Just in time for the summer, visitors can once again delight in gastropub cuisine, cold drinks, and live entertainment at the beloved Barge 295 in Seabrook. After suffering extensive damage during Hurricane Beryl, the waterfront bar and restaurant along Clear Lake have officially reopened.
Last July, Hurricane Beryl swept through the Houston area – wreaking havoc in its path. One of its victims was Barge 295, a beloved waterfront bar, restaurant, and entertainment venue. Located a 2613 NASA Parkway in Seabrook, Barge 295 was and is the only floating bar in the Houston area. During the brutal 2024 storm, Beryl capsized the barge.
After which, bar owners Michael Hessemer and brother Patrick and Mike Robinson, had to shut down the bar to assess the damage including the sunken barge, bar’s broken windows, submerged main bar, and severely damaged deck. At the time, the owners expressed doubt as to the bar’s future unclear of whether or not they’d be able to bring it back.
“We’re sure going to try,” Mike Robinson told the Houston Chronicle.
The team was able to manage a deal with the City Council – and help of devoted community members – that would allow Barge 295 to operate a food truck at The Yard, an entertainment space adjacent to the bar and restaurant. In addition to live performances, The Yard regularly hosts other live events including bingo, themed parties, and dance performances.
In October 2024, the venue released an update of its reparation process. In what was called a “lengthy and costly process”, the barge announced that it was working on a remodel that would include a new design of its first floor and modified second floor as well as addition kitchen space. The announcement also included a new menu focused on Coastal seafood dishes.
After operating as a food truck for the larger part of the past year, Barge 295 has announced the official reopening of its floating bar and waterfront restaurant.
“Dear Barge Friends and family,” the venue wrote in a Facebook post on June 20. “The time has come! We are please to inform you that we will be opening tomorrow… Come out and help us celebrate this long-awaited occasion”.
On Monday, July 23, Barge 295 published another post announcing its official opening:
“Barge 295 is officially OPEN and back in action” the post reads. “We’re open regular hours all week… Come relax, catch the breeze, and enjoy your favorite drinks, food, and waterfront views”.
Barge 295 is located at 2613 NASA Pkwy.