Houston Astros’ Lance McCullers Jr. Opens Maven Coffee + Cocktails In Thompson Hotel

In the heart of Houston, where the spirit of innovation meets the pulse of a city teeming with energy, a new beacon of culinary and cultural fusion has emerged. Lance McCullers Jr., the talented pitcher for the Houston Astros, is not just aiming for perfection on the baseball diamond but also in the realm of hospitality with the opening of Maven Coffee + Cocktails, a venture that promises to tantalize the senses and elevate the city’s dining and social scene.

Teaming up with Houston entrepreneur Juan Carlos Martinez de Aldecoa and partner Jimmy Doan, McCullers has embarked on a journey to expand Maven’s footprint from its humble beginnings as a mobile coffee and cocktail cart to a swanky brick-and-mortar establishment nestled on the ground floor of The Thompson Houston hotel. This transition marks a significant milestone for Rex Hospitality Group, signaling its evolution into a formidable player in Houston’s culinary landscape.

Stepping into Maven’s new cafe is like entering a sanctuary of sophistication and serenity. Bathed in natural morning light and adorned with a tranquil palette of warm neutrals, the interior exudes an air of refined elegance. Art curated by Serrano Gallery and furnishings that beckon patrons to linger over a morning cortado or an espresso-infused cocktail in the afternoon create an inviting ambiance that fosters connection and conviviality.

 

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But Maven is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a culinary destination that seamlessly transitions from day to night. As Juan Carlos Martinez  de Aldecoa aptly describes it, “Think of it as a coffee-by-day, cocktails-by-night atmosphere.” Whether you’re craving a quick caffeine fix between meetings or seeking a sophisticated libation before or after dinner, Maven caters to every palate and occasion with aplomb.

At the helm of Maven’s culinary offerings is Nicolás “Nico” Baizán de Aldecoa, a culinary maestro whose globe-trotting adventures have imbued him with a wealth of culinary wisdom and inspiration. Drawing on his childhood memories and culinary experiences with luminaries like José Andrés and Rubén García, Nico has crafted a menu of light bites that pay homage to his roots while showcasing his innovative flair.

From decadent sandwiches like the waffle-pressed truffle grilled cheese to sweet indulgences like almond croissants and lemon tea cake, Maven’s all-day menu is a symphony of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds. Complemented by freshly squeezed juices from JuiceWell and a curated selection of wine and beer, Maven offers a culinary journey that delights and surprises at every turn.

But perhaps the pièce de résistance of Maven’s offerings is its cocktail menu, featuring an array of inspired libations crafted with precision and passion. Signature cocktails like the “conversation starter,” made with Zephyr, passionfruit, chai, mint, and honey, are designed to spark dialogue and create unforgettable moments shared among friends old and new.

As Houstonians flock to Maven to savor its culinary delights and bask in its welcoming ambiance, Lance McCullers Jr. and his partners stand poised to make their mark on the city’s culinary landscape. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for hospitality that knows no bounds, Maven Coffee + Cocktails is set to become a cherished destination where memories are made and dreams take flight.