It ain't what it used to be

Anvil's Hay Merchant spreads the streak of gentrification into the heart ofMontrose

Bobby Heugel at Anvil
Tower Theater
Photo by Clifford Pugh
Chances
Anvil
Courtesy photo

Is Montrose getting too big for its britches? That's something for you to decide, but one thing is clear: Neartown isn't so much uptown these days as it is upscale.

There's a fancy streak running down Westheimer Road through Houston's funkiest neighborhood, beginning at Indika and Feast to the west and (so far) ending near Mark's and DaMarco's to the east.

Until recently, the middle had stayed relatively grungy-cool, with places like Chances and Erotic Cabaret being mainstays near the old Tower Theater. But Tower is soon to become El Real, a sure-to-be-trendy Tex-Mex concept by celebrity chef Bryan Caswell, Bill Floyd and Robb Walsh. And just across the street, Houston's oldest lesbian bar (now shuttered) is set to become the city's most gushed-over beer bar.

It's hard to make "beer bar" sound pretentious, but Hay Merchant, the upcoming concept by Anvil's Bobby Heugel and Kevin Floyd, will probably manage. It's no fault of theirs, mind you, but craft beer lovers (of which I am one) take their passion, and often themselves, seriously. If Anvil's regular crowd to date is any indication, it's going to be a mix of people actually in the know and those who just want to be "in." The whole thing is a Stuff White People Like entry waiting to happen, really.

It's not to say we're not salivating over the thought of Floyd's selection of 80 on-tap microbrews, cask ale pumped by hand or the emphasis on livin' la vida local, it's just to say that things are changing.

Ming's gave way to gourmet sliders, and my Taco C is a Smoothie King.

What's next, molecular gastronomy at Numbers?

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spacious memorial mansion

Striking French-inspired Houston estate hits market for $12.5 million

TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million

A magnificent estate awaits in one of Houston’s most desirable neighborhoods. 412 Timberwilde Lane is a stunning brick and limestone home, inspired by French country manor houses. It’s on the market for $12.5 million and represented by Jay Monroe and Stephen Warrell ofMartha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled on nearly 2.5 acres of meticulously manicured grounds in exclusive Hunters Creek Village, this home blends old world elegance with modern amenities, including 24/7 private security. The grand foyer’s soaring ceiling sets the tone upon entry, announcing that 412 Timberwilde Lane is something special.

Consider the formal library, with its rich, paneled walls and cross-beam ceiling, and the spacious dining room with its cozy fireplace. The living room offers breathtaking views of the rear gardens, pool, cabana, and tennis courts. Just off the kitchen, a light-filled breakfast room is a perfect place for morning coffee and admiring the grounds.

The primary suite is the embodiment of luxury, with dual bathrooms and ample closet space, ensuring comfort and convenience. This private oasis is a place to unwind and relax.

The home’s second floor offers a floor plan that can be tailored to suit any lifestyle. The bedrooms are generously sized with large closets and private baths. A playroom with a built-in playhouse castle makes for a perfect spot for kids’ imaginations to run wild. Other rooms could be utilized for a second home office, exercise room, yoga retreat, crafting space, or whatever else a family might need.

The third floor offers a game room featuring a wet bar, billiards area, and a big-screen TV, making it the ultimate place to relax and have fun with family and friends. The outdoor areas include an in-ground pool and summer kitchen, perfect places.

This one-of-a-kind estate offers an array of amenities for living and entertaining. Its location is both convenient to the city and a restful retreat.

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million.

home-for-sale