Houston Hotel Magazine Winter + Holiday 2018 by Dallas Hotel Magazine

FH L LLLLI ++ OLL 52 0 1 8 FA A O DH AHY O +I IDD WAAIYY N T22E00R 11 4

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

THE YEAR OF

HUGO ORTEGA At the Table with the Best Chef in the Southwest

AN ODE TO OPULENCE

Rockets Owner Reaches New Heights

TRUE TEXAS LUXURY Houston’s Haute Hotel Boom

A FUSION OF FLAVORS Peli Peli’s Rare South African Fare

BAYOU CITY’S BEST Our Favorite Food & Drink

H O L ID

GIFT E GUID

For the Finest in Fine Jewelery. Deutsch & Deutsch Jewelers.

Deutsch & Deutsch Jewelers

3747 westheimer @ Weslayan 713-627-7787

FEATURES

I S S U E 1 3 : H O L I D AY / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

CONTENTS 20 HOUSTON’S BEST BRUNCHES,

28 DESTINATION: HOUSTON

34 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Five fantastic local favorites, from an award-winning whiskey bar to exquisite French cuisine. BY MARY CATE STEVENSON

Take a look inside the stunning luxury developments that are turning Space City into an out-ofthis-world travel destination. BY ANDREW RAISCH

Thoughful and unique gifts, perfect for the winter holidays or Valentine’s Day. BY HOUSTON HOTEL MAGAZINE

BARS, & SNAPPY HOURS

22 THE YEAR OF HUGO ORTEGA

photo courtesy of H Town Restaurant Group.

Take a seat at the table of local Houston chef Hugo Ortega, winner of the 2017 James Beard Award for Best Chef Southwest. BY NOAH NOFZ AND MARY CATE STEVENSON

22 ON THE COVER:

Celebrating a year—and a lifetime—of extraordinary achievements, chef Hugo Ortega shares a satisfyingly authentic approach. Photo courtesy of H Town Restaurant Group.

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An Art-Filled Oasis SEE / DINE / SHOP

nashersculpturecenter.org Dallas Arts District Photo: Carolyn Brown © Nasher Sculpture Center

ON VIEW Tom Sachs: Tea Ceremony through January 7 Paper into Sculpture / October 14 – February 4 The DRAMASTICS: A Punk Rock Victory Twister in Texas / October 27 – January 31

IN EVERY ISSUE

I S S U E 1 3 : H O L I D AY / W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

CONTENTS Two Cats Communications

13 THE RUNDOWN Inside The Post Oak, Billion Dollar Buyer Tilman Fertitta's extraordinary new luxury development.

15 THE RUNDOWN

38 THE SCENE Over 300 of the best upcoming events, performances, and can’tmiss attractions.

56 DINING

shutterstock.com

You’ve got to try Peli Peli, the only South African restaurant in Texas.

Your guide to dining in one of America’s most renowned culinary hubs.

59 ATTRACTIONS There’s always something to see in Bayou City—here are a few of our favorites.

61 SHOPPING From the glittering Galleria to the swank new River Oaks District, we bring you Houston’s best shopping.

64 OUR PARTING SHOT

Houston hero and Texans Defensive End J.J. Watt raised over $37M for Hurricane Harvey relief.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

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WELCOME

Photo: Kristy Glazebrook Wardrobe provided by: Collectivo

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elcome to our special Holiday/Winter issue. As you know, our city was devastated by Hurricane Harvey this summer, affecting everyone from our distribution partners to our team. As we all recuperated and rebuilt, we stepped out of our typical quarterly distribution cycle. We are proud to present this special issue, a testimony to teamwork that celebrates Houston as never before. As a native Houstonian, I have seen firsthand how resilient this city can be, and the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey was no exception. This great community is well on its way to being better than it ever was before, and with the help of locals and visitors alike (the World Series win didn’t hurt, either), we can get there faster. As we move forward and rebuild, we have the excitement of knowing the holidays and Rodeo are just around the corner, and there's no better place to celebrate than hospitable Houston. In this issue, we spotlight the best of Bayou City, starting with our cover feature: 2017 James Beard Award-winning chef Hugo Ortega. Learn the story of how this inspired, local-loving chef brought the culinary Oscar to Houston, then make reservations to visit each of his restaurants — I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Join us for a look inside some of Houston’s most glamorous hotels, and get the scoop on one of the most unique cuisines in the city. Discover our Gift Guide, filled to the brim with fantastic present ideas for everything from the winter holidays to Valentine’s Day. Turn to our events calendar, “The Scene,” for an inclusive guide to over 300 of Houston’s best upcoming performances, festivals, and cultural happenings. Don’t miss our comprehensive listing of Houston’s sports schedules, and take a look at our recommendations on some of the best places to dine, shop, and relax here in town. Thank you for choosing Houston Hotel Magazine as your companion for an exceptional visit to Houston. I’m glad you’re here.

