Living in Rice Village / West U: Food, Lifestyle & Home Selling Guide
West University Place (West U) and the adjacent Rice Village offer one of the most premium, walkable lifestyles in Houston. Known as 'The Neighborhood City,' West U is an affluent enclave with its own police force and strict zoning. The area is heavily shaded by massive oak trees and is highly popular with doctors, employment center access, and university access. Residents love walking to the upscale boutiques and cafes in Rice Village.
Area highlights
Eat & drink
Where to eat in Rice Village / West U
Best Casual Restaurant
- Local Foods
- Benjy's
Best Coffee Shop
- Croissant Brioche
- Fellini Gelato & Caffe
Best Date Night Spot
- Coppa Osteria
- Gratify
Best Breakfast / Brunch
- Sweet Paris
- Hungry's
Get out & explore
Things to do in Rice Village / West U
- Shop the boutiques in Rice Village
- Walk or run the 3-mile loop around Rice University
- Visit the James Turrell 'Twilight Epiphany' Skyspace
- Relax at Colonial Park or Judson Park
- Enjoy the patio bars and cafes along University Blvd
The local market
Real estate & selling in Rice Village / West U
Real estate in West U and the Rice Village area is among the most expensive in Houston. The market is dominated by large, custom-built luxury homes. Lot values are incredibly high, meaning older, original homes are frequently sold as-is to builders for tear-downs. If you have an updated luxury home, a traditional listing will attract premium buyers. If you have an outdated property, a direct sale to a luxury builder is often the easiest path.
Every home and situation is different. In Rice Village / West U, you can compare:
- A fast cash offer
- An as-is sale
- Top-dollar listing strategy
- Other custom solutions
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