Houston Hotel Magazine - Fall + Holiday 2015

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T H E D E F I N I T I V E G U I D E TO H O U STO N

SIZZLING HAUTE IDEAS IN OUR

Holiday Gift Guide

WATCH OUT!

Smart, Precise, Elegant Timepieces

HIGH FLYIN’ & GRAVITY DEFYIN’

Meet the Men of Dude Perfect Q&A with the Dallas Safari Club

HEAD FOR THE ROCKIES

+

Colorado’s Ritziest Resorts

PUT A FORK IN IT

Houston’s Top Steakhouses

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Owning at The Residences allows you and your guests full access to all the amenities of The Dunmore Hotel. The hotel also provides property management, concierge and rental services to home owners.

Wake up to pink sand beaches, endless stretches of turquoise seas, and days filled with sunshine as warm as the smiles that greet you. Purchase your piece of paradise.

The Residences at The Dunmore are calling you home.

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FEATURES

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CONTENTS AND POWERFUL

Innovative shoe designs

by Chloe Gosselin are spiking celebrity interest.

BY KATIE-ROSE WATSON

20 HOW THE *#@% DID

THOSE GUYS DO THAT?

The adrenaline rush of sports video makers Dude Perfect.

BY DAVE MUSCARI

22 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Take your pick from our list of unique gift ideas that will make someone’s holiday very bright indeed.

H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

These luxurious Rocky Mountain hotels and resorts offer much more than rooms with a view.

BY ANGELA YOUNGMAN

26 LEGENDS IN THEIR OWN TIME Luxury watchmakers merge art with science in new creations for the wrist.

BY ANGELA YOUNGMAN

30 CONSERVATION CONVERSATION HHM hunts for answers with Ben Carter, executive director of the Dallas Safari Club.

32 4

32 COLORADO COOL

Hotel Telluride

18 DELICATE, DANGEROUS

The Villas AT L A M O N TA ñ A

S AN JOSé DEL C AB O / PAL MILL A

BR AD HERME S

7 1 3.816. 3200 dire c t brad@bradhermes.com

IN EVERY ISSUE

I S S U E 0 6 : FA L L + H O L I D AY 2 0 1 5

Anthony Correia / Shutterstock.com

11 THE RUNDOWN Here’s some of what we think makes this part of the world special — from Houston Hotel Magazine.

41 THE SCENE In Houston, we’ve got events to suit everyone’s style. Check our calendar for the best of the city’s culture and entertainment during your stay.

50 DINING Whether you want a quick bite or a savory sit-down meal, Houston offers plenty of places from which to choose. Take a glance at our guide before you go exploring on your next culinary excursion.

41

53 ATTRACTIONS What will make your visit memorable?

HHM recommends what to do and where to go for fun and adventure in and around town.

54 SHOPPING From trendy boutiques and high-end malls to hip vintage stores, HHM knows the smart spots to shop in H-town.

56 OUR PARTING SHOT Come home for the holidays to Miss Ima’s house, the city’s most famous historic residence, and experience true elegance at Ima Hogg’s Bayou Bend Collections and Gardens.

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Thirteen Pies

CONTENTS

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

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WELCOME

F

Photo by David Woo

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all is here and Christmas is right around the corner, but in Houston, Christmas has been in town all year. At least that’s how it feels as we continue to enjoy one of the most robust economies in the world. Houston Hotel Magazine invites you to share our good fortune and bids you welcome to all the Bayou City has to offer.

The first “blue norther” in September (usually about 68 degrees) sweeps out the remnants of Houston’s sultry summer swelter and heralds the return of many who annually decamp to cooler climes when the thermometer surges upwards. In this issue, we explore upscale Colorado Rockies resorts in Aspen, Telluride and Vail that Houstonians— and Texans in general—favor as a second home for cool summer play and hot winter skiing.

Nothing says luxury quite like a beautifully crafted watch. From precision timepieces to smart watches and other emerging wearables, we take a close-up look at some of the most exquisite examples available. And just in time for shopping season, check out our splendid Holiday Gift Guide

when considering that special person on your list.

Life’s been like a box of chocolates for celebrated Dallas pastry chef Katherine Clapner. She’s the creative brain behind one of the trendiest, tastiest confection shops in the state, and her sensational Dude Sweet, Chocolate locations are true Texas favorites.

We talk to the globe-trotting chef about how she got started—and where she wants to go.

They’re five Texas buddies collectively known as Dude Perfect, a group of entrepreneurs that’s mixed a unique taste and talent for sports, daredevil antics and entertainment into one extraordinary business that boasts clients including AT&T, Southwest Airlines, Fiat, Allstate, GMC and more. You’ve just got to see it to believe it!

Houston is chock-full of events and destinations this holiday season, and we’ve expanded these listings significantly in hopes that we can help you better plan your stay. From some of Broadway’s top shows to a parade of concerts, dance, comedy and cuisines, as well as community festivals and events, check out all the details in

The Scene.

There, you’ll find a rundown of Houston’s fall sports schedules, as well as a guide to more top-name entertainment and other happenings. Plus, we have complete listings with inside details on restaurants, shopping, spas and more.

Finally, our Parting Shot presents magnificent Bayou Bend, the former home of Houston philanthropist and civic leader Miss Ima Hogg, an early and brilliant collector of American decorative and fine art. Miss Hogg bequeathed the house, its classical gardens and her extraordinary collection to Houston Museum of Fine Arts to be maintained as a public cultural and arts center.

Please enjoy this latest edition of Houston Hotel Magazine with our thanks. It’s the definitive guide for discerning visitors to Houston.

Pete Northway Publisher, Houston Hotel Magazine

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TEJAS CUSTOM BOOTS

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Pete Northway

ART DIRECTOR

Mark McKenzie

COPY EDITOR Pati Haworth

CONTRIBUTORS

Dave Muscari Ellen Ritscher Sackett Caroline Barham Terry Katie-Rose Watson Angela Youngman

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER David Woo

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Lindsay Forrister

EDITORS-AT-LARGE Penny Jones Dave Muscari

INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-AT-LARGE Angela Youngman

WEEKDAYS 5AM

PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT OF CORE PUBLISHING Pete Northway

PRESIDENT & ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER OF HOUSTON HOTEL MAGAZINE Darla Chapman Ripley

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VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Bob Janss

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Reproduction without permission from publisher is prohibited. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the publication, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors and omissions.

Here’s some of what we think makes this part of the world special — from Houston Hotel Magazine.

New international lifestyle club opens in River Oaks.

H

igh-performance lifestyle leader Equinox celebrates the debut of its third Texas location, a new, 33,000-square-foot club slated to open in November 2015 in the upscale River Oaks district. The company offers an integrated selection of Equinox-branded programs, services and products, including strengthand cardio-training, studio classes, personal training, spa services and products, apparel and food/ juice bars.

The two-level club features an expansive open-floor plan and

dramatic main staircase. Finishes include luxury metallic touches set against warm walnut woods, natural stones and smoked-mirror accents. Areas for socializing and lounging are available throughout the facility. Upstairs, studios, classrooms and the fitness floor are outlined with floor-to-ceiling windows, some with views overlooking treed landscapes and activity within the River Oaks district.

Beyond the fitness floor, The Spa@Equinox offers a menu of luxurious ways to rejuvenate and pamper the body, from deep-tissue massage and post-workout sports massage to a full range of facials, body treatments and waxing. The spa contains four treatment rooms in an approximately 1,000-square-foot haven.

Equinox operates 75 upscale, full-service clubs in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Fran-

cisco, Miami, Boston, Dallas and Washington, D.C., and maintains international locations in London and Toronto.

Since its inception in 1991, Equinox has been synonymous with a lifestyle brand that represents service, value, quality, expertise, innovation, attention to detail, market leadership and results.

With its ultimate location in the midst of luxury retailers and the style epicenter of the Inner Loop, the new Houston Equinox club promises to be a place for guests to commune and refresh throughout the week, an unmatched destination for luxury health and wellness. equinox.com

Photos: Equinox

Toning up in Tony Terrain

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Photos: Thirteen Pies

That’s Amoré!

Diners love their luck at Thirteen Pies.

“W

hen the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie— that’s amoré!” sang legendary crooner Dean Martin in one of his first big hits. He could easily have been singing about Thirteen Pies, one of River Oaks’ newest eateries.

The concept features artisanal, wood-fired, hand-stretched pizzas and handmade pastas that use carefully sourced ingredients, with emphasis on local and Italian products. With a modern yet rustic setting and array of tantalizing options, the restaurant promises to be a popular gathering spot upon its debut in the River Oaks district in late fall 2015.

The River Oaks location is the company’s first in Houston; it joins other Thirteen Pie locations

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in Atlanta, Georgia, and Fort Worth, Texas.

“We are greatly anticipating our entry in the Houston market and looking forward to making our home in the River Oaks district,” said Thirteen Pies brand manager Amanda McFarland. “What makes us different from other pizza restaurants is our approach food and drink, atmosphere and hospitality offer the guest a complete dining experience.”

The name Thirteen Pies is based on the eatery’s 12 signature pies plus an additional, special 13th pie whose toppings change seasonally. The 13th pie is named the “who knows what” pie.

Overseeing the fresh, inhouse menu is George Ortega, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. Most recently, Ortega opened Thirteen Pies in the Oliver McMillan Buckhead development in Atlanta, Georgia, to glowing reviews. The chef brings more than 10 years of culinary

expertise overseeing favored dining concepts such as Pei Wei Asian Diner and Michael’s Restaurant and Bar. Signature pies include The Iberian, featuring fennel salami, smoked provolone, soffritto, Castelvetrano olive, yellow tomato and old manchego. Other signature offerings include the Good Pepperoni with truffle oil and fresh basil and the Garlic and Kale White with house-made garlic ricotta, fresh mozzarella, fontina and parmesan reggiano.

In addition to pies and pastas, small plates from baked goat cheese to Wagyu beef meatballs are available. Fresh green salads for sharing include chopped, Caesar and Texas Bibb. Housemade desserts provide a sweet conclusion to the dining experience.

The bar menu features 30 wines available by the glass, hand-crafted cocktails and local beers.

Favorite seating at Thirteen Pies includes a spot at the

communal, high-top bar overlooking an open kitchen that surrounds wood-burning ovens. The 4,000-square-foot room also offers booth and table seating. Finishes include warm woods, brick and tile accents from floor to ceiling and pies of the day displayed on the signature chalkboard menu.

Embellished woodwork mixed with industrial accents, faux cobblestone floors and woodburning ovens combine to create a warm, intimate, rustic feel, enabling Thirteen Pies to balance perfectly the modern shopping area.

Thirteen Pies soon will be complemented by its sister concept, The Porch at River Oaks, a gastropub featuring upscale comfort chow paired with creative cocktails, wine and brews. thirteenpies.com

Photos: Ariel Exposures

Stylish Settings Sparkle & Dine simplifies entertaining.

T

is the season for entertaining! A tablescape from Sparkle & Dine dresses up the dining room table and sets the tone for festive occasions or family gatherings. All elements arrive at the door in a box ready to unpack within minutes, saving hosts from having to locate and assemble many separate pieces.

The hosts are left free to focus on food and fun.

“Everybody wants that Pinterestworthy, Instagram-worthy party,” says table stylist Stacia Marlow, who launched Sparkle & Dine last year. “I take the work out of hosting a dinner party at home.

Each tabletop design kit starts with a table runner, and then I add napkins, centerpieces and seasonal items to embellish the table and make it special and

wonderful!”

The idea was born of Marlow’s desire to help her best friend host a large, last-minute Thanksgiving gathering from 1,500 miles away.

Marlow, a former New York City and Los Angeles professional textile and costume designer, knew just what to do: She packed up a box and shipped everything her friend needed to ensure a successful occasion. All her friend had to do was set the table.

Marlow’s kits are themed for celebratory occasions, including all major holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, al fresco events and more. Kits come packaged in sets of four, and many of Marlow’s textile designs are created exclusively for Sparkle & Dine.

It didn’t take long for Marlow’s idea to catch on. In only a year, Sparkle & Dine has transitioned from a purchase-only company to all-inclusive rentals with an option to buy. “This way, hosts can feel free to choose another style for a different occasion without

worrying about settings taking up storage space,” she says. “And if the hosts decide they like it well enough to keep, that works, too!”

In September, Marlow was the table stylist partner for Dallas’ inaugural Le Diner en Blanc, the exclusive all-white outdoor pop-up party for thousands that began in Paris and is held annually in cities throughout the world. “This opportunity was perfect for Sparkle & Dine, since dinner parties are what we do,”

Marlow says. “By purchasing my tabletop kits, the guests had all of the required white items for the event, so they were able to relax and enjoy the party.”

Complete kits, a la carte items, accessories and rentals are available online. Marlow occasionally offers new items for purchase through invitation-only Sparkle & Dine trunk shows. sparkleanddine.com —ELLEN RITSCHER SACKETT

H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

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S PE CIA L A DV E RT IS ING S E CT ION

FEED YOUR NEEDS

Forget Chinese, French or Italian.

You’ve come all the way to Texas — home of the steer — and you want some meat. From mouthwatering rib-eyes to succulent strips, the best steaks in the country can be found right here. Because there’s nothing better than that first bite of premium beef grilled to perfection, we’ve rounded up a list of some of the best steakhouses in Houston. At each one you’ll find fine dining, excellent service, extensive wine lists and prime cuts of beef you will be raving about for days.

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S PE CIA L A DV E RT IS ING S E CT ION

Houston: Bob’s Steak and Chop House Ranked as one of the top steakhouses in the country, this traditional American prime steakhouse combines simple elegance, a lively atmosphere, big drinks, fine wines and large cuts of the finest prime steaks, chops and seafood with service that’s a cut above.

1700 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands 281.292.2627 bobs-steakandchop.com

Brenner’s Steakhouse on the Bayou For generations, Houston diners have chosen Brenner’s to mark a special occasion or to indulge in an excellent dining experience. It also features an unparalleled Sunday Brunch and Blue, a luxurious high-energy patio bar. Menu offerings also include favorites such as crunchy German potatoes and apple strudel.

1 Birdsall St. (Memorial) 713.868.4444

The Prime Cit y FOR Prime Beef 5000 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.629.1946 1001 McKinney St. (Downtown) 713.659.3700

delfriscos.com

Fleming’s Steakhouse The restaurant offers the finest USDA Prime beef, available both wet- and dry-aged and broiled at 1,600 degrees or iron-crusted. Steak companions include truffle-poached lobster, Diablo shrimp and king crab topped with caviar. Each dish is crafted from scratch by the culinary team and served by skillful staff.

This premier steakhouse in Houston serves dry-aged, prime beef accompanied by succulent side dishes, and rich desserts. The focus is on a total quality dining experience that includes the quality of the meals and their preparation and in the service the staff provides to guests.

Located near the Galleria, this upscale steakhouse is nestled just inside the 610 Loop, near Highland Village. Rich interiors include an expansive wine cellar, inviting bar and elegant finishes creating a one-of-a-kind Houston steakhouse experience. It is open weekdays for lunch and every evening and includes a prix fixe menu.

1801 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria) 713.877.0720

5839 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.780.7352

4608 Westheimer Road (Highland Village/Galleria) 713.961.0333

mosaplaceforsteaks.com

pappasbros.com

sullivanssteakhouse.com

Mr. Peeples

Perry’s Steakhouse and Grille

Texas Land & Cattle

The comfortable, casual yet elegant restaurant serves hand-selected USDA-aged prime beef cuts that are brought in fresh daily. For a memorable dining experience, try one of its specialties include Perry’s Famous Pork Chop, chateaubriand and flaming desserts or sample from a spectacular selection of world-class wines.

The modern seafood and steak restaurant provides unmatched culinary design, superior service, energetic style and intimate elegance.

With a wealth of experience, chefs Pedro Silva, Angel Rios, and Johnny Wesley have designed a distinctive menu featuring delectable dishes, specializing in the finest seafood, steaks, dessert, wine and cocktails.

1911 Bagby St. (Midtown) 713.652.0711 mrpeeples.com

The Palm

788 W. Sam Houston Parkway North (Town & Country) 713.827.1120 1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands 281.362.0103

Morton’s The Steakhouse This restaurant, part of the Landry family of restaurants, opened in 1996 and one of the first fine dining steakhouses in the Galleria area. Morton’s has become a regular for the Houston social scene, athletes, lawyers and oil professionals and was recently updated with the addition of Bar 12.21.

