dining desination

Ciao down: Galveston's Grotto restaurant brings top-notch Italian right to the Gulf beachfront

While the San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center continues its reign as Galveston's premier spot for sand and sun, the popular hotel complex also has earned a reputation as a dining destination.

Opened this summer, the resort's new Grotto restaurant is already making waves on the island thanks to its phenomenal beach views, impeccable service and classic Southern Italian cuisine.

Located among the San Luis' exclusive collection of eateries — including the hip H₂O lounge, the award-winning Steakhouse and a luxurious hotel cafe — Grotto is committed to freshness, says Executive Chef Brian Robertson.

Pastas are made in house, pizzas are cooked inside wood-fired ovens and all seafood is sourced directly from Galveston's busy fish markets to bring customers the best catch available.

“This is fine dining but in a relaxed, casual atmosphere,” the chef explains. "We have wonderful food as well as great views of the Gulf and our unique tropical pool area.”

"We have wonderful food as well as great views of the Gulf."

Robertson got his start at Houston hotspot Tony's, whose esteemed owner Tony Vallone launched the original Grotto in the heart of the city's Galleria area. His close personal and professional relationship to the restaurant — which has branches in The Woodlands and at the Golden Nugget casinos in Las Vegas and Atlantic City — further adds to Grotto's family atmosphere.

Of the 10 restaurants dotting the San Luis resort's 32-acre beachfront property on Seawall Boulevard, Grotto boasts one of the area's most distinctive wine lists, with exquisite selections from Italy's top vineyards.

Those interested in cocktails need look no further than the restaurant's famous Bellini, that fabled Venetian drink made famous by Ernest Hemingway, as well as an array of delicious martinis. Be sure to take advantage of all the cocktail specials at the Grotto's popular happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Friday.

Whether you're planning a getaway to the San Luis resort or making a quick day trip to the beach, the new Grotto is a must for any foodie . . . And it's all just a quick drive south from Houston.

So what’s your excuse for not hitting the road for some island time to ciao down?

Grotto's wood-fired oven offers up some of the island's most inventive pizzas.

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cherry blossom restaurant

Eye-catching new restaurant serenades Montrose with global cuisine and wood-fired steaks

Photo by Adrian Barboza

Muse opened Thursday, March 23.

Houston’s next destination that blends eclectic cuisine with an eye-catching interior and a lively atmosphere has opened its doors. Muse is now open for dinner in the former Emmaline space at 3210 W Dallas St.

Part of of the Sundown Entertainment Group (Sugar Room, Todos Santos, and The Sporting Club), any conversation about Muse has to start with its eye-catching design. Inspired by owners Brandon Duliakas and Dan Wierck global travels, the space features an 18-seat wraparound bar, walnut accents, and lots of natural light. Most noticeable of all are the large cherry blossom trees that shade the restaurant’s banquettes. All in, the approximately 4,200-square-foot restaurant seats almost 200 people.

Turning to the cuisine, Muse offers serves a globally-inspired menu that hops across a range of genres. Created by executive chef and partner E.J. Miller (Riel, International Smoke) with an assist from sous chefs Dung Nguyen (The Dunlavy) and Andrew Aguilera (The Classic), Muse’s menu incorporates locally-sourced ingredients into shareable dishes that include hot and cold plates, sushi rolls, and wood-grilled steaks and seafood.

Specific dishes include:

Octopus salad with with shaved vegetables and soft-boiled quail egg
Sticky pork ribs with soy-tamarind glaze
Yellowtail aguachile
Wood-grilled lobster with green papaya salad
R-C Ranch bone-in ribeye with chili eggplant.

Pastry chef Maggie Lin (La Table) makes her own contributions with a Yuzu Tart with sesame shortbread; Profiteroles with lemongrass ice cream and macerated strawberries; and a Mocha Torte with red bean brownie and cafe su da mousse.

“Growing up in Houston, I’ve always enjoyed exploring global flavors and experimenting with a variety of traditional techniques,” Miller said in a statement. “While the name ‘Muse’ comes from the idea of a person or personified force that provides a source of inspiration, our menu is inspired by Houston’s unique multicultural dining scene.”

As they did for the Sporting Club and Sugar Room, Sundown turned to beverage consultants Ladies of Libation to create the restaurant’s cocktails. The results include the Japanese Breakfast a blend of orange blossom gin, bergamot, sake and white peach tea that’s served over dry ice from a traditional tea pot; the Matcha Colada with dark rum, coconut, matcha, pineapple; and lime; and the on-trend take on an Espresso Martini.

Those who prefer wine or sake will find plentiful changes, including 20 wines by-the-glass and a rotating list of sake. They’re overseen by general manager Patty Burbach.

Initially only open for dinner Tuesday-Sunday beginning at 5 pm, Muse’s future plans include construction of a rooftop patio and weekend brunch service.

Photo by Adrian Barboza

Muse opened Thursday, March 23.