The “World’s Coldest Martini” is coming to Rice Village. Hudson House will open its second Houston-area location this Wednesday, May 21.
Located between CB2 and Banana Republic at 2414 University Blvd., Hudson House is part of the Dallas-based Vandelay Hospitality Group that also includes Drake’s Hollywood, a retro-styled steakhouse that opened in Montrose last summer. For Rice Village, Hudson House’s new, 6,000-square-foot restaurant follows the model of the River Oaks location that opened in 2023. That means navy leather booths, brass accents, and a polished wood bar that serves as a focal point.
The menu takes its inspiration from East Coast taverns. That includes items such as a cheeseburger, lobster roll, lobster mac and cheese, steak frites, entree salads, and chicken parm. Raw bar offerings include East Coast oysters, shrimp cocktail, and sushi rolls. The brunch menu features pancakes, eggs Benedict, and a bagel with lox and cream cheese.
Hudson House pairs its dishes with a selection of classic cocktails that is highlighted by the “World’s Coldest Martini.” To achieve the proper effect, the drink is poured from a frozen bottle and served in a frozen glass. Other martini options include the Bleu & Gold (made with olive juice and blue cheese-stuffed olives) and a Lemon Drop that’s topped with limoncello foam. Hudson House also offers wines by-the-glass, beer, and non-alcoholic options.
Hudson House opens at 11 am for lunch and dinner during the weekend and at 10 am on Saturday and Sunday for brunch. Happy hour, served Monday-Friday from 3-6 pm, includes half-off all martinis, bellinis, and wines by-the-glass as well as $10 cheeseburgers and $3 East Coast oysters.
“We’re looking forward to bringing a second Hudson House to Houston,” Vandelay founder and CEO Hunter Pond said in a statement. “Our River Oaks location has seen strong support since opening just over a year ago, and we’re confident Rice Village will follow suit. With its already vibrant community and bustling shopping scene, Rice Village offers an ideal background for our beloved coastal-inspired American cuisine.”
