Beyond all of the glitz and glamour of Houston’s Galleria/Uptown area are a number of local gems that were meant to be explored by Houstonians and tourists alike. From finely tailored men’s clothing to amazing art galleries and delicious eats, you don’t have to stick to just the huge designer labels that this shopping mecca is known for.
Off The Wall Art Gallery
Whether you’re a serious collector or just looking to browse beautiful works, head to Off The Wall Art Gallery. Founded in 1978 by sisters Paula and Mimi Sperber, Off The Wall started as a small venue featuring the then-popular medium of poster art and has since grown into an established venue full of well-known artists. Today, Off The Wall represents various artists and their respective mediums, displaying a large pool of painters, sculptors, photographers and conceptual talents.
Bill Walker Clothier
Given that this article covers the Galleria, we’d be remiss if we didn’t include one of Houston’s finest men’s stores, Bill Walker Clothier. For over 30 years, Bill and his team have been creating bespoke suits and made-to-measure wardrobes for an international clientele. Further, Bill Walker Clothier has popular everyday brands including his own signature pant, Bill’s Khakis, Peter Millar, Robert Talbot, Vineyard Vines, Tommy Bahama, Southern Tide and more. You may just walk in, but after you visit this shop, you’ll strut out.
The Little Bird Houston
If we cover men's shopping, we need a good option for the ladies too and The Little Bird Houston is a must-visit store. As a women’s luxury consignment boutique, you’ll see the likes of Chanel, Golden Goose, Gucci, Louboutin and more, but all at lower price points. The Little Bird inventory includes hundreds of brands with a cross-section of handbags, shoes, jewelry, accessories and clothing. Further, The Little Bird works to authenticate, price and clean each piece, ensuring quality and care.
La Table Houston
Who isn’t a sucker for a sweet French-inspired brasserie? At La Table Houston, Chef Stephen Conklin created a French-inspired menu working with local artisans, ranchers, and producers to ensure the amazing quality that complements the French undertones of the menu. Notable items include steak frites, French onion soup and braised beef shank. Guests can sit inside at the quaint bistro tables or head outside to the beautiful patio while sipping the Provence Margarita, complete with lavender syrup.
Kings Café
From France to Turkey, the Galleria/Uptown area is truly a tour of Europe’s best cuisine. Nestled in a nondescript strip mall is a hidden gem, Kings Café. Kings Café embodies what Europe does so well, facilitating late-night indulgences of Turkish coffee, delicious crepes or waffles and live music wrapped up in a cozy atmosphere. Guests can also indulge in premium hookah at their leisure. Kings Café is open from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Thursday and 3 p.m. through 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Rest up, it could be a late night.
