The restaurant collective behind eccentric Houston concepts Space Cowboy, Trash Panda, and soon-to-open Chivos, has taken over Live Oak Grill in Spring Branch. Night Moves Hospitality, helmed by owner Greg Perez, partnered with the bar's owner and proprietor John Ganim to relaunch the North Houston pub. "We’re excited to partner with new operators who’ve already opened two successful concepts this year," Ganim says. "Now, hopefully, Greg and his team will bring new life to our hidden gem."

Originally opened in 2001, Live Oak Grill is a significant Texas dining destination. The neighborhood bar is nestled under 130-year-old oak trees, hosted in a historic home built in 1915. Filled with rich antiquities and character, patrons will see portraits from those who lived inside the home in the early 1900s, along with Texas memorabilia – including some of the oldest Texas flags.

The Spring Branch mainstay closed for the month of September to undergo a minor facelift, and plans to reopen this week. Occupying a 2.7-acre lot, the family-friendly space can now seat more than 80 guests, and features an outdoor kids playground, lawn games, and large tv screens for sports games.  

The revamped menu will highlight 20 beers on tap, a selection of canned beers and frozen cocktails, as well as a "no-frills" cocktail list, such as Pear Moscow Mule and Cucumber Mojito. The restaurant will serve savory Southern plates and American fare, with hearty offerings like the Shrimp Poboy, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Chicken Fried Steak, and Boudin Balls.

Perez says that the new addition to the Night Moves roster will be unlike any of the other concepts under the group's umbrella, and will offer a comfortable ambiance that caters to everyone. "We want to create an inviting, everyday neighborhood bar with an emphasis on friendly service, ice-cold beer, cocktails, and good food," Perez explains. "This will be a place for families, for lunches and happy hours, the first stop before a night on the town, or a nightcap on your way home."

In celebration of the grand opening, the restaurant will offer half-price food and drinks all day. 

Live Oak Grill, 10444 Hempstead Road. The grand opening will be held on Friday, October 15.