Crescent Moon Wine Bar & Restaurant expands

THE WOODLANDS, Texas – Proving that a good idea can survive and thrive in an adverse economy, a Woodlands area wine bar and restaurant is expanding in size and services to better serve is growing roster of regulars.

When partners Amy Botwinis and Rodney Anderson decided to open the Crescent Moon Wine Bar & Restaurant in February of 2009, they had high hopes, but limited experience in the technical aspects of wine merchandising or food preparation.

“We brought in experts to develop our wine selection and menu preparation,” said Anderson. “Amy and I focused our energy on layout, atmosphere and most importantly, customer service.”

It’s a concept that worked. The 3,800 sq. ft. facility soon became a respected member of The Woodlands area hospitality community – offering customers a clean, comfortable oasis in which to relax with friends, family and business associates. Live entertainment adds to the festive social environment.

With its high ceilings, archways and stone wall treatments, Crescent Moon Wine Bar & Restaurant features an atmosphere reminiscent of a Tuscan villa. Patrons can enjoy an impressive array of domestic and international wines as well as a full kitchen serving up a wide variety of upscale American cuisine under the direction of Chef Patti Alvarez-Burdette.

Customers can purchase wine by the glass, bottle, case or in “flights” – multiple tastings that allow patrons the opportunity to sample a variety of wines. Crescent Moon also offers bottles to go, a particularly valuable option when patrons find a wine they really enjoy.

"There is a lot of growth and development on both sides of Interstate 45,” said Anderson. “We saw this site as a good location to serve those who want to dine, dance and relax without the congestion west of the highway.”

The success of the concept developed and executed by Botwinis and Anderson, however, led to a problem – though it was one many entrepreneurs would like to have.

“We began running out of space – particularly on weekends,” said Anderson. “You hate to turn away customers, especially regulars.”

When the entrepreneurs decided to expand, they turned to Terry McBurney, Principal of Republic Payment Systems, a Woodlands-based firm with extensive knowledge in financial services, credit card processing, and commercial real estate for restaurants and small business owners.

“Banks typically shy away from lending to restaurants, especially in today’s economy,” said Terry McBurney. “Our relationship with a variety of lenders allows Republic to assist successful businesses in securing loans for expansion or to take advantage of specific commercial opportunities.”

Anderson credits McBurney’s expertise and contacts with helping him secure the short-term financing necessary to expand the Crescent Moon Bar & Restaurant to 5,700 sq. ft. – increasing seating capacity from 120 to 180 and providing customers with a dance floor and more comfortable seating.

“Terry’s knowledge and guidance was the difference,” said Anderson. “The expansion has led to more capacity, better service and higher profits. We’re very pleased – and so are our customers.”

And while the expansion was completed less than a month ago, Anderson said more enhancements are in the works. He and Botwinis plan on securing a mixed beverage license for Crescent Moon in the near future.

“Wine and beer are very popular, but a number of our patrons enjoy mixed drinks,” noted Anderson. “We like to give our customers what they want.”

In addition to serving their customers, Anderson said the Crescent Moon Wine Bar & Restaurant is committed to serving the community. He has worked with a number of civic and charitable organizations, making the facilities available for special activities and fundraising events.

“We recognize the importance of being involved,” said Anderson. “We appreciate the support of the community and try to give back whenever possible.”