Bovine & Barley Sets Tentative Opening Date

In what seems like an eternity, Bovine & Barley, the forthcoming downtown gastropub at 416 Main is almost ready to open, according to Houston Chronicle. Michael Collins of The Refinery Burgers & Whiskey and partner Jason Lowery, former Proof Bar + Lounge owner expect to open March 17, just in time to cash in on Saint Patrick's Day revelers. 

Billed as an "urban bar & eatery," the concept combines the two main food groups that's essentially Texas: beef and beer. The recently launched website gives a glimpse into the beefy creations on the menu. As to be expected, the menu is heavy on the meat: skewered grilled beef Thai chili marinated peppers; mini meatloaves; a variety of burgers topped with applewood smoked bacon, sauteed onions and mushrooms; slow-cooked beef ribs and ribeyes. There are few non-beef selections that include beer-can chicken and a Thai tuna steak burger marinated in cilantro, ginger and soy. Light and hearty salads round out the food menu. The Chronicle also notes the brewhouse will offer 48 craft brews. 

As cocktail bars continue to dominate downtown, more brew hubs like Bovine & Barley and The Flying Saucer would be a welcome change of pace. With Prohibition's beer garden Conservatory expected to open later this year, the tides are slowly shifting.