Leon's Lounge

Leon's Lounge has been a favorite of Houston drinkers for decades and when it abruptly closed in late January it was a blow to the Bayou City bar scene.

This week plans for were made public for Leon's Lounge, located in Midtown at 1006 McGowen, to return to Houston's nightlife under new management.

Duane Bradley, who owns The Davenport Lounge off Richmond near South Shepherd and another location in Clear Lake, announced that he and his business partner Jim DeFoyd have reached an agreement with Scarlett Yarborough, the owner of the Leon's Lounge building and business name to reopen the bar.

If all goes to plan the bar should be open for business and slinging drinks on Sept. 1.

The bar closed in January after owner Scaarlett opted not renew the lease after five years of operation. Scarlett leased the bar and gave it a makeover that included new design, turntables and a stash of records and drinks a step or three above dive fare. It will reopened in October 2015 and featured live music and local guest DJs.

Since January Yarborough has mulled over various options for the future of the bar. As Houston's oldest bar it has years of history inside its walls.

"I'm thrilled that Jim and Duane are both aboard,” says Scarlett Yarborough. "I wouldn't have done it with anyone else.”

The bar is just about a decade older than she is, making it almost like an older sibling to her.

"These guys are great partners and really have an eye for history and nostalgia,” Yarbor