W hile there are demure, pretty little haunts in Houston where ladies lunch (think Neiman’s cafe and Tiny Boxwoods), now it seems those of the female persuasion are flocking to Bar Madonna in Montrose, leaving lunch behind for cocktails instead.

Named for the circa 1800, 10-foot painting on panel of the Virgin Mary that takes center stage inside the intimate space, Bar Madonna is actually situated within the restored neoclassical manse unveiled as the nine-key inn called The Marlene. Bar Madona’s young owner Lily Barfield, an antiquarian, has culled together some of her best-loved antique furniture and accessory finds from frequent buying trips with her mother to the French countryside.

Step over the threshold and you’ll find young Thetas and Pi Phis mingling with their Junior Leagu e

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