The 02-03-24 Edition of The Heights Leader

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Saturday, February 3, 2024 • Vol. 69 • No. 5

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Houston craft beer icon Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company closes doors amid financial struggles, predicts re-opening

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By Lisa Morales The Leader News Contributor Houston’s craft beer landscape has taken another hit with the recent closure of Buffalo Bayou Brewing Company at Sawyer Yards, also known as Buff Brew. Per Eric Sandler of CultureMap Houston, owner Jon Deal served Buff Brew CEO William McLucas on Friday, January 26th with a notice of default due to nonpayment of rent, leading to the termi-

nation of the brewery’s lease at 2101 Summer St. Buff Brew, founded in 2011 with aspirations of becoming Houston’s most creative brewery according to its website, had expanded to a sprawling 28,000-square-foot facility in 2019 after its beginnings in a small warehouse off of I-10. The space, which was praised for its architecture, comprised a first floor housing the See BUFFALO P. 4

Buffalo Brewing Company at Sawyer Yards, 2023.

FROM LOSS TO PURPOSE

INSIDE.

Photo by Stefanie Thomas)

Tacos A Go Go marks 18 years of spicing up Houston’s culinary scene

Alice Blue announces closure end of February

By Lisa Morales The Leader News Contributor

Page 2

Heights’ beloved Tex-Mex spot, Tacos A Go Go (TAGG), is celebrating its 18th anniversary this year. Established in 2006 by owner Sharon Haynes and head chef Maribel Gomez, TAGG has become a homegrown, female-led success story that continues to evolve with authentic Mexican flavors, a new THC seltzer, and charitable support for the entire hospitality industry.

TAGG currently operates five locations in Houston with two being in the Greater Heights area. Their Midtown location is the original, the Oak Forest location on TC Jester, the Heights location on White Oak, the Downtown Tunnels, and the Greenway Plaza area location complete the mix. Reflecting on TAGG’s journey, Haynes and Gomez have a history that predates the original Midtown location and has continued to grow and change over nearly two decades – no small feat in the restaurant industry.

Haynes, initially a bartender, cofounded her first restaurant, Solero, in Downtown Houston in 1995 where she first met Chef Gomez. Solero introduced Houston to tapas, which was not a wellknown concept on the food scene at that time. Haynes recalls with a chuckle many phone calls asking what the “top-

What’s cooking in the Heights?

Lovely dinners!

Page 5

Submitted photo

Poppy’s Run for Life held its inaugural event in March 2023, with proceeds benefiting JFS Houston and the Montrose Center.

Poppy’s Run for Life aims to crush stigma and raise awareness Getting ready to sell?

Here is how to prepare

By Stefanie Thomas editor@theleadernews.com

Page 5

On March 9, 2022, Heights resident Caryn Honig made a heartbreaking discovery – her father, Morton “Poppy” Honig, had taken his own life inside his Houston home. Unfortunately, this was not the first tragedy to strike her family. Four decades earlier, Honig’s grandfather, Sam “Poppy” Rosen, also died by suicide when she was just a teenager.

Reflecting on the loss, Honig shared her grief, stating she still has feelings of guilt. “I still ask myself all the time if I should have done something different, if I did everything I could,” she said, adding that her grief was (and still is) so profound that she had to seek the help of a therapist herself.

ART VALET: Meet the cop that became a wood turner

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THE INDEX. People ���������������������������������������2 Topics ����������������������������������������6 Classifieds ���������������������������������7 Local Culture �����������������������������8

By Rubena Gracia The Leader News Contributor Coltivare, a Heights neighborhood restaurant, recently celebrated its 10year anniversary. On Jan. 23, a special 4-course dinner event offered selections from the 2014 opening menu, current favorites, and dishes hinting at future menu choices. Wine pairings – each bottle a 2014 vintage in honor of the anniversary – were also available.

Located at 3320 White Oak Drive at Arlington Street, the website describes the restaurant as “serving rustic Italian cuisine with a Gulf Coast perspective, dictated by Houston’s growing seasons and our backyard garden.” The restau-

We empower people to thrive.

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Forty years ago, when her grandfather died by suicide, getting professional help wasn’t even really an option. “No-

See POPPY P. 4

See TAGG P. 4

Photo by Lisa Morales

Together, Tacos A Go Go owner Sharon Haynes and head chef Mirabel Gomez turned a single location into a 5-restaurant culinary powerhouse. Also an artist, Haynes created the wall paintings herself.

Coltivare celebrates 10-year anniversary with Time Capsule event

FOOD REVIEW: The Upside Pub is the real deal

Page 8

Photo by Stefanie Thomas

Caryn Honig, founder of Poppy’s Run for Life, with supporter Christian Pike of Lola in the Heights.

body talked about it,” she said. “There was a sense of shame. So much so, that the cause of death was changed on my grandfather’s death certificate.”

Honig spoke about her father’s struggles – first his beloved wife’s death, which he never recovered from; then the isolation caused by COVID-19, followed by contracting the virus himself and, in a culmination of health struggles, possibly a mild stroke. Although her father’s depression was apparent, she said, his suicide came as a devastating shock to the family.

“You would think my dad had so much to live for. He had a beautiful house, a loving partner, his family, lots of friends,” she said. “But where most

rant, with both an indoor dining room and bar and large outdoor seating area, has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Led by award-winning Chef/Owner Ryan Pera and General Manager/ Sommelier Leonora Varvoutis, sustainable practices are an important aspect of the restaurant. The menu offers an impressive array of dishes which often utilize vegetables, greens, lettuces, and herbs from its 3,000-square-foot onsite garden, as well as local ingredients and fresh Gulf Coast seafood. Herbs from the garden are also used in their extensive craft cocktail menu. Vegan dishes are available, and the wood-fired pizzas See COLTIVARE P. 5

Chef Ryan Pera

Photos by Ralph Smith

General Manager/Sommelier Leonora Varvoutis

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Solid Waste Management Department launches 6-week food waste drop-off program From Community Reports The City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department, in collaboration with Council Member Sallie Alcorn, and Zero Waste Houston is poised to launch a 6-week Food Waste Drop-Off pilot program.

In collaboration with the City of Houston Health Department,

through Feb. 29, 2024, residents can drop off food scraps at four convenient locations.

• Kashmere Multi-Service Center, Mondays - 2 p.m.– 5 p.m.

• Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, Tuesdays - 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

• Alief Neighborhood Center, Wednesdays - 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunnyside Multi-Service Center, Thursdays - 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Department officials say the program builds on previous initiatives like the Pumpkin Compost Drop-Off and the Compost Pilot program in continuation of their commitment to diverting waste from landfills. “The Solid Waste Department is eager to continue to provide innovative programs that divert waste from the landfill and actively

engage Houston residents,” says Mark Wilfalk, Director of Solid Waste Management.

Council Member Sallie Alcorn encourages residents to participate stating, “You’ll find when you start composting your food scraps, there is a lot less trash generated in your home, at your curb, and taken to the landfill.”

Another Heights restaurant Greater Heights organizations among nonprofits bids farewell: Alice Blue to awarded with grants by Junior League of Houston close Feb. 25, 2024 From Community Reports

Photo by Stefanie Thomas

Flautas are one of the signature dishes at Alice Blue in the Heights.

From Community Reports After 20 years on 19th Street in the Houston Heights, Claire Smith and her team will serve their final meal at Alice Blue on Sunday, Feb. 25. During these next weeks, restaurant family, friends and longtime customers are encouraged to visit the neighborhood favorite for comfortable modern cuisine at Lunch (Mon-Fri), Brunch (Sat-Sun) and Dinner (Mon-Sat) to enjoy farewell meals and visits with the staff.

Smith opened her first restaurant, Daily Review Cafe on Lamar Street in 1994, and operated it until 2000 when she followed her soon-to-be husband to Chicago. Smith and her husband, Russell, returned to Houston in 2003, and she opened her signature restaurant, Shade, in the current Alice Blue space. She was the first chef-driven restaurant operator to take a chance on the historic Heights neighborhood (which was “dry” at the time), and her big risk grew into a Houston food legacy.

In 2009, Smith also opened

Canopy, then Wood Bar, which enjoyed a successful 10-year run in Montrose. Both spaces were a beloved gathering place for artists, museum and university administrators, dealmakers and political movers and shakers who lived and worked nearby. In 2017, Smith renovated the 19th Street space and rebranded it as Alice Blue.

Smith has always made creating community a focus of her restaurant projects. Smith said in a media release that the many talented staff members, both front and back of house, who have worked in her restaurants and the incredibly loyal customers who have supported her businesses have been her inspiration and motivation. She added that she hopes to stay connected with the many amazing restaurant and catering staff members, on-premise dining customers, and catering clients she has had the honor of working with over the last 30 years.

The media release did not mention a reason for the closure.

Independence Heights fire appears accidental From Community Reports Houston Fire Department firefighters responded to an early morning house fire in the 9000 block of N. Main St. on Jan. 28.

HFD officials say they arrived at the residence shortly before 1:30 a.m. to find fire coming from a 1-story house. Firefighters reportedly ventilated the home and extinguished a fire in the attic. A HFD Arson investigators were requested to determine the cause and origin of the fire but, at this time, officials say the fire appears accidental in origin.

No injuries were reported. Damages to the home are estimated at around $100,000.

Local business is our business.

Send us your story of interest news@theleadernews.com

The Junior League of Houston recently announced the recipients of its 2023 – 2024 Community Assistance Grants, providing a total of $175,000 in funding to 17 Houston-area nonprofit organizations. The grant recipients, including two Greater Heightsbased organizations, were acknowledged at the Community Assistance Grant Reception and Presentation held on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024.

Recipients were chosen from a total of 89 applicants.

This is the 68th year of the Community Assistance Grant program.

Among the first-time recipients of League funding were Children’s Transplant Initiative, Spring Branch Community Health Center, Main Street Ministries Houston, Community of Resources Houston, Re: MIND Depression and Bipolar Support, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Partnerschools, Inc., GiGi’s Playhouse Houston, GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land, Arts Connect Houston, The Landing, and Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship.

GiGi's Playhouse Houston and Arts Connect Houston, both based in the Heights area, each received a $10,000 grant.

Several organizations from previous years, including Gift of Adoption Fund, Clothed

by Faith, The Jung Center, Houston Furniture Bank, and

Submitted photo

Laura Whitten (JLH Community Vice President), Sydney Goss (JLH Community Assistance Chair), Jack McBride of Arts Connect Houston, and Amanda Hanks Bayles (JLH President) at the Community Assistance Grant Reception Jan. 22.

Submitted photo

Laura Whitten (JLH Community Vice President), Sydney Goss (JLH Community Assistance Chair), Angela Currie of GiGi's Playhouse Houston, and Amanda Hanks Bayles (JLH President) at the Community Assistance Grant Reception Jan. 22.

ChildBuilders, also received funding once again.

Organizations are eligible for grant funding if they meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Address a critical or basic need • Fund a pilot program • Expand a significant service to the community.

This year’s recipients were

chosen based on focus areas that members selected through its triannual Membership Survey and included: Basic Needs, Children’s Education and Mentoring Young Girls/ Women. $27,000 of the total Community Assistance budget will come from the Barbara and Roy Adams Endowed Community Grant Fund which focuses on children’s health and well-being and literacy/ education enrichment.

Since its inception in 1955 – 1956, Junior League’s Community Assistance Grant program has been an important way for the League to serve the Houston community by providing aid to agencies where the League does not provide volunteers.

The League’s Community Assistance Grant program has directed millions of dollars in financial support and established long-standing, collaborative relationships with the hundreds of organizations it has funded since 1955.

“We are beyond excited to present checks to so many deserving nonprofits later this month,” said Sydney Goss, Community Assistance Chair.

“The nonprofits we fund go through a rigorous application and vetting process and are each incredibly deserving of the monetary support.”

To learn more about Junior League of Houston and the various ways in which it supports Houston’s philanthropic community, visit jlh.org.

Urban Eats closed its doors on Jan. 28, 2024

By Stefanie Thomas editor@theleadernews.com In a recent Facebook post, owners Levi Rollins and Eric Muñoz announced that Urban Eats' last service will be on Sunday, January 28, 2024, for brunch. Despite the tremendous community support received over the past couple of weeks, the restaurant had to vacate its property due to unpaid rent and property taxes.

The owners expressed gratitude for the community's overwhelming support but stated that the funds raised were not enough to continue forward.

This development is a result of challenging financial circumstances post-pandemic. Rollins and Muñoz stressed that the restaurant’s closure is not a reflection on their landlord.