The Palm proudly serves USDA prime-aged beef, jumbo Nova Scotia lobster, heritage Italian entrees and premium seafood cooked to perfection with service and an atmosphere not found anywhere else. The Palm’s philosophy is simple: Treat guests like family, serve great food and always exceed expectations.

6100 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.977.2544 thepalm.com

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Sullivan’s

The award-winning restaurant located in the Galleria area has a sophisticated feel, combined with great food and unmatched service, for a customized dining experience.

Wet-aged steaks arrive at the table beautifully cut, cooked and plated, and the menu includes an extensive wine list. Diners can sit at the bar, in the dining room or on the patio.

2405 W. Alabama St. (River Oaks) 713.520.5959

flemingssteakhouse.com

smithandwollensky.com

Mo’s … A Place for Steaks

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House

5061 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.355.2600

atmosphere for luxury dining and drinking. The restaurant serves USDA Prime steaks, premium seafood and award-winning wines.

4007 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.621.7555

mortons.com

brennerssteakhouse.com/bayou

Opulent and romantic, Del Frisco’s in Houston is located elegant two-story space with sweeping windows offers guests a luxurious dining experience. This location offers guests something you won’t find in any other Houston steakhouse with our New Orleans-inspired “lagniappe” menu.

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse

9827 Katy Freeway (Memorial) 832.358.9000 perryssteakhouse.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House For a romantic steak dinner, an important business meeting, or a private party, Ruth’s Chris Steak House can accommodate your needs.

The Houston restaurant provides guests with a warm, comfortable atmosphere. Ruth’s Chris Steak House is centrally located in the heart of Houston next to the Aloft Hotel.

5433 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.961.0333

Texas Land & Cattle’s menu is inspired by traditional favorites crafted with an unexpected Texas twist. They combine flavors from the four corners of Texas and are committed to sourcing local Texas ingredients whenever possible, like Hartley Ranch Genuine Black Angus Beef from Stephenville and crafted cocktails featuring local TX spirits.

12313 Katy Freeway 281.679.9900

ruthschris.com

11900 Dickinson 281.922.6333

Shula’s Steakhouse

8015 W. FM 1960 281.469.3838

Owned by Football Hall of Fame coach turned restaurateur Don Shula, this fine dining restaurant features the Shula Cut® premium black angus beef. “We feature the biggest and best steaks, so it’s fitting to be here in Texas— where everything is bigger,” says Don Shula. The 48-ounce porterhouse is seared to perfection.

1200 Louisiana St. (Downtown) 713.375.4777 donshula.com

Smith and Wollensky The traditional green-and-white steakhouse is more than a neighborhood icon, but one of the most desirable destinations in the Houston social scene. Seating up to 350 guests indoors or on the outdoor patio, it’s the ultimate

texaslandandcattle.com

Vic and Anthony’s Located near Minute Maid Park, this premier steakhouse features an elegant, yet intimate atmosphere with an undeniable attention to detail. The award-winning menu features only the finest prime beef, fresh seafood and more, as well as an extensive wine collection.

1510 Texas St. (Downtown) 713.228.111 vicandanthonys.com

All restaurants are located in Houston unless otherwise noted.

9 DALLAS AREA LOCATIONS | 4 HOUSTON AREA LOCATIONS TEXASLANDANDCATTLE.COM

DELICATE, DANGEROUS & POWERFUL Innovative mixed-media shoe designs by Chloe Gosselin are spiking celebrity interest.

BY KATIE-ROSE WATSON

G

rowing up in Normandy, France, Chloe Gosselin never imagined she would someday design her own shoe line, although, as a young girl, she had been drawn to all things art. At age 18, she moved to Belgium and enrolled in the prestigious Fine Arts Program at the L’École de la Cambre (The School of La Cambre). While a student, classmates and friends asked her to help them with a fashion show. Gosselin walked the runway in the show, and a modeling agency took note.

“I’m not that tall; I’m not that skinny, and I never thought it was something I could do,” says Gosselin. Seizing the opportunity, the young French girl spent a decade as a working model. It was during this period that Gosselin fell in love with shoes. Specifically, she admired quality, well-designed shoes from times past.

Gosselin is passionate about vintage shoes and collects Christian Dior Souliers (shoes) from the 1950s and 1960s. Ever the artist,

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Gosselin notices fine details that others miss. “It was all so precious and detailed, feminine,” she says, describing shoes from the period.

Nine years ago, Gosselin moved to New York and took courses at the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she studied shoe-making and design.

“I just jumped in! I didn’t work with any other designer,” she says.

“For me, it’s always been about more than designing shoes. It’s about building a story around it.”

In 2014, Gosselin launched her luxury shoe line, which clearly is influenced by her background in art. “When I was a kid, I always drew and painted. I wanted to be a painter,” she says. And she did become a painter, in a way, as Gosselin’s shoes are wearable art.

Each of Gosselin’s designs is given the name of a different poisonous flower. She explains the thinking behind the names, saying, “I’m a true romantic, and I like the idea of the danger of flowers .... Some shoes are stronger

and more powerful, so they need a name with a strong poison,” says Gosselin, who incorporates many exotic skins, cutouts and zippers into her designs.

“The Amaryllis” is delicate and sleek, the perfect shoe for sashaying into a performance of The Nutcracker. “Bryonia” sports eye-catching, snake-like curves and need only a pair of jeans and a simple white T-shirt. With faux-fur ankle wraps, playful tassels, and skyhigh heels, “Privet” and “Plumeria” both beg to be escorted to holiday parties. The juxtaposition of sensual suede and fierce snakeskin helps achieve Goesslin’s signature look.

With luxurious burgundy suede paired with silver layers and soft, delicate curves, “Holly” begs to be called dangerously beautiful.

Although Gosselin launched her line only two years ago, fashion editors have taken note, as have celebrity fashion icons; Taylor Swift, Kat Graham, Lake Bell, Kate Winslet and Elizabeth Hurley all have been spotted wearing Chloe

Photos: Courtesy of Chloe Gosselin

“For me, it’s always been about more than designing shoes. It’s about building a story around it.”

CHLOE GOSSELIN

Gosselin heels.

When asked the kind of woman she has in mind when designing, Gosselin replies, “The girl who’s very strong, powerful, independent. That’s one side of her. That’s why I tailor shoes like a shirt collar.

She’s also a dreamer, delighted by the past. More feminine and light.

I believe she can be those two people at the same time.”

The collection thus far has featured primarily evening sandals and pumps, but some exquisitely designed flats and boots are included, as well. Gosselin says she plans to incorporate more daywear designs and mid-high heels as the line expands.

Now a resident of Las Vegas, Gosselin says her personal apparel choices include either a Salma Hall blouse with jeans and the highest heels, vintage Geoffrey Beene (whose designs are “still so current,” she says, enthusiastically), or riding clothes.

In her spare time, the busy mom of a five-year old is an avid eques-

trian. Gosselin bought her dream horse, an Andalusian named Milo, as a treat for her 30th birthday and rides most days. Gosselin notes her love of horseback riding and the thoughtful way horse tack is made, especially leather equipment and buckles on saddles and bridles, serves as design inspiration. Her dressage trainer, she says, keeps trying to convince her to design riding boots, but added that she’s laughing off that suggestion for now.

When asked about her collection for 2016, Gosselin divulges the line will bring back some classic styles incorporated with new styles she finds exciting. The collection also will feature many organic colors. “I was really inspired by landscapes and layers of rock,” she says.

Perhaps it’s her love of the staying power of vintage, but Gosselin says she doesn’t care much about following trends; she follows her own vision and artistic influences.

Gosselin’s daughter enjoys her

designs but, like mom, gravitates towards vintage. She’ll walk around in her mom’s shoes at their home, but, the minute she and her mom are in a restaurant, the tyke promptly sheds her shoes.

“She removes her shoes all the time!” laughs Gosselin fondly.

It’s clear that the model-turned-designer is passionate about all aspects of her life, from shoemaking to motherhood to horseback riding. Despite her success, Gosselin doesn’t take herself too seriously and is refreshingly humble; this writer found it hard not feel inspired speaking with Gosselin, a true artist and dreamer.

Gosselin’s shoes, which are available only online, range in price from $750 to $1,600. All Chloe Gosselin shoes are handmade in Italy in the factory that also produces the Jimmy Choo line. chloegosselin.com

H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

19

HOW THE

#@% * DID THOSE GUYS DO THAT? F

ive fast friends turned a series of trick basketball shots and wacky sports-oriented stunts into 22 million fans, 5 million subscribers and 1 billion online views.

But referring to Dude Perfect’s mind-boggling videos as simply a “viral sensation” is selling its successful business woefully short.

We’ve all seen inexplicable, don’t-try-this-at-home Internet videos take on a life all their own.

However, the five highly competitive young Texans known collectively as Dude Perfect take online exposure to an entirely new level.

Advertising Age has referred to Dude Perfect as one of the hottest brands around, and the group’s first iPhone app was offered for 99 cents and scored 1.5 million downloads—ka-ching!

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Hanging out of moving cars, precariously perched on top of tall buildings … forward, sideways and backwards—if you can dream it up, Dude Perfect probably has already done it with basketballs, footballs, hockey pucks, golf balls, Frisbees, ping-pong balls and more. Since 2009, they’ve been flamboyantly dunking, slamming, jamming, shooting, spinning, twisting, turning and somersaulting their way through record books and into the hearts of fans worldwide.

The men behind the mayhem are pretty respectable athletes who make the stunts look nearly effortless: Plano native Cody Jones, twin brothers Coby and Cory Cotton of The Woodlands, Texas; Tyler Toney, a former

The Adrenaline Rush of Dude Perfect WRITTEN BY DAVE MUSCARI

Prosper (Texas) High School quarterback; and Garrett Hilbert, a basketball player, also from Prosper High School.

“We’ve made basketball shots from an airplane, the Goodyear Blimp, Reunion Tower, and many more [places],” says Jones. Each move takes significant planning, not to mention a fanatical number of repetitions. “What people don’t see is all the hard work and planning that goes on behind the scenes,” says Jones.

Camera positioning is a key component in any Dude Perfect video. The guys utilize the latest technology, from drones to Go Pros strapped onto just about everything that isn’t nailed down, to execute their most memorable shots, such as “The World’s

Photo courtesy of Dude Perfect

The Dude Perfect dudes (L-R): Cody Jones, Cory Cotton, Tyler Toney, Coby Cotton and Garrett Hilbert

Longest Alley-Oop” and “Swish-O Drain-O.” “But my all time favorite was when we used two cranes to build the world’s largest slingshot,” says Jones. “Tyler pulled it back using a tractor, and launched the ball 80-yards into a goal attached to a four-wheeler I was driving. When it banked into the goal … we lost our minds.”

The five have let others into the act, too, sharing their video stage with various sports and pop-culture icons. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and head coach Pete Carroll, New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham, Jr., professional bowler Jason Belmonte, country singer Tim McGraw, actor Paul Rudd, golfer Jamie Sadlowski, Dallas Stars’

Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn and NASCAR drivers Travis Pastrana, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., James Hinchcliffe and James Buescher have each done a little freestylin’ with Dude Perfect.

“Thanks to Google, I had the privilege of interviewing the USA men’s basketball team at the 2012 Olympics in London,” says Jones.

“It was surreal, standing next to LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, James Harden and Kevin Durant and getting to joke around and laugh with them. Many of them were very familiar with our work … it was a very special moment.”

In the beginning, a quick buzz surrounded the group. “Our very first video was in 2009, ‘The Backyard Edition,’” says Jones.

Incredibly, the clip garnered 100,000 views in a single day, he recalls. Good Morning America later showcased it, and interest grew exponentially from then on.

“We realized we had something special,” says Jones. “We made the ‘World’s Longest Basketball Shot’ [featuring Johnny “Football” Manziel, the Heisman-winning quarterback] at Kyle Field and about 40 other videos that had millions of views,” he adds.

Dude Perfect is unexpectedly wholesome, family-friendly fare from the kind of guys you’d meet at church camp and invite into your parents’ kitchen for homemade ice cream. “God has definitely blessed us from the beginning, and we were fortunate have great families that raised us,” says Jones.

The group’s members are ultra-protective of their brand and readily turn down potentially lucrative alcohol and men’s magazine sponsorships to stay true to a refreshingly squeaky-clean image. “We have to stay grounded in our faith and assume the best with one another in order to stay sane,” adds Jones. “But we’ve definitely found a good rhythm.”

Dude Perfect has fostered tantalizing commercial applications that connect serious dots between business and sports. “We’ve built a safe but extremely cool brand that has attracted many sponsorships,” explains Jones. “To date, we’ve worked with over 40 companies in our six years.” Those include Fortune 500 brands such as Fiat,

NERF, ESPN, AT&T and homegrown Southwest Airlines.

Just two years ago, Dude Perfect was a sideline for Jones and his cohorts. “I worked in commercial real estate after graduating A&M, then took a student ministry job at a church in Plano,” he says.

“Tyler was doing commercial landscape sales, and Garrett was working at an architectural firm after getting his master’s degree.”

Nowadays, everyone is full time, each fulfilling a defined role within the organization.

Texas sports producer Sean Hamilton worked with Dude Perfect last year for a New Year’s Eve TV special that aired statewide. The crew heaved dozens of basketballs off the top of Reunion Tower toward a lone goal below. It took a lot of time and even more patience, says Hamilton, but when it was completed, edited and ready for air, the final product was “impressive,” says Hamilton.

“Fifteen years ago this wouldn’t have been possible,” Hamilton says, laughing. “Social media and Dude Perfect is a marketing match made in heaven.”

The Dude Perfect company is based in North Texas; however, they’ve shot videos all over. “We did shoot the world-record basketball shot at the Texans’ stadium,” Jones says. “It was insane to watch a ball fall for nine seconds before it ripped through the net.”

Last summer, the guys parlayed their unique relationship with an ardent fan base into “Dude Perfect 2,” the group’s second mobile video game; it generated more than 13 million downloads within a month and shot to the top of the iOS and Android charts. Without offering details, Jones says a TV show is in the works, too.

The team’s improbable story continues to gain steam, fueled by a vision to go big or go home.

Some of the tricks you simply have to see to believe. But the fun is radical, genuine and contagious.

Dude … perfect! dudeperfect.com

“WE HEAR ALL THE TIME THAT WE HAVE THE BEST JOBS IN THE WORLD— AND WE DEFINITELY AGREE.“ Cody Jones, Dude Perfect

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hey say there’s no place like home for the holidays—but when it comes to holiday shopping, there’s no place like Houston. Our Houston Hotel Magazine editors have put together our top picks for the season to help your holidays shine a little brighter.

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Jaeger Lecoultre Ladies Rendez-Vouz Night & Day in 18K white gold with pavé diamond dial, diamond bezel and satin strap. $49,400 eisemanjewels.com

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Kendra Scott Gretchen Necklace, gold cobalt cat’s eye. $85 kendrascott.com

3 Pinto Ranch Lucchese Classics Floral Tooled Lieutenant Boots Handmade in Texas. $995 pintoranch.com

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Exclusively at Eiseman Jewels Seaman Schepps Large Link Bracelet 18K yellow gold with emeralds, sapphires and diamonds. $89,500 eisemanjewels.com

5 The Ring Bar at Ylang23 Cathy Waterman platinum & diamond rings.

Sapphire solitaire: $6,790 Open leafside band: $3,250 ylang23.com

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Beretta Shotgun Benefits the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

687 EELL Classic 20 gauge $8,499 berettagallery.com

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7 Tejas Boots Black alligator with matching belt: $2,950 Cajuac crocodile with matching belt: $2,450 tejascustomboots.com

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The Bindah Timeless art, 700-year-old design. $850 ea. nicholson-hardie.com

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Kendra Scott Corley Earring, gold iridescent cobalt cat’s eye. $85 kendrascott.com

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Ulysse Nardin 43 mm Marine Chronometer Manufacture, steel and titanium, self-wind, white dial, blue rubber and titanium strap. $10,300 eisemanjewels.com

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Ivanka Trump Tassel Moderne Earring champagne and white diamonds in 18K yellow gold. $1,990 deutschjewelers.com

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Armstrong Traveler Mid-sized bag suited for overnights and weekends.

