introducing merus grill

New classic American restaurant beefs up Anejo space in Uptown Park

The transformation of Uptown Park into a premier dining destination takes another step forward this month. Merus Grill, a new concept from J. Alexander's Holdings, will open November 18, the company announced.

First announced in March, the restaurant will occupy the former Anejo space at 1180 Uptown Park Blvd. Open for lunch and dinner daily, the 7,900-square-foot space will seat approximately 200 diners.

While it isn't completely clear how Merus Grill differs from corporate siblings like J. Alexander's or Redlands Grill, the restaurant will feature a menu of classic American cuisine that includes Certified Angus Beef, all-natural chicken, and seafood. In addition, the restaurant will have an extensive selection of wine, beer, and cocktails.

“The Merus Grill menu will feature a wide selection of American classics, including prime rib of beef roasted on the bone, steaks, fresh seafood, premium sandwiches, and entrée salads," J. Alexander's President and CEO Mark Parkey said in a statement. "The menu will also include a varied and rotating selection of such offerings as Tuscan Steak, Block Island Swordfish with Mango Papaya Salsa, and Chicken Milanese.”

Adding Merus Grill only furthers the transformation of dining options at Uptown Park. California-based sandwich shop Mendocino Farms opened last month. Next year, a second location of bar-restaurant-concert venue The Rustic will open on the property. James Beard Award winning chef Hugo Ortega and his wife/business partner Tracy Vaught recently announced plans to open a new restaurant in the former Cafe Express space.

Merus Grill will feature prime rib on the bone.

Courtesy of Merus Grill

Merus Grill will feature prime rib on the bone.

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blinded with science

New York's science-themed holiday bar shakes up the Museum District

Courtesy of Drunken Lab

Conduct holiday-themed science experiments at the LIT-Mas Spectacular.

A taste of Manhattan has made its way to Houston with the immersive LIT-Mas Spectacular holiday pop-up. From now until January 12, Houstonians can discover the hype behind New York City’s The Drunken Lab that's known for its unique blend of science and cocktails.

This pop-up marks the first expansion for The Drunken Lab’s parent company, Science and Sip, a concept created to make science accessible and unforgettable. Attendees can dive into holiday-themed science experiments — including explosive endothermic reactions — while enjoying festive cocktails in a winter wonderland setting enhanced with a live DJ. Appropriately, the pop-up is located in the Museum District at 4715 Main Street.

“Houston was the perfect next step for Science and Sip,” founder Cautney Nelson said in a statement. “The city’s vibrant culture, love of celebration, and ties to science through world-famous programs like NASA aligns beautifully with our mission to blend entertainment with discovery.”

Visitors enter a world filled with larger-than-life gingerbread decor and candy-inspired installations where light bulbs and laboratory flasks have been transformed into quirky beverage containers. Admission includes one cocktail or mocktail, a lab coat and goggles, and two to three science experiments. Add-ons like cocktail-filled ornament “Booze Balls” and Grinch-inspired pouches in festive red and green add an extra dose of holiday charm.

“We’re thrilled to host guests for an immersive holiday experience that merges festive fun with curiosity,” Nelson added. “With each pop-up, we aim to create a space where a great party and exploration come together, and we’re excited to see how Houston embraces The LIT-Mas Spectacular.”

A portion of the proceeds from LIT-Mas will benefit Millennial Scnce, a nonprofit founded by Nelson that provides students with accessible STEM resources and educational opportunities.

Tickets are available for Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with showtimes at 2:30 pm, 6 pm, and 9 pm. Private party and group bookings are also available.

Courtesy of Drunken Lab

Conduct holiday-themed science experiments at the LIT-Mas Spectacular.

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introducing merus grill

New classic American restaurant beefs up Anejo space in Uptown Park

Merus Grill will feature prime rib on the bone.

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blinded with science

New York's science-themed holiday bar shakes up the Museum District