Introducing a New Family-Friendly Destination
Recess, a family-friendly bar, restaurant, and playground, is set to open in early 2026 in the heart of Houston, where River Oaks meets Montrose. This innovative venue promises to offer a unique experience for busy families, providing a safe and creative space for kids to play while adults can relax and enjoy quality time together.
A Space for Families to Unwind
Located in a former bank building at 1500 Waugh Dr., Recess spans 12,500 square feet over two stories. The venue’s centerpiece is a supervised play area designed by Houston-based design firm Rootlab. This colorful and interactive space allows kids to engage in creative play, free from screen time, while being supervised by highly trained caregivers. This setup gives parents the freedom to enjoy a meal or a drink in the second-story restaurant, taking a break from their childcare responsibilities.
A Win-Win Concept for Parents and Kids
According to co-founder Jonathan Davy, Recess was conceived to address the challenges parents face in finding balance between family life and personal time. "As parents, we know how hard it can be to find balance — to stay connected to your spouse, your friends, or even just yourself while raising young kids," Davy explained. "Recess was born from that everyday reality. We wanted to create a space that makes that truly possible — a secure environment where kids can play freely while adults can genuinely breathe for a minute without feeling like they’re on duty."
Flexible Pricing Options for Families
To cater to different family needs and budgets, Recess will offer various pricing options, including hourly rates, multi-visit packages, and long-term memberships. Additionally, the venue will introduce "Founder Memberships" that come with exclusive perks such as priority reservations and early booking for private events. This approach aims to make Recess accessible to a wide range of families, providing them with a valuable resource for spending quality time together.
Quality Food and Drink Offerings
While the specifics of the food and drink menu are still being finalized, Recess promises that its adult-oriented spaces will match the high standards of its playground. To achieve this, the owners have enlisted the expertise of hospitality consultant Scott Sulma, who has a background in managing high-end establishments, including Tony’s and the Atlas Restaurant Group’s Houston operations. This commitment to quality ensures that adults will have a sophisticated and enjoyable experience, complementing the fun and creative environment provided for kids.
Conclusion
Recess is poised to become a game-changer for families in Houston, offering a unique blend of play, relaxation, and quality time. By providing a secure and engaging environment for kids, coupled with excellent food and drink options for adults, Recess aims to make family outings easier, more joyful, and more meaningful. As co-founder Paul Rice emphasized, "Recess is about reclaiming family time — making it easier, more joyful and more meaningful. Our goal from the start was to take the stress out of family outings and give parents a chance to unwind and be present." With its innovative concept and commitment to quality, Recess is set to become a beloved destination for families in the heart of Houston.
