DESPITE TODAY’S CHILL and gloom, most Houstonians would say spring has sprung — and with it comes renewal and change! The first beautiful weekend of March ushered in the official opening of Flora, a modern Mexican food concept in the former Dunlavy space by The Big Vibe Group/Grant Cooper.

The reimagined decor in the architecturally blessed contemporary building is dazzling — think Mexican treehouse getaway. The signature modern chandeliers dripping from every corner are joined by pops of bright fabric, hand-curated pottery and plush upholstery. Its stunning brass-and-marble bar teeming with tequila and mezcal sets the tone for a lively scene inside or on the dreamy, covered terrace.

Expect the menu to explore the flavors and energy of the small towns of Mexico with a Texas touch. Instead of heavier traditional Tex-Mex, the focus is on clean, organic eating, with as many made-from-scratch items possible. Expect a strong masa program churning out fresh corn tortillas, as well as house made salsas, sauces and cocktails.

Cocktails

Ceviche

The choices are extensive with small bites, a raw bar, Mexican staples and more complex entrees under the direction of three chefs: Epifanio Rosas, Daniel Gonzalez, and Reynaldo Quezada. Lighten up with chickpea spread; queso made with roasted tomatillos; ceviche; baked oysters with epazote, and charred octopus livened with salsa machaand roasted sweet potatoes. Of course, loaded nachos with shrimp and guacamole and chips are on offer for the diehards.

Looking for a unique way to veggie? Try the chayotes and cucumber with hoja santa yogurt or mushrooms al ajillo. For mains, look for shrimp and fish tacos, tostadas (tuna, seafood, and octopus), fajitas, carnitas, barbacoa, beef short ribs, chile relleno, green mole chicken, enchiladas, daily seafood specials, and more.

Tequila and mezcal cocktails are the specialty of the bar. A few sips to consider: The Escobar (reposado tequila, agave, chili and chocolate bitters); El Pipino (silver tequila, cucumber, jalapeno agave and lime); Gratify Smash (reposado tequila, ginger syrup, lemon and basil), and the Ginger Mezcalita. Salud!

Good to know: Flora is currently open daily for lunch and dinner. The space and all outdoor areas are completely non-smoking. Limited self-parking is available along with valet ($6). Flora will not be offering private functions of any kind.