Embracing One of South Houston’s Finest Communities
The enclave community of Bellaire offers the conveniences of a large city and the neighborly feel of a tight-knit village. To truly live like a Bellaire local means embracing small-town charm in the heart of H-town culture.
Day 1: Partake in the Bellaire Lifestyle
Start your day early at the Dandelion Café, where you can properly enjoy breakfast classics like freshly squeezed juice and stuffed French toast. Once powered up, pop into the local Recreation Center for Jazzercise Bellaire. This energizing group hosts Dance Mixx classes, allowing you to sweat off calories to a hip-swinging playlist. Drive east on Bellaire Blvd to spot a zany storefront with psychedelic graffiti work. This eccentric sight is iBurn, one of the largest hot sauce stores in America. For a dose of the area’s rich history, pay a visit to the Bellaire Street Car Line. Now restored, the Toonerville Trolley makes a beautiful backdrop for selfies or family photos.
A late lunch is your opportunity for a well-storied Houston burger. Bernie’s Burger Bus operated for years out of renovated school buses before settling down in its first brick-and-mortar restaurant. Insider’s tip: upgrade to truffle-laced fries; your taste buds will thank you.
Day 2: Unwind in the City of Homes
Bellaire’s origin was as a predemoninantly residential neighborhood, causing it to be nicknamed the “City of Homes.” Despite its roots, Bellaire has evolved into much more than a bedroom community. Today, we’re recommending Bellaire Coffee Shop—a straight-up, old-school diner that trades in all frills for 1950’s minimalist décor. Linger comfortably or grab a quick coffee and jet.
Evelyn’s Park Conservancy not only hosts playgrounds and gravel walking paths, but you can interact with whimsical bronze statues recreating the Mad Hatter’s tea party from Alice in Wonderland. Round out your morning at Magpies Gifts, a treasure trove of distinctive items. You’ll want to wind through the shop and enjoy the warm atmosphere.
Head to lunch at the Union Kitchen, where the executive chef sources fresh ingredients from local farmers markets and transforms them into elegant versions of classic American fare. Our don’t-miss pick is the shrimp and grits with tasso gravy.
If Bellaire Resident Has a Nice Ring to It…
A couple days could never be enough time to fully explore this corner of the Houston area. If any of these local activities whetted your appetite to make a move, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty is ready to help you land your forever home.