“With the fullest hearts and gratitude we’d like to thank our amazing team, the most wonderful community and customers, the countless friends and supporters and all our local vendors that made our dream

Submitted photo

The staff at Urban Eats, pictured with owner Levi Rollins (back row, far right), said goodbye with a farewell brunch Jan. 28, 2024.

a reality,” the owners said in a Jan. 30 Facebook post. “So many of you came to share our final days with us, and for those of you that were there to help us exit our space in those final hours, we’ll forever be thankful.”

Urban Eats bistro + bar + market, a culinary destina-

tion cherished by locals, found itself at a crossroads as it grappled with financial challenges exacerbated by pandemic fallout.

Community expresses regret The reaction to the Facebook announcement was

swift and filled with sadness.

Earlier in January, Urban Eats had issued a heartfelt plea for help from the community.

Media coverage of the restaurant’s hardship helped spread the word and the community turned up in droves in an effort to save the beloved eatery.

“So heartbreaking! I love you guys with all my heart!,” one social media user commented on Facebook. “Thank you for all you have done for this community! Hope there will be an Urban Eats cookbook out one day with stories, photos and of course some of those beloved recipes. I’m not the only one who would stand in line for that! Best of luck to you on your next adventures.”

Another wrote, “Breaks my heart. I know y’all will find a new adventure and success will come.”

Urban Eats has become part of Houston’s culinary history with a show of community spirit, and the enduring love for good food.

The Leader • Saturday, February 3, 2024 • Page 3

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POPPY, from P. 1

BUFFALO from P. 1

of us, when we had a bad day, think tomorrow will be better, severely depressed people think tomorrow will be even worse. And they don’t see the beautiful things in their lives at all.”

Although nearly everyone she meets has been touched by suicide in one way or another, through the loss of a friend or loved one, Honig said there continues to be a stigma surrounding mental health issues and suicide. Helping to erase this stigma is part of her goals.

“Some people still say, ‘committed suicide’,” she said.

“But the word ‘commit’ makes it sound like a criminal act.

Instead, we should say ‘died by suicide’.” Words matter, Honig said, and seemingly small changes like this can help change the way suicide is perceived.

Honig, a professor at the University of Houston and a registered and licensed dietitian specializing in eating disorders, has taken a significant step toward changing the conversation around suicide.

Driven by a fervent need to create something good out of her personal losses, Honig has become an advocate for suicide prevention, awareness and education. “Suicide creates such a ripple effect. I asked my rabbi if I’d ever be happy again,” she said. “He told me to search for purpose instead. That’s how Poppy’s Run for Life started.”

In response to her family’s tragedies, Honig created

brewing operation, an indoor bar, and a pet-friendly patio.

The second floor boasted a full-service restaurant and taproom with the option to dine indoors or on a terrace overlooking Sawyer Yards.

The third floor featured a rooftop patio offering views of the iconic Houston skyline and was ideal for enjoying sporting events or hosting private functions for up to 100 people.

Chip, a Yelp reviewer, praised Buff Brew’s diverse offerings and expressed satisfaction with the ample portions and quality of the kids’ meals. The review also highlighted the impressive beer selection, the friendly staff and good service prompting Chip to express the likelihood of returning during future Houston trips. Other reviews on Reddit were not so kind saying “I spent probably two years drinking their different beers until I finally realized I just didn’t like any of them.”

In a letter to employees, McLucas expressed the goal of reopening after taking care of outstanding financial obligations. “As I work day and night with our legal team and investors, please be assured that Buff Brew will return to serving the best craft beer in Houston in the very near future,” he wrote. “As has been the case since we began this adventure in 2022, we truly are making excellent progress as our team labors to strengthen our financial

Submitted photo

Caryn Honig named Poppy’s Run for Life after her two “Poppys”, dad Morton Honig (right) and grandfather Sam Rosen (left), who both died by suicide.

Poppy’s Run for Life, a 5K and 1K run/walk event, in memory of both her grandfather and her father, the “Poppys” in Honig’s life. Now in its second year, the event is scheduled for Sunday, March 17. The run/walk starts at 8 a.m., and begins and finishes at Hennessy Park. The route covers the University of Houston Downtown campus and part of the White Oak Bayou Greenway.

All funds raised from the event will go toward suicide prevention and awareness programs at Joan and Stanford Alexander Jewish Family Service (JFS) and The Montrose Center.

Alexander JFS offers trauma-informed services, including outpatient therapy and support groups, working toward mental health literacy and suicide prevention. The Montrose Center supports the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth and adults. A critical resource, considering that 41% of LGBTQ young people seriously consider suicide and 56% of those seeking mental health services are unable to obtain them (The Trevor Project).

Looking ahead, Honig envisions making the event an annual occurrence, with the possibility of expanding it nationally. Her ultimate goal is to raise enough funds to cre-

ate launch clinics dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health support across major cities in the country.

“Through all this bad has come such good. Through all this darkness has come some light,” she said. “And I found my purpose -- the purpose to change the conversation around suicide, to keep my father’s and grandfather’s memories alive, and for their lives, and deaths, to have served a purpose as well.”

To register for Poppy’s Run for Life, to volunteer at the event, and for additional details or to donate, please visit poppysrunforlife.com.

TAGG, from P. 1 less” restaurant was all about.

After several years at Solera, Haynes sold her share of the restaurant and went on to pursue a master’s degree in art education. She had intentions of beginning a teaching career while helping her husband run the then popular magazine, Arts Houston.

Fate had other plans for the would-be art teacher, when in 2006 a friend who owned a building in Midtown next to the Continental Club encouraged Haynes to open a Tex-Mex taqueria at his location. Haynes knew who to call to create the menu and employed Gomez part time to complete the task.

Gomez created the recipes, trained a few cooks, and went back to her full-time job.

“In the beginning, it was just me and a few cooks. I would work the counter and bit by bit we started to build a following,” Haynes said. “By offering affordable, consistent, flavorful food, we forged our reputation.”

The Heights location came next, and now Chef Gomez was on board full-time.

Chef Gomez, who is said to have put the Mex in Tex-Mex continues to keep the TAGG menu fresh with innovative and delicious offerings. Born in Hidalgo, Mexico, Gomez began cooking for her large family at a very young age. Those family recipes, including her father’s recipe for Barbacoa, are what Gomez continually tweaks and tinkers with in the TAGG kitchen. As a self-taught chef, Gomez draws from her experience with native Mexican ingredients, some not very well known in the U.S. to create authentic tastes. She can pair a specific pepper with a complimentary protein like some people pair wine to bring out the best flavors in a meal.

