Now Let Us Prey

Dig into celeb chef Chris Shepherd’s bloody unique new steakhouse, set in an old Montrose church.

Julie Soefer
img_614
img_614

Formerly Mark’s American Cuisine for nearly two decades, and a ’20s-era church in its original life, the cathedral-esque structure near the corner of Westheimer and Dunlavy is again reborn. Celebrated Underbelly chef Chris Shepherd has opened the first iteration of his One Fifth: One Fifth Steak.


Far from traditional in every sense, the two-story dining concept — which features stained glass windows by Houston street artist Gonzo 247 — will rotate every year for five years; by fall it will become Romance Languages and feature Western European fare. The art, including the windows, and Matthew Tabor art deco pieces, will also rotate.

Thoughtful nuances like candles in glass jars brought out to each table seem to be nothing more than tchotchkes, but at closer glance turn out to little lanterns fueled by rendered down Wagyu beef fat accompanied with house-made sourdough. A bright idea — and edible! The single-page menu is equal parts simple and impressive. The grilled bacon sausage, served over crispy hash browns with crème fraiche, is made in house, while the steaks, sourced from local purveyors 44 Farms and Marble Ranch, are cooked in cast-iron, and are best paired with sides like the twice-baked potatoes or “lamburger helper” — Shepherd’s grownup take on hamburger helper.

Shepherd’s eclectic tastes span beyond the menu to the vast dining space, which has welcomed the addition of a cocktail bar and raw bar, where your attention will likely be drawn to the baby-blue velvet framed picture of Mr. Spock. Why? “Why not!” exclaim the bar staff, who say it’s supposed to spur conversation.

And because Chris Shepherd wants it there.

Uncategorized
Leadership in Action: ‘Setting Clear Goals’ Among Secrets of Success for Attorney Jess Bailey

How did you get to where you are today? A few key principles integrated into my life: setting clear goals, maintaining a growth mindset, building strong habits, and surrounding myself with the right people. Goals provided direction, while a growth mindset helped me turn challenges into opportunities for learning. Consistent habits, like disciplined work and effective communication, kept me moving forward. Being surrounded by motivated, supportive individuals has elevated my standards and kept me accountable. They’ve provided advice, encouragement, and sometimes that extra push I needed to stay on track. With these elements, I’ve been able to create a framework that helps me succeed and ensures I continue to grow and evolve.

Keep Reading Show less
People + Places

Lisa Rich, Jessica Givens, Coco Lu

BETWEEN AN EXCITING raffle and runway show, Homemade Hope's fash bash at Tootsies was a truly tasteful success! More than 160 well heeled attendees also enjoyed browsing the season's most stylish offerings and chatting with Homemade Hope's executive director, Blair Bentley Ozenbaugh, about its mission to support at-risk children via mentoring and culinary lessons.

Keep Reading Show less
Style

Symphony Springs to Life with Floral-Fabulous Fete

Jacob Power and Priscilla Dickson

Chairs Brady and Zane Carruth, Brittany and Adam Clark

IT ALREADY FEELS like spring in Houston and the spring social season is here with it! 375 guests donned in white-tie flocked to The Post Oak Hotel for the annual Houston Symphony Ball, one of the city’s most anticipated and A-list galas.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties