On this week’s episode of “What’s Eric Eating,” chef Jason Gould joins CultureMap food editor Eric Sandler to discuss his career. In addition to his role as the executive chef for Common Bond, Gould recently opened 1891 American Eatery & Bar in the Heights.
The conversation begins with Gould sharing the latest developments at Common Bond. It’s been about a year since CEO George Joseph turned over day-to-day operations to Garza Management Group, the company behind El Bolillo bakery and a Houston franchisee of quick service restaurants. They discuss the transition to new leadership and the decision to shutter Common Bond’s upscale brasserie in downtown.
From there, they turn to 1891. Opened in November, it blends a wide-ranging comfort menu with a casual, sports bar atmosphere. Sandler asks the chef about why the concept is a good fit for the Heights.
“I’m a bit of a sports fan myself. I’m not going to take my kids to Hooters or Pluckers to watch a game,” Gould says. “This is a place where you can take the family, watch a game, and getting better than average sports bar food. We wanted to create a menu with a little bit of everything — good burger, some upscale entrees at a price point everyone can afford.”
Listen to the full episode to hear Gould discuss Common Bond’s plans to open a new bistro location in the Tanglewood area. He also looks back at his time at Gravitas, the game-changing New American restaurant that closed in 2012.
In this week’s other episode, Sandler and co-host Mary Clarkson discuss the news of the week. Their topics include the drama surrounding a new bagel shop in the Heights; chef Dominick Lee returning to Houston to open Augustine’s, a progressive Creole restaurant; and the changes new owners are making at Montrose Italian restaurant Sorrento.
In the restaurant of the week segment, the two friends share their thoughts about a recent meal at Artisans. The French fine dining restaurant recently opened its new location west of the Galleria. They find a lot to like about the six-course tasting menu they sampled as well as the friendly and knowledgeable service staff.
Dine on shareable dishes such as crudo, street tacos, and pork ribs.
Dine on shareable dishes such as crudo, street tacos, and pork ribs at 1891 American Eatery & Bar.
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