Midtown Houston Pickleball Lounge: Solarium, a new pickleball-themed lounge, restaurant, and bar, will open Thursday, May 1, in Midtown Houston at the former Holman Draft Hall site. The 9,000-square-foot venue is operated by Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr.’s Rex Hospitality and the Kirby Group.
Pickleball Meets Dining and Lounge
The Solarium was first named in June 2024, alongside the closing of Holman Draft Hall at 820 Holman St. In September, Rex Hospitality joined the Kirby Group in developing the concept. The Kirby Group runs other popular Houston venues like Pitch 25 and Heights Biergarten. The Solarium combines sports and socializing with four pickleball courts, two padel courts, and five lounge-court bays. These bays, made from repurposed shipping containers, are air-conditioned and can host private events with food and drink service.
A Glass-Centered Gathering Space
The name “Solarium” reflects the glass-lined indoor and outdoor bar space that anchors the venue. Nearby, a pro shop offers pickleball gear, branded merchandise, coffee, and snacks. The full facility is designed for comfort and flexibility, blending sports with dining and leisure. Court prices range from $10–$30 for pickleball and $20–$40 for padel. Courts open daily at 9 a.m. The restaurant opens at 11 a.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends.
Food, Drinks, and Weekend Brunch
The all-American food menu includes items like bang bang shrimp, buffalo wings, empanadas, burgers, and po’ boys. A weekend brunch adds pancakes, shakshuka, and other sweet and savory dishes. For dessert, guests can enjoy sundaes, banana splits, and caramelized apples with lemon sabayon. Drink options feature spritzes, frozen cocktails, and highballs.
Operating Hours and What’s Next
Solarium hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. With its mix of sports, food, and relaxation, the Solarium brings a new kind of destination to Houston. As more people take up pickleball, this venue offers a space where friends can gather, compete, and unwind.
News in Brief: Midtown Houston Pickleball Lounge
Solarium, a new pickleball-themed lounge in Midtown Houston, will open May 1 at the former Holman Draft Hall site. The 9,000-square-foot venue includes courts, a restaurant, and lounge areas. Operated by Rex Hospitality and the Kirby Group, it blends sports, food, and leisure in a glass-centered social space.
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