Video Sneak Peek

Midtown's highly anticipated new bars serve up opening dates and stunning downtown view

Quite a view from the top of 77 Degrees.

Photo by Eric Sandler

Get a sneak peek of two of this fall's most eagerly anticipated bars: Jack & Ginger's, an updated take on an Irish pub, and 77 Degrees, a rooftop bar with an expansive view of the downtown skyline. The two new establishments from Austin's Union Venture Group replace Stoked Tequila & Tacos and Red Door at 2416 Brazos St.

In our exclusive video, co-owner Darren Van Delden and director of operations Eric Dunahoe guide us through both spaces as construction draws to a close. Jack & Ginger's will open October 25, with 77 Degrees following a couple of weeks after.

As Van Delden told CultureMap in August, Jack and Ginger’s will offer a slightly elevated take on a classic Irish pub with 82 beers on tap, a menu of classic pub grub, and a commitment to soccer. Fans of the game will be able to watch matches at all hours of the day from TVs hung strategically throughout the bar.

On Sundays, the bar will feature an Irish brunch buffet complete with an Irish coffee bar and a Bloody Mary bar. Weekday happy hours (3 pm to 7 pm) will feature $7 beer flights and $5 select appetizers. Dinner entrees will include pub classics like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and and a cheeseburger topping with Irish cheddar.

If Jack & Ginger's is an everyday destination, 77 Degrees will likely serve as a slightly fancier alternative for a proper night out. Patrons who climb the 50 or so stairs to the main floor will find a good view of the skyline as well as a variety of seating options, including a few cabanas available for groups.

At night, a DJ on an elevated platform will help set the mood. Three additional levels offer more room for revelers or can serve as the venue for a private party. In addition to wine, beer, and cocktails, a limited menu of tapas-style shareable plates will be available for the happy hour crowd.

As the crowds packing places like Holman Draft Hall, Truckyard, and Present Company demonstrate, the patio bar trend shows no signs of slowing down. Expect 77 Degrees to find a similar audience — it really is all about the view.

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bye, bye, bellaire

Eclectic Houston neighborhood restaurant will shutter Bellaire store

Courtesy of KP's Kitchen

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A Houston neighborhood restaurant is saying goodbye to Bellaire after two years. KP’s Kitchen will close its location at 5427 Bissonnet on Sunday, May 31.

Closing Bellaire allows owner Kerry Pauly to focus on his Spring Valley location (8412 Katy Fwy), which has shown steady growth, he said in a statement.

“Our business there has continued to grow. The reason I opened a restaurant was to connect with people and the community, and it’s in my best interest to strictly focus on what’s working,” Pauly said. “We’ve been proud to be part of the Bellaire community, and there is certainly the possibility of opening a second KP’s Kitchen again in the future.”

Pauly opened KP’s Kitchen’s Bellaire location in April 2024. It built on the success of his original location, which started in Town & Country Village and moved to its current home in 2022. The restaurant has been a devoted following for its classic American fare and warm service, led by Pauly’s relentlessly cheerful demeanor.

Last year, chef Richard Knight (Feast, Hunky Dory) joined KP’s Kitchen as its culinary director. He’s introduced a number of improvements to the menu, including adding his signature fish and chips.

Diners who visit the Bellaire location during May can take advantage of daily specials such as kids eat free on Tuesday, all-day happy hour on Wednesday, and fried chicken family dinners on Sunday. In addition, Bellaire will offer select cocktails and spirits for $5 on Sunday.

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