Available in Tan Cordura and Regular. $588 krsaddleshop.com

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Patek Philippe’s 5175 Grandmaster Chime features a date repeater, perpetual calendar and acoustic alarm in an 18K rose-gold case.

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Luxury watchmakers merge art with science in new creations for the wrist.

LEGENDS IN THEIR OWN TIME

BY ANGELA YOUNGMAN

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elling the time is no longer the sole function of a wristwatch. Today, one can navigate stormy seas, assess air currents, browse the web, send e-mails, and even juggle stock shares; the arrival of the smartwatch has revolutionized the luxury watch sector.

Seeking to merge art with science, many companies and famous names like Will-i-am are in collaborations with luxury brands such as Gucci. Other companies are creating their own technology; consider the Montblanc and its e-strap, which may be used with any traditional watch. The result is that craftsmanship and technology are combining to make simply spectacular watches and smart watches.

For 175 years, Swiss company Patek Philippe has played a key role in watch development.

Pure ultra luxury, Patek Philippe

watches include the industry’s most technologically complicated watches and the world’s most expensive watch, which sold at auction for $24 million in 2014.

To celebrate its 175th anniversary, the company unveiled the 5175 Grandmaster Chime, the most sophisticated watch Patek Philippe has built, to date. Possessing 20 complications across 2 dials, this masterpiece offers new features, such as a date repeater that chimes the date, state-of-theart perpetual calendar and an acoustic alarm that sounds the time, all enclosed within an 18K rose-gold case.

Only seven 5175 Grandmaster Chime watches were produced.

One was placed in the Patek Philippe museum and the remaining six were sold prior to production for $2.6 million each, solely through offer to current clients.

Patek’s new 5524 Calatrava Pilot Travel Time pays tribute to early aviators, including the Wright brothers and Charles Lindbergh. A masculine watch celebrating conquest of the skies, it features a time-zone function showing home time and location time. A patented safety lock prevents accidental adjustments of the time setting. This triumph of design evokes the classic aviators’ timepiece while blending technology and contemporary elegance in a white-gold case and blue dial.

By far the most popular of all Patek watches is the ultra-thin, self-winding Perpetual Calendar.

The company is re-launching this proven favorite in a design of unsurpassed elegance that emphasizes heritage and Art Deco combined with modernity. The cushion-shaped case contains a masterpiece of technology; its

Above: Users of the Apple Watch can customize its face, send emails and text messages, program meeting reminders, access maps, make phone calls and more.

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A key is required to open the smartphone application on Bvlgari’s Diagono E Magnesium, called a “wrist-vault” watch by the manufacturer.

275 individual parts include a 22K gold mini-rotor recessed into the plate to ensure impressive accuracy and precise timekeeping.

A black, hand-stitched alligator strap and 18K yellow-gold buckle accompany the stately timepiece.

Equally technically complex are Breitling watches. Often described as instruments for professionals, these superb watches are made by a world leader in wrist chronographs. Breitling’s legendary Navitimer became the first wrist chronograph in space when it accompanied astronaut Scott Carpenter on an orbital flight aboard the Aurora 7 capsule.

Today, the Navitimer is the world’s oldest mechanical chronograph still in production—as popular today as it was when first launched, back in 1952.

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With an updated concept, this magnificent timepiece is used by most of the world’s elite pilots.

In addition, it is associated with acclaimed air shows, such as Reno Air Races. The current, limited-edition version, Navitimer Caliber 01, features a transparent sapphire case back and a dial that incorporates a solid gold or sterling base. Practical, technical and highly sophisticated, these are watches that exude elegance.

For those who want connectivity, Breitling offers the Caliber B55, a new generation, web-connected combination smartphone and chronograph.

The much-vaunted Apple Watch with smart technology burst onto the scene in 2015.

Its sleek, contemporary design encompasses a wealth of func-

tionality; users can customize the watch’s face, program meeting reminders, send messages, access maps and make phone calls. A revolutionary concept, it combines the traditional watch concept with web-based access.

Shortly after the launch of the Apple Watch, other manufacturers quickly began playing catchup and increasing their options in an effort to compete.

Data security is the hidden treasure in new smart watches designed by Italian jeweler Bvlgari.

Its Diagono E Magnesium combines traditional craftsmanship with digital facility in an intelligent timepiece that includes special features to secure users’ data; Bvlgari defines it as a “wrist-vault” watch. Each watch incorporates a key required to open the secure

Patek Philippe’s Perpetual Calendar watch boasts 275 individual parts. A 22K gold mini-rotor recessed into the plate helps ensure accuracy.

Bvlgari smartphone application; this key is designed to reduce opportunities for hackers to access data associated with online purchases. Yet, the watch looks and feels like pure luxury.

The company offers its Diagono Magnesium as a pioneering, tangible smartwatch that meets contemporary requirements of tomorrow’s everyday wear within the increasingly blurred boundaries of a connected world.

Bvlgari believes other intelligent watches are functional objects lacking any real added value, objects more like a game console than a luxury timepiece.

Jean-Christophe Babin, president of the Bvlgari Group says, “The new Diagono Magnesium perfectly represents the duality of Bvlgari. A luxury watch brand

When paired with a user’s smartphone, Breitling’s B55 Connected enhances the functionality and convenience of each device.

with Italian origins symbolized by the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, artist and scientist, it has a unique manner of melding contemporary design with the best of Swiss watch-making expertise and the most advanced Swiss technologies, such as WISeKey. While certain brands offer watches subject to rapid obsolescence, we are offering a self-winding, sustainable luxury watch—like all Bvlgari luxury watches.”

Breitling’s Navitimer model, used by most elite pilots, was first launched in 1952, making it the oldest mechanical chronograph still in production.

Apple Watch is offered in a variety of materials and interchangeable bands. Shown here is the Silver Aluminum Case with Green Sport Band.

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Photo: Dallas Safari Club

CONSERVATION CONVERSATION HHM hunts for answers with Dallas Safari Club executive director Ben Carter.

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n avid hunter and conservationist, Ben Carter is the executive director of the Dallas Safari Club. The organization is a newly accepted member of the IUCN, the United Nations’ globally respected International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Carter oversees implementation of the Dallas Safari Club mission: conserving wildlife and wilderness lands, educating youth and the general public, as well as promoting and protecting the rights and interests of hunters worldwide.

HHM: The organization has a local name but states a global purpose. What exactly is DSC? BC: Dallas Safari Club is a hunting conservation organization whose mission is conservation, education and protecting hunters’ rights around the world. We have more than 6,000 members with about 40 percent of those in Texas. The rest are from all over the United States and around the world. Each year in January, we have a convention that is our main fundraiser, and its success has allowed us to grant more than $5 million during the last four years to support conservation, education and hunter advocacy worldwide.

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HHM: How does the continued hunting of these animals actually contribute to the survival of the species?

HHM: What is the biggest threat to hunting at this time and how does DSC combat it?

BC: Sustainable-use hunting is the source of most conservation funding. It gives measurable value to wildlife. In Africa, for example, there is a saying, “If it pays, it stays.” Many species are tolerated on private lands there only because hunters are willing to pay to hunt them.

Wildlife disappears from places where hunting is banned to reduce depredation on cattle and crops. It costs a lot of money to manage wildlife and conserve habitat. Under The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which we follow here in the United States, wildlife conservation is funded solely by sportsmen’s dollars, through the Pittman-Robertson Act, which is an excise tax on hunting-related goods, and also through license sales. Those two sources of revenue provide the bulk of the funding for state fish and wildlife agencies. But in Africa, wildlife management and the protection of species from poachers is financed entirely by huntinggenerated revenues and grants from organizations like DSC.

BC: The biggest threat is a lack of knowledge. We’ve become such an urban-centered society and the hunting tradition isn’t passed on like it was. The best thing we can do is to educate people on how wildlife management works and how people who hunt are the ones who truly support it.

Watching animal shows on TV or threatening hunters via social media doesn’t help enhance wildlife at all. We understand and respect the fact not all people hunt nor wish to be hunters, but people need to understand hunting is a vital part of wildlife management and the only way wildlife can be preserved for the future.

HHM: The DSC Convention shattered attendance records last year and is scheduled for January 2016. Is the DSC Convention just for safari hunters and what draws so many people to the event?

BC: The DSC Convention is an outdoor show with exhibitors from all over the world. There are hunting and fishing outfitters from all over, acclaimed artists, firearms manufacturers, optics makers, clothiers, furriers, jewelers—something for everyone.

That’s what brings people in and what brings them back and why the show contributes so much to the local economy.

HHM: What will the future of hunting look like, both here in the United States and around the world, especially in African countries?

BC: If countries around the world are serious about keeping wildlife they will continue to allow hunting. All they have to do is look at what happened in Kenya in the 1970s. Kenya used to be home to the richest game populations on the continent, if not in the world. When anti-hunting groups pressured the government to ban hunting, all of that quickly changed. Today, more than 75 percent of Kenya’s wildlife is gone. Those animals have been killed by poachers. There are so many people who desire a real, natural world, not a world where wildlife can only be seen on TV and in zoos. A natural world can exist only if hunting is allowed to be the driving force for sound management and conservation practices. So, while the threats to wildlife and hunting probably will always be there, I believe hunting in the U.S. and abroad will continue.

The journey begins with a few giant steps.

Dallas Safari Club Annual Convention January 7-10, 2016 Dallas Convention Center

Greatest Hunters Convention on the Planet.™ For more information, visit our website at www.biggame.org ©2016 Dallas Safari Club

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COLO RADO 58 3 4 6 2

HA D OLULSATSO N H OHTOETLE M L AMGAAGZAI N ZE INE

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Photo: Hotel Telluride

COO L Rocky Mountain resorts offer much more than rooms with a view.

BY ANGELA YOUNGMAN

H ODUASLTLO AN S H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

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in the world. With more than 5,000 acres of skiing trails and cross-country skiing, this area is perfect for all winter sports enthusiasts, both novices and experts. Each pretty alpine-style village offers stunning accommodations that match the breathtaking outdoor views.

At The Sebastian, guests may experience total recovery in a mountain-view pool, complete with steaming hot tubs, then follow the treat with a delectable dining experience. Rich décor, complete with fine paintings, is characteristic throughout the hotel. Bedrooms combine opulence with sleek contemporary style, and only the finest luxury amenities are provided; 400-thread Egyptian cotton sheets ensure a perfect night’s sleep. Intimate and elegant, the accommodation is a home away from home.

The Library holds an interesting selection of books that invite leisurely browsing. The Frost bar offers an impressive choice in spirits; guests may choose from

among the signature Scotch collection, sleek hand-crafted cocktails, and a variety of microbrew ales. Relax and socialize over tapas and wine, or crudo or bistro fare in Leonora before attending a family celebration dinner in the private dining room.

In winter, the Sebastian’s base camp provides ski-in/ski-out access from Gondola One on Vail Mountain. Private ski valets ensure each transition is smooth, enabling guests to spend maximum time on the slopes.

Legends of the Bachelors add a historical dimension to the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch resort.

Seven miners arrived here in the early 1900s—John Anderson, ‘Gundy’ Berg, Ed Howard, Charley Mays, John Mertz, Ferdinand Smith and Carrothers, who history records only by his last name—and stayed until the Great Depression. Meeting rooms are named for the miners, and rock-lined walls of the Grotto in Bachelor Gulch Spa evoke Photos: Courtesy, The Sebastian

ajestic snowcovered mountains rearing high into the sky, brilliant gold aspen leaves shimmering against contrasting white trunks on dense forested slopes, and sunlit, rushing rivers cascading into wildflower meadows nestled within valleys—the setting must be Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Surrounded by this stunning scenery, the resorts of Aspen, Vail and Telluride offer perfect destinations for the adventurous seeking unmatched outdoor experiences.

Exhilarating days spent hiking, biking or trekking may be interspersed with first-class games of golf or shopping among highend boutiques selling designer brands from Prada to Gucci.

When the sun sinks behind the peaks, a lively nightlife sparkles with a variety of theater performances, concerts and ballet.

As winter approaches, Aspen and Vail become the centers of the best skiing and après ski

THE SEBASTIAN

Above: This luxury mountain lodge in Vail Village is a nine-minute walk from Gondola One and 9.9 miles from Beaver Creek Resort. Top right: Enjoy The Library while sipping morning coffee, cozying up with a book or unwinding with wine and light fare from Frost. Bottom right: The Sebastian’s luxurious 84 guest rooms and 16 suites are relaxing, private quarters with the intimacy, elegance and comforts of home. All feature amenities such as refrigerators, fresh fruit and Nespresso coffee service.

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Photos: Courtesy, Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch

the caves found throughout the Rocky Mountains, places the Bachelors would have known well. Today, the wagging tail of Bachelor, the hotel’s St. Bernard ambassador, frequently greets visitors relaxing in front of glowing fires in the Great Room.

Stylish and imposing, the Ritz Carlton is one of the loveliest hotels in the area. Set on a hillside close to Beaver Creek Mountain with stunning views across Vail Valley, the Ritz Carlton evokes alpine charm. The beauty of the surrounding landscape is echoed in the interior décor; natural wood and stone combine with luxurious designer textiles and upholstery to create an instantly relaxing environment in which graceful blues, browns and beiges predominate. Each room boasts spectacular views of either the Eagle River Valley or Beaver Creek Mountain.

Soak away aches of the day in a sumptuous marble bathroom, enjoy gourmet in-room coffee and tea, or be pampered in a spa treatment or sauna.

Buffalo’s restaurant features seasonal dishes accompanied by

RITZ CARLTON BACHELOR GULCH Above: Set on a hillside close to Beaver Creek Mountain with stunning views across Vail Valley, the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch evokes alpine charm as well as the great mountain lodges of the American West. Left: The glowing heat of the fireplace complements the warm ambience in the Beaver Creek cigar bar inside Bachelors Lounge, where guests also can enjoy hand-crafted signature cocktails and a diverse collection of scotches and other whiskeys from around the world.

one of the many local craft beers.

At Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, guests may explore designer cocktails and indulge in fine dining at W. The adults-only Bachelors Lounge offers imported cigars from around the world, signature cocktails and a sommelier-crafted wine list par excellence.

In this area, guests can ski from village to village in winter and have ski-in/ski-out access to more than 1,800 acres of pristine snow-covered slopes. White-glove services for skiers include a ski

concierge and direct access to the Bachelor Gulch Express highspeed quad chairlift, situated only a few minutes from the hotel.

At other times of the year, trail-riding on sure-footed horses offers full immersion in the spectacular scenery. The Ritz Carlton enjoys an exclusive partnership with Red Sky Golf Club, home to some of Colorado’s highest rated golf courses.

Children can enjoy the Bachelor Gulch Youth Spa program H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

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Photos: Courtesy, Hotel Jerome

HOTEL JEROME Top: Often called Aspen’s crown jewel, Hotel Jerome dates to the 1880s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Bottom left: The Jerome’s recently upgraded guest rooms are well-appointed with custom furnishings, authentic details and modern amenities that embody the mountain spirit of Aspen. Bottom right: The Living Room is an open, inviting space to relax over small plates and creative drinks from the lobby bar, with a menu featuring American tapas and desserts.

and the Ritz Kids scheme. In winter, a ski nanny is available to give mom and dad much-needed space. Four-footed friends are welcome, and a pampering service includes doggie massages, VIP packs and even Furry Paw Fridays, in which man’s best friend enjoys canine fun in the sun.

Aspen’s Hotel Jerome defines elegance, with its imposing Old World splendor, distinctive, historic red brick expanse and understated luxury. Its location right in the heart of town ensures guests are only steps away from the finest shopping. Often described as Aspen’s crown jewel, 36

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the hotel dates back to the 1880s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Chairs in the lounge beckon guests after a full day exploring the mountains. The characteristic leather and tartan, dark woods and sparkling linen can be found throughout the hotel. Interesting touches include mini-bars designed as leather campaign chests and burnished leather bed frames. Walk-in showers, oversize baths and marble surrounds are be found in every bathroom, together with custom-blended bath products. Cashmere curtains and cubist-inspired carpets complete the décor.

In recognition of the fine quality of locally produced art, unique pieces by local artists are displayed on the walls, as are reproductions of archival pieces from the Aspen Historical Society’s collection, including a singularly impressive image of a Ute Indian chief.

Hand-stitched leather chairs, traditional furnishings and warm hardwood flooring create the perfect ambiance for dining and relaxing each evening. Inspired by local traditions and culture, the unique Food of Place series was created exclusively for hotel guests.

In contrast, the iconic J Bar offers an authentic, Old-West saloon feel, complete with burgers and beer, lobster Cobb or Aspen Crud. Rugged leather furniture conveys a sense of timelessness, and the Chippendale chinoiserie bar original to the hotel remains in use.

Concierge services provide access to unexpected treats, such as a twilight husky sledding excursion in which dogs hurtle down the slopes, pulling the adventuresome on a sled through the tranquil, snowy countryside.

The Viceroy Snowmass is among the newest resorts in the area and is proving highly popular. Well-situated to enable skiers access to four mountains—Aspen, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk—The Viceroy is close to the Elk Camp gondola and Village Express and Assay Hill chairlifts.

Sleek, elegant, sophisticated interior décor evokes a fresh, warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Kitchens in each room are fully

and lounge chairs tempt guests to stop and stay awhile. Many of the rooms boast panoramic views of the mountains, and suites offer heated marble floors and walls, steam showers and Jacuzzi soaking tubs. Glowing fires in fireplaces provide welcoming warmth after a cold day out on the mountains.

The town is right at Little Nell’s front door, making it easy for guests to enjoy a shopping spree amid high-end boutiques or take in an evening’s entertainment. Visitors may dine in comfort at the hotel’s award-winning

Element 47 restaurant, which features alpine cuisine infused with seasonal ingredients. The unusual glass wine wall echoes the scale of the award-winning wine list. Those who prefer casual fine dining will enjoy Ajax Tavern, the ultimate après-ski venue with a pretty mountainside patio.

Regardless of the time of the year, Little Nell has much to offer visitors. During the summer, stargazing jeep tours are led by an astronomy expert, under whose supervision guests can enjoy a late-night picnic in the mountains, then discover the sky’s

VICEROY SNOWMASS Below: The outdoor spirit of adventure abounds at this contemporary luxury hotel and resort located at the base of one of the world’s finest ski mountains.

The Viceroy is located only seven miles from downtown Aspen in the heart of Snowmass’ new Base Village.

Left: Each of the hotel’s rooms and suites offers guests an unparalleled Aspen resort experience. Featuring breathtaking mountain views, elegant amenities, stylish interior décor and full in-room kitchens, Viceroy’s luxury accommodations are designed to bring a sense of serenity and comfort to guests.

Photos: Courtesy, Viceroy Snowmass

stocked with designer tableware, and the comfortable, serene bedrooms are the brainchild of renowned interior designer Jean-Michel Gathy.

Wonderful mountain or town views are visible from each room, including the dining room, which overlooks spectacular mountains. Relax in the Ute Indian-inspired Wellness Spa, try out the well-equipped fitness center or sip a drink on the year-round pool terrace.

The Viceroy also prides itself on its environmentally friendly policies, as it seeks to stay at the forefront of sustainable hospitality. A state-of-the-art Electrolyser system creates the hotel’s own cleaning products, ensuring air is healthy, clean and fresh throughout. Combined with signature luxury accommodations designed to exceed all expectations, the Viceroy Snowmass is a hotel for the 21st century.

Recently renovated in chic, natural-hued Aspen Modern, Little Nell is the sole 5-star, 5-diamond resort in Aspen. Here, a palette of cream, blue and chocolate creates a serene, calm environment, and down-filled sofas

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Photos: Courtesy, Little Nell

LITTLE NELL Left: The courtyard at Aspen’s recently-renovated Little Nell boasts a heated swimming pool and jacuzzi. Most rooms have private balconies. Below: Little Nell is the only ski-in/ski-out hotel at the base of Aspen Mountain and is located steps from the Silver Queen Gondola.

jewels viewed through state-ofthe-art binoculars.

Set on Telluride Mountain amid the San Juan peaks, Hotel Telluride is sited within the historic community that shares its name. A quaint 19th-century silver-mining town, Telluride offers Victorian charm amid awe-inspiring, soaring peaks perfect for skiing, climbing and outdoor activities.

Each room at Hotel Telluride boasts its own special, breathtaking mountain view from the balcony or patio. Windows may be opened to enjoy the fresh mountain air, or guests may adjust room temperature using the individual climate-control system found in each room.

Enjoy spacious bathrooms with large tubs and marble surrounds before settling down to sleep on custom-embroidered linens and down pillows. Each suite incorporates a gas fireplace and a wet bar. Eye-catching original artwork hangs on the walls, creating a focal point for each room. Outdoor hot tubs, a lovely sun deck and a fully equipped fitness center 38

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make this an ideal place to rest and reinvigorate.

Time to dine? The all-pervading scent of fresh-baked cookies wafts from the kitchen throughout the day, keeping appetites whetted. Unique among all the Telluride restaurants, the Nook offers casual American cuisine in a lodge setting. Here, mom and dad can enjoy homemade tavern fare made from fresh, local ingredients while youngsters choose from among kid-friendly selections on the diverse children’s menu. From cozy meals to family celebrations, the Nook is ready to meet a variety of culinary needs.

Each pet guest receives its own personalized pet welcome on the front desk’s doggie chalkboard, a plush dog bed and a special pet tag that includes the hotel’s phone number, in case Fido can’t find his way home.

With an annual average of 300 inches of snow, Telluride boasts more than 1,700 acres of ideal skiing terrain perfect for cross-country or downhill skiing.

At 4.6 miles long, the Galloping Goose is the longest of the ski

runs in the area. During other times of the year, guests enjoy camping, hiking, jeeping and world-famous music festivals.

The Peaks Resort and Spa stars as one of the most relaxing resorts in the area. Here, guests may find privacy in rustic, yet chic, private cabins and condos or enjoy socializing in the luxurious hotel. Spacious rooms decorated in classic white, cream and chocolate décor feature opulent wood furniture. Each room features a large seating area with a queen-sized sofa sleeper and two full-size baths.

Guests are in for a special treat at Peaks Palmyra, where magnificent mountain views enhance gourmet, innovative cuisine prepared by the finest chefs; the restaurant’s emphasis on fine dining includes organic, regional and international flavors. For quick meals, the Steaming Bean coffee house is perfect, with its grab-and-go menu of light fare.

Live music is performed most nights.

Lovers of the links may enjoy privileges at The Telluride Golf

Photos: Courtesy, Hotel Telluride

HOTEL TELLURIDE Above: Pet guests at Hotel Telluride receive a a personalized welcome on the front desk’s doggie chalkboard and a special pet tag with the hotel’s phone number. Pet-free rooms also are available. Right: Each room at Hotel Telluride boasts its own special, breathtaking mountain view from the balcony or patio.

Photos: Courtesy, The Peaks Resort & Spa

Club. Perched 9,500 ft. above sea level, the club is one of the highest in the world, and mountains surround the 18-hole course. For a different sports experience, try heli-skiing, a specialty of the hotel.

Colorado’s largest spa, The Spa at The Peaks, offers an extensive range of treatments, cardio machines, group fitness classes, dry saunas, Roman tubs, steam rooms and an oxygen lounge.

The hotel’s fantastic, two-level fitness center also includes heated

pools. Complete the experience with a manicure, pedicure and visit to the hair salon.

Pets are welcome at the Peaks Resort, where an on-site doggy spa awaits pampered pooches and all rooms are dog-friendly.

National Geographic has granted the resort its special Paw of Approval recognition. This pet-friendly culture is found throughout the town of Telluride, which provides numerous special Puppy Parking spots where dogs can chill out in

comfort. In addition, gondalas include cabins exclusively for pets.

Active holidays, winter sports, cultural events and designer shopping make Aspen, Vail and Telluride ideal year-round destinations for magnificent scenery, sumptuous dining and relaxing experiences for all ages.

THE PEAKS RESORT AND SPA Left: Located in Telluride’s Mountain Village, The Peaks offers world-class outdoor adventure, unparalleled views, and luxurious amenities along with ski-in/ski-out access to Telluride Ski Resort. Below: The Alpine Vista Room offers picturesque views of Mountain Village and feature two king beds or one king bed and a queen sleeper sofa. All rooms feature opulent wood furniture and a large seating area.

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Be our guest.

Plan your getaway to Houston, and experience a fun-filled stay at the Omni Houston Hotel. Whatever your reason to escape, you’ll enjoy luxurious accommodations, amazing amenities and fine dining all within steps from your room.

Let us elevate your next escape to extraordinary.

713-871-8181 • omnihotels.com/houston

Anthony Correia / Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

November 6

Billy Joel Toyota Center

In Houston, we’ve got events to suit everyone’s style.

Check our calendar for the best of the city’s culture and entertainment during your stay.

“Sing us a song; you’re the piano man....” Since his breakthrough album was released in 1973, the native New Yorker has written and recorded many of popular music’s most resilient songs.

In fact, the six-time Grammy winner has the rare distinction of having scored hits on the charts in every decade since his recording debut. It’s hard to imagine FM radio-play without “Just The Way You Are,” “We Didn’t Start The Fire,” “She’s Always a Woman,” “Big Shot,” “Honesty” and so many more.

His work with big-time artists includes mega-tours with Paul McCartney, Elton John and other A-listers.

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october

OCTOBER 16

Revention Music Center

Jackson Browne JStone / Shutterstock.com

Marc Anthony and Carlos Vives

OCTOBER 23

Toyota Center

Daryl Lang / Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

Salsa meets fusion when two of Latin music’s biggest names hit the road together to offer fans a spectacular musical extravaganza. Known best for his “Vivir Mi Vida,” Anthony joins Columbian native and fusion artist Vives (“El Cantor de Fonseca”) in 13 U.S. markets, treating audiences to the artists’ top hits in two full concerts under the same roof. The exchange of energy promises to convey both a sense of intimacy and a vibrant experience.

He helped define the soft-rock sound of the 1970s with classics such as “Take It Easy,” “The Pretender,” “Doctor, My Eyes” and more. The Los Angeles native blends his music with activism, in keeping with fellow artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt and others. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and continues to supply a steady diet of songs to fans via recordings and tours.

OCTOBER 8–11

OCTOBER 10

OCTOBER 11

University of St. Thomas

Miller Outdoor Theatre

Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

Celebrate all things Italian with wine tastings, a grape-stomp competition, bocce tournament, pasta-eating contest and more.

Acclaimed classical compositions performed with distinctive Mexican, Latin American, and/or Spanish influences form a fantastic opportunity to enjoy varied Latin cultures.

Since 1979, he’s racked up 19 studio albums and five Grammy nominations. The power-pop musician is well known for “Breaking Us in Two” and “Is She Really Going Out With Him?”

Festa Italiana

Lunada 2015, Houston Symphony

Joe Jackson

OCTOBER 9–11

Trill Comedy Festival

NOW THROUGH JANUARY 24, 2016

Mark Rothko: A Retrospective

OCTOBER 11

Station Theater

It’s three days of funny with more than 100 comics showcasing local and national acts working in improvisation, sketch, stand-up and performance art.

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

This exclusive exhibition of Abstract Expressionism is presented in the host city of the artist’s most acclaimed and enduring public commission.

The 11-year-old prodigy steeped in Appalachian music has captured the nation’s imagination.

An instrumentalist and vocal stylist, she is an instinctive interpreter of songs.

Emisunshine

THROUGH OCTOBER 18

Matilda, TUTS

OCTOBER 10

Mavis Staples & Joan Osborne

OCTOBER 13–15

Hobby Center

Winner of four Tonys, it’s the sweet story of a precocious 5-year-old girl who loves to read and learns how to overcome a maze of obstacles created by her parents and school.

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Wortham Theater Center (Cullen Theater)

Osborne opens with her emotion-driven hits, followed by Staples’ set of inimitable rhythmand-blues and gospel. The ladies join forces for an unforgettable finale.

In a beautiful blend of choreography and music, Swedish ballerina Anna Holmström joins The Flying Steps, fusing urban elements with precision ballet.

Red Bull Flying Bach

OCTOBER 9–11

Oktoberfest

OCTOBER 10–11

Bayou City Art Festival

OCTOBER 14

6th and Harris (Kemah)

Enjoy authentic German cuisine and specialty-crafted beer from around the world. German bands and dancers also are featured.

Hermann Square and Tranquility Park

House of Blues

Hundreds of artists working in special “creative zones” showcase some of Texas’ top work, plus music, cuisine and more.

The talented performer who melds several genres into a single delicious sound was one of the first indie artists to form her very own label.

OCTOBER 11

OCTOBER 15

Ani DiFranco

OCTOBER 10

Pepe Aguilar Arena Theatre

With four Grammys and another four Latin Grammys under his belt, the Texas-born performer is a Ranchera, mariachi and pop icon in Spanish-speaking circles.

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The Original Jersey Boy: Frank Sinatra, Big Band to Vegas Miller Outdoor Theater

The Houston Chamber Choir mounts a centennial tribute with a program of Ol’ Blue Eyes’ favorites from the Big Band era, Las Vegas years and more.

Howard Jones Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The Englishman’s first two albums became massively popular in the 1980s, with 10 top-40 hits, including “No One Is To Blame” and “You Know I Love You … Don’t You?”

OCTOBER 16

Oddball Comedy Tour featuring Aziz Ansari and Amy Schumer Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

A pair of comedy’s hottest stars are headlining, with support from comics Bridget Everett, TJ Miller, Anthony Jeselnik and Nick Thune.

OCTOBER 16–18

Emanuel Ax Plays Brahms, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Bask in Brahms’ melodic genius with Piano Concerto No. 2. Then, Ives’ Symphony No. 2 continues the orchestra’s 4-year cycle of the composer’s American symphonies.

OCTOBER 16

Home Free Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

Champions of The Sing-Off are known for their high-energy, a capella performances of Nashville hits peppered with quick-witted fun.

OCTOBER 16

Midtown Men Arena Theatre

The production reunites stars from Broadway’s Jersey Boys and is the first vocal group ever formed by principals of such a high-profile show.

OCTOBER 16–17

Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus Hobby Center

Based on the bestseller, dating, marriage and more come together in the hands of Peter Story in this one-man synthesis of theatre and stand-up.

october OCTOBER 23–NOVEMBER 14

Vienna Boys Choir

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church

Lukas Beck

Houston Grand Opera

Tosca, Houston Grand Opera

OCTOBER 30

Wortham Theater Center

CALENDAR

Set in Rome during one of history’s most turbulent times, Puccini’s memorable opera delivers truth in short supply for the tragic heroine, Floria Tosca, for whom even true love is tainted by suspicion. To save the life of her beloved, Tosca strikes a bargain with the evil police chief and is fatally deceived. Intrigue and betrayal intersect in this spellbinding drama conducted by music director Patrick Summers and directed by John Caird.

Founded in response to an Imperial decree by Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I on July 7, 1498, the world’s foremost children’s choral group has been touring since the 1920s. Today, 100 choristers from 30 different nations, divided into four touring choirs, perform 300 concerts each year for almost 500,000 people. The organization has performed on all six inhabited continents and visited the U.S. more than 50 times.

OCTOBER 17

OCTOBER 21

OCTOBER 23

Sam Houston Race Park

The Club at Carlton Woods (The Woodlands)

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Big-name acts at the event include Randy Rogers Band, Robert Earl Keen, Kevin Fowler, Whiskey Myers, Justin Townes Earle and Wade Bowen.

Massachusetts’ former First Lady and bestselling author is the mother of five sons and five daughters-in-law and grandmother of 23.

Attention, ghouls and goblins! Get into the Halloween spirit and celebrate a night dedicated to bone-chilling music and super-spooky sounds.

OCTOBER 17

OCTOBER 21

OCTOBER 24

Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

Arena Theatre

Known for operatic pop, the group specializes in a fusion of classical and modern music and has shared stages with Paul McCartney, Justin Bieber, Paul Anka and more.

The Tejano ensemble from Santa boasts a string of hit albums and chart-topping singles, such as “Pero Hablame” and “Mejor Dimelo.”

ZiegenBock Music Festival

Michael Feinstein, Sinatra Centennial Celebration The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

The five-time Grammy-nominated Ambassador of the American Songbook celebrates the centennial of the greatest voice in American music history.

