A refined American restaurant and piano bar aims to energize West Dallas Street with artistic interiors, and a menu of inventive cocktails and small plates.

The details

The Kennedy is now open for service in the Montrose and River Oaks neighborhoods, according to a Nov. 11 news release.
The Kennedy restaurant and piano bar is now open in Montrose/River Oaks. (Courtesy Rebecca Wright)
The concept comes from native Houstonian Andres Q. Castro, owner of Ninety3 Hospitality Group, and offers hand-crafted drinks, mocktails, an international wine and champagne list, and premium cuts of meat from Prime Meat Markets incorporated into shareable plates.

"The Kennedy merges the sophistication and elegance of River Oaks with the energy and artistry of Montrose and delivers a one-of-a-kind experience,” Castro said in a statement. "We are excited to highlight elevated, classic cuisine with an inventive menu."
Lobster spaghetti ($30) is one main feature of The Kennedy menu. (Courtesy Rebecca Wright)
On the menu

Chef Adriana Maldonado has created a day-to-night menu with appetizers such as ribeye tartar and lobster bisque, and entrees including a wagyu smash burger, gremolata lamb chops, a wagyu ribeye and lobster spaghetti.
The restaurant specializes in classic and inventive cocktails. (Courtesy Rebecca Wright)
The drink menu combines a collection of signature cocktails and martinis, according to the release. Their Mango Ember cocktail features mezcal, mango puree, lime juice and agave syrup. On the martinis list is a classic Espresso Martini made with either Grey Goose vodka or Lalo tequila, black coffee liqueur and simple syrup.


What to expect

The two-floor, 7,000-square-foot restaurant is anchored by a baby grand piano and a central indoor bar with a dual-sided fireplace that transforms into a DJ booth, per the release.
The Kennedy features nearly 40 works of original, contemporary and classic art from local and regional galleries. (Courtesy Tarick Foteh)
The Kennedy features nearly 40 works of original, contemporary and classic art from local and regional galleries, as well as a warm color palette with plush, intimate seating vignettes, banquettes and sofas built for conversation, per the release. The venue also has outdoor patio spaces on both floors for guests to enjoy in Houston's milder months and evenings.

In addition, the restaurant invites a variety of live music performers each week, including singers, pianists and late-night DJs. It will offer lunch service on Fridays, brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, and dinner service weekly from Tues.-Thurs.