One standout created by Gomez is the chicken torta which is the specialty taco TAGG is offering in January and February. The torta is made with braised chicken, melted jack cheese, charred serrano mayo, and finished with lettuce, avocado and pickled red onions. TAGG also provides taco choices for veggie lovers with a popular

Photo by Stefanie Thomas

As more and more adults make the switch from alcohol to low-dose THC products, Tacos A Go Go owner Sharon Haynes decided to test some flavors of THC seltzer in her restaurants.

Lil Bit THC seltzer is made locally by 8th Wonder Brewery in Houston.

selection of vegan options.

Want a breakfast taco for lunch? TAGG can do that with their all-day breakfast menu.

Breakfast tacos are a staple of TAGG’s catering menu as well, which has become a robust part of the TAGG operation, along with fajita tacos and other items on their menu.

In what some would call a forward-thinking, bold move, TAGG has introduced a pilot program featuring a low-dose

Photo by Lisa Morales

The Tacos A Go Go restaurant on TC Jester Blvd. is one of five TAGG locations around Houston.

THC Seltzer, a non-alcoholic beverage with 2.5 mg of THC (yes, it’s perfectly legal!). This alternative has gained popularity, especially among those opting for a different kind of buzz. The microdose of THC provides a mild high, comparable to a light beer containing 3-5% alcohol. Recently there has been a wave of people opting to put down alcohol and pick up this alternative.

Haynes recognizes the changing landscape of consumer preferences and aims to provide unique options for her patrons. Importantly, Haynes

chose to carry a locallyproduced THC seltzer, made in Houston by 8th Wonder Brewery in Houston.

As far as adapting to technology in the service industry, Haynes has overseen the evolution of her restaurant that began with two levels of tacos: taco regular and taco plus.

Orders that were once handwritten and walked back to the kitchen for completion are now handled with the Toast POS system. Haynes remarks that keeping up with technology is almost a full-time job.

Discerning what technologies

position, pay remaining obligations, and return to the property that Houstonians have grown to love.”

In late 2023, Buff Brew became embroiled in a lawsuit alleging fraud, breach of contract, and more, the Houston Chronicle reported last September. The accusations apparently stemmed from the company’s failure to consult with stakeholders on a 2022 merger between the former and current CEOs. The closure follows a trend in Houston’s craft beer industry, with breweries like Ingenious Brewing, Black Page Brewing Co., and Counter Common Beerworks & Kitchen also shutting down recently. National data from the Brewer’s Association’s 2023 Year in Beer annual report indicates that over 385 craft breweries closed last year.

Reports from Pro Publica reveal that Buff Brew had PPP loans forgiven during Covid, including a $953,000 loan in 2020 and a one-million-dollar loan in January 2021, purportedly for payroll purposes. Shifting consumer preferences toward craft beer coupled with a rising trend to “stay home” and beat the high cost of dining out may have also contributed to the closing of Buff Brew.

What will become of the site located amongst residential homes, apartments, and commercial buildings? Only time will tell. are best built for specific tasks and maximizing the technology they already have in place is the next step in making their operation even more efficient.

“Luckily, AI can’t cook”, says Haynes with a laugh.

TAGG is more than just a culinary hotspot. It proudly stands as a female-owned business, with owner Haynes actively involved in supporting women-led charities. The “I’ll Have What She’s Having” charity ensures that hospitality professionals, including bartenders, servers, and chefs, have access to essential medical care such as mammograms. Haynes also champions female business owners through her support of “Let’s Talk Womxn” whose goal is to build camaraderie, counsel, visibility, bargaining and economic power of women entrepreneurs.

TAGG’s commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement ensures that TAGG remains a staple in Houston’s vibrant culinary landscape for years to come. To see locations, menus, and order online, visit TAGG at https://tacosagogo. com/ or follow on Instagram and Facebook @tacosagogo

The Leader • Saturday, February 3, 2024 • Page 5

Blooms and Bites: Houston Heights blossoms with romantic dining options for Valentine's Week

By Lisa Morales The Leader News Contributor Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with a romantic dining experience in your own neighborhood. From optional flower arrangements to week-long specials, the Heights is abuzz with love-infused treats and unique offerings to make your Valentine's celebration truly memorable.

Many restaurants in the Heights are going the extra mile by offering optional flower arrangements for those looking to add a touch of floral elegance to their dining experience. Several restaurants have extended their Valentine's Day specials throughout the week, ensuring that you have ample opportunities to savor the flavors and beat the crowds. Treat your girlfriends to a delightful Galentine's Day brunch or indulge in Tex-Mex Valentine specials that add a unique twist to the traditional romantic dinner. Some restaurants are offering additional perks, such as exclusive wine pairings to complement the flavors of each course.

From intimate bistros to fine-dining destinations, you can find a romantic setting that aligns with your budget while treating your loved one to a memorable Valentine's experience. To ensure your spot is saved, most establishments require reservations.

As the demand for romantic

dinners soars, it's advisable to secure your spot in advance.

Keep in mind that certain places may have additional costs associated with these special offerings, so be sure to check in advance.

FINE DINING Cadillac Bar Valentine’s Day Done the Cadillac Way • Feb. 10–14 • 1802 Shepherd Dr. • Special Sweetheart 3-Course Dinner for Two - $59.99 per couple • cadillacbar.com/event/ valentines-day Trattoria Sofia Galantine’s Day Brunch • Sunday, Feb. 11, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

• 911 W. 19th St. • Food and drink specials and DJ • trattoriasofia.com/posts/ galentines-day-brunch Dinner for Two • Wednesday, Feb. 14, 6-10 p.m.

• 911 W. 19th St. • 4-course Prix-Fixe dinner with a strolling violin player, plus option to pre-order a flower arrangement • $150 per couple, or $225 per couple with wine pairing • opentable.com B&B Butcher’s and Restaurant Dine in or To-Go • 1814 Washington Ave. • Dine in with a dinner special and option to pre-order flowers

Valencia’s Tex-Mex Garage • 2009 West 34th St. • Couples receive a complimentary Valentine’s rose • texmexgarage.com/reservations

• Valentine’s Dinner To Go - $195 – Includes ready-tocook appetizers and entrees, two sides and dessert.

• Online orders cut off Monday, Feb. 12, at 5 p.m.

• bbbutchers.com/posts/ valentines-day-dine-in-andto-go

Rainbow Lodge Valentine’s Dinner & Stellar Cellar • Stellar Cellar 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Dinner 5-10 p.m.

