Guests at Ignition can experience private simulator experiences. (Courtesy John Huang)
The owner of Velocity Sim Racing Lounge, Viet Tran, has added a new speakeasy to Houston's nightlife scene called Ignition.
Ignition is a racing-themed speakeasy located inside the sim lounge, featuring craft cocktails, elevated bites and professional racing simulators.
Check it out
The speakeasy made its debut July 17, and visitors can find the hidden door located behind Velocity's brand-new, wall-mounted steering wheel gallery, which showcases authentic racing wheels from different driving disciplines such as drifting, rally and GT3 competition.
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The 1,200-square-foot space was designed by Houston-based LOMA Architecture, according to a July 14 news release, and showcases a custom-liveried Pro Mazda race car hanging from the ceiling, as well as curated motorsports memorabilia.
The 1,200-square-foot speakeasy can accommodate up to 50 guests. (Courtesy John Huang)
On the menu
Ignition features a different beverage and food program from Velocity. The speakeasy partnered with Peter Nolan of Permission Whiskey & Service Co. to create signature cocktails such as:
Midnight Monaco: Glenfiddich 16 Year Aston Martin Edition, honey, Cointreau, bitters and orange
Luxe Macallan Sour: Macallan 12 Year Double Cask, Aperol, lemon and egg white
Ignition Espresso Martini: Reyka Vodka, fresh espresso, turbinado syrup and Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur
Velocity GT: Empress Elderflower Gin, St.-Germain, lavender and Mediterranean tonic
On the food menu, guests can expect to see items such as charcuterie boards, candied bacon served with a nuts and dried fruit mix and a seafood campechana with octopus, cuttlefish and shrimp.Velocity partnered with Peter Nolan of Permission Whiskey & Service Co. to curate the cocktail program. (Courtesy John Huang)More details
In addition to the cocktail aspect, Ignition also offers guests a chance to drive one of the eight professional-grade racing simulators that range from beginner-friendly to pro.
Per the release, experiences include a Sprint Race, offered as a 15-minute solo drive or group racing, and the Double Sprint, which provides two cars, two tracks and a 30-minute experience.
The space also provides six televisions and two digital leaderboard screens.
Quote of note
“Some of the best moments in racing happen off the track, and that's the inspiration behind Ignition," Tran said. "We wanted to create an exclusive space where guests can immerse themselves in motorsports culture, enjoy outstanding drinks and food and ignite their passion.”
Something to note
Ignition is only open to guests 21 and older. The speakeasy will operate on Thursday from 5-11 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight and Sunday from 5-10 p.m.
