The doors have finally opened at Hunky Dory, the highly anticipated new venture from Treadsack International - the power team behind several of Houston's most beloved eats and drinks. With executive chef Richard Knight and chef de cuisine Daniel Blue at the helm, the Heights locale invites diners to explore an American twist on British fare in a bright and welcoming space with a variety of seating options including a formal dining room, a tavern, and a large outdoor patio. Knight takes informal English comfort food like fish and chips, Shepherd's pie, and pork chops and elevates them, "adding a little flare and prettying it up." Rabbit escabeche even makes an appearance.
While the interior designed by Austin-based architect Michael Hsuis undeniably stunning, guests should take a moment to admire the open-fire grill and hearth along the dining room's back wall. This is where the magic of smoke, heat, and char will lend signature tastes to virtually every item on the menu from steaks, vegetables, even desserts. "They [the chef and owners] were like a bunch of kids when this was finished," confided one employee, "They were so excited!"
A few steps away in the cozy dim-lit tavern, bar director Leslie Ross presents a drink list familiar in most English pubs, but with slight deviations to intrigue the local palate. Think cocktails with Earl Grey-infused vodka or the Olde Fashioned with cognac instead of the expected rye or bourbon. Classic brews like Old Speckled Hen & Guinness, and a well-curated wine list from Travis Hinkle and head sommelier Michael Peltier rounds out the sips. With mood and food already receiving high praise so far the restaurant is living up to its name.