Conversations with Ann Romney

The Tenors

OCTOBER 22

Joe Ely

The Legend of Zelda, Houston Symphony

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Jones Hall

He’s never had a Top 10 record, and none of his albums have gone platinum; however, the current State Musician of Texas is a Lone Star folk treasure not to be missed.

This global concert tour is a truly unique experience. Audiences can expect new additions from “A Link Between Worlds,” the most recently released Zelda game.

OCTOBER 17–18

OCTOBER 23

OCTOBER 17

Wings Over Houston

Christian Bautista

Ellington Airport

Miller Outdoor Theater

This annual air show features exciting and death defying displays, plus other aerial activities, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

The exciting Filipino singer’s hits include “The Way You Look At Me,” “Colour Everywhere” and “Hands To Heaven,” and have topped the charts across Southeast Asia.

OCTOBER 20–25

Pippin

OCTOBER 23

Hobby Center

Sara Hickman

The New York Times declared this version of Broadway’s jewel “astonishing!” The 2013 Tony winner for Best Musical Revue is a feast for the senses.

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of her debut album, Shortstop, the Houston-born singer-songwriter will perform the record in its entirety.

Hocus Pocus, Houston Symphony

Siggno

OCTOBER 30

Ricky Nelson Remembered: Mathew and Gunnar Nelson Band Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Ozzie and Harriet’s son was a ’50’s teen idol.

Now, his sons pay tribute to their late father and his indelible mark on pop music.

OCTOBER 30–NOVEMBER 1

Sinatra’s Centennial, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

OCTOBER 24

This special concert includes “Fly Me To The Moon,” “My Way,” “The Lady Is a Tramp” and more in salute of Ol’ Blue Eyes’ biggest milestone yet.

Jones Hall

OCTOBER 30–NOVEMBER 13

Ballet Hispanico This electric reimagining of Bizet’s iconic opera includes physical, charged choreography that fuses contemporary dance with nods to Spanish flamenco.

Eugene Onegin, Houston Grand Opera Wortham Theater Center

OCTOBER 26

When narcissistic Onegin spurns the affections of a sensitive girl and turns a pistol on his best friend, he is left only with regret in this superb masterwork by Tchaikovsky.

Hobby Center

OCTOBER 30–31

Josh Groban He earned his first Grammy for “You Raise Me Up.” With sales of more than 25 million records, the singer-composer is one of the most prolific performers of all time.

OCTOBER 29

Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt Hobby Center

Two of America’s most revered songwriters come together for an intimate, acoustic evening of country-tinted songs and satirical stories.

Streb Forces

Miller Outdoor Theatre

The theater of flight, big ideas, big hearts and muscles and big hardware come together in an even bigger show for the whole family.

OCTOBER 31

Ghostbusters and Ghouls, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

From Ghostbusters and “Thriller” to the haunting violin of Saint-Saëns’ “Danse Macabre,” don’t miss this fantastically frightening evening of music.

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november

NOVEMBER 7

NOVEMBER 13

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Diana Krall DFree / Shutterstock.com

Zac Brown Band

Winspear Opera House

Randy Miramontez / Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

The Atlanta rock ensemble with its razor-sharp country edge keeps getting bigger and better. The group’s monster hits include “Toes,” “Knee Deep,” Homegrown” and “Colder Weather.” Acclaimed for both its commercial success and superior artistry, the band boasts multiple Grammy wins. Collaborations include those with diverse, established artists, including fellow Georgian Alan Jackson, beach rocker Jimmy Buffett, Kid Rock and many others.

This Canadian jazz pianist has sold more than 15 million records on her way to winning five Grammy Awards. Following piano study with jazz great Jimmy Rowles, Krall has established herself as one of the most compelling artists of our time. She also is in demand for performances with a host of other musicians, both in and out of her genre, including Tony Bennett, Ray Charles and husband Elvis Costello, whom she wed in 2003.

NOVEMBER 1

NOVEMBER 6

NOVEMBER 9

NOVEMBER 13–14

Toyota Center

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Miller Outdoor Theater

The Latin-Grammy winner and former teen idol soared to the top of the charts in the ’80s with his international hit, “Amante Bandido.”

With his flowing hair and cache of guitars, the native Texan is one of most enigmatic musicians to emerge from the ’70s singer-songwriter era.

“Smoking Gun” set the tone for the five-time Grammy-winning guitarist (and former member of Otis Day and The Knights) who remains a major force in music.

The band adventurously assaults buckets, power tools and anything else they can get their sticks on to create uniquely good music.

NOVEMBER 4

NOVEMBER 6

Miguel Bosé

Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa

Shawn Phillips

Daniil Simkin’s INTENSIO

Jones Hall

Jones Hall

Enjoy a charming view of the TV star and bestselling author on the pleasures of good food cooked with love and passion.

American Ballet Theatre dancers perform new works commissioned by contemporary choreographers, including Ekman, Dolbashian, Elo and Lopez-Ochoa.

NOVEMBER 5

Michael Bolton

NOVEMBER 7

Arena Theatre

Imago Theatre’s ZooZoo

The adult contemporary star is a Grammy winner with 75 million records, including Top-10 albums and two No. 1 singles.

Miller Outdoor Theatre

NOVEMBER 6

Cirque de Soleil-styled acrobatics with Mummenschanz-like mime in an avant-garde playground of illusion, comedy and fun all rolled into one.

Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

NOW THROUGH JANUARY 3

Straight No Chaser After its launch as a college ensemble, later a YouTube sensation, the a capella group continues to tour with its snappy pop songs and smooth sounds.

Roman Vishniac Rediscovered The Modern Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

His widely reproduced pre-WWII photos chronicle a world on the eve of destruction, yet very little of his work was published during his lifetime.

NOVEMBER 6

Lorrie Morgan

NOVEMBER 7

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Mickey Gilley

A long-time country star, her No. 1 hits include “Five Minutes, “What Part of Me,” “Something in Red” and “Dear Me.”

Arena Theatre

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He ushered in the Golden Age of urban cowboys.

“Room Full of Roses” and “Don’t All the Girls Get Prettier at Closing Time” are classics.

Robert Cray

Recycled Percussion

NOVEMBER 14–JANUARY 10 NOVEMBER 11

America’s Got Talent Live: The All-Stars Tour Revention Music Center

The top-rated summer television series for the last decade is touring with favorite performers, including Season 8 comedian Taylor Williamson.

NOVEMBER 12–15

Dvorák’s Serenade for Strings, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Frank Huang leads the symphony from the concertmaster’s chair in this program of beloved works for chamber orchestra and strings.

NOVEMBER 12–16

Nutcracker Market

Festival of Lights

Moody Gardens (Galveston)

More than 1 million lights twinkle within 100 sound-enhanced animated displays with nightly live entertainment, plus an outdoor ice-skating rink (skates available) on the Gulf Coast.

NOVEMBER 13

Vince Gill

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

With 20 studio records and 40 singles on the charts, he’s sold more than 25 million albums.

The Oklahoma native has won 20 Grammys, more than any male artist in country music.

NOVEMBER 14

Espinoza Paz Arena Theatre

The Houston Ballet Guild’s annual tradition is a shopping extravaganza that features holiday decorations, food, clothing and more.

A Grammy-nominated singer-guitarist, he’s penned hits for a variety of pop artists and found solo success with songs such as “El Celular” and “El Proximo Viernes.”

NOVEMBER 13

NOVEMBER 14

House of Blues

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

NRG Park

Leon Bridges A South by Southwest standout, the Fort Worth native is also a rising national star. Critics have even compared him to legendary crooner Sam Cooke.

Bruce Cockburn The seasoned musician is a gifted guitarist with a career that’s spanned 40 years. His songs are passionate plays for human rights, politics and spirituality.

november NOVEMBER 18–29

The Nutcracker, Houston Ballet

Wortham Theater Center

Igor Golovniov / Shutterstock.com

Bruno Passigatti / Shutterstock.com

The Phantom of the Opera

NOVEMBER 27–DECEMBER 27

Hobby Center

CALENDAR

This spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical adaptation of the classic French novel is presented by a cast and orchestra of 52, one of the largest of the Phantom companies touring. The beloved tale features classic, romantic songs, including “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask of You,” “Masquerade” and more. Enjoy a stirring evening of music, staging, and exciting special effects that include the show’s fabled chandelier.

One of the world’s great ballets comes to life just in time for the holiday season. Enjoy a magnificent production mixed with colorful characters and thoroughly drenched in Tchaikovsky’s glorious score. Join Clara on her unforgettable journey as she travels to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. Marvel as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Nutcracker Prince dance a pas de deux of crystalline beauty.

NOVEMBER 15

NOVEMBER 20–JANUARY 10

NOVEMBER 25

NOVEMBER 27–29

Toyota Center

Houston Zoo

Revention Music Center

Improv

Since his launch in the 1970s, Mexico’s leading singer-songwriter has written and recorded more than 1,000 songs in a variety of genres, with sales of 20 million-plus albums.

A Texas holiday tradition; watch as one of the nation’s great zoo environments undergoes a brilliant transformation for the holiday season.

A tremendous solo artist who plays stellar blues and rock guitar, he’s gigged with Stills, Clapton, Winwood and more.

The native Texan is a stand-up comic and the first Latina to produce, write and star in her own U.S. network sitcom, ABC’s Cristela.

NOVEMBER 20–JANUARY 16

NOVEMBER 26

NOVEMBER 28–DECEMBER 28

Sam Houston Race Park

Wortham Theater Center

Wortham Theater Center

It’s the biggest lantern festival ever staged in U.S., featuring larger-than-life remakes of landmarks and landscapes plus live performances all in a one-of-a-kind visual feast.

Characters from the Houston Ballet will be on hand for this holiday tradition. Local choirs and musical groups also perform at the annual event.

The mysterious Drosselmeyer gives his niece a magical toy that takes her on an unforgettable journey. Tchaikovsky’s musical masterpiece is an event for the ages.

Juan Gabriel

NOVEMBER 18

Tommy Emmanuel Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

The Aussie guitarist plays a fascinating blend of styles and makes it all look so easy with his showmanship and outstanding command of his instrument.

Zoo Lights

Magical Winter Lights

Last Comic Standing Revention Music Center

Past winners of the NBC show include Jay Mohr, Bill Bellamy and others who have gone on to enjoy successful careers. This “on-the-road” version is always a kick.

Victor Manuelle Revention Music Center

Known best to fans as El Sonero de la Juventud, the Grammy-nominated salsa singer commands a huge following and appears frequently on Billboard’s tropical charts.

NOVEMBER 20–22

NOVEMBER 19

Old~New~Borrowed~Blue, METdance Hobby Center

The company celebrates 20 successful years with jazz, contemporary, ballet and modern. Enjoy works by the late Steven Boyd and Larry Keigwin, plus a Houston premiere by Camille Brown.

Tapestry, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Liz Callaway sings Carole King’s top tracks “You’ve Got a Friend,” “So Far Away,” “Natural Woman” and more from the pianist-songwriter’s timeless album.

NOVEMBER 21

NOVEMBER 20

Ramblin’ Jack Elliott Doesy Doe Music Café (Conroe)

Johnny Cash once said, “He’s got a song and a friend for every mile behind him.” The folk hero has influenced everyone from Arlo to Dylan and more.

Wortham Tree Lighting

Cristela Alonzo

The Nutcracker, Houston Ballet

NOVEMBER 26 NOVEMBER 20

NOVEMBER 18

Joe Bonamassa

Vince: The Life and Times of Vince Lombardi The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Actor John Pinero’s masterful portrayal of the fiery coach has won 5-star reviews and unanimous raves from audiences—and the NFL.

Jive Turkeys Comedy Show

NOVEMBER 28

Arena Theatre

Blue October

It’s Grossman, Marcus D. Wiley, Ali Siddiq, Dave Lawson and Juan Villareal at their best, live on stage and totally hilarious.

Revention Music Center

The Houston alt-rock band has produced a string of hits including “Hate It,” “Into the Ocean,” “Calling You” and more.

NOVEMBER 26

Thanksgiving Day Parade Downtown Houston

This free, family event features plenty of curbside space along the route for lawn chairs and blankets. Televised locally, with live broadcast on KHOU (CBS).

NOVEMBER 27–29

NOVEMBER 28

Peter White with Rick Braun and Mindi Abair Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The legendary U.K. jazz guitarist and songwriter brings his seasonal cache of songs back to Houston for this special performance.

Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, Houston Symphony

NOVEMBER 29

Jones Hall

House of Blues

Be swept away by the classic ballet score with melodies that evoke perfectly Shakespeare’s timeless story of doomed adolescent love.

With a basket of songs from “I Want You to Want Me” to “Dream Police,” one of the most durable acts in rock history keeps on truckin.’

Cheap Trick

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CALENDAR DECEMBER 17–20

december December 12–13

Sugar Land Baptist Church (12/17), Jones Hall (12/18-20)

Christmas Candlelight Tour Pixelite / Shutterstock.com

Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH / Shutterstock.com

Handel’s Messiah, Houston Symphony

Sam Houston Park

First performed in Dublin in 1742, the work originally was penned for vocal and instrumental ensembles of modest size. Through the years, the masterwork has expanded to accommodate progressively larger scale productions, some with massive orchestras and choirs. Here, Nicholas Kraemer conducts the stunning solos, rich ensemble passages and glorious “Hallelujah” chorus of this seasonal staple.

DECEMBER 2

David Benoit’s Tribute to Charlie Brown Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

His expansive career as a contemporary jazz pianist includes a lifelong passion for the music of original Peanuts composer, Vince Guaraldi.

DECEMBER 2

Postmodern Jukebox Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

The popular retro group is a throwback to another era; it performs current pop songs with interesting, old-school musical twists.

DECEMBER 3

Holly Jolly Jingle

DECEMBER 4–20

DECEMBER 4

DECEMBER 5

Wortham Theater Center

Jones Hall

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

An adventure-filled experience for the holiday season, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s classic story brings hope, love and childlike imagination to life.

Lighten your holiday load with the beloved comedy featuring award-winning composer John Williams’ charming score performed live to film.

From contained rage to reckless punk or whispery harmony in a quiet moment, the Texas favorite brings an immense range of talent to the stage.

DECEMBER 4

DECEMBER 11

THROUGH JANUARY 30

Warehouse Live

MECA Dow School Campus

She’s appeared on Paranormal State, Psychic Kids and Biography’s Celebrity Ghost Stories and weekly series The Haunting Of.

Celebrate Mexican and Latin American heritage with singers, dancers and more in honor of the traditional feast day of La Virgen de Guadalupe, which began in 1531.

The Little Prince, Houston Grand Opera Home Alone, Houston Symphony

Kim Russo

Jubilee of Dance, Houston Ballet Wortham Center

Ring in the holidays and frolic in a winter wonderland, complete with snow, holiday classics and popular carols.

DECEMBER 3–6

DECEMBER 4

D.L. Hughley Improv

Fiesta Guadalupana

DECEMBER 4

Don’t miss this one-night-only showcase highlighting the amazing range of the company in a program of premieres and high-energy excerpts from signature works and classics.

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

This 53rd annual showcase by the Houston Heritage Society features some of the region’s oldest structures trimmed in traditional 19th century décor. Re-enactors in period garb lead tours of the homes, which are decorated according to the tastes of their eras and the means of the families who once lived in them. Also on the park grounds, the Heritage Society Museum Gallery features “More than a Toy: Dolls from the Victorian Era.”

Dwight Yoakam Arena Theatre

DECEMBER 5

Mayor’s Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting City Hall

Join a free holiday tradition of music, family activities and fun. See fireworks soar above a towering Christmas tree and light up downtown streets.

Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg

The Kentucky native put the twang back in contemporary country music in the ’80s with his own version of the Buck Owens-inspired Bakersfield sound.

DECEMBER 4–6

DECEMBER 4–31

From elegantly simple to breathtakingly ornate, jewelry, clocks, boxes, cases and accessories in this collection represent Fabergé materials and craftsmanship.

Galveston

Alley Theatre @UH

DECEMBER 5–6

This annual street festival is based on 19th-century London and features parades, entertainment on five stages and roving carolers and musicians in period costumes.

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The Santaland Diaries David Sedaris’ one-character mature comedy is a hilarious cult classic featuring comic encounters during the height of the holiday crunch.

Arts of Islamic Lands: Selections from The al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait The Modern Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

This expanded exhibit presents art from Africa, the Middle East, Turkey, India and more and includes objects from the 8th to 18th centuries.

