One of the hottest new restaurants to open in our city has been the charming Annabelle’s in Autry Park. For many of you reading this, you have probably already experienced this Berg Hospitality‘s newest enticement. For me, who was out of the country when it opened, I was a little late to the table, literally. However, I have made up for it with several visits since. Most of the chatter about this new fave dining spot has been about the decor, truly a step-above the other restaurants that even Ben Berg has produced. Berg, the restaurant king, who is becoming known for his attention to all aspects of restaurant decor, outdid himself with the ceiling of flowers that Annabelle’s, the brasserie, opened with. However, since Ben was quick to explain his plan to switch out that ceiling on a seasonal basis, I waited for holiday decor, which went up recently, to take another look. So worth the wait for me, a huge fan of all things Christmas/Holiday…………
So, if you haven’t been, get ready to be transported to the heart of Paris with Annabelle Brasserie, the latest gem from the Ben Berg Hospitality Group, led by the visionary Ben Berg. Located in the newly unveiled Autry Park, this charming brasserie is the first to open its door in this bespoke urban village on the western edge of Buffalo Bayou Park, just east of Shepherd Drive and Allen Parkway.
Upon stepping into Annabelle’s, it’s as if you’ve been whisked away to a charming Parisian or in my case into also a top NY brasserie. Berg and designer Gail McCleese of Sensitori have curated an eclectic collection of antiques from around the world, adorning the space with vintage lighting, ornate mirrors and a stunning bronze female sculpture that captures your attention as you enter.
The real showstopper though is the ceiling adorned with a breathtaking canopy of flowers there at opening. The floral masterpieces will evolve with the seasons, changing throughout the year and offering an ever-transforming dreamy atmosphere. The Holiday decor that just went up is a great first example of this seasonal change. Outside, a vintage Citroën truck brims with decor, creating the perfect photo opportunity for guests. The design extends to its outdoor spaces, with both upper and lower verandas featuring cascading glass walls that offer al fresco dining with unrivaled views of Buffalo Bayou Park.
Now let’s talk about the piece de resistance – the menu. Created by Berg Hospitality’s Culinary Director, Brian Sutton, along with Executive Chef Russell Kirkham, the menu offers a delectable array of artisan dishes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. It includes a raw bar, caviar, and hors d’oeuvres like Veal Sweetbread and Escargot a la Bourguignonne. And as any Berg Hospitality restaurant would, the menu offers prime cut steaks of the highest quality.
Start your meal off with the Baguette Raclette and the Caesar Drip Salad, a flavorful salad with boquerones, garlic pudding and croutons. For entrees try the Braised Short Ribs served with parmesan polenta, mushroom conserva and bordelaise. Equally captivating was the Seared Branzino Filet served with provencale vegetable, parsley oil and a tasty crispy top. And no meal is complete without a sweet treat, the Classic Vanilla Bean Crème Brulle truly stole the show.
Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch, romantic evening, or a lively girls’ night out, this spot has it all. Annabelle Brasserie is the perfect spot for brunch or even breakfast, a great option for the residents living in it’s attached high-rise. There is truly something for everyone. Make your reservations and join me in enjoying the amazing ambiance and flavors of Annabelle Brasserie. For more information, visit annabellebrasserie.com or call 713.844.8811. Follow @annabellebrasserie on social media to stay in the know on all future happenings.
“For decades, brasseries have been the meeting points for social gatherings throughout the streets of France and other major urban cities, said Berg. “My idea of a brasserie is where all the walks of life can relish a fantastic meal. It’s a place to talk, have fun, and share a meal together, and the guests are part of the lively atmosphere. My goal is that Annabelle becomes this type of space in the urban oasis that is Autry Park.”
