gatsby's goes east
Sizzling Montrose steakhouse scores prime spot for new casual grill in the East End
Acadian Coast will soon become Gatsby's Grill.
The team behind Gatsby’s Steakhouse will soon have a more casual option for Houstonians. Called Gatsby’s Grill, it open early next year in the former Acadian Coast space on Navigation Boulevard.
Director of operations Luis Rodriguez tells CultureMap that he and Gatsby’s owner Luis Rangel always contemplated a more casual alternative to their smash hit Montrose steakhouse. He cites Eight Row Flint and Kirby Ice House as two examples of places he likes to spend his time away from Gatsby’s.
“That’s the vibe I like, an open, airy, outdoor experience. You can take your dog there, your kids. You’re not going to break the bank,” Rodriguez says. “We knew we wanted to introduce our version of a fun, approachable, family friendly, sports bar type environment.”
Gatsby’s Grill will build on the success of Gatsby’s Steakhouse, the Montrose restaurant that has built a devoted following for its luxurious atmosphere, classic steakhouse fare, and polished service. The brand will expand its reach this week with the opening of Gatsby’s Prime Seafood, a new restaurant in the former Tony Mandola’s space.
Rodriguez explains that his pre-existing relationship with Acadian Coast owner Bruce Gingrich led him to the space. After examining the layout, including its spacious bar and expansive patio, the Gatsby’s partners decided it would be the right place for a casual restaurant. Of course, it will still have certain design details to tie it to Gatsby’s Steakhouse and Gatsby’s Prime Seafood, the new restaurant the group is opening this week.
“We’re going to give it our Gatsby’s touch,” Rodriguez says. “You’ll probably see some chandeliers, some marble walls. There will be elements that let you know it’s a Gatsby’s restaurant.”
Turning to the menu, executive chef Erick Anaya will offer a wide array of comfort food. Expect a few different burgers along with chicken wings, hand-breaded chicken tenders, pastas, fresh-cut french fries, and more. Draft beer and a diverse cocktail menu will lead the beverage options. Rodriguez emphasizes they want to serve a menu that executes at a higher level than the typical chain restaurants a family on a budget might choose.
“You may have a lights out burger at some of those places. We intend to have everything hit on all cylinders,” he says.
With Acadian Coast having closed last week, renovations to turn the space into Gatsby’s Grill will begin soon. While Rodriguez acknowledges he’d like to open in December, the realities of hiring and training a staff will probably push things to January. Either way, it won’t be too long before Houstonians are eating burgers and drinking beers on the Gatsby’s Grill patio.
