R+D Kitchen

A chainlet from the owners of such restaurants as Bandera and Houston’s, R + D Kitchen livens up the moms-with-strollers vibe of Montana Avenue with a bustling bar and a tight American menu. And we mean tight: at lunch, there are four sandwiches—including the popular Reubenesque sandwich of corned beef, baby swiss, and toasted corn rye—and four salads—including the sought-after Newporter salad of roast chicken, summer greens, apples, bacon, and cashews. At dinner, there are five entrees, such as the wild mushroom meatloaf with spinach and masheds. Luckily, the seating doesn’t feel as tight as the menu; the all-booth and banquette arrangement offers plenty of private nooks. The industrial feel of the space is warmed by touches like the central palm tree growing to the ceiling and a stash of books above the bar. It’s a great place to grab a bite before taking in a film at the Aero across the street, and a good excuse to leave the stroller at home.

TIPS: Parking on the side streets off Montana Avenue is free for two hours.  There is no corkage fee while dining.  Takeout is available at the bar but not over the phone.