Westchase - Houston, TX

Westchase lies on land originally owned by Houston rancher and philanthropist R.E. Bob Smith. The Westchase Corporation purchased 760 acres of land from Smith in 1973. Major companies, such as Chevron and Western Geophysical, were among some of the first to develop a presence in Westchase, fueling the development of the neighborhood on a commercial scale. Due to its rapid growth and expansion, cultivating both a residential and retail environment, a plan to further facilitate advancement was requested. In response, in August of 1995 local legislation officially created the Westchase District.

A decent selection of museums can be found in surrounding areas of Westchase. The Menil Collection on Sul Ross St presents over "16,000 pieces of art & artifacts from the Paleoethic era to present in a historic space." The Museum District located on Binz Street features a variety of different museums, including the Children's Museum of Houston.

Westchase offers a wide selection of dining options, but mainly consists of a combination of nationally recognized chain restaurants and independently owned bistros and eateries. A majority of the restaurants can be found along Westheimer Road in Westchase.

Frank's Grill, located along Westheimer Road, offers a variety of freshly cooked breakfast and brunch dishes. Whether you're in the mood for a scrumptious breakfast burrito or a juicy-grilled hamburger, Frank's Grill suits your needs. Customers enjoy the efficient service, clean and cozy atmosphere and affordable assortment of tasty meals. Try the wings and waffles, a dish consisting of crisp and moist buttermilk waffles served with crispy-fried chicken wings.

A supple selection of authentic Latin American and Argentine dishes can be found at The Original Marini's Empanada House. Another great spot nestled along Westheimer Road, The Original Marini's Empanada House specializes in crafting fresh, ethnic, homemade pastries, and offers an abundant inventory of Argentine wines, beer, and sangria. Customers love the warm environment and hefty variety of empanadas that the restaurant offers. For a sensory experience of pure delight, order the chicken "diablo," a crisp empanada stuffed with a combination of diced chicken, onions, bell peppers, tomato sauces and a careful blend of spices.

A mixture of bars and pubs predominantly located on Westheimer Road comprise the nightlife scene in Westchase. Residents mostly frequent spots such as Three Sheets Bar and Grill on Kirkland Drive for nightly entertainment. A dive bar in the heart of Westchase, Three Sheets Bar and Grill features an expansive selection of drinks and a menu of traditional American entrées and appetizers. The bar regularly hosts karaoke nights throughout the week, and with its ambient atmosphere, full-stocked bar and dance-ready environment, Three Sheets Bar and Grill maintains its reputation as a favorite among locals.

Common means of transportation in Westchase consist of personal automobiles, public transportation, and pedestrian travel. METRO services Houston as the main entity for public transportation, and provides numerous bus, trolley, and light rail routes throughout the city. Taxi services, in addition to Uber services, are available throughout the neighborhood. Solar-powered pay stations, metered parking spaces, and pay-daily public garages provide parking for residents. Automobiles serve as the dominant form of transportation due to Houston's expansive freeway system consisting of over 730 miles of highway roads (including the Beltway 8) spanning throughout the area. Cyclists can safely enjoy over 160 miles of dedicated bike routes across Houston.

Westchase provides a small selection of parks ranging from neighborhood playgrounds to full-fledged scenic outdoor retreats.

Locals most heavily frequent Terry Hershey Park for its lush landscape comprising winding trails, rolling hills, vibrant wild life and a picturesque bayou. The park provides an outlet for recreation with its abundance of biking and hiking routes, and visitors enjoy free admission to the grounds. As a pet-friendly environment perfect for guests of all ages, Terry Hershey Parks is a highly regarded outdoor destination within the Westchase community. Residents also visit Mike Driscoll Park on W Houston Circle for a more playground and open field oriented outdoor experience.

Be sure to catch Wonderland in Westchase, an annual festival held every December that features performances from local school choirs, a magnificent display of fireworks and numerous attractions and rides in an engaging and interactive environment.

Renters living in Westchase pay an average of $1,000 for a one-bedroom, $1,000 for a two bedroom and $1,600 for a three bedroom apartment, compared to the Houston average of $1,350. Houses for rent in Westchase cost around $2,500. For those wanting to buy, the average price for a house in Westchase is $180,00, compared to the city average of $260,00.

With its established business-oriented environment, Westchase houses several areas of interest for shopping throughout its boundaries. The major shopping area is located along Westheimer Road, where residents can access a variety of stores ranging from independently owned shops and boutiques to nationally recognized chain outlets and high-end retailers.

Fit Japanese Store on Bellaire Boulevard presents customers with a truly unique shopping experience. Predominately a department store, Fit Japanese Store provides an expansive inventory of household goods, hobby materials and a variety of products - all of Japanese origin. The business regularly refreshes its inventory, adding over 300 new items to the store on a monthly basis. Customers love the affordable prices and extensive variety.

H-E-B functions as the combination pharmacy and grocery store of Westchase. Nestled along the ever-popular Westheimer Rad, H-E-B presents a well-stocked and clean shopping atmosphere, and offers a fine selection of fresh produce, meats and other specialty goods. A helpful and friendly staff makes this spot one of many community favorites in the area. Residents also frequent nearby locations such as Phoenicia Specialty Foods and Whole Foods for grocery needs. Sprouts Farmer's Market functions like a standard grocery store, but encourages an old-fashioned farmer's market ambiance. Visitors encounter a diverse assortment of farm-fresh organic, gluten-free and natural groceries at this local gem.