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The SCENE Magazine

Celebrate the “Tremendous Twos” with Mainly Drinks!

Aug 02, 2013 02:54PM ● By Corinne Moore
In August 2011, Mainly Drinks opened its doors as a coffee and wine bar on 223 West Main Street in La Porte’s historic Sharp building. Since that time, Mainly Drinks has grown beyond “just drinks” to offer a complete lunch and dinner menu, live musical entertainment, and an art gallery hosting the works of local artists on a rotating basis.

While taking a break from her law career, Mainly Drinks’ owner Deb Gallington attended the renowned Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston and took classes on wine and spirits. She shared her love of wine while working in the field and her passion naturally led to the next step in opening a coffee and wine bar in the downtown La Porte area – Gallington’s adopted hometown.

Mainly Drinks’ interior is warm and intimate. The walls are adorned with local artists’ works from Art Walk by the Bay and wine bottles. “We are unique in many ways and one of those unique features is our ‘wall of wine’ which holds 756 bottles,” Gallington said. “We also have temperature controlled storage for another 400 bottles.” The large and eclectic selection of wines can be purchased by the glass, the bottle, or to take home. Gallington and her staff can assist in finding the perfect wine for you. Mainly Drinks also has more than 40 varieties of craft and micro-brewed beers not easily found anywhere else and three brands of non-alcoholic beers, too.

Every Thursday, Gallington guests explore the world of wine and beer with complimentary wine and beer tastings. The tastings begin at 5 p.m. and typically include two white wines, two red wines, and two beers. But the choices may include Gallington’s “new favorites” or even a seasonal kind; for instance, a fun holiday spiced wine from the oldest winery in America. Also, there is a 10% discount on the “tasting bottles” if purchased the same night.

Join Mainly Drinks for lunch or dinner and enjoy a meal prepared by Executive Chef Robert Hicks. Upon his arrival in October 2011, the former coffee and wine bar evolved into a full-service restaurant. Chef Hicks uses his 20-plus years of dining experience and brings talent, creativity, and a passion for food that is fully evident in his menu and presentation. Lunch is served beginning at 11 a.m. and dinner at 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.

“Our menu is varied, bold, and delicious,” said Gallington. “Drop in and enjoy a wonderful meal and a bottle of wine… or a cup of coffee.”

Mainly Drinks features ultra-premium coffees roasted in small batches by a local roaster. The coffee is delicious and prepared to order. Also available are loose-leaf teas from chai to Earl Grey to flavored greens which complement the coffee for those days when a perfectly brewed cup of tea sounds right. Relax in the pet-friendly courtyard under the umbrellas and enjoy the delightful breeze.

For entertainment, the venue showcases local live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from 8 to 11 p.m. and has added an “unplugged” set by Chris Elliot on Fridays during lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Customer satisfaction and appreciation is important to the staff at Mainly Drinks. To say thank you to their faithful friends and guests, they offer a points based rewards program called “Mainly Drinks Perks.” Join and get a $10 gift certificate mailed to you immediately! Mainly Drinks offers gift certificates and gift baskets of wine, beer, coffee, tea, or a combination for all occasions.

For more information on Art Walk by The Bay or information on holding an event at Mainly Drinks, visit www.MainlyDrinks.com or call 281-867-1700.

Happy second anniversary to Mainly Drinks! While the official date is August 18, they will be celebrating two tremendous years of doing business in La Porte throughout the entire month of August. The specials will follow the theme of “Everything in Twos” like 2-for-1’s, gift cards, and the like. Follow Mainly Drinks on Facebook and Twitter to hear what the day’s promotion will be. Mark your calendar for the Wild Game Dinner on Wednesday, August 28. “Come in and become part of our success at Mainly Drinks,” said owner Deb Gallington. “We look forward to making your experience here wonderful.”