Introduction to Eculent Restaurant + Liquid Lab
Houston chef David Skinner is making some exciting changes at his Kemah complex. After earning a James Beard Award semifinalist nomination for his Native American-inspired tasting menu concept Ishtia, Skinner is bringing back his modernist tasting menu concept Eculent, but with a twist. Instead of the original theatrical, 20-plus course tasting menu, the new Eculent Restaurant + Liquid Lab will be a cocktail bar and restaurant with an inventive approach to drinks paired with tapas-style small plates.
What to Expect from Eculent Restaurant + Liquid Lab
When it opens on October 1, Eculent Restaurant + Liquid Lab will occupy the space that was previously dedicated to Th Prsrv, a historical tasting menu restaurant. Skinner wants to emphasize that his personal and professional relationship with the previous owners remains strong, and they will collaborate again in the future. The new Eculent will feature some of the fan-favorite bites from the original menu, as well as new creations.
The Story Behind Eculent’s Revival
When Skinner announced his plan to close Eculent and replace it with Ishtia, he said he was ready to move on after a successful 10-year run. However, both he and his customers realized they missed the experience of dining at Eculent on a regular basis. Skinner started making cocktails inspired by his visits to innovative cocktail bars around the world, and he’s excited to share them with his customers.
Menu and Pricing
The food menu will feature some of the small bites that were part of the original Eculent experience, including the Caesar salad, smoking mushroom soup, and BLT. New creations include a duck in mole taco on a house-made red corn tortilla and a beef Wellington flatbread. Diners who opt for the Taste of Eculent will receive 13 bite-sized dishes for $75.
Customization and Technology
Eculent 2.0 will also distinguish itself in the ordering experience. Skinner has created a website and app that allows diners to control every aspect of their meal, including choosing what they order and when it will arrive. If someone isn’t interested in any of the cocktails on the menu, they can create their own custom concoction, and if Skinner and his staff like it, they’ll put it on the menu and name it after its creator.
Conclusion
Eculent Restaurant + Liquid Lab is an exciting new concept that combines innovative cocktails with tapas-style small plates. With its unique approach to customization and technology, it’s sure to appeal to a wide range of customers. Whether you’re a fan of the original Eculent or just looking for a new dining experience, Eculent Restaurant + Liquid Lab is definitely worth checking out. With its bespoke experience and creative menu, it’s set to become a favorite among foodies and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
