“El Segundo Swim Club is the premier spot for those seeking a fun and unpretentious, yet sophisticated pool club in Houston,” said Matthew Healey, owner of El Segundo Swim Club in a statement. “We’re excited to reopen our doors and bring our relaxed, international vibe to our friends and those visiting our city right here in the Second Ward.”
The East End swim club, a 15,000 square-foot oasis, features an oversized cocktail-depth pool and a full-service bar. As you step through the club’s stacked stone entrance, you will be transported from a concrete jungle into an urban retreat where the drinks are always flowing.
El Segundo Swim Club channels the eclectic, bohemian and laidback energy of Houston while also layering colors and murals that are reminiscent of vintage Rio. Oversized, sculptural palm fronds, a mix of industrial elements and lush landscaping create a chill environment, kind of like visiting a friend’s whimsical backyard pool.
Reserved for those 21-plus years of age, the club features amenities including hammocks and lounge chairs, complimentary towel and sunscreen service and changing rooms available for all guests. For guests or groups looking for an upgraded experience, multiple private cabanas are available and can be reserved.
The swim club’s beverage menu, curated veteran mixologist Chris Frankel, features a variety of summer cocktails, a collection of independent grower Champagnes, mixed-drink carafes, frosty pitchers and canned beers. Food is available for purchase during peak hours via rotating food trucks.
Day passes (from $25) to access El Segundo Swim Club are available through the club’s website or TOCK.
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Mint julep sips at — where else? — Julep
Arnaldo Richards' Picos
While their main event will be Cinco de Mayo the next day (their 40th!) Picos will have derby-inspired drinks with happy hour from 11-5pm. Don’t miss the best-dressed contest — the winner gets a brunch for four!
Backstreet Cafe
Maker's Mark and patio-fave Backstreet Cafe are teaming up for an all-day party May 4, featuring three iterations of a Maker's Mark mint julep and a special dish: Backstreet's Kentucky Derby Board ($32) has deviled eggs, pimento cheese, cucumber sandwiches, hot-chicken biscuits, and fried green tomatoes with crab remoulade. And don't forget the hats! There will be a prize for the best one.
Brasserie 19
B19's Derby Day bash (photo by Andy Hemingway)
Mark your calendars: the 150th Kentucky Derby is right around the corner. Wear your finest hats and raise your mint juleps as Brasserie 19 hosts its annual Kentucky Derby Hat Party on May 4 from 1pm-7pm. Round up your crew and join the River Oaks crowd for an afternoon of horse racing and high style. Put your Derby hat game to the test for a chance to win a Champagne brunch for six! To secure your reservation for the party, contact the restaurant directly at 713.524.1919.
Brenner's on the Bayou
Brenner's on the Bayou
Wine Fest Derby Style is back at Brenner’s on the Bayou. Guests are invited on Saturday, May 4, to sample an exclusive wine collection while listening to live music and strolling around the scenic property. In addition, chef-crafted bites will be served from eight of Houston’s top restaurants. This year, the outdoor festival will feature 18 wineries and sampling of more than 40 wines, including Napa Valley-based Revana Family Vineyards owned by Houston physician Madaiah Revana. Guests are invited to break out their spring pastels, hats and fascinators and enter the Derby Big Hat Contest. Grand, second and third prizes will be awarded. After the event, stay and watch the race at one of Houston’s best patio bars, Blue Bar. Wine Fest Experience Tickets, available here, are $150, or $250 for the VIP Exclusive Experience.
Hamsa
Even Hamsa, Rice Village’s Israeli resto, is getting in on the fun! Enjoy a Woodford-sponsored Derby brunch and drink menu from 11:30am-2:30pm on its verdant patio. Guests are encouraged to dress the part, so break out the bowties and fancy hats!
Heights Bier Garten
Heights Bier Garten
For a more casual affair, check out Heights Bier Garten's eighth annual Race for the Roses party. Doors open at 11am, but Derby festivities won't begin until 3pm, when Davi Jay & The Bourbon Street Experience take the stage. Plenty of games, photo booths, and mint juleps here! Best Dressed Contest takes place at 6:30pm.
Julep
James Beard Award-winning bar owner Alba Huerta and Top Chef pitmaster contender Michelle Wallace will team up at Julep’s annual Derby bash May 4, from 1-4pm. Expect mint julep-friendly bites throughout the afternoon and DJ G-Funk and DJ Goodfat live entertainment. The Wash Ave hot spot encourages guests to show off their Southern flair and break out their best Derby hats and bowties for the backyard tented event, which features several bars. Tickets available online.
Pier 6
Take a mini road trip and enjoy Derby Day bayside! Pier 6 throws a spirited soiree on its patio, 4-7pm, complete with a rose-covered wall for pics, wine-basket prize for the best dressed, and Woodford mint juleps for just $8 (the best price we've seen!). Plus: Guests who pick the winning horse will be entered into a raffle for a Pier 6 gift card.