Shepherd’s One Fifth Transforms Again: Georgia James Tavern Pop-Up Begins in June

CHRIS SHEPHERD'S ONE Fifth journey is coming to a close, but that's all the more reason to keep people on their toes. The latest iteration, One Fifth Southern Comfort, conceived as an antidote to the pandemic blues, will conclude on June 5.

A version of Downtown's forthcoming Georgia James Tavern will pop-up inside One Fifth from June 8 until June 26. The three-week trial run will offer diners a preview of the dishes in the running to appear on the Tavern's menu — expect lots of goodness coming out of the wood-burning oven — and will offer Tavern chef Matt Coburn and new staff members an opportunity to train and get ready for the grand opening.

Xavi's Club Sandwich

7 Vegetable Salad

The plan is for the more casual offshoot of Shepherd's Westheimer steakhouse to open its doors around the conclusion of the pop-up. Located on the ground floor of the Art Deco-savvy Market Square Tower, the dark and cozy, Old Hollywood-inspired space will boast tufted leather banquets and lush drapery. Houston-based Nest Interior Design Group will utilize elements like custom marquee-style lighting and Zellige tiles handmade in Morocco lining the back bar.

During Georgia James Tavern's One Fifth takeover, events like live music on Thursdays and daily happy-hour specials will remain. And once it's over, Shepherd and Underbelly Hospitality culinary director and One Fifth exec chef Nick Fine have "a few more ideas up their sleeves" before the groundbreaking five-year concept closes for good in August.