The hay merchant
the wait is over…
Unless you live out in amber fields of grain, it’s very likely you know who cocktail geniuses Bobby Heugel and Kevin Floyd are. Don’t ring a bell? How about a little place called Anvil Bar and Refuge? Yes, that Anvil. Now, take the detail, understanding and utter craft of Anvil but replace those shelves of bottles with a wall of taps and what do we have…The! Hay! Merchant!
Wanting to add more roots in one of the most historic areas of Houston, our resident mixologists took a gamble on the shuttered Chances bar and embarked on a meticulous renovation. Located on the bend down in Montrose (1100 Westheimer Road) we now have Underbelly on one side, The Hay Merchant on the other, a perfect synthesis in the redone space. You probably already knew this though because everyone in town was writing about it. Houston foodies were collectively salivating for the day that the creative team of Floyd and Chef Antoine Ware (of Catalan and Brasserie 19 fame) opened their doors to let you inside their sudsy homage to Houston past. Salvation finally came and as the Field of Dreams taught us … if you build it, he will come. Get the reference and get here early because this place is hoppin’…yes, I did.
The Hay Merchant just wants to fit in. So much so, they secured two generous parking lots in an area of town that has sparse excess parking. Bike racks? Right out front and well used! Should you not care for either of these options, they have valet ready to whisk away the Benz to a safe and happy lot just around the corner. All this is in an effort to coexist with the surrounding borough and keep everyone happy, no doubt an admirable cause, and one that took a lot of effort.
So here you are, and you are ready to drink! But first, the building. Visually striking, the interior is a tasteful use of wood and metal, raw masonry, and check out those doors; this place just gives off that “like a boss” vibe. Tributes to the city are tossed all around the bar. A manhole cover and actual paver bricks from Houston streets of yore? Check. Handmade taps? Check. Lots of tables inside, but this place is already foaming over. Ha. The patio tables are probably full too, but plenty of standing room for enjoying views of the downtown skyline. Beer?! Okay, okay. Beer enthusiasts unite! 80-yes-80 carefully selected beers are on tap! 8-0! Served in the appropriate glassware and kegs meticulously stored at the correct temperature…The Hay Merchant is ready to serve you, impeccably so, some of the best craft beers available. Follow the organized and detail rich menu or just ask if you need some guidance. This place is an honest-to-goodness journey through craft beer that happily wants to help you step outside the commercial beer box. There is no going bock now. Be adventurous, and keep that sense of humor – much needed water is served in repurposed King Cobra malt liquor 40oz bottles.
Well, you finally got a table so don’t wait any lager! Flip over that beer menu. “Just Try It”, “Snacky Things” and “You Know You Want It” divvy up the food offerings so settle in and enjoy some of the delights Chef Ware’s kitchen has to offer! Good luck ordering just one. Great food pairs well with beer, you know?! This menu provides comfort favorites and some interesting outliers – it might just be some of the best food in a bar (read not bar food) the city has to offer.
Maybe you don’t like crowds? Noise hurts your ears? You can always take beer home in your own growler or house branded ones available for purchase. Kegs to go? Yes! Read it and wheat!
Hop in soon my friends. Yeah, I couldn’t help it.
1100 westheimer rd. | houston, tx 77006
713.528.9805 | www.haymerchant.com
By Michael Cook | Photography by Daniel Ortiz
















Originally of Austin fame, KFS showed its mettle in the capital city and appears quite ready for the big time now. At 5317 Washington Ave., it’s in a great location, hunkered down in a sharp and colorful building that sticks out like Frank Lloyd Wright’s thumb amidst the faux-castles and war bunkers lining the street. (Side note: Ever wonder how those valet guys drive your car when you hand it over? The same way you drive a rental car on company business. Don’t play dumb. No worries at KFS though, because they’re another pay-to-park convert sans valet.) Pixilated visions of Kung Fu masters like Bruce Lee and The Chuck Norris overlook ample seating both outside on the patio and inside where the fun begins.




