Alba Huerta's Julep Is Now Open Softly On Washington

The tempting julep on the cover of February-March's Garden & Gun magazine is now available at 1919 Washington. Alba Huerta's Julep is open softly, and the public is welcome to stop in starting today from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Part of the Clumsy Butcher portfolio (Hay Merchant, Anvil, Pastry War, OKRA), Huerta's new spot will place a focus on the classic julep, while offering different variations on the Southern cocktail in addition to a beer and wine program. Former Anvil bartender Kenneth Freeman—who "looks about 12" and is "very much about working in a group and helping to develop new talent"—will serve as the general manager. Chef Adam Garcia, formerly of Revival Market and The Pass & Provisions, will be supplying the bar with cold seafood tapas, an homage to the South's cocktail history and to Garcia's culinary training.

As with any soft opening, the public should be warned that while the staff already knows its way around a bar tool arsenal or two, this week is intended as an informal, quiet roll-out. So don't immediately take to Yelp to gripe about the service. The official public debut is scheduled for Sunday (Aug. 3).

Head in now for a an oh-so-Houston Spiced Julep, and let us know what you think. Check back next week for a complete image gallery of the space.
· Julep [Twitter]
· A Chat With Alba Huerta on Upcoming Bar Julep [-EHOU-]
· All Other Opening Reports [-EHOU-]