The world is quickly discovering the treasure that is Midtown Houston. There are exquisite restaurants, trendy nightclubs, laid-back lunch spots, cool bars and an abundance of art – all within walking distance – and easily accessible by METRORail.
This year, we decided to celebrate the Midtown Houston businesses, restaurants and organizations that make us proud to call this community our home through the first annual Midtown Houston Awards. The Awardees will be celebrated at the grand opening event for Midtown Park in January, stay tuned for more details.
The community voted on social media in July for their favorites in six categories: Best Brunch, Best Happy Hour, Best Dance Floor, Best Caffeine Fix, Best View and Best Art Vision.
Without further ado, here are the winners and why they rock …
- Best Brunch – the breakfast klub
This family style restaurant is known for its modern art decorations and community involvement. It is a gathering place where many Houstonians go to discuss life over signature dishes like “Katfish & Grits” and “Wings & Waffles.”
Check it out @ thebreakfastklub.com, 3711 Travis St.
- Best Happy Hour – 13 Celsius
13 Celsius is just as cool as the name makes it sound. The European wine bar & cafe keeps their wines in a climate-controlled cellar at 13 degrees celsius to deliver a superior taste. Locals love the 1920s era Mediterranean-style building, the refreshing ambience and the handmade truffles.
Check it out @ 13celsius.com, 3000 Caroline St.
- Best Dance Floor – Barbarella Houston
The Midtown Houston community can’t get enough of this wild, unique video dance club. Part of the appeal is the $2 cover, but dancers stay to groove the night away.
Check it out @ Facebook page, 2404 San Jacinto St.
- Best Caffeine Fix – Double Trouble Caffeine & Cocktails
Plush, modern, vibrant. There really isn’t one word to describe this quirky, hip coffee and cocktail shop. The full service coffee and espresso bar serves locally owned and operated Greenway Coffee. You’ll want to linger for hours in the beautiful interior as the smell of roasting coffee beans suffuses the air. The cocktails are equally superb and, of course, you can order a coffee cocktail.
Check it out @ doubletroublehouston.com, 3622 Main St., Ste. D
- Best View – Axelrad
Axelrad is not your average beer garden. The outdoor-centric space is wonderfully unusual, filled with a hammock grove, interesting art pieces and a literal garden with a variety of plants. The indoor area is housed in a renovated 100-year-old building.
But wait, there’s more. The secret is out that Axelrad also features the best view in Midtown Houston. From a balcony, guests can view the glittering city lights of Downtown Houston while sipping cold beers.
Check it out @ axelradbeergarden.com, 1517 Alabama St.
- Best Art Vision – Community Artists’ Collective
The Collective has a 30-year legacy of providing an educational and cultural link among African American artists and all communities. They inspire creativity, regularly host thought-provoking exhibits and support community development.
The Collective truly leads change in Midtown Houston. We couldn’t imagine our neighborhood without them!
Check it out @ thecollective.org, 4101 San Jacinto St.
What are your favorite Midtown Houston businesses?