Gr8 Plate Hospitality is debuting a new restaurant concept, Jax on the Tracks, introducing a casual, family-friendly neighborhood bar and grill to the heart of Garden Oaks at 3452 Ella Blvd. Jax on the Tracks held a soft opening on February 18, which will be followed by a Grand Opening celebration on Saturday, February 28, from 12–4 p.m., with the community invited to attend. The celebration will feature food and drink specials throughout the afternoon.
The space, formerly home to Union Kitchen for ten years, is reimagined as a relaxed and welcoming gathering place designed to reflect and serve the surrounding community. Named for its location alongside the railroad tracks on Ella Boulevard, Jax on the Tracks marks the next evolution of the Jax Grill brand, thoughtfully adapted for the families, neighbors, and everyday regulars who define the neighborhood.
“We are thrilled to bring a neighborhood bar and grill to Garden Oaks and the Heights, somewhere that feels easy, welcoming, and genuinely family-friendly,” said Paul Miller, Owner of Gr8 Plate Hospitality in a statement. “By staying in the same location, we were able to build on the neighborhood connection that was already there and create a place people can return to again and again.”
Outside, a patio play area with turf and oversized games including giant Connect Four and cornhole encourages families to stay and unwind while parents relax nearby. Beginning in March, Jax on the Tracks introduces a full calendar of programming, from Trivia Night, Bingo Night, and Karaoke to Happy Hour and Kids Eat Free specials. Weekend brunch and ongoing family-focused events round out the restaurant’s long-term vision as a true neighborhood gathering place.
At its core, Jax on the Tracks is about feel-good food, classic American bar and grill picks. The menu features elevated takes on favorite dishes, including the OG Union Burger, Fish & Chips, Border Chicken Fried Chicken, and Bang Bang Shrimp, alongside burgers, pizzas, tacos, and hearty entrées designed to appeal to both adults and kids alike. The restaurant is also partnering with Houstin favorites like Demeris BBQ to offer authentic Brisket Frito Chili Pie, Brisket Pizza and Brisket Benedict (Available at Brunch); as well as Kenny & Ziggy’s for fresh-baked desserts including Carrot Cake and Oreo Cake.
The beverage program at Jax on the Tracks is built for both easygoing sipping and celebratory moments, anchored by 10 signature cocktails, including the Jax Award-Winning Margarita, Pineapple Jalapeño Martini, Espresso Martini, and South of the Tracks, alongside elevated favorites like a Smoked Old Fashioned, Empress Gin French 75, and Mango Mezcalita. Rounding out the bar program is a curated wine and beer selection.
Designed as a neighborhood bar and grill, Jax on the Tracks blends two vibes under one roof, a lively, open area for families and groups, plus a large central bar with expanded TV coverage with over 10 more screens. Warm lighting, neon accents, and Edison bulbs reinforce the laid-back atmosphere.
Jax on the Tracks will be open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-9pm; Friday 11am-10pm; Saturday 10am-10pm; Sunday 10am-8pm.
For updates and more information, visit jaxgrillhouston.com and follow @jaxgrillhouston.
