Houston's dining scene is on the fast track to diversity with another gastronomic playground opening its doors later this month. The Conservatory Galleria is slated to start serving a plethora of culinary delights on Feb. 19 at 5353 W. Alabama, revamping the iconic Roxy nightclub space into a three-level food extravaganza. The new food hall is the brainchild of nightlife veterans Chase LoVullo and Roveen Abante, who are also the founders managing partners of the bustling Reset Rooftop Lounge.

According to Houston Chronicle, the Conservatory Galleria is set to transform the area near the Galleria with its 11 vendors and two bars, taking a bite out of downtown's monopoly on food halls. From fried hot chicken sandwiches at Bird Haus to the enticing flavors of South Asia at Rollin’ Phatties, the variety is poised to capture Houston’s eclectic dining scene. "It’s almost surreal," LoVullo said. “We’re excited about showing everyone the quality vendors and the comfortable layout.”

LoVullo and Abante have invested not just in diverse food options but also in creating an inviting ambiance. No cold, sterile stainless steel to be found here—instead, patrons can relax in lounge-style seating amidst natural light and greenery, as per a Houston Chronicle interview. With the promise of free parking, over 450 spots to boot, the food hall intends to tackle the notorious parking challenge head-on. The culinary venue will be vying for late-night patronage as well, planning to operate from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily.

They've previously cooked up names like the Conservatory and Bravery Chef Hall. A report by Houston Eater from 2019 outlined the trajectory of the Conservatory, which closed and reopened in EaDo's Chapman & Kirby space. And there are bigger plans on the horizon, including the grand Railway Heights Market, which plans to pack in 50 outposts, along with a farmer’s market, beer garden, and dog park. Additionally, a nod to Asian cuisine is in the works with the proposed Hawker Asian Night Market, aimed to bring a taste of Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong to Midtown Houston.

With the third level of the Conservatory Galleria paying a tribute to the Roxy nightclub with the "Roxy Room," there's a blend of nostalgia for older Houstonians and a refresh for the younger crowd. "I’d bet 90 percent of Houstonians above 30 know this as the Roxy nightclub," LoVullo said in an interview with the Houston Chronicle. When LoVullo led the reconstruction, a forgotten 3-by-7-foot Roxy sign discovered will take pride of place in the venue, along with vintage photos echoing the club's storied past. As for what's to come, "We’re ready to welcome everyone," he said.