EaDo's massive new nightclub

Massive new nightclub splashes into EaDo for Halloween weekend

Finishing touches are still underway, so a rendering will have to do.

Halloween weekend will be a memorable time for nightlife lovers. Houston's newest nightclub, Sekai Night and Day, will open its doors on October 29.

Located in a converted warehouse in EaDo (1505 Saint Emanuel St.), Sekai Night and Day will offer revelers 26,000 square feet of space for drinking, dancing, and partying.

First announced this summer, the indoor-outdoor space has been designed to cater to VIPs in search of a premium, Vegas-style experience.

That starts outside where customers will find a 1,000-square-foot, resort-style pool flanked by two stories of cabanas. Overall, the 10,000-square-foot pool area will offer 16 cabanas; 12 of them will hold approximately a dozen people each and be equipped with amenities such as couches, a TV, and a safe. Four more cabanas sit under the 1,200-square foot Atrium Lounge, an elevated, private event space for 100 that has its own bar.

Those seeking to spend a little less may opt for one of the five daybeds or 13 tables. A vending machine will provide logo'ed swimwear for people to sport while posing for selfies.

Inside, Sekai will be even more plush. The 27 VIP tables will feature stadium-style lounge seating that overlooks the dance floor — and allows dancers to follow the action at the tables. A 50-foot, black marble-topped bar matches the black marble flooring.

Of course, plenty of technology will enhance the experience. Audiotek, an Irish firm whose clients include Pacha Ibiza and Hakkasan in Las Vegas, oversaw the design of lighting, audio, and video elements. Look for 200 LED light strips to illuminate the main room, and 60-feet of curved LED screens that surround the DJ booth, which of course will open to both the interior and pool areas.

WYLD CHLD, Sekai Hospitality's club slated for the former Benjy's/The Classic space on Washington, will open in November.

openings nightlife

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.