Night Heron: Our First Concept in Montrose
We're opening Night Heron, our first concept in Montrose, at 1601 W. Main Street at Mandell.
Chef/owner Ryan Pera has lived in Montrose since 2003 and has wanted to open a place close to home with quality food and drinks for quite a while. The name is a reference to the night herons that nest in the century-old live oaks of North and South Boulevards, which Ryan and his wife Lori discovered when exploring the neighborhood several years ago.
When Night Heron opens in February 2018, the menu will feature a selection of small plates and shareables from executive chef Jacob Pate—formerly of Coltivare and most recently, Nobie’s.
“We want the menu to be so approachable that you instantly crave something at first glance,” said partner Vincent Huynh. The menu will feature dishes that range from light bar snacks to entree-sized offerings. Jacob has the freedom to explore cuisines from around the world, and he is particularly looking forward to highlighting flavors from Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, but isn’t limiting himself in any way.
“I’m still developing the menu with the team,” said Jacob, “but I will continue the Agricole tradition of using well-sourced ingredients and precise execution of dishes. What we do know for sure: there will be a great burger.” A separate brunch menu—Jacob is a rare chef that loves brunch—will be available Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 11am. As with all of Agricole’s concepts, Night Heron will offer table service.
Executive chef Jacob Pate and general manager Julie Rogers
General manager Julie Rogers, previously bar manager and assistant general manager at Coltivare, will utilize her passion for beverage and hospitality at Night Heron. One of only a few Certified Cicerones (the beer world’s equivalent to the sommelier certification) in Houston, she’ll develop a beer program featuring five brews on draft and an extensive bottle list. Expect focused cocktails from Julie and 75-bottle wine list with strong by-the-glass offerings, curated by Coltivare general manager/sommelier Jeb Stuart.
The space, which Morgan is designing, will be light, airy and bright with a light color palette. The interior is inspired by nature and the Gulf Coast ecosystem of the area to reflect the inspiration of the name. “We want this to be a comfortable space for everyone,” said Morgan. “We’re not here to dictate how you drink or eat. We want to provide our guests with quality options. You want a great bottle of wine but you’re wearing shorts and flip flops? This is the place for you. Hungry after visiting the Menil? Come on over.”
Agricole’s EaDo concepts Indianola, Miss Carousel and Vinny’s are on schedule to open April/May 2018.