In the heart of Midtown Houston, a novel concept has emerged that combines specialty coffee, cocktails, and sneaker culture into one vibrant space. Sneaks Coffee + Lounge, which opened its doors last month, offers visitors an immersive experience with a unique atmosphere. The café is co-founded by hospitality expert Eddie Massa, Native Coffee owner Pouya Alavi, and attorney Ash Tadghighi, a sneaker enthusiast. Spanning 5,000 square feet, this innovative venue includes a coffee shop, cocktail bar, and sneaker exhibition area. The interior design reflects a sophisticated yet bold aesthetic, blending modern elements with vintage flair to create an inviting ambiance for both casual coffee drinkers and sneaker aficionados.
The café’s design, spearheaded by Managing Partner Sonia Kheshtkar, showcases a striking contrast between raw street culture and refined elegance. Deep blacks, warm cognac tones, and rich blues dominate the color palette, complemented by luxurious textures such as leather, suede, and velvet. Metallic accents in gold and brass add a touch of opulence, while plush seating and industrial elements ensure a comfortable yet edgy environment. The space is thoughtfully arranged with modern lounge furniture and vintage-style pieces that pay homage to the 1990s sneaker and hip-hop era.
Pouya Alavi leads the coffee program, featuring custom-blended beans from District Roasters, also the supplier for his Native Coffee. The coffee setup includes a Compak E8 espresso grinder paired with a Slayer Steam espresso machine for crafting premium espresso drinks, and a Bunn G2 grinder for drip coffee and cold brew. The speakeasy lounge, accessible through a hidden door disguised as cafe shelving, extends the coffee experience with offerings like the Black Cat Tini, an espresso martini, and Mr. Bean, a coffee-based tequila shot.
Sneakers are not just a theme but a central element at Sneaks. Tadghighi’s personal collection of sneakers is displayed in museum-like exhibits with LED-lit shelves against white-painted brick walls. A standout feature is a wall where twelve vintage Air Jordans form the numbers of a clock, creating a visually stunning focal point. “We wanted to showcase iconic pairs as works of art,” Kheshtkar explained. This design choice highlights the cultural significance of sneakers and enhances the overall appeal of the space.
Beyond Sneaks, the founding trio manages other establishments in Midtown Houston, including PDA nightclub and 40 All sports bar. Each venue has its distinct identity, yet they all share a commitment to delivering high-quality, immersive experiences. For Massa, Sneaks represents another successful venture in his extensive portfolio of openings, adding to his legacy in the hospitality industry.
Located at 3030 Travis St., Sneaks Coffee + Lounge stands out as a pioneering establishment in the United States, merging sneaker culture with specialty coffee. It offers a fresh take on café and bar concepts, providing a memorable experience for visitors who appreciate both the art of coffee and the allure of sneakers.