As summer winds down, Galveston’s business scene is heating up with fresh openings and vibrant returns. Each month, Galveston Monthly spotlights what’s new and noteworthy across the island from culinary debuts to boutique arrivals.
This month, we highlight the opening of a new pizza place on the Seawall, the reopening of a west-end bar and event space, and three new and unique boutiques in The Shops at the Hutchings, Sealy & Co. Building on Strand Street.
Whether you're craving a slice, seeking a refreshing sip, or browsing for something bold and local, discover what’s new before planning your perfect Galveston day.
What’s New at the Hutchings, Sealy & Co. Building Located at 2328 Strand Street, the Hutchings, Sealy & Co. Building stands as a striking tribute to Galveston’s Renaissance Revival architecture. Built in 1895 as two adjoining structures, the three-story landmark evokes a grander era in the city’s commercial history.
Today, it houses nearly 20 distinctive boutiques as part of the co-op of Shops on Strand Street. Recently, three new businesses have joined this vibrant mix, adding fresh energy to one of Galveston’s most storied settings.
Mr. Z The Men’s Store on the Strand Located on the second floor, Mr. Z The Men’s Store on the Strand is the go-to destination for men “stylin’ on the island,” as owner Philippe Bryant puts it. The boutique carries high-style shirts, swim trunks, beach jackets, and authentic Panama hats - many available in larger sizes. Visitors will also find an array of travel essentials, toiletries, and accessories for those last-minute vacation or cruise needs.
Beyond beachwear, Mr. Z’s offers a curated selection of candles, beard accessories, and clever gifts - especially popular with dads and grads. A New York City native, Bryant brings his urban taste for quality and flair to Galveston, where he now enjoys life in the historic East End with his family.
The shop is open Thursday through Sunday, from noon to 6pm. For more information, call 409.502.8330.
Sassy Pineapple & Sewceans Sharing Suite 250 on the second floor of the building, Sassy Pineapple and Sewceans bring a vibrant blend of fashion, art, and craftsmanship to the Strand. Sassy Pineapple showcases tropical-inspired clothing, accessories, and island-style décor, while Sewceans specializes in alterations, upcycled garments, and custom designs - including tailor-made outfits for pets.
Most of the boutique’s clothing is crafted from 100% cotton or linen, chosen for its breathable, eco-conscious qualities.
Décor throughout the space reflects a playful spirit, with original artwork by owner Jacki Cosgrove, her husband Ray, and Sewceans owner Jodi Glaros. Ray’s work includes a turtle sculpture featured in Galveston’s Turtles About Town project, now on display at The Bryan Museum.
Sassy Pineapple offers a curated selection of dresses, tops, pants, shorts, jumpsuits, and accessories such as handbags, hats, earrings, necklaces, and handmade scrunchies.
Sewceans complements the boutique with expert tailoring, custom silhouettes, and island-inspired art. Services include hems, zipper replacements, patches, and more.
The boutique’s charm is matched by its setting - original wood floors, two large windows overlooking the Strand, warm wood fixtures, and a lush wall of greenery create a welcoming atmosphere.
Before settling into the Hutchings, Sealy & Co. Building, Cosgrove operated Sassy Pineapple as a pop-up in locations across Galveston. Both she and Glaros bring years of retail and marketing experience to their shared space.
To celebrate the back-to-school season, Sassy Pineapple and Sewceans will host a special “Mom’s Only Shopping Time” from Monday, August 11 through Friday, August 15.
Shoppers can enjoy complimentary champagne and receive 10% off purchases over $50. During this week only, the boutique will open early at 10am to welcome guests.
Regular hours are 11am to 6pm daily, with Tuesday reserved for appointments only. For more information, contact Sassy Pineapple at 713.503.8050 or Sewceans at 469.496.7486.
Beachsiders Bar Claire and Chris Downing have brought new life to this laid-back seaside hangout on 13 Mile Road, just past Pirate’s Beach West on Galveston’s West End. With over 2,000 square feet of indoor space and an outside bar with a three-tiered outdoor deck rising 25 feet, Beachsiders offers panoramic views just steps from the public beach access.
Inside, guests can unwind with board games like chess, checkers, and dominoes, or head outside for cornhole and coastal breezes. Sports fans will find their teams on screen, while Friday nights feature live music and Saturdays bring interactive karaoke with crowd participation.
The Galveston Food Truck is on site each day the bar is open, serving up favorites until 10 or 11pm - or, as Claire Downing puts it, “until the line ends.” Guests can enjoy outdoor seating for 50 or more, with rotating happy hour specials like $5 cheeseburgers, $1 wings, $5 Texas Toast BLTs, and $5 beef or chicken tacos.
Beachsiders is strictly 21 and up, offering a relaxed adult-only atmosphere with plenty of room to unwind. Located at 4229 13 Mile Road, the bar is open Wednesday through Friday from 4pm to midnight, Saturday from noon to midnight, and Sunday from noon to 8pm. It’s closed Monday and Tuesday.
For private event rentals or more information, call 409.737.2000. Whether you're planning a sunset gathering or a lively night out, Beachsiders brings laid-back coastal charm and Gulf-side fun to the island.
Nesa’s Pizza New to Seawall Boulevard’s east end, Nesa’s Pizza occupies the former Jack in the Box spot directly across from the beach. This family-run eatery is led by Bekim and Lily Zeka, who handle the kitchen most days while their two daughters oversee the front of house.
The Zekas bring years of restaurant experience to the island, with their daughters having worked in many of their previous ventures.
Originally from Kosovo, the family emigrated to Texas twelve years ago and recently made Galveston their full-time home. They were drawn to the island by the community’s warmth and the location’s beachside charm.
Guests at Nesa’s Pizza can enjoy a front-row view of the Gulf while dining on homemade pizza, pasta, and classic sub sandwiches. This laid-back, family-run spot offers a scenic retreat with savory comfort food just steps from the beach.
Nesa’s is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 9pm and closed on Mondays. The restaurant is located at 920 Seawall Boulevard. For more information, call 409.539.5002.