19th Street: Houston’s Hotspot
Houston is well-known for having lots to do. This is especially true in the Houston Heights! 19th Street is located in the historic Houston Heights and is home to a number of unique shops, restaurants, and other attractions that everyone can enjoy. Incredibly walkable and full of activities from dusk until dawn, you are sure to have a great time walking up and down just this one street. Today, we’re going to walk you down one of our absolute favorite places in the world: 19th Street Houston!
What is the History of 19th Street?
Back in the late 19th century, real estate developer Oscar Martin Carter looked upon the Houston Heights area and made his vision. He wanted to create an eclectic community in which blue and white collars mingled and experienced the offerings of the city together. The focal point of his endeavor made its home up and down 19th Street.
Carter’s legacy lives on as 19th Street is still one of the most desirable areas in Houston. Boasting eateries, nightlife, shopping, and more, this exciting strip attracts a wide range of people from all walks of life. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy walking up and down 19th Street.
Restaurants and Bars
Boomtown Coffee is a Houston Heights staple. Conveniently located right in the middle of the action on 19th Street, this local dash of flavor offers the best macchiatos, lattes, and flat whites around. Along with these delicious drinks made from fresh beans, they also offer several foods to nibble on, including sandwiches, breakfast tacos, and pastries that are baked in-house.
Harold’s Restaurant & Tap Room
Want a nice view of the action happening on 19th Street while enjoying some delicious food? Look no further than Harold’s Restaurant and Tap Room. Founder and owner Alli Jarrett renovated this 95 year old building that had once been “Harold’s in the Heights,” a staple clothing store that was owned and operated by Harold and Milton Wisenthal. Wanting to continue the Southern charm that made the original store great, Harold’s offers delicious Southern cuisine with the freshest ingredients out there. Check out their restaurant, bar, and tap room for a delicious lunch, dinner, happy hour or weekend brunch!
Restored from an authentic drugstore, Carter and Cooley creates authentic sandwiches in a space straight out of historic Houston. They offer the most comprehensive list of sandwiches in the entire city, all made with the freshest ingredients. This tried-and-true 19th Street staple understands that when you have a good thing going, you don’t change it. They’ve been offering up their delicious deli food for almost 25 years.
With a large indoor area complete with a jukebox as well as an outdoor area adorned by picnic tables, Big Star Bar is the place to be for affordable, tasty brews. Bring your friends and play pool, or watch the game on one of the many television screens. Big Star Bar is a favorite of locals.
Shopping
Taking a look through old antiques is a great way to find unique collectibles and treasures that you won’t see anywhere else. Originally opened in the 1930s, AG Antiques features a huge selection of different furniture, trinkets, books, and more for your perusal. Conveniently located right on 19th Street, this is a Houston shop you don’t want to miss out on.
Feel like a child again when you step into Big Blue Whale Toys & Curiosities. Vanessa Wodehouse, a Heights resident, saw the growing number of children moving into her neighborhood. She reminisced about the fun and simple toys she had grown up with as a child and decided to open Big Blue Whale, where she features vintage and handmade toys, board games, and all sorts of other toys that will ignite your delight!
With such an adorable name, you know that this shop will be something to behold! Fly High Little Bunny specializes in unique jewelry, fine silver and gold pieces, designs that are specially customized, and one-of-a-kind gifts. These include terrariums, handcrafted bags, Turkish lanterns, and more! Who knows what you’ll find in this treasure trove of goodies?
Originally opening its doors in 1985, Vinal Edge Records is your go-to shop for new and used records, CDs, and more. They’re proud to be independently owned, and provide excellent recommendations and a personalized experience. Whether you are looking to continue your ongoing collection or buying your very first vinyl, this is the place to be.
The Shawn Manderscheid Team is always excited to show individuals how exciting living in the Heights is, especially 19th Street Houston! Not convinced yet? Take a look at our fantastic new listings and start the voyage into your new life today!