Welcome back, Cecil's
40-year old Houston pub reopens in Montrose with pizza and patio power
Cecil's Pub has claimed the former ElRo space for its new home.
One of Montrose’s favorite watering holes has found a new home. After a six month hiatus, Cecil’s Pub will re-open tonight, Thursday, May 29, in a new location that’s only half a mile from its former home.
The beloved bar has claimed the former ElRo Pizza & Crudo space at 2405 Genesee St. for its new home. In November 2024, Cecil’s closed its longtime location at 600 W Gray when the property’s owner opted not to renew the bar’s lease. The bar first opened in 1985, making this year its 40th anniversary.
Of course, moving brings pluses and minuses. Cecil’s owner Jonah Herd told Chron.com, which was first to report the bar’s reopening, that the building’s smaller interior footprint means it won’t have room for its signature pool tables. However, the new building does offer a larger patio than its predecessor.
Similarly, the lack of a walk-in cooler will limit the number of beer taps to four (down from 16). However, Cecil’s will have a full kitchen, an amenity the old location lacked. Plans are still being finalized on a menu, but it will likely center around pizza.
Best of all, Herd rehired nearly all of the bar’s former staff, he told Chron. Everyone is looking forward to getting some patrons in the building.
“It doesn't feel like home yet, but I think the reason it doesn't feel like home yet is because…the loyal patrons that we've always had…haven't come yet," Herd told Chron. "It means a lot to me to keep this going…[and] have a place where people feel it's home away from home."
