March 10, 2022
The 10 Best Businesses in Downtown Houston Near 717 Texas Avenue
“Location, location, location!”
The phrase may be cliche, but when it comes to real estate, its meaning couldn’t ring truer. Location is one of the most important considerations when you’re looking for office space.
One reason location can’t be overlooked is that employees value the convenience of working nearby great businesses, whether they want a diversion, sustenance, or simply a walk in the park. And research shows that keeping employees happy boosts productivity and your bottom line. (In fact, a Gallup report shows that unhappy workers cost American companies $300 billion each year.)
If you’re looking to lease executive office suites in Houston, 717 Texas Avenue is an unbeatable location. The Square’s flexible office spaces are in the center of it all, in close walking distance to an abundance of entertainment, food, and more.
It’s the perfect trifecta: You can support small business owners in Houston, keep your team’s spirits high, and make more money, all just by working at a great location.
Here are 10 businesses in Downtown Houston we consider a must-visit, all within walking distance of 717 Texas.
Food & Drink
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee on your way into the office, lunching with coworkers, or meeting friends for after-work cocktails, there are plenty of food and drink options in Downtown Houston.
Potente
10-minute walk
Italian just got a whole lot swankier at Potente, which dishes up everything from seafood and steak to homemade pasta. And, oh boy, that pasta: In November 2020, Potente’s truffle pasta was featured as “One of the Best Pastas in the Country" by Food Network. Owned by Houston Astros’ owner and chairman Jim Crane, the restaurant features an interior designed by Gensler to evoke a modern Italian villa.
Day 6 Coffee Co.
2-minute walk
This self-proclaimed “collaborative space for creatives, entrepreneurs, and high-performers” stays open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Family-owned and -operated — and an inspiration to other small business owners in Houston — Day 6 serves traditional coffee shop offerings alongside specialty lattes in flavors like lavender, and a variety of baked goods, breakfast items, and even specialty cheesecakes.
2-minute walk
You can’t say “TGIF!” without Frank’s Pizza. Stop in for a hot slice of New York style pizza, or go for a whole pie and cheese sticks. Frank’s also serves lasagna, wings, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and dessert.
5-minute walk
Set in one of Houston’s oldest buildings, gastrolounge Hearsay Mart Square offers eclectic American cuisine — including a vegetarian menu alongside its meat-centric one. Sip on a Prohibition era-inspired craft cocktail while you wait for your shrimp and grits, or hit happy hour for $5 apps and $6 cocktails.
4-minute walk
Underground Hall is perfect for a group who can’t agree on the same restaurant. The venue is what’s known as a food hall, a market showcasing a variety of local food and beverage vendors, and mini-versions of local eateries. Here, you’ll find shareable plates at Wokker, Mexican fare at Birria Los Primos, hot chicken at Bird Haus, desserts at Luv’em Leches, and Vietnamese cuisine at The Pho Fix. There’s even a bar and beer garden.
Parks
Want to enjoy a stroll through nature or beautiful outdoor art on your lunch break? There are a number of parks within walking distance of 717 Texas.
10-minute walk
This 22-acre park on the Buffalo Bayou was created in 1986 to commemorate Houston's 150th birthday. Enjoy hiking and biking trails, the waterway, and the green spaces, or pay a visit to artist Mel Chin's seven 70-foot pillars that honor Houston’s past and present.
4-minute walk
This historic park has its roots in the 1830s as the original heart of community activity in downtown Houston. Now, it’s where locals and visitors alike come to celebrate history, connect, and unwind with events like movies under the stars, bingo nights, and even fitness classes.
Entertainment
717 Texas is right next door to the Theater District, so there are plenty of entertainment options to choose from.
Jesse H. Jones Hall for the Performing Arts
1-minute walk
Want to watch Jeff Goldblum’s jazz band, hear Neil deGrasse Tyson discuss the cosmos, or see a performance by Houston’s best creatives? It’s all at this venue that opened in 1966 in tribute to Jesse Holman Jones, a historic Houston figure in the first half of the 20th century. The hall is also home to SPA Houston and the Houston Symphony.
4-minute walk
See you at the movies! Enjoy blockbusters and indies alike at AMC Houston 8, which offers discount Tuesdays and specialty cocktails, craft beers and premium wines at MacGuffins Bar.
2-minute walk
Plays here feature a Resident Acting Company and run the gamut, from dramas and off-the-wall comedies to re-invigorated classics.
Conclusion
Employees value an office location that’s close to great businesses in Downtown Houston. Proximity to food, drink, entertainment, and outdoor spaces makes work-life balance easier and more delightful.
Looking for executive office suites in Houston with flexible lease terms? The Square at 717 Texas, managed by Hines, offers dynamic workspaces — including private offices, flex suites, and enterprise suites — enhanced amenities, and short- and long-term commitment options.
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