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Earlier this summer, popular Heights restaurant Shade closed its doors for a complete revamp. Now, the space has officially made its debut as the breezy, sophisticated Alice Blue.
The new spot from Houston restaurateur Claire Smith is hardly recognizable, even for folks who spent plenty of time dining at Shade. The space has seen a major revamp, now divide into a main dining area packed with tables and plush booths and a bar/lounge area that offers a cozy, living room vibe complete with couches, chairs, and banquettes.
The restaurant is named for a cool shade of blue that was popularized in the 1920s, and that color is prevalent throughout the space. Artwork from local artist Aaron Parazette and ceramics from Smith’s personal collection punctuate the space along with contemporary wallpaper, ocean scenes and other laid-back finishes. Wood, tile and white chairs lend a sophisticated charm. Outdoor seating in the alley-like patio is available with a mural to come.
As far as the food is concerned, look forward to modern Mediterranean fare from chef Kent Domas (formerly of Down House and Bernadine’s) Starters include squash fritters and steak tartare with heavier options encompassing housemade pastas and breads; tagliatelle with sweet corn, cavatelli with burrata and smoked butter, and agnolotti filled with roasted eggplant and topped with goat cheese are currently on offer plus fish, steak and pork belly mains.
Diners with special dietary needs will appreciate the gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan menu available upon request that still features many of the same dishes but with appropriate tweaks. A dessert menu provides assorted after dinner drinks and temptations like sweet corn panna cotta, fig pecan tart and an intriguing dish called a “peanut butter snack.” A menu of boozy offerings serves up natural wines and classic cocktails, like Japanese-style highballs and sazeracs.
Alice Blue is now officially open for dinner service, and brunch will soon follow. Step inside the restaurant formerly known as Shade courtesy of Eater photographer Ellie Sharp.
