Bar News

Buzzed-over Montrose bar hires an ex-Anvil bartender to up its cocktail game as it moves on from chef drama

Over the last year and a half, Montrose bar Boheme has become known for its sprawling patio and innovative food created by recently fired chef Rishi Singh. The drinks kept to a pretty classic form, with only the signature frozen mojito really a standout.

That's all set to change next month thanks to the arrival of beverage director Hal Brock, a former Anvil employee who's recently been working for mega-distributor Glazer's.

"Hal's built for this job," Boheme representative Dutch Small tells CultureMap. "Until now, our emphasis has been on developing the food program. We've realized we need to have a cocktail program that matches."

When it comes to cocktails, Brocks notes that "even straining the right way and how you're shaking can make a real difference."

Although he won't join Boheme until next month, Brock is already contemplating changes, starting with that frozen mojito. "You'll definitely see frozen cocktails in the future, but they will most definitely change and appeal to a more Bohemian palate," he writes in an email.

(That means that the CultureMap Social event at Boheme on Sept. 9 might be one of people's last chance to slurp down the current bright green concoctions. Tickets are available here.)

Brock also promises to bring a "more focused and eclectic selection" to Boheme's sprawling wine list. "Look for South American, Spanish and Italian varietals to be at the forefront," he notes.

"With Glazer's, I created cocktail menus all over the city; I'm ready to create a true cocktail program that shows what I'm made of," Brock adds in a statement. "The new program will be about the tropical climate and the flavors you'll find there, beyond pineapple and coconut. Think tarragon and tamarind, coriander and orange blossom, bay leaf and banana. With a patio like ours, we're not about the bitter, brown & stirred. Expect to see light spirits at the forefront with lots of rum, pisco, gin and tequila."

Beyond the menu, the cocktails will benefit from a bartender who survived Anvil's rigorous, 12-week training program. When it comes to preparing cocktails, Brocks notes that "even straining the right way and how you're shaking can make a real difference."

Brock will roll out the new options once he assumes the role Sept. 12. Just in time for the return of patio weather. Who's thirsty?

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Play it again, Houston, at this new hotspot

Houston's new piano bar hits a high note with 2-story patio & martinis

A man plays the piano while a cocktail sits next to him

Photo by Rebecca Wright

The Kennedy in the Montrose/River Oaks area recently opened its doors to those who love live music, libations, and refined entrees.

The Kennedy, a new restaurant and piano bar, aims to strike a harmonious blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication as it opens at 3210 W Dallas St., near the intersection of West Dallas Street and Waugh Drive.

Former frequenters of Muse and Emmaline will recognize The Kennedy’s location that sits where Montrose and River Oaks begin to blend. The more than 7,000-square-foot space has been transformed into an intimate retreat through a rich, moody color palette, dark wood paneling, and cozy seating vignettes.

A large, indoor bar is a focal point, while tall ceilings and expansive industrial windows lend a contemporary edge to the timeless design. Nearly 40 pieces of art — including original, classical, and contemporary works sourced from local galleries — adorn the walls, creating a space that’s as visually captivating as it is welcoming. With cooler temperatures finally on the horizon, Houstonians can enjoy the weather on The Kennedy’s two-story, amply-shaded patios.

“Bringing The Kennedy to life has been a labor of love over the last year, and I’m excited to share our warm and cozy restaurant and piano bar with our guests,” owner Andres Castro said in a statement. “We’ve gathered an incredible team of industry veterans that have made The Kennedy a world-class, day-to-late night destination that feels like an energetic extension of your home.”

Music is woven into the experience, with live performances by vocalists, pianists, and DJs on the menu. A baby grand piano serves as the heart of the entertainment, and a dual-sided fireplace doubles as a DJ booth, creating a vibrant late-night lounge ambiance.

Open Tuesday through Sunday, The Kennedy serves lunch on Fridays, and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

Executive chef Adriana Maldonado, who honed her skills in New York City at spots like Javelina and Olives, brings her expertise to the kitchen. The menu, crafted in collaboration with Carniceria Prime Meat Market, features premium dishes such as a prime wagyu ribeye with romesco and chimichurri ($32) and a delicate wagyu ribeye tartare ($21). Elevated plates include truffle white wine lobster spaghetti ($30) with vodka sauce and yellow heirloom tomatoes, along with a playful twist on the mozzarella stick, coated in potato chips and topped with crème fraîche and caviar ($24).

The bar menu, with an extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, an impressive martini list, and international wines and champagnes, has something for every taste. Highlights include the mango ember ($16), a mezcal-based drink with mango purée, and the clarified millionaire margarita ($26) with Patron Cielo. Martini lovers can enjoy choices like the lychee martini ($16) and the soprano negroni with orange Campari foam ($18).

Casual attire is welcome during the day, but “Sunset Attire” is requested after 6 pm, encouraging visitors to dress up for the evening in keeping with the venue’s upscale vibe.

Photo by Rebecca Wright

The Kennedy in the Montrose/River Oaks area recently opened its doors to those who love live music, libations, and refined entrees.

“The Kennedy merges the sophistication and elegance of River Oaks with the energy and artistry of Montrose and delivers a one-of-a-kind experience,” Castro said.

This is the first concept of Castro’s newly-formed Ninety3 Hospitality Group. Castro has 12 years of hospitality experience, including time at nightclubs such as Spire and Clé, and six years in private aviation.