Don’t sleep on Khaliah Guillory, even though that is exactly the purpose of her new business venture. The self-proclaimed nap enthusiast is making it snazzy to snooze in the middle of the workday with the opening of Nap Bar, a full-service “bar” – think spa and no alcohol – where patrons can rent pods to rejuvenate with a quick catnap.
Now open in Rice Village, Nap Bar offers a pleasurable sleep environment with black-out curtains, organic mattresses, chamomile and lavender scents and even a soundtrack to stimulate brainwaves that release melatonin. Right now, there is only one Houston-area location but Khaliah is hopeful other locations will open around the city.
“I’ve napped my whole life and I found myself taking them in my car during breaks at work. But with the summer temperatures and how uncomfortable it is to sleep in a car, I just thought there had to be a better way,” said Khaliah.
So, what does Khaliah enjoy around H-Town that leaves her so exhausted? We caught up with her to find out.
What is your favorite thing to do in Houston?
I love to eat. I am such a foodie. Anytime family is in town, we hit up The Breakfast Klub. It’s a staple. I love the Truffled Egg Salad Sandwich from Local Foods. Also, I’m a small-town girl and I love me some Luby’s. I’m all over the spectrum.
What are some of your favorite places to grab a drink?
I don’t really go out at night anymore but I do go to happy hour at Davenport Lounge and Benjy’s mostly.
What is an under-the-radar activity or place you love in the city?
I went to the Polish festival last year and had the time of my life. The music, art and shows were so intriguing. I love that Houston celebrates all the different cultures in the city with individual events and festivals.
What is your favorite thing about Houston?
The people and sense of community. I love that it’s a melting pot of a lot of different cultures.
What advice would you give someone visiting for the first time?
Think of what you are most interested in and find people, whether through a meetup group or some other way, and get their insight to the heartbeat of the city.
Nap Bar is located at 6111 Kirby and is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.