Date Visited:  Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Solea was still in their ‘soft opening’ stage when we visited, so the crowd was light but there was live music. We were promptly greeted by Travis, the bartender, as soon as we were seated at the bar. Happy Hour was about to end, so he brought the list. We chose the blush sangria which is $8 for a carafe during Happy Hour. It was nice and light, not overly sweet, but packed a punch with the addition of rum in the mix.

We started with an order of the shrimp and grits. It was served in a bowl with 3 shrimp and topped with crumbled bacon. The shrimp were large and perfectly cooked. The grits were runny, but the flavor was very good.

Pam then ordered the AVV “Redemption” Zinfandel, which is a nice zin with pepper and fruit forward. Jeff asked about two of the wines, so Travis poured a taste of each. He decided on the Fontanafredda “Bricco Tondo” Barbera from Italy. He really enjoyed this wine with vibrant plum and berry flavors over a background of pepper, cinnamon and chocolate.

We wanted to try one more food item and chose the steak and cilantro empanadas with avocado cream and pico de gallo. They were delicious with tender steak seasoned to perfection with a touch of cilantro all wrapped in a crunchy shell. Excellent!

Grand opening is the weekend of September 15 and 16. If you don’t have plans, we suggest you check this place out!!

Menu Link:  http://www.soleacafe.com/pdf/New%20Menu.pdf

1500 Shepherd Drive
Houston, TX 77007
(713) 862-9700
http://www.soleacafe.com/