• 2011 Ella Blvd.

• 3-course meal, varied selections of wild game and seafood in a log-cabin setting - $99 per person • rainbow-lodge.com/reservations

Savoir Candlelight dinner • 1344 Yale St. • Candlelit dinner and a chefcurated 3-course meal - $100 • Taittinger Champagne Special • savoirhouston.com/reservations Benny Chows • 1818 Washington Ave. • Cocktail and champagne specials, a la carte menu, plus a 3-course prix-fixe menu for two - $179 • Optional flower arrangement available • opentable.com

Karne Korean Steakhouse • 2805 White Oak Dr. • Dinner, drinks, and live DJ – 3-course ($80) and 5-course ($120) menus with a limitededition cocktail.

• https://13095.tripleseat. com/party_request/32567

• 2121 N Shepherd Drive Houston, TX 77008

Heights & Co. Valentine’s + Co. Fireside • 5-10 p.m.

• 1343 Yale St. • Valentine 4-course dinner $60 per person • https://resy.com

Bayou Heights Bier Garten Galentine’s Day Brunch • Saturday, Feb. 10, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Featuring espresso martinis and mimosa flights, Cookie decorating, Special Valentine's theme cocktails and your favorite romcoms playing in the 2-story silo • bayouheightsbiergarten.com • 3905 Washington Ave.

Mutiny Wine Room Valentine’s Day Wine Pairing Dinner • 4-8:45 p.m.

• 1124 Usener St. • 3-course Valentine’s Day dining experience – Dinner $75 per person, Dinner + Wine - $120 per person • resy.com

Mastrantos Valentine’s Day 2024 • 5:30-9 p.m.

• 927 Studewood St. • Special menu from items not currently on the menu • $67 per person + an extra $39 per person for a wine paring menu • resy.com FUN DINING & MORE Wild Concepts • Wild in both the Heights and Montrose will be serving the Red Bird cocktail in honor of Valentine’s Day, a captivating twist on the classic Negroni.

The specialty cocktail is available February 1st through Valentine’s Day. • For more info visit wildconcepts.com

Common Bond Sweet Treats for Your Valentine!

• Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cake • Love takes center stage with the picture-perfect 3-layer Red Velvet Cake. Expect layers of pure bliss with a Cream Cheese Buttercream filling, adorned in pastel pink and white for $65.

• Order by Feb. 5 to pick up on Feb. 9-11. Order by Feb. 10 to pick up on Feb. 14.

Chocolate Cherry Macarons • A treasure trove made with love! These Valentine’s Dayinspired macarons feature pink non-pareils and boast a delicious combo: Dark Chocolate Ganache and Cherry Jelly! Box of 6 for $18.

• Available in-store from Feb. 1-14 at all Common Bond locations.

Sunday Evening Fall in love with shopping local: Stomping Conversations on Creation Grounds hosts Valentine's Market held Feb. 25, monthly From Community Reports From Community Reports Christ the King Evangelical Lutheran Church invites you to a monthly environmental education web meeting series whose theme in 2024 is Restoration, Renewal & Regeneration.

Grassland Restoration in Texas – Making Old Things New Again Sunday, Feb. 25, 6 p.m. central, online Join Jeff Sargent of the Native Prairies Association of Texas to learn about grassland restoration in Texas. There are few better ways to demonstrate one’s care for creation than to nurture and restore the land. Jeff Sargent finally went from being a dutiful gardener to aligning his faith with his working career and taking a conservation job with the Native Prairies Association of Texas. Jeff shares what he has learned about how prairie restoration techniques taught to private landowners today

Submitted photo

Jeff Sargent, Development Director, Native Prairies Association of Texas

honor centuries-old practices, bringing a much-need healing back to the land in parts of Texas. Time for Q&A with the speaker will follow the talk.

Please register on eventbrite.com at. Contact Lisa Brenskelle at gcs.lrc@gmail. com with any questions.

COLTIVARE , from P. 1 can be prepared with gluten free dough.

Chef Pera and Morgan Weber, Beverage Director/ Owner, who together started Agricole Hospitality, met after Pera learned of Mr. Morgan’s family farm in Yoakum, Texas, where he raises heritage breed pigs, which were sold at the Houston Farmers Market and prominent Houston-area restaurants. They first found success with Revival Market, which was a specialty mar-

Outdoor dining area and garden.

ket, craft butcher, and café located on Heights Boulevard from 2011 to 2022. Coltivare was opened in 2014 as an extension of this concept, and Pera’s Italian heritage provided inspiration, particularly for the garden.

Coltivare is open for dinner Sunday through Saturday except for Tuesdays. Catering options and take-out are also available. Visit the website at agricolehospitality.com/coltivare for the complete menu and more information.

Photo by Ralph Smith

WHO: Stomping Grounds, a cultural oasis of dining, retail and entertainment nestled in the heart of Garden Oaks.

KDA Markets, a curated market that provides a desirable shopping experience for the community and showcases a wide selection of local and talented artisans, makers and entrepreneurs in a familyfriendly environment.

WHAT: Fall in love with shopping local this February!

Join KDA Markets as they host their Valentine’s Market at Stomping Grounds on Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 11 AM-4 PM. This oneday event will feature a swoon worthy selection of unique, handcrafted items from a variety of Houston-based makers and vendors. Find the perfect Valentine’s Day gifts for

Photo courtesy of KDA Markets

A Valentine's Market will be held at Stomping Grounds Feb. 3.

your loved ones as you shop local and support Houston’s “k”reators, designers and artisans. Take a break from the retail therapy and pop in one of Stomping Grounds’ many restaurants including Rooster

& Rice, Bollo Woodfired Pizza, Sonoma Wine & Cheese, Luloo’s Day & Night, The Pho Fix, Himari or La Mex, and refuel your shopping tank with delicious bites and beverages. Adding to the festive

atmosphere, KDA Markets and Stomping Grounds welcomes local musician, Emily Grace, accompanied by Allen Holland, as she takes the Stomping Grounds stage playing lively tunes of both classic and contemporary hits for all to enjoy on the 8,000-squarefoot green space. Attendees will also enjoy family friendly games and activities such as Jenga, Connect Four, hula hoops, limbo and more, along with photo ops with Herbie the Luv Bug sponsored by @ the.luvbug.

This family-friendly event is free and open to the public, with convenient on-site parking available.

