First Look: New Restaurant a’Bouzy Celebrates Bubbly

Booze, bites, and bubbles are the centerpieces of new restaurant a’Bouzy, opening Wednesday, August 2 in River Oaks. Owner Shawn Virene, formerly the managing partner for Brasserie 19, brings a level of sophisticated fun to his “Champagne-fueled” concept, where over 250 types of Champagne and sparkling wine grace a list with more than 1,000 labels. Named for the French village Bouzy, which produces Grand Cru in the heart of the Champagne region, the name is pronounced “ah boozy.”

Seasonal seafood, like these seared diver scallops, will be a menu focus. Photo by Becca Wright

Virene wanted a restaurant that “felt fun,” where bubble lovers of all types—from wine nerds to parents out for date night—could have table service or simply indulge in libations at the bar. Guests can expect a varied menu of elevated small plates and entrées to pair with the extensive beverage options, including seasonal seafood, salads, prime meats and a large raw bar.

The nod to upscale dining is clear in the meticulously designed space, which took Virene over a year to plan. Inside, rustic reclaimed white-painted wood blends with chic navy and a plethora of wine bottles—both real and decorative—throughout the restaurant. Bubbles appear to float above the tables in a nod to the Champagne-centric concept. The outside patio, complete with colorful, Champagne-branded umbrellas and a’Bouzy-branded tables, seats 140 and will no doubt become a popular brunch and party space.

The full-service bar offers Champagne-based cocktails and a full range of liquor and spirits. Photo by Lauren McDowell

At the bar, beverage manager Christopher Stump’s cocktail list aims for uncomplicated yet unique beverages served with efficiency and a few surprises. For example, each order of a Beluga Vodka Martini comes with a caviar boat on the side, and Stump’s take on a Moscow mule is served in specially-made copper champagne flutes.

a’Bouzy is open for brunch, lunch and dinner. Reservations are available on the website.

a’Bouzy, 2300 Westheimer, 713-722-6899
Open Monday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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