Daring, diverse, eccentric — three words that encapsulate one of Houston’s most distinct and beloved neighborhoods. A haven of acceptance and inclusion, Montrose’s charm lies in its undeniable individuality. Within its radius, you’ll find it all — a hefty restaurant assortment, spirited nightlife, quaint cafes, unique mercantile, independent art galleries, plus more. These five small businesses (Pavement, Cielito Cafe, Rudyard's, Fix & Fogg, and Select Skate Shop) offer a snapshot into Montrose’s ever-unique landscape.
PAVEMENT
Nestled on Westheimer’s vintage shop strip, Pavement is one of Houston’s most popular buy, sell, and trade retail outposts. Founded in 2011, the shop’s colorful facade acts as a precursor for the larger-than-life fashion finds that lie behind its walls. Racks and racks of everyday resale finds, including shoes and accessories, are intertwined with one-of-a-kind pieces and vintage clothing — all of which are hand-selected by Pavement staff. After you secure your purchase, visit one of Pavement’s sister stores — Petty Cash and Leopard Lounge Vintage Clothing — for even more vintage thrills.
CIELITO CAFE
In Spanish, the word cielito translates to “little heaven” — a fitting description for the culinary creations being churned out of this Montrose-area Mexican café. The restaurant’s quaint interiors provide the perfect backdrop for its flavor-packed breakfast and lunch menus. Take in Instagram-worthy plates like the Cajeta Toast finished with an authentic caramelized goat’s milk and the vegetarian-friendly Tostado de Aguacate topped with smashed avocado, charred corn, sweet peppers, and homemade chipotle cream. Then wash it all down with Cielito’s selection of Mexican beverages including Cafe de Coco, Agua Fresca, and Chocolate de Olla.
RUDYARD’S BRITISH PUB
According to the Houston Chronicle, “roughneck oil workers, bohemian artists, men dressed as Vikings and women dressed as Barbarella have all crossed the threshold of Rudyard’s British Pub” in its 40+ year tenure. Known as the living room of Montrose, you’ll find a bevy of experiences wrapped within the dive-y space including a whimsical food, beer, and cocktail program accompanied by live music and entertainment including everything from comedy to spoken word events. While the dive bar has managed to preserve its rich history, you’ll find modern takes on cuisine injected through its from-scratch kitchen led by popular Houston chef Anthony Calleo, who’s whipping up traditional and Detroit-style pizzas.
FIX & FOGG
A neighborhood newcomer, Fix & Fogg’s adorable retail window is serving up some of the world’s most inventive nut butters. The New Zealand-based small biz landed on a character-laced Montrose building that was once an antique furniture business to sling its signature gourmet product, which spans classic smooth, super crunchy, everything butter, smoke and fire, dark chocolate, and coffee and maple. Experience the world-famous butters via its retail jars, or take it home on a slice of hearty bread.
SELECT SKATE SHOP
For all things crazy and cool, head to Select Skate Shop. While the retail space is any skateboard fanatic's one-stop-shop — offering the latest in boards and gear — Select also brings streetwear culture to the forefront with its high-profile sneaker and merch drops. Also on site — a nostalgic selection of DVDs and film media.