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

WHERE: Stomping Grounds, 1207-1227 W 34th St., Houston, TX 77018

Capitalizing on lower interest rates: A guide to preparing your home for sale

By Lisa Morales The Leader News Contributor As interest rates take a downward turn, savvy homeowners who have been waiting for declining rates are seizing the opportunity to sell their homes. Whether you're a seasoned seller or a first-time homeowner looking to make a move, preparing your home for sale is a crucial step in attracting potential buyers. In this article, we'll explore key tips to enhance your home's appeal and maximize its market value.

1. Declutter and Create the Illusion of Space: One of the most effective ways to make your home more appealing is to declutter. Start by emptying closets and cabinets by at least 50%. This not only creates the illusion of more storage space but also allows potential buyers to envision their belongings in the home.

Clear countertops, organize shelves, and depersonalize living spaces to help buyers see the full potential of each room.

2. Focus on Curb Appeal: They say first impressions matter, and in the real es-

tate market, this holds true.

Prospective buyers often decide whether they like a property within the first five seconds of pulling up to the home. Enhance your curb appeal by maintaining a wellmanicured lawn, planting fresh flowers, power washing driveways, and ensuring the exterior is well-lit. A welcoming entrance can set a positive tone for the entire viewing experience.

3. Refresh Paint and Lighting: A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your home. Stick to neutral tones to appeal to a wider audience.

Pay attention to lighting as well ensuring that rooms are well-lit, and consider updating fixtures for a modern touch.

These simple yet impactful changes can make your home feel more inviting and wellmaintained.

4. Attend to Small Repairs: Minor repairs might seem inconsequential, but they can make a significant difference in how potential buyers perceive your home. Address leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and any other small issues. A well-maintained property signals to buyers that they won't need to invest extra time and

money in repairs after purchasing.

5. List of Upgrades and Major Repairs: To assist your realtor in crafting a compelling listing, compile a list of any upgrades and major repairs you've undertaken. Whether it's a renovated kitchen, a new roof, or updated plumbing, highlighting these improvements can increase the perceived value of your home.

Buyers are often willing to pay a premium for a property that has been well-maintained.

As you embark on the journey of selling your home, remember that preparation is key. By following these tips and presenting your home in the best possible light, you increase the likelihood of attracting eager buyers. Take advantage of the current market conditions, and with a wellprepared home, you'll be on your way to a successful sale.

Lisa Morales is a licensed real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Premier Properties, and makes her professional home at her office on Heights Blvd.

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Page 6 • Saturday, February 3, 2024 • The Leader

THE TOPICS.

If at first you don’t secede…

In our A Myth Is As Good As, uh, Nothing Category, we have the Texas Nationalist Movement or TNM. The members are attempting to remove Texas from the United States. If they succeed, or secede, will this mean I’ll need a passport to blow my children’s inheritance in Louisiana casinos? On the bright side, the Dallas Cowboys would no longer be able to call themselves America’s Team. All our great high school athletes may have trouble opting to play for LSU or Georgia, filling their stadiums and generating millions of dollars for the Cajuns and the Peach State.

The U.S. won’t have to redesign the American flag to show one less star. Just bow to the clamor from the Caribbean and admit Puerto Rico.

To bring you up to speed on this glacial movement, as mentioned the TNM is a group campaigning for Texas to leave the United States and become a fully independent country. The secessionists got a petition going around to make the Texas Republican Party put the matter up to a vote on its March primary ballot. They claimed the petition had 139,456 signatures, well

Lynn Ashby Columnist

over the 97,709 signatures required to get a vote added to the primary ballot.

That 97K figure is state law, for some unknown reason, but Texas Republican Party Chair Matt Rinaldi rejected the petition. He claimed “the vast majority of petition signatures were invalid.” He said some were missing essential information such as “residence address, county of registration, and date of birth/voter registration number.” Other names were invalid, while only 8,300 of the signatures had been submitted by hand, rather than electronically, which Rinaldi claimed was a requirement.

The Texas GOP also said the delivery of the petition was “untimely,” because it was received on the deadline, as opposed to the day before.

OK, maybe some of the signatures were invalid or their

mark was forged, but that last claim makes no sense. What’s the point of having a deadline if it’s not the deadline but the day before? The TNM could have yelled, to steal a phrase from the Texians at the Battle of Gonzales, “Come and take it!” Their next step was to take their case to the State Supreme Court, but the court rejected the TNM’s case almost immediately. However, the fight, which they call “TEXIT” – I like that rip-off from the Brits’ Brexit – will continue: They “fully intend to litigate to secure the rights of the petition signers as guaranteed by the Texas Election Code.”

The idea of a return to the Republic of Texas has been trotted out ever since there was one, but the plans are worth re-telling. First, the Texas Annexation Joint Resolution – it was not a treaty and there’s a big difference – does not allow Texas to secede from the Union. That’s a myth.

Following the end of the Civil War, Union troops occupied the rebellious Southern states during Reconstruction. When Texas rejoined the Union in 1870, one of the provisions – only for Texas -- was that the state would forswear the

idea of ever seceding again. In the 1869 case Texas v. White, the U.S. Supreme Court held that individual states could not unilaterally secede from the Union. Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase wrote for the court, “The union between Texas and the other States was as complete, as perpetual, and as indissoluble as the union between the original States.”

The Annexation document does allow us to split into four more states. That would give us five Ted Cruzes in the U.S. Senate, but this differs from what our school children vow each day: “I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one and indivisible.” The annexation agreement also allows us to retain our public lands including six leagues into the Gulf, with all that oil and gas underneath, and beneath those public lands in West Texas that bankroll UT and A&M. Nevertheless, the myth persists. In 2008, Gov. Rick Perry said, “When we came into the nation in 1845, we were a republic, we were a stand-alone nation. And one of the deals was, we can leave anytime we want. So we’re kind of thinking about that again.” Even John Steinbeck in “Travels

With Charley,” wrote, “Texas is the only state that came into the Union by treaty. It retains the right to secede at will.”

Steinbeck noted Texans threatened to secede so often that he formed an enthusiastic organization, The American Friends for Texas Secession. He said a lot of non-Texans signed up. A 2009 Rasmussen Reports survey determined 31 percent of Texans thought the state had a right to secede. However, just 18 percent of Texans would actually vote for it.

Here’s something interesting: President Barack Obama created a website so that Americans could petition the government for any action, and would receive a response.