DECEMBER 6

Trout Fishing in America McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Laugh, sing along and enjoy this special seasonal performance just for kids from one of the world’s most endearing musical duos.

DECEMBER 8–20

THROUGH DECEMBER 31

His TV show, The Hughleys, was a big comedy hit. He also appeared as a regular correspondent on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and placed ninth on Dancing With The Stars.

Dickens on the Strand

Alejandro Escovedo

The Houston Museum of Natural Science

A Christmas Story: The Musical, TUTS Hobby Center

Adapted from the 1983 movie, this hilarious holiday production for the stage includes the coveted Ryder Air Rifle, leg lamp and all the rest.

DECEMBER 10–12

Steve Byrne Improv

Houston Tamale Festival TBH Center

Celebrate the Southwest’s most authentic treats and some of the state’s finest wines and beers at this delicious annual event sponsored by Talento Bilingue de Houston.

He created and starred in TV’s Sullivan & Son on TBS. A regular on Comedy Central, he has appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

december DECEMBER 20

Hobby Center

Bullets Over Broadway

A legend known for mega-hits “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” and “Because of You,” his first No. 1 recording from 1951, the Queens, New York, native is among the most beloved American artists of all time. The 2005 Kennedy Center Honor recipient commands a sensitive ballad, then swings hard with the best jazz singers. Also a painter, Bennett, 89, frequently performs duets with younger artists, including pop superstar Lady Gaga.

DECEMBER 11

Jim Brickman Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

With gold albums and Grammys to his credit, the New Age pianist has worked both solo and in collaboration with artists from Martina McBride and Lady Antebellum to Johnny Mathis.

DECEMBER 11–12

Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

These holiday concerts features the husbandand-wife duo with full band singing songs from their Christmas album and showcasing the best of their solo careers.

DECEMBER 11–12

Mark Chesnutt Dosey Doe (The Woodlands)

The Beaumont native broke out with “Too Cold at Home” and has charted more than 30 singles since 1990, including eight No. 1 songs.

DECEMBER 12–14

A Very Merry Pops, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Enjoy favorites “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Carol of the Bells” and “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas,” as well as songs from Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

DECEMBER 12

Christmas Boat Parade Clear Lake

Celebrate the colors, shapes and annual excitement of this uniquely Texas event on the water, complete with a brilliant fireworks show.

DECEMBER 12

A Frosty & Frozen Christmas, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Sing along to “Frosty the Snowman” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” then rejoice in Queen Elsa’s reflective personal journey, “Let it Go,” from Disney’s Frozen.

DECEMBER 13

The Weeknd Toyota Center

His single “Earned It,” from the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack, became a triple-platinum smash that stayed on Billboard ’s Hot 100 for 27 weeks.

DECEMBER 13

The Buckinghams Dosey Doe (The Woodlands)

Regulars on the ’60s pop charts with “Kind of a Drag, “Hey Baby (They’re Playing Our Song)” and “Don’t You Care,” the beloved band endures; it continued to record into the 2000s.

DECEMBER 13

’Twas the Night Before Christmas, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Embrace the joy of the season with the timeless story set to music and narrated by Mirron Willis of the Ensemble Theatre; also featured are festive carols and stunning decorations.

DECEMBER 17–20

David Alan Grier Improv

Since premiering on TV’s In Living Color, he’s acted in films (Jumanji ) and on Broadway (Race; A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum).

Matthew Murphy

Mat Hayward / Shutterstock.com

Tony Bennett

DECEMBER 27–31

The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

CALENDAR

What began in 1994 as a Woody Allen movie starring Dianne Wiest and Chazz Palminteri morphed into a lavish stage production for the ages in 2014. Hold on to your bathtub gin when a gangster finances a young playwright’s first Broadway play! Houston native Andy Einhorn, a Rice University alumnus, is music supervisor. Originals plus unforgettable tunes of the era come alive in this sensational stage production.

DECEMBER 17–20

Striking 12, TUTS Hobby Center

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s Little Match Girl, GrooveLily’s secular show is a concert-witha-story in which band members are the actors.

DECEMBER 18

Trans Siberian Orchestra Toyota Center

For years, millions of music lovers have flocked to see live performances of the 60-piece progressive-rock symphony playing Christmas selections.

DECEMBER 19

DECEMBER 22

Merry Texas Christmas, Y’all, Asleep at the Wheel The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Spice up your holidays with a Lone-Star slice of holiday cheer. Texas’ most decorated swing band decks the halls with plenty of honky-tonk fun.

DECEMBER 28

James McMurtry McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Nobody can fit a novel into a five- or six-minute song quite like this native Texan. His music is soulful, complex and beautifully written.

Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

DECEMBER 31

The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Arena Theatre

The beloved TV classic comes to the stage with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and, of course, Rudolph.

Their “Back In Stride,” and “Can’t Get Over You” are radio staples and big hits for the longtime rhythm-and-blues super group that formed in the ’70s.

DECEMBER 20

DECEMBER 31

Dosey Doe (The Woodlands)

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

A former lead singer in the hit show Riverdance appears on his own singing Irish traditional songs selected especially for the holiday season.

The North Texas native is a favorite on the touring circuit with his version of rock, folk and alternative country known as “Red Dirt” music.

DECEMBER 22–JANUARY 2

DECEMBER 31

Jones Hall

Hobby Center

Travel through 5,000 years of Chinese culture with classically trained dancers, orchestrations that blend East and West and dazzling backdrops, all in one special performance.

This stylish New Year’s Eve gala includes Vivaldi’s “Winter” and Handel’s “Apollo e Dafne,” which tells the story of too-ardent love and a unique transformation.

Michael Londra

Shen Yun

Maze featuring Frankie Beverly

Jimmy LaFave

Fire and Ice, Ars Lyrica

H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

47

SPORTS & RECREATION OCTOBER 3

All home games played at Toyota Center

Houston Rockets

The Battle of the Piney Woods between the Lumberjacks and the Bearkats is one of Texas’ oldest and fiercest gridiron rivalries.

SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 4

J/22 North American Championship Houston Yacht Club (Shoreacres)

NOVEMBER 14-15

National Cheerleaders Association & National Dance Alliance Lone Star Classic NRG Stadium

OCTOBER 3

UCF 192 Toyota Center OCTOBER 3

Starry Night Houston 8.5K Sesquicentennial Park OCTOBER 10

2015 J/Fest Southwest Lakewood Yacht Club (Seabrook) OCTOBER 10-11

Mighty Mud Dash Ultra 8K Rio Bravo MX Park OCTOBER 24

Legends BattleCry Obstacle Course Race Three Palms Action Sports Park (Conroe) NOVEMBER 7

Texas Savage Race 7iL Ranch (Cat Spring) NOVEMBER 14

MuckFest MS White Oak Conference Center NOVEMBER 14

Zombie Charge Sundance Horse Ranch (Manvel)

48

H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

Houston Rockets

Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau

Stephen F. Austin vs. Sam Houston State

2015–2016 SEASON

NRG Stadium

Oct. 28 Oct. 30 Nov. 2 Nov. 4 Nov. 11 Nov. 14 Nov. 16 Nov. 18 Nov. 21 Nov. 25

vs. Denver Nuggets vs. Golden State Warriors vs. Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Orlando Magic vs. Brooklyn Nets vs. Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics vs. Portland Trail Blazers vs. New York Knicks vs. Memphis Grizzlies

Nov. 27 Dec. 2 Dec. 5 Dec. 12 Dec. 19 Dec. 25 Dec. 29 Dec. 31

vs. Philadelphia 76ers vs. New Orleans Pelicans vs. Sacramento Kings vs. L.A. Lakers vs. L.A. Clippers vs. San Antonio Spurs vs. Atlanta Hawks vs. Golden State Warriors

NBA.com/Rockets

Houston Polo Club NOVEMBER 22

Holiday Half Marathon Moody Gardens (Galveston) NOVEMBER 26

TXU Energy Houston Turkey Trot Galleria DECEMBER 5

Run Houston!

Constellation Field (Sugar Land) DECEMBER 5

Double-Handed Regatta Houston Yacht Club (Galveston Bay) DECEMBER 5

Toyota 2015 SWAC Football Championship NRG Stadium DECEMBER 17-19

2015 UIL Football State Championship Games NRG Stadium

M

Y

CM

MY

NOVEMBER 15

United States Polo Association U.S. Open Women’s Championship Tournament

C

CY

Rice University Football

DEC. 29

AdvoCare V100 Texas Bowl NRG Stadium

Houston Texans All Home Games Played at NRG Stadium

Oct. 8 Nov. 1 Nov. 22 Nov. 29 Dec. 13 Jan. 1

vs. Indianapolis Colts vs. Tennessee Titans vs. New York Jets vs. New Orleans Saints vs. New England Patriots vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

HoustonTexans.com

Houston Dynamo All Home Games Played at BBVA Compass Stadium

October 18 vs. Seattle Sounders HoustonDynamo.com

University of Houston Football All home games played at TDECU Stadium

Oct. 8 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 27

vs. SMU vs. Vanderbilt vs. Cincinnati vs. Memphis vs. Navy

All home games played at Rice Stadium

Oct. 3 Oct. 24 Oct. 30 Nov. 14 Nov. 28

vs. Western Kentucky vs. Army vs. Louisiana Tech vs. Southern Mississippi vs. Charlotte

Texas Southern University Football All home games played at BBVA Compass Stadium

Oct. 3 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 14

vs. Alabama State vs. Southern vs. College of Faith ** vs. Alcorn State

**Homecoming

Prairie View A&M University Football All home games played at Waller, Texas / Waller ISD

Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 31 Nov. 21

vs. College of Faith vs. Mississippi Valley State ** vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff vs. Jackson State

**Homecoming

CMY

K

DINING

51fifteen Restaurant & Lounge

Benjy’s This see-and-be-seen hot spot features perennial favorites on its diverse, thoughtfully prepared New American menu. The trendy restaurant is open for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch and features warm ambience, a top-notch happy hour, and friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Located above Saks Fifth Avenue in the Galleria, this 5-star restaurant specializes in World Fusion cuisine by Chef Nick Banaszak and Chef Jamil Bean. The fashionably haute restaurant offers fine dining, a three-course power lunch, private events, brunch, live music and happy hour.

5115 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.963.8067 51fifteen.com

Antica Osteria Italian Restaurant This quaint Italian restaurant located in the neighborhood of West University invokes romantic Tuscan decor and Old World charm.

Enchanting candlelight smoothes the hustle and bustle of city life, and the traditional Italian menu and expansive wine list make this eatery an easy favorite.

2424 Dunstan Road (Rice Village) 713.522.7602 5922 Washington Ave. (The Heights) 713.868.1131 benjys.com

The Blue Fish Exquisite sushi and sashimi, innovative chef-inspired rolls and exceptional grilled entrees have kept this restaurant award-winning for more than 16 years. The Japanese and Asian fusion concept centers on the finest flavors of the East, with emphasis on quality and freshness. Complement your meal with craft cocktails, an extensive wine list and sakes selected by an in-house, certified sake specialist.

550 Texas St. (Downtown) 713.225.3474

2311 Bissonnet St. (West University) 713.521.1155

5820 Washington Ave. (The Heights) 713.862.3474

anticarestaurant.com

thebluefishsushi.com

Américas

Brasserie 19

With adventure-themed interiors, the multilevel restaurant borrows design elements and colors from Incan artifacts and mythology.

The adventure continues into the menu, which draws from foods and cooking techniques of North, Central and South America to create New World cuisine.

2040 W. Gray St. (River Oaks) 832.200.1492 21 Waterway Ave., The Woodlands 281.367.1492 cordua.com/Americas

Batanga

With its crisp white interior and gorgeous table-hopping crowd, Brasserie 19 is easily the most see-and-be-seen restaurant in town.

Here, friends gather to dine, drink and converse, and simple hearty French fare is thoughtfully presented. Plateaux de Fruits de Mer, Frisee Salad topped poached egg and lardon, Steak Frites and the sautéed Dover Sole in a beurre noisette remain the perennial favorites.

1962 West Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.524.1919 brasserie19.com

BRC Gastropub

A former 1880s saloon space, now a modern tapas restaurant, sparkles with a vibrant, fun atmosphere reminiscent of Latin America. Menu offerings include paella, chicharrones, and tapas dishes (small plates) that originate in colorful places such as Peru, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Mexico, Cuba, Argentina and Portugal. Batanga is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner.

908 Congress St. (Downtown) 713.224.9500 batangahouston.com

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H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

of interesting beers and wines, all presented in a casual, friendly atmosphere.

519 Shepherd Drive (The Heights) 713.861.2233 brcgastropub.com

Brennan’s of Houston Houston’s premier destination for true Southern hospitality provides passionately prepared, meticulously plated dishes that explore the evolution of Creole cuisine in the Bayou City.

Brennan’s of Houston has maintained its rich, 45-year history of incomparable culinary offerings, superb customer service and the making of enduring memories.

3300 Smith St. (Fourth Ward) 713.522.9711 brennanshouston.com

The Capital Grille This popular spot promises to ignite the culinary imagination with its impressive menu of acclaimed dry-aged steaks, the freshest of seafood and an award-winning wine list of more than 5,000 bottles. Be prepared to experience firsthand why the American Culinary Federation recently bestowed the brand with its Achievement of Excellence Award.

5365 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.623.4600 840 West Sam Houston Parkway (CityCentre) 713.463.5051

The second establishment in the Chef Marco Wiles family, Dolce Vita brings the taste of true, authentic Neapolitan pizza to Houston. Located in the heart of Montrose, the restaurant features an imported, custom wood-burning oven and a casual atmosphere conducive to great pizza enjoyed by good friends.

500 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.520.8222 dolcevitahouston.com

Eleven XI Restaurant & Bar Conveniently located where Montrose meets Midtown, this unique restaurant features Southern-coastal cuisine. Guests choose among an extensive menu that includes smoked heirloom tomato soup, beef tartare, Texas quail, elk tenderloin, fresh seafood and 33 varieties of oysters, with an extensive wine list.

607 West Gray St. (Montrose) 713.529.5881 elevenxihouston.com

Federal Grill Dress up or down at this restaurant, which provides a contemporary American menu featuring local organic meat and produce, locally-sourced fish and seafood, and an extensive cured meat and charcuterie program, all served with genuine old-school service. At the Federal Grill, the answer is always “Yes!”

thecapitalgrille.com

510 Shepherd Drive (The Heights) 713.863.7777

Corner Table

thefederalgrill.com

Houston’s first Paleo diet-inspired restaurant caters to diners’ busy lifestyles by providing quick, fresh fare by day and fine dining with table service by night. Chef Bruce Molzan says he envisions the Corner Table to be “a reliable source of high-quality ingredients and fresh products that deliver a flavorful dining experience.”

2736 Virginia St. (Upper Kirby) 713.568.9196 cornertablehouston.com

Del Frisco’s Grille

Executive Chef Lance Fegen’s concept of the perfect neighborhood restaurant includes superb food and a continually curated selection

Dolce Vita

Located in the heart of Houston’s dining and social scene, this stylish venue provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for meeting friends. The varied menu includes offerings ranging from designer burgers to hearty salads and signature steaks to chicken schnitzel and bourbon-apple chops, with gluten-free choices available.

2800 Kirby Drive (River Oaks) 832.623.6168 delfriscosgrille.com

Frank’s American Revival This acclaimed River Oaks restaurant boasts awards by Zagat and the Houston Press. The ever-consistent menu features a balance of classic regional favorites and dishes influenced by modern American cuisine, with a bit of culinary soul. Open for lunch and dinner.

3736 Westheimer Road (River Oaks) 713.572.8600 frankshouston.com

Grotto Ristorante Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, entertaining atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy trattoria in the old country. With a winning combination of impeccable service, superb cuisine and unsurpassed passion for detail, Grotto is the perfect place for friends and family to enjoy a fabulous meal.

4715 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.622.3663 grottorestaurants.com

The Grove

Kata Robata Sushi and Grill

Line and Lariat

Situated on the beautiful south end of Discovery Green, Houston’s newest urban park, this culinary hot spot has redefined dining in the downtown core. Ahi tuna sashimi, house corned beef salad, Gulf shrimp and grits, rib-eye steak with roasted onions, and truffle parmesan fries are but a few of the savory choices at The Grove.

