As Harris' assistant, I’m excited to share my perspective on the vibrant neighborhood I call home. For the past four years, I’ve been living in Montrose, and without a doubt, it’s the most walkable neighborhood Houston has to offer. Coming from Germany, where walking to most places is second nature, Montrose truly feels like the perfect fit. Here’s a glimpse into my ideal day in this eclectic and lively community—full of hidden gems, good food, and relaxing spots that make Montrose so special.
To kick off a perfect Montrose day, I recommend a stroll over to Brasil, located at the corner of Westheimer and Dunlavy. Since opening in 1992, this cozy café and restaurant has been a staple in the neighborhood. With a diverse menu that spans from brunch to dinner, Brasil is perfect for any craving. Besides great food and drinks, they host fun events like live music and talent shows. My go-to order is their iced matcha latte paired with bacon and egg tacos—served with an incredible green salsa that you won’t want to miss.
Once you’re fueled up, it's time to explore the local thrift shops along Westheimer. Pavement and Leopard Lounge are two of my favorites, and I could easily lose myself in these stores for hours. On Sundays, Pavement's parking lot transforms into the Montrose Market—a vintage pop-up event where you can find unique items, including clothing, jewelry, and décor. It’s a great place to hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures.
For lunch, Montrose offers a variety of delicious options. I recommend trying Ramen Tatsu-Ya for its flavorful bowls, Empire Cafe for a cozy vibe with great salads and sandwiches, or Kau Ba for an outstanding Vietnamese-inspired menu. You can’t go wrong with any of these!
A perfect Montrose afternoon includes a leisurely walk with my dogs to the Menil Park. It's an ideal spot for a spring picnic, a friendly game of badminton, or simply unwinding in the green space. While you’re there, don’t miss the Menil Museum—a free, world-class institution showcasing a rich collection of over 17,000 works of art from various cultures and centuries. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the Dan Flavin Installation at Richmond Hall, a stunning light installation, and the Rothko Chapel, a serene, non-denominational space that features the meditative works of Mark Rothko.
For dinner or drinks, Montrose has no shortage of excellent spots. Some of my favorite restaurants include 93’ Til, Nonno’s Pizza, Southern Yankee, Barcelona, and Niko Niko’s. Each offers something unique and delicious. For a drink, I highly recommend Light Year, Avant Garden, Boheme, and of course, the iconic Poison Girl, which has become a staple of the neighborhood’s nightlife.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I hope you enjoy my guide to spending a perfect day in Montrose. This neighborhood has so much to offer, and it’s truly a place I hold close to my heart. Happy exploring!