The site was inundated. This included petitions from all 50 states seeking secession from the Union. Texas, as usual, was Number One with 125,746 signatures. The White House replied that America was created as a “perpetual union,” and cited several reasons why the Lone Star State couldn’t once again be lone.

An independent Texas by area would be the world’s 39th largest country. With 30 million people, the country of Texas would be the 47th

most populated nation. When it comes to business, we would have the 10th largest economy in the world. Without Texas, the U.S. would lose out on 40 percent of America’s total oil, $1.7 trillion of economic output and 10 percent of the nation’s manufacturing comes from Texas. On the other hand, the federal government owns and operates 15 military bases in the state with an economic impact of more than $100 billion. San Antonio alone has four bases.

And a Republic of Texas dollar was worth 37 cents to a U.S. dollar. So maybe we should be benevolent and just stay put because as Sam Houston said: “Texas can make it without the United States, but the United States cannot make it without Texas.”

Ashby succeeds at ashby2@ comcast.net Editor’s note: This column and its contents do not necessarily reflect the views of The Leader News, its staff, or its publisher. The Leader News welcomes opinion articles on matters of interest to Greater Heights residents. Publication is at the discretion of the editor.

A Culinary Carousel: Complete Communities University: The evolving food landscape Spring 2024 Leadership Training in Houston Heights call for applications I guess you could call the paper you’re holding in your hands, The Leader: Restaurant Edition.

In the Heights, and all around Houston, a dynamic shift is underway. The food landscape keeps changing as we navigate through closures and openings, regretting the loss of some eateries and celebrating the success of others.

Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed both the bitter and sweet aspects of this transformation. Since the pandemic, some beloved establishments faced insurmountable challenges, leading to closures that left a mark on the neighborhood’s identity. The familiar faces, the comforting ambiance, and the cherished flavors are suddenly replaced with empty rooms, leaving patrons with a sense of loss and nostalgia.

Amid the closures, however, new ventures sprout. We regularly welcome new venues with fresh strokes of creativity, with chefs and entrepreneurs determined to fill the void. The resilience and optimism displayed by these newcomers, opening their doors despite

Stefanie Thomas Editor

editor@theleadernews.com

the uncertainties, is a result of the entrepreneurial spirit that defines the Heights.

The revolving door of restaurants is not a new phenomenon, but the recent challenges have added a poignant layer to this constant ebb and flow as we survey this mix of old favorites that have withstood the test of time and new establishments eager to make their mark.

The sadness that accompanies the closure of a cherished eatery is palpable. It’s a mourning not just for the loss of a business but for the memories created within those walls – first dates, celebrations, and shared meals that became a part of the fabric of our lives.

It’s essential, however, to also acknowledge the bravery of

those who dared to dream and open their doors during challenging times, and the tenacity of those who managed to withstand the test of time.

There are countless success stories that deserve celebration for weathering the storm, marking anniversaries, and continuing to be an integral part of the community.

There is a symbiotic relationship between our community and its eateries. The success of a restaurant is not merely measured in terms of revenue but in the connections it forges with the people it serves. In the Heights, this connection runs deep – a shared love for good food, camaraderie, and the collective understanding that each dining establishment contributes to the neighborhood’s unique identity.

The closures bring a sense of loss, but they also pave the way for new beginnings. It’s a constant evolution. As we say good-bye to some and welcome others, let’s continue to savor the diverse flavors that make our neighborhoods so dynamic and diverse.

From Community Reports

Application Deadline – Feb. 9, 5 p.m.

The City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods (DON) invites aspiring leaders to apply for enrollment in the Complete Communities University (CCU) Spring 2024 leadership training course. The 8-week course is designed for emerging leaders committed to making a positive impact in their communities.

The course will run March 13 to May 1, 2024, with classes to be held virtually and in person on Wednesdays from 6-8:30 p.m. Virtual classes will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, and inperson classes will be held

at the City Hall Annex, 900 Bagby Street.

The CCU curriculum focuses on strategies for promoting civic engagement to empower residents and revitalize neighborhoods. The course explores methods and techniques for engaging residents in civic activities, volunteer service, and government affairs as constituents and voters. Topics of discussion include how city and county governments function and relate to neighborhoods and how to effectively access City services and community resources. The classes are led

by DON staff with extensive knowledge of Houston communities and feature presentations by City department and community-based subject experts.

CCU participants will be selected through a competitive application review process. Selection criteria will include commitment to promoting civic engagement, leadership skills, experience, and potential. Diversity and representation of all City Council districts will also be considered.

APPLY TODAY!

Applications will be accepted now through Feb. 9, 2024, 5 p.m. For the application form and more information, go to www. houstontx.gov/neighborhoods/ccu.html. For questions, call 832-393-0887 or email CCUniversity@ houstontx.gov.

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The Leader • Saturday, February 3, 2024 • Page 7

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Page 8 • Saturday, February 3, 2024 • The Leader

Art Valet: Turning Heads and Turning Wood:

Retired cop finds artistic passion in lathe crafting When Ron Martel first introduced himself to me a couple of years ago, he was scoping out my market. He said as much, as he looked around. I remember Martel peppering me with questions as he gave the market a side eye. That first meeting makes me laugh now, having gotten to know him the past 2 years, and his dry sense of humor.

Martel’s art medium is wood and he calls his company The Yankee Woodturner. When he set up his black canopied tent emblazoned with the very famous canon with the words “Come and Take It” underneath, I knew then I liked him.

WHAT’S YOUR BACKGROUND?

“I’m a retired police officer from New London, CT, I met my future wife at Dunkin’ Donuts (of course),” Martel said. “We moved to Kingwood, TX., where we could buy a bigger house in a nicer neighborhood. We traded snow shoveling for hurricanes.”

HOW DID YOUR ART JOURNEY BEGIN?

“I started woodturning as a hobby after my wife got me a lathe for Christmas in 2019,” Martel said. “After filling every tabletop, countertop and desktop (including the laundry room) with my projects, she put her foot down and said I had to get rid of stuff before I made anything else. So I started selling at markets.”

WHERE ARE YOU NOW WITH YOUR ART?

“I’m expanding from the standard bowls, vases & urns to include wall hangings,

Mitch Cohen Art Columnist

clocks, lovebirds/bird baths, and other mixed media art.”

WHAT’S NEXT AND WHERE TO FIND YOU?

“I’m a regular participant at 1st Saturday Arts Market and The Market at Sawyer Yards,” Martel said. “I occasionally sell at The Kingwood Farmers Market, just to stay close to my roots. My website offers a “here’s what I do” view.

