Heights-area wine lovers are about to have a new favorite hangout spot.
Postino Wine Cafe, the all-day wine bar and restaurant from Arizona-based restaurant group Upward Projects, announced April 3 that it will open at the Heights Mercantile mixed-use development on April 11. The company's first Texas location will open only six months after Postino co-founder Lauren Bailey revealed the company's plans to CultureMap.
Unlike a wine bar that's only open at night, Postino is open all day, starting at 11 am during the week and 9 am on weekends. That gives it all-day utility that's more like a coffee shop than a wine bar. The restaurant's fans are as likely to use it as a place to study for law school exams over a glass of wine — just $5 every day from 11 am to 5 pm — as they are to meet there at night for a dinner date.
The wine list, which is curated by Advanced Sommelier Brent Karlicek, features 30 selections by the glass and another 40 or so by the bottle. In addition, 30 beer selections will blend Texas craft selections from breweries like St Arnold, Live Oak, and 8th Wonder with a range of options from California, Colorado, Oregon, and New York. Those beverages are paired with a range of food selections, including cheese and charcuterie boards, 12 different types of bruschetta, salads, and panini.
“We love producers that make wines that are fresh, food-friendly, and not over extracted,” said Karlicek in a statement. “We want our guests to make connections with the sensory enjoyment and intellectual stimulation that food and beverage can provide.”
Part of the concept's success also stems from its creative use of historic buildings. The restaurant's name comes from its first location in an old post office, and the Houston location will be housed in a warehouse that once belonged to Pappas Restaurants. Design elements include vintage light fixtures, Feders pendants from the '50s, a vintage Murano glass chandelier, and an open kitchen.
"There is so much to love about this city — and the Heights in particular — with its eclectic and communal feel," Bailey added. "Every time we step foot in Houston, it grips us more, and we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of it."
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Postino Wine Cafe; 642 Yale St.; 346-223-1111; Monday through Thursday 11 am to 11 pm, Friday 11 am to 12 am, Saturday 9 am to 12 am, Sunday 9 am to 10 pm.
Postino arrives in the Heights on April 11.
