On June 13, modern cantina El Venado is set to open its doors at 6502 Washington Ave., Houston.

Upon walking through the venue's doors, guests will be greeted with modern and traditional elements, a large bar, chandeliers and 1,500 square feet of interior space, including a mezcal bar that has accents to reflect deep blue Talavera Mexican tiles, according to a June 9 press release.

“We’re excited to offer a place where folks can kick back and enjoy themselves,” owner Alexander Noons said. “Inside, it’ll feel like an upscale mezcal bar, and outside will be an approachable space for familiar cocktails and bites with friends.”

Noons said he wants the space to be a destination that caters to all people no matter the time of day. According to the release, El Venado means "deer" in Spanish. Noons said he chose the name to “reflect the simplicity of its offerings and provide a natural version of its product.”

The drink menu will include agave cocktails, margaritas, palomas, ranch waters, a Mexican 75—made with blanco tequila, lemon, raspberries and sparking wine—and a Mexican hot chocolate that can be paired with a spirit. According to the release, guests will also have the opportunity to choose from food items, such as queso, salsa, salads, tacos, tostadas, sopes, nachos and street elote.

“When it came to menu development, it was important to us to offer something that didn’t feel overwhelming but still packed in a lot of flavors, and I think that can be said for both our food and our cocktail lists,” Noons said.

832-804-7370. http://elvenado.bar