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Buzzy East River destination opens new 9-hole golf course and restaurant with a view

Local golfers have a new place to play a quick round, and the Fifth Ward has a new, family friendly restaurant with a view of the action. East River 9 and Riverhouse Houston have recently opened their doors.

As its name implies, East River 9 is a nine-hole, par-three golf course with a companion driving range, putting green, and pro shop. The course offers holes that run between 80 and 150 yards with two staggered tee boxes per hole. Touted as the only public, nine-hole, par-three course inside the 610 loop, East River 9 also has stadium lights that allow for evening play.

In addition to playing the course, customers may practice their swings on a 300-yard driving range that looks toward downtown and work on their short game on the 12,000-square-foot putting green. The attached pro shop offers rentals, equipment, and food and drink.

Six pickleball courts keep the facility up to date with the latest sports trend. They’re allocated on a first-come-first-served basis with paddles and balls available for rent.

“We are thrilled to welcome the community to East River to experience a casual, family-friendly setting that overlooks Buffalo Bayou and downtown Houston,” founding partner Clayton Freels said in a statement. “The concepts complement one another and create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for all to enjoy – regardless of your age or skillset.”

Turning to the restaurant, Riverhouse offers a menu of classic American fare in a family friendly environment. Operated by Otto’s BBQ owner DKC Group, Riverhouse serves wings, queso, burgers, salads, and tacos. Located in a repurposed industrial building, the patio offers a view of the golf course, Buffalo Bayou, and the downtown skyline. Families will enjoy a kids play area, outdoor games, and a kids menu.

East River 9 and Riverhouse are the first new concepts to open at East River, real estate developer Midway’s massive mixed-use development that's currently under construction along Buffalo Bayou near the intersection of Jensen Drive and Clinton Drive in Fifth Ward. Ultimately, the project will include more than 150 acres of residential, office spaces, retail, restaurants, and more. In 2023, phase one will open with tenants such as Austin’s Lick Honest Ice Creams, El Condor Coffee Roaster, and Broham Fine Soul Food & Groceries, a grocery store from former Indigo chef Johnny Rhodes.

Courtesy of Midway

Play golf with a view of downtown at East River 9.

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Hotel News

Posh Waldorf Astoria resort coming to Texas Hill Country in 2027

Rendering courtesy of IMI Worldwide Properties

The Waldorf Astoria Hill Country will be constructed in Fredericksburg.

A famous hotel chain is opening its first Texas location in the Hill Country — but don't expect a budget stay. The Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country is expected to open in 2027.

A release does not share an address, but says the 106-acre property will be located less than a mile from downtown Fredericksburg.

The luxe property will include 60 hotel rooms, 37 multi-bedroom resort villas that may be rented out, and 50 private residences. In addition to lodgings, the resort will contain five food and beverage concepts — an all-day restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a bar and lounge, a pool bar, and a grab-and-go juice bar — a spa, a fitness center, and two pools.

Behind the scenes of this arrangement are Hilton — the Waldorf Astoria's parent company — and Wine Country Hospitality Partners LLC, a partnership between Mark Harmon, Robert Radovan, and Tim Sparapani. The design was handled by Studio CABAN, FAB Studio, TIPLER Group, Studio Outside, and Paul Duesing Partners.

The announcement emphasizes the Hill Country's value for travelers who are interested in visiting wineries and promised "authentically Texan design elements." The residences, ranging from three to five bedrooms, are meant for "celebrating the natural influences of the land" and are already available for reservations.

“Conrad Hilton’s legacy in the hotel business began in Texas more than 105 years ago, and working alongside incredible owners, we’re proud to deliver on Conrad’s vision as we introduce our distinguished luxury hotel and residential portfolio in the destination,” said vice president of luxury & mixed-use development at Hilton Amy King. That's referring to the first hotel the Hilton founder bought in Cisco, followed by the first hotel that bore the Hilton name in Dallas, in 1925.

The original Waldorf Astoria opened in New York in 1893 and became famous for its opulence. It was demolished in 1929 for the construction of the Empire State Building. However, there are now more than 30 Waldorf Astoria properties around the world carrying the same historic reputation for elevated service and accommodations.

Developer Mark Harmon emphasizes that the new resort will belong to Texas and be designed accordingly.

“With Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country, we’re drawing upon the unique architecture and history of Fredericksburg to create a new experience that opens this budding wine destination to travelers and future residents," Harmon says, "drawing a spotlight to the area as a whole and all that makes it unique.”

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