The Montrose dining scene is receiving a fresh Mediterranean makeover with the opening of Októ, a new venture by James Beard-nominated restaurateurs from Sof Hospitality. Set to commence service on August 31, Októ takes its place at the Montrose Collective, joining a roster of revered food destinations including Hamsa and Doris Metropolitan, as reported by Houston Chronicle.
According to CultureMap Houston, Októ is located at the former The Chelsea space within the mixed-use development housing other culinary giants such as Marmo and Uchi. The Mediterranean-inspired restaurant aims to stand out with inspired dishes created by chefs Yotam Dolev and Hai Avnaim, featuring a diverse menu sure to excite Houston food enthusiasts.
Guests can expect a carefully curated dining experience designed for sharing, with less than twenty dishes ranging from starters to entrees. The concept focuses on the idea of "Mediterranean chic", a term co-owner Itai Ben Eli used to describe the designer ambiance crafted by Lindsay Madrigal, which boasts a moody setting with dim lighting, predominantly green tones, and a bar almost the size of half the space. Itai Ben Eli told the Houston Chronicle, "There’s tradition but also modern touches and surprises at Októ."
Októ's late-night offerings are a nod to the dining habits found in many Levant countries, inviting patrons to linger in the ambiance and sample an array of small plates. The spirit of the Mediterranean is further infused through a selection of cocktails, some of which feature regional specialties like ouzo. The venue promises to be an addition to Houston's nightlife, with plans to extend operational hours beyond the initial 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends. Moreover, a DJ booth signals an intention for lively late nights, with additional attractions including a glimpse into the frantic kitchen through strategic windows and the allure of a plant-laden patio, contributing to its Mediterranean essence as highlighted by CultureMap Houston.
While Októ is distinct from Hamsa's traditional offerings, it pledges to provide equally memorable bread service, introducing frena, a Moroccan-style fluffy focaccia. "The rocks give it a nice shape. They crisp up the edges and give you a fluffy inside," explained chef Dolev. Capturing influences from across the Mediterranean, including Italy, Greece, and Spain, Októ is poised to shake up the Houston food scene with its bold flavors and sophisticated designs, as detailed by CultureMap Houston.