From its inception in 2010, this Asian restaurant has served a modern and creative array of Japanese fare with French fusion undertones.

The ever-changing menu centers on the freshest local and international ingredients and an Omakase offering sure to pique the palate.

Savor mouthwatering dishes reflecting the bounty of Texas’ coast, waterways, farms and ranches at this restaurant located in the Hotel Icon in downtown Houston. Saddle up to the L & L Bar for a unique blend of mixology that includes both iconic and contemporary craft cocktails.

1611 Lamar St. (Downtown) 713.337.7321 thegrovehouston.com

Hearsay Gastro Lounge

Located in Houston’s second-oldest building (built in 1860, rebuilt in 1889 after a fire), this restaurant offers a unique, chic dining experience. Hearsay offers fine craft cocktails, small and large appetizers and New American dishes, and it’s a great place for a late-night cocktail and bites.

3600 Kirby Drive (Upper Kirby) 713.802.0533 katarobata.com

La Griglia In a lively, festive atmosphere reminiscent of a neighborhood trattoria, diners enjoy a delicious display of authentic Italian cuisine in the presence of colorful Italian murals. Relax and savor the aromas of Sicily, Roma and Tuscany while choosing from the broad array of specialties, including fresh fish, creative pastas, chicken, beef, fresh vegetables and more.

2002 W. Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.526.4700

218 Travis St. (Downtown) 713.225.8079 hearsayhouston.com

Houston’s Restaurant This dependable menu features diverse American classics in which exceptional ingredients take center stage, as area growers and purveyors provide the premium produce, meat, fish, and chicken. A long-standing interest by the owner in art and architecture enhances the ambience and overall dining experience.

5888 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.975.1947 4848 Kirby Grott Drive (Upper Kirby) 713.529.2385 hillstone.com

Hugo’s Located in the heart of Houston’s Montrose area, Hugo’s brings the exciting, earthy flavors of central Mexico across the border. Executive Chef Hugo Ortega describes his food as “full of light, fresh tastes; deep, complex flavors; and earthy notes, all combined to create a cuisine like no other.”

2450 Louisiana St. (Midtown) 713.524.0004 ibizafoodandwinebar.com

4 Riverway (Galleria/Uptown) 713.871.8177

Whether celebrating a special occasion or gathering the family for an informal dinner, this Italian-American restaurant always strives to make guests feel at home. Dine on selections from a menu packed with mouthwatering pastas, wholesome salads, sandwiches and rich desserts.

2019 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.961.2700 maggianos.com

Masraff’s This premier contemporary American restaurant offers affordable elegance, attentive yet unobtrusive service and impeccably prepared, fresh cuisine prepared with quality ingredients and wine from around the world.

Max’s Wine Dive This self-described dive is fun, funky and eclectic. Guests can relax in the casual, industrial atmosphere while choosing among gourmet comfort-food offerings and a curated selection of wine. The menu includes both classics available at all Wine Dive locations and items that are unique to each location; these spotlight the in-house chef’s creativity with local ingredients and change seasonally.

noerestaurant.com

The Oceanaire Seafood Room This Houston favorite has been voted one of the best seafood restaurants in the country. Only top-of-the-catch fish from the world’s most reputable suppliers is served, and each dish is carefully crafted and perfectly plated. The menu is based on market availability, so selections change daily.

5061 Westheimer Road (The Galleria) 832.487.8862 theoceanaire.com

Osteria Mazzantini Houston’s newest Italian restaurant from Chef John Sheely marries Old World sensibilities with New World flair. Located in the heart of Houston’s upscale Galleria area, Sheely offers award-winning cuisine that pairs well with an eclectic Italian wine list.

2200 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.993.9898 osteriamazzantini.com

Oxheart

libertykitchenoysterbar.com

214 Fairview St. (Montrose) 713.528.9200

Located in the historic Erie City Iron Works building in Houston’s historic Warehouse District, this restaurant was created by native Houstonians.

Through his progressive perspective on regional product, Chef Justin Yu brings Texas’s best ingredients to the table.

Liberty Kitchen & Oysterette

4720 Washington Ave. (The Heights) 713.880.8737

1302 Nance St. (Downtown) 832.830.8592

maxswinedive.com

oxhearthouston.com

McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood and Steaks

The Pass & Provisions

1050 Studewood St. (The Heights) 713.622.1010

hugosrestaurant.net

Like its namesake off the coast of Spain, this restaurant pulses with a confluence of sophisticated style setters, exciting environs and fabulous fare. Awash in cool blues and grays, the restaurant evokes a modern Mediterranean mecca.

Here, Houstonians dine around Grant Cooper and Chef Charles Clark’s bustling open kitchen.

Maggiano’s Little Italy

masraffs.com

1600 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.524.7744

Ibiza

hotelicon.com

220 Main St. (Downtown) 832.667.4470

1753 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.355.1975

This restaurant is home to one of the few Houston oyster bars that features varieties from the East, West and Gulf coasts. The Kitchen is committed to serving fresh, quality local products, including fish delivered daily from a local boat. Specialties also include steaks, spare ribs, chicken and burgers prepared on the charcoal and applewood grill.

Noé Grill Enjoy globally inspired cuisine with Pan Asian undertones and a locavore approach at this upscale restaurant in the Omni Houston Hotel.

Located in the prestigious Uptown Post Oak/ Galleria area, Noé Grill reflects modern dining trends with its sustainable menu.

lagrigliarestaurant.com

Liberty Kitchen

DINING

This open-space showplace redefines what an oyster bar should be. With more than 90 menu items, Liberty Kitchen features a wide variety of local and regional seafood dishes and local beef from Kenney and Cameron, Texas. Its broad range of pricing ensures something for everyone.

4224 San Felipe St. (Highland Village) 713.622.1010 libertykitchenoysterette.com

The Pacific Northwest’s favorite restaurant comes to the Bayou City with a menu that features garden-fresh salads, fresh-caught seafood and shellfish, and aged steaks. The restaurant was voted No. 1 Happy Hour in America by USA Today.

1201 Fannin St. (Downtown) 713.658.8100 1151 Uptown Park Blvd. (Uptown) 713.840.7900 791 Town & Country (CityCentre) 713.465.3685

In the casually elegant atmosphere of The Pass, diners are able to connect with the chef’s inspiration behind each dish, as chefs serve, describe their culinary masterpieces, and respond to diners’ questions. An international wine list completes the experience. Provisions, which features a separate menu, is the unique take of chefs and co-owners Seth Siegel-Gardner and Terrence Gallivan on a warm, casual neighborhood restaurant and bar.

807 Taft St. (Montrose) 713.628.9020 passandprovisions.com

mccormickandschmicks.com H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

51

DINING Petite Sweets

to indulge the most discriminating palate while our premier wine cellar features 600 vintages hand-selected from around the world.

1080 Uptown Park Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.418.1104 granducahouston.com/dining/ristorante_cavour

Ruggles Green This restaurant features original, delicious menu items, including the 98-percent-lean Buffalo Burger, wood-fired quinoa mac-and-cheese and the tasty veggie-nut hemp burger. The woodfired organic pizzas are simply heavenly. Ruggles Green is committed to a healthy environment that offers tasty organic food and wines.

The menu features artisan macaroons, cake balls, mini cupcakes, cookies, whoopie pies, marshmallows, frozen custard and cones dipped in Belgian chocolate, all made in-house.

Petite Sweets serves coffee, espresso, cappuccinos and more, all brewed around the clock.

2700 West Alabama St. (Upper Kirby) 713.520.7007 petitesweetshouston.com

PF Chang’s For 20 years, this upscale, casual restaurant chain has been serving bold, flavorful Asianinspired dishes. Each offering is prepared to order using only the freshest ingredients. Creations from the chef’s season-inspired menu are not to be missed, including tasty heirloom tomato salad and Chino-Latino pineapple pork.

4094 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.627.7220 11685 Westheimer Road. (Westchase) 281.920.3553 pfchangs.com

RDG + Bar Annie This next evolution of the legendary Café Annie has retained the best of the past in a dramatic, stunning new look for its spectacular building on Post Oak Boulevard. With vast windows and the addition of an outside terrace, RDG + Bar Annie offers private, semi-private and public dining spaces.

2311 W. Alabama St. (River Oaks) 713.533.0777 801 Town & Country Blvd. (CityCentre) 713.464.5557 For additional locations, rugglesgreen.com

Seasons 52 A Houston favorite, this fresh grill and wine bar invites guests to discover the sensational flavors of a season-inspired menu and award-winning international wine list within a casual, yet sophisticated, ambiance.

4410 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.621.5452 842 W. Sam Houston Parkway (CityCentre) 713.464.5252 seasons52.com

Spindletop Restaurant Created by a team of award-winning chefs, the menu focuses on fresh American seafood with a Southwest flair. Spindletop is designed to showcase the very best produce and ingredients from local and regional purveyors.

1200 Louisiana St. (Downtown) 713.375.4775 hyatt.com

Tango and Malbec

1800 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria) 713.840.1111 rdgbarannie.com

Ristorante Cavour

Recognized as one of Houston’s Premier Italian Restaurants, Ristorante Cavour features authentic Northern Italian cuisine amid a beautiful setting. Savor traditional Italian favorites alongside seasonal house specialties with selections 52

H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

For an experience inspired by cuisine of Argentina and Uruguay, head to the Galleria Houston.

Open seven days a week, Tango and Malbec offers traditional South American Parrilla style, which uses pecan and mesquite wood in preparation of perfectly grilled, juicy cuts of meat, including waygu, tomahawk, dry-aged steaks, and grass-fed cuts of meat from around the world. The restaurant also boasts the most extensive South American wine list in Houston.

The Tasting Room

Triniti Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy fine wines, artisan pizzas and a cozy, social atmosphere in this restaurant, which features a variety of seating areas. Some 100 wines are priced from $15 per bottle to more than $1,000 per bottle, with dozens of wines available for purchase by the glass.

2409 W. Alabama St. (River Oaks) 713.526.2242

The core menu, which changes seasonally, features what Hildebrand and Lowry call Third Coast French cuisine — regional fare, French techniques and a focus on the highest quality ingredients available. A supplemental eight-course chef’s menu changes weekly and offers guests the opportunity to enjoy creative expression by the kitchen.

818 Town & Country Blvd. (CityCentre) 281.822.1500

2815 S. Shepherd Drive (Montrose) 713.527.9090

1101-18 Uptown Park Blvd. (Uptown) 713.993.9800

trinitirestaurant.com

tastingroomwines.com

Tiny Boxwoods This Greenway Plaza cafe is a lovely, secret-garden oasis in the city. A favorite for lunch and light meals, the menu includes fresh salads, pizzettes and sandwiches, and the staff strives to make the dining experience memorable for each guest. Tiny Boxwoods’ motto is “When in doubt, use goat cheese!”

3614 W. Alabama St. (River Oaks) 713.622.4224 tinyboxwoods.com

Uchi This contemporary Japanese and Sushi restaurant serves the freshest products available, as it flies seafood in every day from Fukuoka and Tsukiji markets in Japan and maintains close relationships with local Texas farmers. The innovative food combinations provide a truly unique dining experience.

904 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.522.4808 uchirestaurants.com

Underbelly

Nestled in the quaint neighborhood of West University, this local favorite features a seasonal menu and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with wine, cheese and pizza in the late afternoon. The weekend brunch is not to be missed. Bring a blanket for movies on the lawn every Saturday at dusk. Curbside service available. Closed on Monday.

Weekly menus showcase the city’s diversity and trifecta of farming, ranching and fishing within an eclectic décor of local reclaimed materials.

Inspired by off-the-beaten-path Houston restaurants, Chef Chris Shepherd seamlessly pairs seasonal produce with by-catch seafood and richly historical meats, including goat and grassfed beef. His monthly Off-the-Wall dinner series features local chefs and benefits the Underbelly Scholarship at the Art Institute of Houston.

3636 Rice Blvd. (West University) 713.664.0141

1100 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.528.9800

Tiny’s No. 5

tinyboxwoods.com

Tony’s Recognized as one of the architects of the Italian food and wine renaissance, Tony Vallone has hosted the who’s who of Houston and seven sitting presidents since opening his restaurant in 1965. Tony’s provides a world-class fine-dining experience centered on innovative haute cuisine, peerless tableside service, and one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of fine wines from Italy, France, Germany and California.

3755 Richmond Ave. (Greenway) 713.622.6778 tonyshouston.com

Tony Mandola’s Tony and Phyllis Mandola have been serving Houstonians since 1982. Rated one of the best seafood and Italian restaurants in Houston, Tony Mandola’s offers a savory mix of Italian and Cajun cuisine and is “dedicated to the preservation of the art of our mamas’ cooking.”

2800 Sage Road (Galleria) 713.629.8646

1212 Waugh Drive (River Oaks) 713.528.3474

tangomalbec.com

tonymandolas.com

underbellyhouston.com

Up Restaurant Set in Highland Village, this trendy, thirdfloor venue features magnificent views and classic American cuisine. Offerings include authentic French bouillabaisse, yellowtail tuna tartare, USDA Prime Steak, fresh crudo and Parisian-inspired 50-layer crepes.

3995 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.640.5416 uprestaurant.com

Willie G’s Seafood and Steaks Local business crowds enjoy reliable menu favorites, including the ultimate seafood platter, which features stuffed crab, crab fingers, stuffed shrimp, fish fillet, fried shrimp, fried oysters and enbrochette. The certified Angus steaks are served in Willie G’s signature style.

1605 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.840.7190 williegs.com

All restaurants are located in Houston unless otherwise noted.

ATTRACTIONS

MUSEUMS Children’s Museum of Houston This outstanding children’s museum was founded in 1980 by a group of Houston parents who hoped to elevate early childhood development to a community-wide priority. Serving more than 850,000 people annually, the institution focuses on bilingual (Spanish/English) learning programs for kids ages birth to 12 years and workshops in literacy, science, math, health, engineering, civic engagement, culture and social studies.

1500 Binz St. (Museum District) 713.522.1138 cmhouston.org

Contemporary Arts Museum This non-collecting institution is dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Through dynamic exhibitions enhanced by scholarly publications and accessible educational programs, CAM reaches out to local, regional, national and international audiences of various ages.

5216 Montrose Blvd. (Museum District) 713.284.8250

two beautiful nearby house museums and two gift shops. Visitors enjoy an ever-changing schedule of world-class exhibitions and exciting programs.

1001 Bissonnet St. (Museum District) 713.639.7300 mfah.org

Space Center Houston Here, visitors experience the amazing story of space exploration, from its dramatic history and exciting present to the compelling future.

Space Center Houston is the only place on earth that gives guests an out-of-this-world journey through human adventures into space.

The Center’s unparalleled exhibits, attractions, special presentations and hands-on activities inspire and amaze as they tell the story of NASA’s manned space-flight program.

houstonsymphony.org houstonfirsttheaters.com/JonesHall

NRG Park

PERFORMANCE VENUES

One NRG Park (Medical Center) 832.667.1400

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

nrgpark.com

House of Blues

hmns.org

Located in the heart of downtown Houston, the center stands as the premier entertainment complex in the Houston Theater District. Two acoustically distinguished theaters, an impressive grand lobby and a contemporary American cuisine restaurant create a first-class setting.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

800 Bagby St. (Downtown) 713.315.2400 thehobbycenter.org

Houston Grand Opera – Wortham Center Since its inception in 1955, the city’s leading opera house has grown from a small, regional performing company into an internationally renowned organization. HGO enjoys a reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 47 world premieres and six American premieres since 1973.

Located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District, this dynamic cultural complex is comprised of two gallery buildings, a sculpture garden, library, café, movie theater, two art schools,

615 Louisiana St. (Downtown) 832.487.7050

spacecenter.org

1601 NASA Parkway (Clear Lake) 281.244.2100

The Houston Museum of Natural Science

5555 Hermann Park Drive (Museum District) 713.639.4629

In 2014, the Houston Symphony began its 101st concert season with new music director Andrés Orozco-Estrada. As the organization anticipates and exciting future, it continues to inspire and enrich the lives of Houston’s diverse citizenry through outstanding symphonic music performed by a world-class orchestra.

At NRG Park, education, entertainment, competitions, trade and commerce come together in one vibrant, energizing environment. Couple this with a professional staff dedicated to achieving the highest levels of customer and guest satisfaction, and it’s easy to understand why NRG Park is a leader in the event industry.

camh.org

Founded in 1909, this museum is one of the most heavily attended in the United States.