The pieces there don’t reflect my current inventory, nor can one buy from me online. My Instagram shows my current work. People can and have contacted me there to buy recently posted items.”

WHAT GUIDANCE WOULD YOU OFFER TO A BUDDING OR NOVICE ARTIST? “Find your own voice,” Martel said. “Be open to new influences, but don’t copy them. Incorporate them into who you are as an artist. If you don’t need the money, congratulations! You can make art for the sake of art.

Otherwise, you’ll have to find what prospective customers want. I straddle that fence - I make most of my pieces with art as the objective. These pieces take a while to sell, because they don’t speak to everyone, but eventually that

Submitted photo

Claro Lamp by Ron Martel

Ron Martel holds one of his bowls at a market.

gotten hold of Robby on the phone, and was heading over to his hotel room, and asked if I’d like to go. Suspecting a trap, I kicked his ass and took his wallet. Just kidding. He took us to Robby’s room, where we spent the most memorable 90 minutes of my life shooting the breeze with my bodybuilding idol and his wife.”

Submitted photo

Submitted photos

Myrtlewood Urns by Ron Martel

Submitted photo

Oak Vase by Ron Martel

person comes along that just has to have it. I’ve also started making household items that people can actually use. They appeal to a wide range of customers, and are good sellers.”

ANYTHING WILD AND CRAZY THAT WOULD RAISE EYEBROWS? “I was a competitive bodybuilder on the local circuit

(Northeast US) from 19761984,” Martel said. “In 1979, I attended the Mr. Olympia contest in Columbus, OH as a spectator. My hero, Robby Robinson, came in 4th place.

At a diner after the show, I was complaining to a friend how I thought Robby got ripped off. A guy in the next booth agreed, and said he was good friends with Robby. I thought

he was BSing me, but I just kept nodding my head as if I believed him. My friend and I eventually left the diner, starting to walk back to the hotel, when we heard a voice yelling toward us from behind.

Suspecting a drunken fool, we kept walking. The guy following us was the “friend” from the diner. He said he had just

Follow Ron Martel on his website at theyankeewoodturner.com and Instagram at instagram.com/theyankeewoodturner Martel will join about 30 other artists at First Saturday Arts Market Saturday, 540 W. 19th St., February 3rd from 11 am to 6 pm, weather permitting. Check the website before heading out firstsaturdayartsmarket.com.

Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market and The Market at Sawyer Yards. Visit his website at ArtValet.com

FOOD REVIEW: The Upside Pub – for a good time!

By Dan Greer Food Critic Who doesn’t love a great pub? They take me back to my visits to the U.K. where they’re a neighborhood staple. And their names! From the common and stately-sounding, The Cornish Arms in Devon, or The Red Lion (many locations), to the tongue-in-cheek and mischievous, such as The Unruly Pig in Suffolk or The Snooty Fox in London. I wonder if they are true to their name?

Well, you don’t have to buy a plane ticket to enjoy the publife since they can be found right here in our own Garden Oaks. Enter The Upside Pub. Please read this review out loud, with a Scottish accent for added effect.

Upon entering, I was met with a room full of folks having a good time and familiar 70’s-80’s tunes. There were several serious games of chess and backgammon going on, the participants deeply contemplating on their next move.

Not that anyone needed to be reminded, but stenciled on the side of the bar is a large declaration reading, “It’s Fun Here”.

I sat at the bar and took it all in. Behind me were some

The Astros Dog is the star of the show at the Upside Pub.

shelves with some board, card and domino games. To the side was a lovely shuffleboard table. Darts, standard issue at pubs, are also available…even though I’ve always pondered the logic of patrons who are several pints into an evening, hurling sharp objects at a corkboard eight feet away.

The pub has a large assortment of drink options including many on tap. They have a nice Happy Hour menu including several great food choices.

I opted for the ½ orders of the

Queso Fries, the Latke Balls and the QUESOdilla.

The queso fries were about what you would expect with house made queso, pico, sour cream and guacamole topping a heap of fries. It’s a good portion for a happy hour and pretty tasty.

A quesadilla at a pub? Yep. And this one was very good. I chose the carne asada interior.

It comes with sauteed peppers and pico which are melted into a nice jack cheese. Sour cream and a very tasty green salsa

HE L P SUPPORT

LOCAL JOURNALISM

Photo by Dan Greer

verde come on the side.

An eye opener for me tonight was the Potato Latke Balls.

Delightful in their simplicity, they are a ball of potato and onion fried to a golden-brown.

They also come with a side of sour cream and applesauce.

They were a great happy hour choice for a pub and I’m surprised I haven’t seen them on more menus. They were not greasy or heavy, but light and

cooked perfectly.

After all this, I thought a simple hot dog would be the perfect entrée. Enter The Astros Dog. And just like our home team, this dog is a champion.

The beef brisket dog comes wrapped in bacon…always a fan favorite. They add queso as a designated hitter. Pico, crispy jalapeno and onion come in as the closers. They hit a homer with this one.

Going against my inner voice telling me “NO!”, I ordered their dessert, the S’MOREO. Listen to these ingredients…Oreo cookies, marshmallow fluff, graham cracker, batter, powdered sugar and…chocolate sauce. Was it stupid of me to get it? Yes. Am I glad I got it? Of course.

It was about this point that I struck up a conversation with one of the owners, Paige. I asked her how they came up with the name for the pub.

She said they were looking for something simple, directional and happy. Thus, The Upside Pub was born. They have a great story and my first impressions lead me to believe they are hard-working, good folks that would love to be that

neighborhood meeting place where people come to relax after a work day or on the weekend and, yes, like their sign says, have some fun.

When I had paid my bill and hopped off the barstool to leave, “Take it Easy” by The Eagles came on. Several people joined in with the late, great Glenn Frey…”We may lose and we may win, though we will never be here again…”.

I can promise you I will be.

THE UPSIDE PUB

Address: 3402 N. Shepherd Dr. Dining options: Dine-in, takeout Hours: Sun–Mon, 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m.; Tue-Wed, 11:30 a.m.–12 a.m.; ThurFri, 11:30 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sat, 11 a.m.–1 a.m.

Entrée prices: $11-$16.50 Kid-Friendly: Yes, per their website Alcohol: Yes, full bar Healthy Options: Yes Star of the show: The Astros Dog Star Rating: 4.5 out of 5

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