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Bars are also offering refined non-alcoholic cocktails.
- Bar Collaborations: Look out for more collaborations between bars and other businesses.
The Houston cocktail scene is constantly evolving, and the best bars are those that embrace change and offer something fresh. The upcoming bar in the Heights has an exciting opportunity.
Frequently Asked questions
What are some of the best cocktail bars in Houston right now?
Houston has a wide selection of top-notch cocktail bars. Anvil, Better Luck Tomorrow, and Reserve 101 are all great places to start. more recently,other options have begun opening with unique and diverse menus [[2]].
what can we expect from the new cocktail bar in the Heights?
While the exact concept is under wraps, Heugel and Schromm are aiming to bring a fresh and unique offering to the Heights.The goal is to create a welcoming space with high-quality cocktails, and a unique concept that is filling a niche in the area.
How does Houston’s cocktail scene compare to other major cities?
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