An Austin restaurant known for catering to people with different dietary requirements will soon makes its Houston debut. Picnik will open on Monday, April 24.
Located in the Montrose Collective mixed-use development (888 Westheimer Rd.), Picnik distinguishes itself by the way it constructs dishes to make them approachable for people with food allergies. Every menu item is gluten-free, refined sugar-free, peanut-free, and seed oil-free.
Diners can add superfoods and adaptogens such as CBD, Reishi (relaxation), Sharp (energy), or Lion’s Mane (focus). In addition, the kitchen only cooks with avocado oil, coconut oil, and extra virgin olive oil. The restaurant will be open for lunch, dinner, and brunch.
“At Picnik we strive to make sure our menu is approachable and delicious. We want our guests to feel at home whether they are out with friends, family or having a work meeting,” Picnik CEO Dan Mesches said in a statement. “Even if you don’t live in the neighborhood we want you to feel like this is your place to eat, drink and relax.”
Popular dishes on the menu include the Bacon Jam Burger made with a grass-fed beef patty; everything salmon with fennel and tomato salad; and a taco bowl. Seasonal specials like spring hash (corn, asparagus, kale, sweet potato, and housemade sausage) keep things fresh.
Beverage options include cocktails such as the Pitaya Margarita (tequila, dragon fruit, raw honey, lime juice) and the Southern Charm (bourbon, citrus, banana, and spices). In addition, look for sustainable wines, gluten-free beers, zero-proof cocktails, cider, and hard kombucha.
Originally launched in 2013 as a food trailer by Naomi Seifter, the restaurant has grown to two Austin locations. HapstakDemetriou+ Architecture Design took inspiration from nature to create the Houston location’s look.
Picnik joins a diverse group of restaurants in the Montrose Collective, including Uchi, Graffiti Raw, Marmo, and La La Land Kind Cafe. The Chelsea Bistro and Bar will open in the development soon.