Via Swamplot, I see that the Heights Theater on 19th Street is for sale. That's way too cool a property to sit idle, and that area is pretty hot, so I'm sure there will be a taker. I can only hope that it will be someone who'll aim to restore it rather than tear it down, especially for yet another overpriced luxury high-rise. The comment at that Bunny Bungalow post suggesting that Shade restaurant buy it would be welcome, as would the Swamplot suggestion of an Alamo Drafthouse (woo hoo, no need to trek way out west!) - the fact that the Heights is technically dry is something that can be worked around as needed. I'm just rooting for something good to happen, so at least one cool old theater in this town can live on in its true glory.
Posted by Charles Kuffner on August 08, 2008 to Elsewhere in HoustonIf you think that "technically dry is something that can be worked around as needed", you may be forgetting the late Kaldi Cafe, which was driven out of business by the bluestockings at the Baptist Temple when they tried to get a beer and wine license.
If the Alamo tries it, expect there to be an uproar. I hope they do, but I suspect they won't.
Posted by: Michael on August 8, 2008 6:37 AMI remember the Kaldi Cafe saga, but I also know that several other establishments have entered the Heights and serve alcohol. The Berryhill on 11th was able to buy a grandfathered license from an old ice house. Shine does the "private club" thing, which perhaps an Alamo Drafthouse could do. I'm just saying that I think the obstacles can be overcome.
Posted by: Charles Kuffner on August 8, 2008 10:16 AM