Mi Luna Tapas Restaurant & Bar, a beloved culinary spot in Houston, is set to reopen in Montrose Collective at 888 Westheimer Road after a six-year absence. Originally founded in 1998, Mi Luna became a Rice Village favorite until its closure in 2018. Come October 7, patrons can once again savor its Spanish tapas and be swept up in lively entertainment offerings, such as flamenco dancing and live music.
The mind behind the Mi Luna revival, Youssef Nafaa, aims to maintain the spirit and atmosphere of the old venue while weaving in modern aesthetics and culinary updates. According to a statement obtained by the Houston Eater, Nafaa expressed his commitment to offering an authentic Spanish tapas concept which he felt was missing in Houston. The revamp will see Mi Luna introducing new menu items alongside beloved classics in a space that promises Moorish flair and modern twists. Nafaa, the CEO of Bella Restaurants Group, has previously run and owned several dining establishments, including Coco Crepes & Coffee and Mia Bella Trattoria.
Patrons familiar with Mi Luna's legacy will find solace in the return of their favorite dishes. As per the Houston Chronicle, these will include paella Valenciana and gambas al ajillo. Moreover, the revamp will feature new culinary delights such as roasted branzino and braised pork shank. With an impressive roll out of over 100 wine selections from Spain, the restaurant is fully equipped to once again become a social hub, a place to enjoy food beyond the screen-lit solitude that contemporary life often entails.
Embracing the spirit of communal dining and experiential eating, Mi Luna's design has been carefully crafted to encourage conversation and interaction. “The mantra of Mi Luna is a place where we turn strangers into friends," Adam Nafaa, poised to eventually take over Bella Restaurants Group, told the Houston Chronicle. This familial approach is further manifested in their decision to eschew televisions and opt for a layout that promotes open visibility and dialogue among patrons.
The renewal of Mi Luna offers more than just a menu refresh. Guests can expect a full entertainment roster, with live flamenco performances by Solero Flamenco on weekends and acoustic guitar serenades to complement brunch hour musings. For those eager to step past their threshold and dive deeply to actually explore the bouquet of vibrant Spanish culture, Mi Luna might soon be their frequent haunt. Operating hours and reservations information are available on the restaurant's website. Mi Luna will be open for eager food lovers and culture enthusiasts from Monday through Sunday, offering late-night weekends filled with music, dancing, and, as always, a glass or two of housemade sangria.
