Photo by Marie Leonard

Photo by Marie Leonard

Photo by Marie Leonard

Whether celebrating an event with friends, listening to live music every weekend or watching a football game with a glass of wine or beer, The Hidden Cellar offers something for everyone.

Owners Karen Babineaux and Lisa Sprague first went into business together more than four years ago when they created an online business offering wine-themed home decor and accessories. They were shipping items out of Blackhorse Storage off House Hahl Road in Cypress when the women learned there was an empty space available in the same shopping center.

"We found out through the chamber that somewhere between 9,000 and 10,000 cars pass by [this area] every day," Babineaux said. "When we heard those numbers we thought that even though it's off the beaten path, it's a pretty nice location."

In addition to dozens of wine labels and 20 types of beer, guests at the Hidden Cellar can choose from a menu full of light bites, such as cheese plates, olives and hummus and other options that typically accompany wine. Babineaux and Sprague also offer a dinner special every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night with options ranging from grilled chicken flautas to pasta Bolognese to ravioli with wild mushroom and onion.

"People are tickled to death of having something that is a little more substantial than just appetizers but not as heavy as a full dinner menu," Babineaux said. "They don't have to travel to the Galleria or CityCentre to get that experience because we have it here in Cypress."

Even the most novice wine drinkers are welcome at The Hidden Cellar as employees will help guests pick out a glass they will be sure to enjoy.

"We'll give someone multiple tastings to find something that pleases their palate," Babineaux said. "We really want someone to know they'll enjoy that glass of wine before they commit to it. We don't want it to be a surprise."

Another opportunity for guests to try new wines happens every Sunday when glasses from open leftover wine bottles from the weekend are half price.

"It's a great opportunity for people to come in and relax and try some wines that they wouldn't normally try at a discounted price," Sprague said.

Opening The Hidden Cellar has allowed Babineaux and Sprague to meet new people in the community they never would have the chance to meet.

"We have acquired a lot of wonderful neighbors and friends, and Karen and I are just thankful every day that these people have opened up their lives and allowed us to have a little glimpse of it, whether it's through a special celebration or just an evening out," Sprague said.

Wine-themed gifts

Various wine-themed gifts and accessories are sold at The Hidden Cellar, including the following items:

Cork Pop wine opener—Considered the fastest wine opener in the world, the Cork Pop features a carbon dioxide-generated cartridge.

Vinnebago—A thermos container that keeps wine or other drinks cold for up to 24 hours, the Vinnebago can be used at the beach, pool or for tailgating.

Wine glass writers—Wine lovers can now buy pens that write on wine glasses and come off with soap and water.

Customer comments

"I like [the Hidden Cellar] because it's close to my house and the two owners are very personable and friendly and make it a good time."

—Lisa Thompson

"There always seems to be something going on, and I think they have a great selection of wine and beer."

—Nat Chicoria

"I like coming here because it's close to work and home. It's a great place to swing by after work and have a glass of wine; everyone who comes in is friendly and nice and the owners are some of my favorite people."

—Ashley Roe

The Hidden Cellar

16518 House Hahl Road, Ste. F

Cypress 281-304-2940

www.hiddencellarcypress.com

Tue.–Wed. 3–9 p.m., Thu.–Sat. 3 p.m.–midnight, Sun. noon–6 p.m.