Introduction to Recess
A new 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, called Recess, promises to offer a unique experience for busy families, providing a space where kids can play and have fun while parents can relax and socialize.
The Concept and Design
Located in a former bank building at 1500 Waugh Dr., Recess is a 12,500-square-foot, two-story venue designed specifically for parents and kids. The highlight of the venue is a supervised play area created by Houston design firm Rootlab, which will feature a creative and colorful environment where kids can play freely. The play area will be supervised by Recess’ staff, comprising highly trained caregivers, allowing parents to enjoy a meal or a drink in the second-story restaurant without worrying about their kids.
Benefits for Families
According to the owners, Recess is designed to provide a win-win solution for families, giving kids a break from screen time while allowing adults to take a break from childcare responsibilities. As co-founder Jonathan Davy stated, "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." Recess aims to create a secure environment where kids can play freely while adults can relax and recharge.
Pricing and Membership Options
Recess will offer families a range of price points, including hourly rates, multi-visit packages, and long-term memberships. The venue will also offer a limited number of "Founder Memberships" that come with perks such as priority reservations and early booking for private events. This will allow families to choose a membership option that suits their needs and budget.
Food and Drink Offerings
While the details of the food and drink offerings are still being finalized, Recess promises that its adult-oriented spaces will match the quality of its playground. The owners have retained hospitality consultant Scott Sulma to develop the food and drink aspect of the venue. Sulma has previously worked as the general manager of Tony’s and as the area director for Baltimore-based Atlas Restaurant Group’s Houston operations.
Conclusion
Recess is set to revolutionize the way families spend time together in Houston. By providing a unique and secure environment where kids can play and adults can relax, Recess aims to make family time easier, more joyful, and more meaningful. As co-founder Paul Rice stated, "Recess is about reclaiming family time — making it easier, more joyful and more meaningful." With its innovative concept, supervised play area, and range of pricing options, Recess is sure to become a popular destination for families in Houston.
