The Kirby Group—the team behind Houston favorites Heights Bier Garten, Wooster’s Garden, Bayou Heights Bier Garten, Pitch 25 Beer Park, and Eberhard Social House—will soon be down one concept, as its Harlow District destination, Verde Garden, pours its final drink on Saturday, January 17.
In a post shared to Instagram this week, the team invited Houstonians to stop by for “one final toast” ahead of the Montrose bar’s farewell in a week’s time. The statement also hinted at what’s next, noting, “This may be the end of one story—but something special is already taking shape for this space.”
Co-owner Andy Aweida confirmed the news in a statement made to DiningOut, and hinted at the future of the brand:
“Verde was a special place for us, and we’re proud of what it became and the community around it. While this location is closing, the brand isn’t going away. This decision allows us to focus on what’s next, and we’re excited about the future of Verde. We’re also pleased that another concept will be taking over the space, further adding to the energy and making Harlow District an even more desirable destination.”
Verde Garden opened in spring 2023, breathing new life into the space once occupied by the iconic Mandola family restaurants, Vincent’s and Nino’s. The bar was among the first concepts to debut in the newly minted Harlow District development at the intersection of West Dallas and Waugh in Montrose, with Katami and La Griglia opening soon after.
While its beer garden atmosphere echoed the Kirby Group’s other concepts, Verde Garden distinguished itself with a Tex-Mex–inspired aesthetic and menu. Locals flocked in for Tex-Mex comforts like tacos and enchiladas, alongside an expansive margarita lineup and a deep selection of Mexican spirits. Still, in a city as saturated with Tex-Mex institutions as Houston, even well-loved concepts face an uphill climb to stand out and sustain long-term success.
Aweida and his partners at the Kirby Group recently debuted Eberhard Social House just steps from Verde Garden in the Harlow District late last year. With bars consistently packed with locals across the Heights, Montrose, and EaDo, the group has clearly tapped into the city’s pulse. The decision to close Verde Garden, then, appears less a retreat and more a strategic recalibration—making room for what comes next. And, until then, it leaves behind a legacy of lively nights, shared margaritas, and a space that helped define the early energy of Harlow District.
