A historic space in downtown Galveston that has served customers in a variety of capacities since the 1880s is undergoing a remodel to house a new seafood concept. Depending on how long it takes to complete construction and receive equipment and interior finishes, Sugar & Rye Coastal Kitchen and Cocktail Bar could open in late November or early December.
The space at 2401 Church St. previously housed M&M Restaurant & Bar, a grocery store, a boarding house, and most recently Prohibition Red’s before Sugar & Rye owner and general manager Ryan Olsem and his partners, Emily and Brian Root, took over the space.
“I love it. It’s such a beautiful building,” Olsem told What Now Houston. Olsem is currently researching the history of the space to share with customers and work the historical aspect of the building into Sugar & Rye. “Galveston is huge for history, and I would like us to be part of that story.”
Sugar & Rye will serve upscale cuisine in a casual atmosphere with both indoor and patio seating. “We want everybody to feel comfortable to come in,” Olsem said.
The menu will focus on local seafood. The dinner menu will feature Jambalaya Risotto, Red Snapper on the Half Shell, and Filet Mignon. Other items include sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and salads. Brunch will be served on Saturdays and Sundays.
Olsem’s specialty is cocktails. “I have a lot of fun playing around with different kinds of cocktails and being creative.” The cocktail menu will offer a variety of Old Fashioneds and Sours, as well as Sugar’s Top Shelf Margarita.
Sugar & Rye recently hired Executive Chef Feron Ware. “He’s super, super talented, so we’re very excited to have him,” Olsem said.
“My big focus in the success of this restaurant is we are an employee-first restaurant,” Olsem shared. “I’ve been in the industry for 25 years now, and I’ve come to realize that the success of any place is dependent on the happiness of the employees that work for it.”
Sugar & Rye plans to pay above average hourly rates, provide bonuses, and offer profit sharing to employees. “Their success equals our success.”