The site houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that examine astronomy, space science, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, chemistry, gems and minerals, seashells, Texas wildlife and much more.

Houston Symphony – Jesse H. Jones Hall for the Performing Arts

500 Texas Ave. (Downtown) 832.487.7000 houstongrandopera.org houstonfirsttheatres.com/WorthamCenter

Think up when visiting the only member of the chain designed in a vertical format. Opened in 2008, this massive venue is the anchor for the GreenStreet (formerly Houston Pavilions) outdoor shopping and entertainment complex. The Bronze Peacock Room pays tribute to Houston’s first blues club, where Big Momma Thornton and Lightnin’ Hopkins bared their souls through song.

1204 Caroline St. (Downtown) 888.402.5837

staff members and volunteers provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education for residents. More than 2 million guests per year experience the incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, attend special entertainment and enjoy both private and public events.

6200 Hermann Park Drive (Museum District) 713.533.6500 houstonzoo.org

SPORTS Ice at the Galleria Set beneath the spectacular glass atrium in the Houston Galleria Mall and open 7 days per week, this impressive ice rink has been an icon in the Houston area for more than 30 years. Skaters can enjoy extended public skating sessions, group events, birthday parties, a quality Learn to Skate program, and a beginner hockey program.

5015 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.621.1500 iceatthegalleria.com

Minute Maid Park This jewel in the crown of the majestic downtown skyline has become a welcome home for the Houston Astros and has ushered in a new era of Major League sports in the city. The downtown ballpark continues a proud tradition of visionary innovation in stadium construction that began with the ball club’s former home, the Astrodome.

501 Crawford St. (Downtown) 713.259.8000 houston.astros.mlb.com

Sam Houston Race Park

houseofblues.com

ZOOS & AQUARIUMS Downtown Aquarium This magnificent 6-acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland, home to more than 200 species of aquatic life from around the globe. The Aquarium is the product of the redevelopment of two downtown Houston landmarks: Fire Station No. 1 and the Central Waterworks Building.

410 Bagby St. (Downtown) 713.223.3474 aquariumrestaurants.com

Houston Zoo Plan to spend a day with the 6,000 furry, feathered, and finned fauna (and more) at this Houston institution. Nearly 1,000 professional

Sam Houston Race Park is Houston’s premier horseracing and entertainment facility, located 15 minutes from downtown Houston. It offers a variety of attractions, including 16 luxury suites overlooking the track, Pavilion Centre and award-winning dining options at the Winner’s Circle Restaurant and Jockey Club.

7575 North Sam Houston Parkway West 281.807.8700 shrp.com

All attractions are located in Houston unless otherwise noted.

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SHOPPING

SHOPPING CENTERS CityCentre Houston Developed by Midway, CityCentre is a thoughtfully planned community of sophisticated retail, elegant dining, luxurious brownstones and lofts, upscale apartments and the 255room Hotel Sorella, a world-class hospitality and conference facility. It is surrounded by European-style open-air plazas and beautifully designed greenspaces.

Market Street Market Street in The Woodlands is one of the nation’s finest shopping and entertainment destinations. It represents pure luxury, from upscale shopping and dining to boutique hotel accommodations.

JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES Deutsch & Deutsch Fine Jewelry and Watches

designer Kendra Scott. Shop the kaleidoscope of beautiful jewelry at her three Houston-area boutiques.

816 Town & Country Blvd. (CityCenter) 713.965.4115 2411 Times Blvd. (Rice Village) 713.965.4056

9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands 281.419.4774

For additional locations, visit kendrascott.com

marketstreet-thewoodlands.com

Tejas Custom Boots

Rice Village

800 Town & Country Blvd. (CityCentre) 713.629.5200 citycentrehouston.com

The Galleria

The Galleria is Texas’ largest shopping center, spanning 2.4 million square feet of space.

Houston’s most popular retail and tourist destination, it is filled with amenities, including a full-size ice rink and a state-of-the-art children’s play area. No trip to Houston is complete without a visit to this famous Texas retail space.

5085 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.622.0663 galleriahouston.com

Highland Village Shopping Center For the past 50 years, Highland Village has been home to some of Houston’s most distinctive and appealing retail venues, and it is a favorite destination for the most discriminating shoppers. This mix of upscale boutiques, national retailers and restaurants is located a few blocks west of River Oaks and a few blocks east of the Galleria.

4055 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.850.3100 shophighlandvillage.com

Houston Premium Outlets This home to more than 145 designer namebrand outlets includes top labels such as Tory Burch, True Religion, Kate Spade New York, Kenneth Cole, Burberry, Coach, and Cole Haan, where customers can save up to 65 percent off full-retail prices.

29300 Hempstead Road, Cypress 281.304.5820 premiumoutlets.com 54

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Family-friendly by day and adult-friendly by night, this open-air shopping area is a muststop Houston hot spot. Located within Loop 610 at Kirby/University Boulevard, the Arcade includes more than 50 shops, restaurants and indulgences.

2400 University Blvd. (West University) 713.630.0585 ricevillagedistrict.com

River Oaks Shopping Center The modern, art deco-inspired center offers a sophisticated shopping experience featuring more than 75 nationally recognized stores, eclectic shops and dining options, including J. Jill, Chico’s, Sur La Table, Barnes & Noble, Ann Taylor, Steinway Piano Gallery, Araya Artisan Chocolate and Steven Cash Jeweler.

1964 W Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.866.6982 riveroaksshoppingcenter.com

Uptown Park European elegance meets Texas style at this warm, inviting shopping area designed as an attractive, Italian-style piazza with fountains and lush surroundings. Uptown Park is lined with more than 50 shops, boutiques and cafes, with places for shoppers to rejuvenate in a charming, intimate atmosphere.

This fine jewelry and watch company began as a small tourist shop in Mexico nearly 100 years ago and has evolved into one of the most prominent jewelers in Texas and the nation.

The store carries accessories, bridal products, diamonds, estate jewelry, fine jewelry, pearls and timepieces, with additional locations in El Paso, Laredo and McAllen, Texas.

3747 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.627.7787 deutschjewelers.com

The Hat Store This family-owned store specializes in customizing hats of all kinds for men and women and has steamed and shaped Western cowboy hats for more than 87 years. Among its famous customers are former President George H. W. Bush, Texas Governor Rick Perry, Lance Berman of the Houston Astros, and entertainers Lyle Lovett, Merle Haggard, Clint Black and Larry Gatlin.

5587 Richmond Ave. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.780.2480

The Houston custom boot manufacturer is known for its quality custom cowboy boots and leather belts, designer alligator briefcases, leather buckles, shoes, handbags and more.

Since 1984, the company has catered to thousands of clients, including celebrities such as former U.S. President George H. W. Bush.

415 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.524.9860 tejascustomboots.com

Tenenbaum & Co. Classic Jeweler Shop for quality antique, vintage and contemporary jewelry by the world’s most renowned makers, including Tiffany, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Harry Winston. The large, ever-expanding inventory of treasures changes daily.

thehatstore.com

1801 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.629.7444

IW Marks Jewelers

tenenbaumandco.com

With muted tones and a traditional design, this space offers a tranquil atmosphere conducive to leisurely browsing among the many showcases of watches and jewelry. There is a dedicated area for watches, fine jewelry and bridal lines, with shop-in-shops for many brands, including Mikimoto, Charriol, Lagos, Stephen Dweck, Judith Leiber, Dominique Cohen and Kabana.

Thomas Markle Jewelers Established in 1981, Thomas Markle Jewelers is not only is one of North Houston’s most trusted family jewelers, but also is recognized as one of Texas’ premier jewelry stores. Houston residents and area visitors are served in a friendly atmosphere by an experienced staff of jewelry professionals.

3841 Bellaire Blvd. (Braeswood Place) 713.668.5000

4417 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood 281.360.4367

1101 Uptown Park Blvd. (Uptown) 713.850.1400

iwmarks.com

9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands 281.363.2400

uptownparkhouston.com

Kendra Scott

For additional locations, thomasmarklejewelers.com

Kendra Scott is an American accessories brand inspired by the personal experiences, travel and sense of community of its CEO and

Zadok Jewelers

Lam Bespoke

Abejas Boutique

Featuring a vast array of merchandise, Zadok includes spectacular collections from the world’s leading jewelry designers and Swiss watch brands. Several graduate gemologists are on staff, including all of the Zadok sons.

With expert guidance and a non-pressure selling ethic, a relaxing shopping experience awaits.

Serving the Greater Houston area for years, this home furnishings store combines comfort and style in its products for the well-tailored home, including art, accessories, coffee tables, chairs, ottomans, sofas, custom upholstery and more.

This cozy hangout is filled with unexpected basics every girl needs in her closet. The boutique specializes in casual, bohemian-style designer clothes, handbags, accessories, shoes and fragrances.

2032 W Alabama St. (Montrose) 713.523.1558

5600 Kirby Drive (West University) 713.522.3025

lambespoke.com

abejasboutique.com

Past Era Antique Jewelry

Elaine Turner

Backed by generations of knowledge and experience, Past Era enjoys a reputation as one of the country’s finest antique jewelry dealers. Its team of employees combines knowledge and expertise with personal service to provide each client with a unique, pleasurable shopping experience.

A Texas woman with a chic, cosmopolitan sense, Elaine Turner combines her love of exotic travels and colorful spaces to create a collection of luxury handbags and shoes for every woman.

3433 W. Alabama St. (Highland Village) 713.621.3433

800 Town and Country Blvd. (CityCentre) 713.255.9095

pastera.com

elaineturner.com

Roche Bobois

2601 Westheimer Road (Upper Kirby) 713.629.9990

Elizabeth Anthony - Esther Wolf

tootsies.com

1749 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.960.8950 zadok.com

ANTIQUES & FURNITURE The Antiquarium A large, varied collection of original antique prints, old maps and globes, historical Texas documents and other objects of historical, scientific and aesthetic interest is on display and available for purchase at this unique gallery located at the Centre at River Oaks in the heart of Houston.

Located in Houston’s upscale Uptown Park, Elizabeth Anthony seeks to dress ladies in chic styles for work, vacation, and special evenings out. The luxurious retail space welcomes women who desire both personal attention and advice from knowledgeable staff while shopping for high-end apparel.

3021 Kirby Drive (River Oaks) 713.622.7531 theantiquarium.com

Antiques & Interiors at the Pavilion Conveniently located between Kirby Drive and Shepherd Drive, this 27,000-square-foot showroom houses 80 of Houston’s finest dealers. As it has for the past 20 years, this collaborative showcases exceptional home furnishings, art, silver, accessories and jewelry.

2311 Westheimer Road (River Oaks/Upper Kirby) 713.520.9755 antique-pavilion.com

Carl Moore Antiques This exquisitely decorated showroom offers classic style for a contemporary age through its distinctive selection of memorable antiques and reproductions, all individually chosen with an eye for style, line and value.

1610 Bissonnet St. (Museum District) 713.524.2502 carlmooreantiques.com

1180 Uptown Park Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.622.1331

This leader in European high-end furniture is in a class all its own. With a network of 240 stores in 40 countries, the company recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. Known for unmatched quality, European know-how and customization, each furniture piece is born of close collaboration by the brand, designers and manufacturers.

4810 San Felipe Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.629.0442 roche-bobois.com

WOMEN’S APPAREL Atrium Ready to Wear

Kuhl-Linscomb This Texas-size retail mecca, a privately owned design and lifestyle store with 70,000 square feet of display space, spans five separate showroom buildings on one campus. Expect to find Texas hospitality and professional staff, in addition to a unique selection of home accessories, bath and bedding, fragrances, antiques, furniture, interior and exterior lighting, and much more.

2424 W Alabama St. (Upper Kirby) 713.526.6000 kuhl-linscomb.com

2429 University Blvd. (Rice Village) 713.255.0052

This exclusive boutique with a French flair offers one-of-a-kind couture cocktail attire and evening wear from a curated collection of fashion’s finest designers, including Prabal Gurung, Vera Wang, Jason Wu, Angel Sanchez and Yigal Azrouel, among others. Shoppers experience personal attention from the Atrium’s expert staff.

2040 West Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.520.0206 atriumrtw.com

estherwolf.com

Hemline Established in 1994 in New Orleans, the brand today includes six locations throughout the South. A trusted, sought-after resource for coveted fashion, Hemline is the ultimate style destination for Show Me Your Mumu, French Connection, Free People, Hudson, Sam Edelman and more.

2505 Amherst St. (Rice Village) 713.520.1184 2047 West Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.520.0060

SHOPPING and James, Tibi, and Ace & Jig fill this Upper Kirby, West Coast-inspired boutique.

2800 Kirby Drive (Upper Kirby) 713.942.9520 samandlilli.com

Tootsies Located the heart of River Oaks, Tootsies is a full-line specialty store offering ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags, jewelry and accessories.

Known for its stellar customer service, the store features enormous fitting rooms designed by top interior designers, a private room for exclusive trunk shows, and a dining room for special customer luncheons.

MEN’S APPAREL Billy Reid Known for his classic Southern style, William Reid designs clothing from quality fabrics with added unusual accents, dubbed “low-fi Southern-bred luxury.” The quaint shop, located in a Craftsman-era home in River Oaks, specializes in high-end men’s clothing and also carries Reid’s women’s collection.

2702 Westheimer Road (Upper Kirby) 713.552.0333 billyreid.com

M Penner Located in Uptown Park and known for upscale men and women’s clothing, this shop carries tailored clothing, made-to-measure suits and shirts, footwear, accessories, and an extensive designer’s collection for men and women. M Penner was awarded the Gold Standard in Esquire magazine’s “Best of Class” issue.

shophemline.com

1180-06 Uptown Park Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.527.8200

Pinto Ranch Fine Western Wear

MPenner.com

Live the Western lifestyle on or off the ranch with more than 4,000 in-stock pairs of handmade boots by Lucchese, Old Gringo, Stallion, Rocketbuster, Rios of Mercedes and Liberty Boot Co. Unique designer apparel for men and women, including hand-engraved buckles, hats and jewelry, embody the romanticism and traditions of the Old West.

1717 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.333.7900 pintoranch.com

SAM and lilli The brainchild of restaurateur Lee Ellis, this West Avenue shop is known for contemporary and casual lines. Designers such as Elizabeth

Norton Ditto Respected as the city’s premier retailer for more than a century, this Houston landmark is dedicated to providing its customers with the latest trends in men’s fashion. From custom-fitted suits to jeans, Norton Ditto offers the most complete collection of fine clothing, including big and tall at the River Oaks location.

2425 West Alabama St. (River Oaks) 713.688.9800 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands 281.367.0995 nortonditto.com

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Photo courtesy of Bayou Bend - Museum of Fine Arts Houston

OUR PARTING SHOT

Miss Ima’s House Bayou Bend, the former River Oaks estate of siblings Ima, Will and Mike Hogg, is arguably the most famous historic residence in Houston.

The circa-1929 Latin Colonial-style house and its 14 acres of elegant gardens were given by Miss Ima, as she was known, to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston in 1957, together with her unsurpassed collection of American decorative art and furniture.

Ima Hogg lived in Bayou Bend until 1965, during which time she oversaw the transformation of the house and her vast collection into one of the most important house museums in the country, Bayou Bend Collections and Gardens.

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Miss Ima worked closely with architect John Staub to design and build the house to accommodate both her burgeoning collection and the Hoggs’ frequent entertaining for business, civic, and philanthropic purposes.

Her brothers called Bayou Bend “Miss Ima’s House” even before it was finished, and “Miss Ima’s House” it remains.

Bayou Bend is open year-round for tours and special programs. Family Days this autumn are “Energy, a Texas Legacy,” on Sunday, on October 18, and “Our National Identity,” on Sunday, November 15. From November 20 to January 4, 2015, “Yuletide: Holiday Time at Bayou Bend” will feature a

children’s Christmas party at Andrew Jackson’s White House, a children’s tea and dancing party in 1700s Philadelphia and a punch party for the Sons of Liberty in pre-Revolutionary Boston.

For more information, visit www.mfah.org/ visit/bayou-bend-collection-and-gardens or call the Lora Jean Kilroy Visitor and Education Center at 713.639.7750.

OYSTER PERPETUAL DAY-DATE 40

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