The Eleven XI Experience

Tucked within the pretty, tree-canopied stretch of W. Gray bridging River Oaks Shopping Center and Midtown, an eclectic mix of businesses sit side by side a collection of vintage homes that serve as a reminder of the area’s residential beginnings. Just east of Montrose Boulevard at 607 W. Gray, a 1940s era, two-story building, with charming period details, has just undergone a major renovation to transform the property, which for many years served as Bibas One’s A Meal and later Bibas Diner, into Eleven XI, a casually cool restaurant and mixology/raw bar serving Southern coastal cuisine.

The team took a hands-on approach to the construction process, which has washed the building of its formerly white and blue color scheme, introducing a more neutral color palette of earthy tones that enhance the original brickwork and carries through to the interior.

My treat began with mouth watering Grilled Oysters along with pristine oysters over ice from various parts of the country. The dilemma started when I had to decide on an entree. This place certainly is a meat lovers haven. Double-bone Lamb Chops with creamy wild mushroom risotto, Short Rib, Texas Quail, and Whole Fish of Day are some of the favorites.

The restaurant anticipates a curated and constantly evolving menu of 20-25 daily items, including 11 entrees and a variety of house made desserts. The main highlights of the restaurant is to the right of the dining area, a separate cocktail and raw bar. What draws a fascinating crowd in both casual and formal attire is the outdoor patio, the distinctive and inviting venue with a row of windows framed in brick; chalk menu wall; custom, floating liquor and glass racks; and a sloped, timbered ceiling.

Overall a wonderful experience with great desserts like Chocolate Bomb, Mini Funnel Tower or homemade ice-cream with a cup of french press coffee. For more information, reservations and meetings/events assistance, call 713-529-5881, email info@elevenxihouston.com or log onto ElevenXIHouston.com. Follow Eleven XI on Facebook at ElevenXIHouston.

Grilled Oysters

Game Hen Salad

Texas Quail

Coctails and Iced Tea

Oysters Over Ice

Chocolate Bomb and Homemade Ice Cream

Short rib