From Canada with Love: Bright, Casual Canuck Eatery to Bow in Galleria Soon

A BREEZY RESTAURANT concept from Canada is opening in the Galleria in a couple of weeks. Joey Uptown, the parent company's first Texas outpost, is set to bow July 28.

Billed as a "modern, urban retreat" with world-class service in a news release from yesterday afternoon, the spacious restaurant touts a globally inspired menu highlighted by seasonal, local takes. One design element that's sure to delight al fresco diners is a sunny, climate-controlled patio with a retractable roof.

Menu items include roasted corn guacamole and flame-seared salmon sushi. The resto says its Watermelon Drink, a summertime sip made with fresh watermelon, is a great bet. Its signature Joey Super is a classic highball with a citrus slush twist.

Finishes of natural wood and textured concrete — accented by brass, stone and leather — are the backdrop. Décor highlights also include a chic wine wall and, in one section, a "living green ceiling" fashioned of plants, the restaurant says.

"We're thrilled to expand down South with the addition of Joey Uptown to our collection of restaurants," said Layne Krienke, president of the Joey Restaurant Group, in a statement. "Texas and Joey hospitality go hand-in-hand, as we have both garnered a reputation for genuine warmth and care. We recognized Houston's passionate foodie scene and are honored to be a part of this restaurant community."

Joey Uptown's spacious patio has a retractable roof.

A cozy corner with a living wall at Joey Uptown