Months of anticipation culminate as Mi Luna Tapas Restaurant and Bar gears up to throw open its doors in Montrose today. The Spanish tapas joint is marking its comeback in a stylish 3,805-square-foot space at Montrose Collective, having previously been a staple in Rice Village from 1998 until its closure in 2018. Chef Youssef Nafaa, the man behind the concept, is determined to preserve the restaurant's legacy while injecting new flavors into the menu. According to Houston Press, Nafaa is eager to offer an experience that "create a social atmosphere that people are losing these days."
Commensurate with its mission to foster communal dining and conversation, the revamped Mi Luna is doing away with television screens as distractions, focusing instead on live entertainment such as performances by Houston-based Solero Flamenco. Arriving in a restaurant designed so that you can see everywhere from anywhere, patrons can expect to be immersed in a space where "we turn strangers into friends," Adam Nafaa highlighted in a statement obtained by CultureMap. This philosophy is a cornerstone as the interior blends traditional Spanish decor with contemporary elements, including a platform stage set for the live acts.
The eatery's menu remains loyal to its roots with dishes such as Paella Valenciana and Gambas al Ajillo, while also welcoming new creations like Branzino Asado and Rabo de Toro a la Sevillana. In alignment with the culinary offerings, over 100 Spanish wines, house-made Sangria, and signature cocktails like the Meet Me at Mi Luna aim to complement the dining experience. "Eating out needs to be an experience – meeting people and trying things that you cannot make at home," Youssef Nafaa told CultureMap.
In addition to the food and ambiance, the venue promises weekend flamenco shows and local acoustic guitar performances during brunch hours. With seating for 110 guests indoors and a patio that can accommodate another 75 to 80, Mi Luna is poised to once again become a hub for food lovers and social butterflies alike. Perusing through the menu, guests will encounter the hearty Jarrete de Credo Estodao, a braised pork shank served with white beans and chorizo ragu, mentioning Houston Press. After its grand opening on October 7, Mi Luna's newly minted chapter will be serving up its blend of culinary traditions and social dining from Monday through Sunday, with extended hours on the weekends to cater to Houston's nightlife.
