As Cocktails-to-Go Goes Permament, Julep’s New ‘Ready To Drink’ Touts All Things Adult Beverage

As Cocktails-to-Go Goes Permament, Julep’s New ‘Ready To Drink’ Touts All Things Adult Beverage

IN NEED OF a craft cocktail but not yet comfortable with imbibing at a bar? Julep owner Alba Huerta and Big Ice HTX owner Luis Villegas have you covered. Just in time for Texas' new law permanently legalizing the Covid-era phenomenon of takeaway adult beverages, the two have just opened Ready To Drink, a drink pop-up and one-stop shop for all things cocktail in the 1,000-square-foot private room located off of the Julep patio.


The new shop will have 100 bottled classic and modern cocktails, like Negronis, Martinis, Old Fashioneds and Bees Knees, all sporting a shelf-life of at least three weeks. Oh, and they'll also be offering some cocktails, like their margaritas, by the half-gallon and gallon — Salud!

"The pandemic forced us to get creative in so many ways," said Alba in a release. "The idea of a pop-up shop was a great way for us to create an alternative revenue stream during a time when bars were closed, and now that we've reopened, this shop complements what we're doing inside the bar at Julep so beautifully."

In addition to bottled cocktails, the shop will also be selling several different shapes and sizes of large format ice from Big Ice HTX so patrons of the shop can easily create mixologist-worthy cocktails at home. On that note, there is also a living wall featuring herbs for cocktail garnishes at the shop, in addition to pre-packaged dried herbs for garnishes.

The shop will also feature a charcuterie of cocktail accessories and goods — think prosecco gummies, boozy ice cream, Negroni soap, mixers, pool floaties for your drink, whiskey-flavored popcorn, mimosa lollipops, shakers, juggers, strainers and muddlers — to provide customers with a fully curated cocktail experience.

Located at 1919 Washington (just off the Julep patio), Ready to Drink will be open from 4-9pm daily.

Food
Leadership in Action: ‘Family, Community and Spiritual Connection’ Drives Success for Henry Richardson

How did you get to where you are today? The present moment is a combined history of my family, my time as an athlete, my passion for learning, and my desire to see the world be better. I grew up as a successful springboard and platform diver, however, an injury caused me to seek alternative treatments to heal my body. In that process, I discovered the power of yoga, exercise, meditation, mindset, and nutrition. This holistic approach eventually led me to open a Pilates and cycling studio called DEFINE body & mind. I opened studios around the nation, and after selling most of my business between 2017-2019, I was ready to explore how I could make an even greater impact on the wellbeing of our community. In 2023, I started actively working on a brand new multi-family/apartment concept called, Define Living. The idea focused on offering health and wellness services within a beautiful apartment setting to increase the wellbeing of our residents. Having a strong sense of community is the number one factor in living a happy life, so why not build a community where daily fitness, cooking classes, and social connection are the norm? We opened Define Living in March of 2024, and we couldn’t be happier with how things are being received. We are already looking at building more concepts like this in the Houston area and beyond.

Keep Reading Show less

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

Keep Reading Show less

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

Keep Reading Show less