Like summer, fall, winter and spring, patio season is a category of its own in Houston. When the cool fronts roll in, the hunt for which patio to park yourself at begins. Here’s a look at this week’s patio spotlight.
Plenty of Houston restaurants have swoon-worthy patios, but few offer the atmosphere, food and feels of a full-blown Mexican vacation. ‘Tis the case at Casa Nomad, a Tulum-inspired restaurant and lounge at M-K-T Heights, known for its tropical cocktails, beachy Mayan fare and boho chic space.
Casa Nomad boasts only 28 seats, making it one of the most exclusive patios in town.
Michael AnthonyAdding to its allure, Casa Nomad is housed entirely on an intimate, 800-square-foot covered patio and boasts only 28 seats. The fully outdoor space is doubly protected from the weather with its own covering—along with the roof that shields M-K-T Heights’ interior section—and outdoor heat lamps providing comfort on Houston’s frigid cold days.
Situated among the other restaurants in the development, guests have prime views of all the comings and goings. The energy is lively, with a separate, dedicated bar area, and up-tempo music in the style of “jungle disco” filling the space. Design finishes include an overhead rope canopy, sky-blue tile-adorned walls, and perimeters planted with lush tropical vegetation, making the cozy restaurant feel like a true beach escape.
Casa Nomad’s tropical-inspired cocktails round out the menu.
Michael Anthony
Casa Nomad’s tropical-inspired cocktails round out the menu.
Michael Anthony
Casa Nomad’s tropical-inspired cocktails round out the menu.
Michael Anthony
Tropical-inspired cocktails at Casa Nomad in M-K-T Heights / Michael Anthony
The vacation vibes span to the menu too, with cocktails like the mezcal-fueled Ruby Sun and the tequila-heavy Tuluminati, plus dishes like whole grilled fish, street corn and grilled oysters on the half shell.
Naturally, with limited seating, dinner reservations can be difficult to get, but this patio is just as fun during its Wednesday and Thursday happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m., during which plates, cocktails and shots are discounted.
Save the jet set for another time, and get in vacation mode at this worthy Houston patio.
Casa Nomad
Find it: 600 N Shepherd Dr Suite 499, Houston, TX 77007; (832) 538-1056
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 5 p.m.-midnight
