Located minutes from downtown Houston, the Heights is a historic neighborhood and is the original suburb of Houston dating back to the late 1800s.  At one point in time, an electric streetcar rode down the middle of Heights Boulevard to take residents into and out of downtown Houston.  Now, that space is a jogging trail surrounded by tree lined streets, parks, Victorian era architecture, cultural diversity, and plenty of “must dos” while visiting the area.  In Houston, there are so many choices, but here are a few recommendations while in the neighborhood:

What to eat…

Just across the street from We Olive is Alice Blue, a new restaurant featuring modern bistro fare, from local restaurateur Claire Smith.  Harold’s in the Heights has a take on traditional Southern cuisine using local ingredients.

If you’re in the mood for some Italian, Collina’s is a great neighborhood spot as well as Cane Russo for their Neapolitan style pizza (try the Delia – it’s awesome) or even Cultivare which uses ingredients hand-picked from their own onsite garden.

If Asian cuisine sounds good, Vietnam Restaurant and Heights Asian Café serve traditional Chinese and Vietnamese favorites while Thai Spice dishes some incredible Thai inspired cuisine.  KA Sushi, offers modern sushi, ramen (the Lobster Ramen is unbelievable), and an inventive specialty cocktail list.

Looking for something quick?  The sandwiches and old world charm of Carter and Cooley Company Delicatessen (named after the two men that founded The Heights) are outstanding.  Rice Box puts a modern twist on American Chinese takeout and Torchy’s Tacos is a favorite Austin import known for their Texas style tacos.

What to drink…

Calling all coffee enthusiasts!  Can’t go wrong with Boomtown Coffee, EQ Heights, or Antidote for a java fix.  Harold’s Tap Room is sister concept to Harold’s in the Heights and known for serving wine on tap.  Johnny’s Gold Brick features classic cocktails in a cozy-chic atmosphere and Lei Low is the local tiki bar serving rum filled concoctions in a Polynesian themed space.  Of course, We Olive & Wine Bar is the place for small production, artisan wines and local craft beers.

What to do…

19^th Street is home to a collection of eclectic boutiques, antiques shops, thrift stores, restaurants, and We Olive & Wine Bar.  The area is filled with small town charm and walkability that is remarkable given the fact that it’s located in the 4^th largest city in the country.

For music aficionados, there’s The Heights Theater, Fitzgerald’s, and just outside of the Heights, The White Oak Music Hall, playing all genres of music.

Special events happen all the time and include 1^st Saturday Arts Market, 3^rd Thursday Sip and Stroll, White Linen Nights, and Holiday on 19^th Street.

For the kids?  Try Donovan Park, which has a huge play area built by Heights area volunteers or Big Blue Whale Toys & Curiosities for a whimsical toy store just a few doors down from We Olive.  Finally, The Art Car Museum is a fun visit while in the area for contemporary art and a rotating collection of their unique vehicles.