Ryan Wieser Publisher, Houston Hotel Magazine

THE ULTIMATE STEAK EXPERIENCE

PUBLISHER Ryan Wieser

EDITOR Mary Cate Stevenson

ART DIRECTOR Mark McKenzie Scott "Grumpy" Braud

COPY EDITOR Noah Nofz

CONTRIBUTORS Claudette Delancey Dave Muscari Noah Nofz Andrew Raisch Mary Cate Stevenson

EDITORS-AT-LARGE Dave Muscari Noah Nofz Mary Cate Stevenson

INTERNATIONAL EDITOR-AT-LARGE Angela Youngman

PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT OF CORE PUBLISHING Pete Northway

PRESIDENT & ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER OF HOUSTON HOTEL MAGAZINE Darla Chapman Ripley

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ADVERTISING SALES Brandon DeShong Jay Janecek Robin Levine John Norris Xavier Rodriquez

INTERN Brandon Northway

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WEB DEVELOPMENT Achilles Interactive

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HoustonHotelMagazine.com 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. 12

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PUERTO VALLARTA BEACH CLUB THE ULTIMATE ESTATE FOR INTIMATE OR GROUP GETAWAYS 760.416.3366

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

Guests are greeted by a stunning two-story Rolls-Royce and Bentley private showroom.

The Post Oak: Extraordinary Luxury Redefining the Visitor Experience BY CLAUDETTE DELANCEY

ow do you define luxury?

As the sole owner of over 500 properties spanning 50 unique brands, Houston tycoon Tilman Fertitta is uniquely poised to set that standard. The uncompromising Landry’s head and proud new owner of the Houston Rockets can always be counted on to deliver excellence, and the world can expect that and more from his latest development, the hotly-anticipated Post Oak. The property broke ground in April of 2015, with a master

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The glamorous lobby of The Post Oak.

plan and interior and exterior architecture provided by San Francisco-based firm Gensler and general contracting from Houston-based firm Tellepsen. At its early 2018 opening, The Post Oak realizes its destiny as Houston’s first vertical mixed-use development, a lavish combination of upscale residences, well-appointed offices, a 16,000 square-foot ballroom, exclusive designer shopping, a two-story spa, unforgettable dining, a multi-story showroom displaying Bentley and Rolls-Royce automobiles, and a 240-room hotel, promising discerning travelers to Houston the finest in accommodation and service. Why did the star of CNBC’s Billion Dollar Buyer choose Houston for this staggering display of luxury? “I’ve always wanted to build

a luxury hotel in Houston,” he reveals. “The one thing I hear as I travel across the country is, ‘Guys, where do you stay in Houston?’” It was an opportunity Mr. Fertitta was not going to pass up. He approached it as only he could, with a keen sense for the truly upscale, always keeping his target audience in mind. “It’s a luxury hotel in an urban area,” he explains. “It’s going to have a great pool, a great spa, great restaurants—I think the business traveler is going to love it, but it will appeal to the discerning tourist, too.” As the 38-story Uptown destination anticipates playing host to some of the most selective Houston visitors, Fertitta is recruiting the top professionals in the business. His first hire was GM Jorge Gonzalez, previously of the Mandarin Oriental in Miami, one

of only 11 hotels to earn Forbes’ coveted triple Five Star award, honoring the property’s hotel, restaurant, and spa. Fertitta has named Jean-Luc Royere, also formerly of the Mandarin Oriental Miami, executive chef. Royere’s CV is an impressive list of Forbes Five-Star luxury properties, and he has also been inducted into the coveted “Maîtres Cuisiniers de France”—who could be better suited to oversee the property’s array of luxury restaurants and banquet halls? The Post Oak will be a thrill for all the senses. “We are searching all over the world for artwork that will complement special areas in the hotel,” Fertitta reveals. “The art pieces alone will be worth millions of dollars.” That’s not to mention the property’s unique homage to craftsmanship—a stunning

Photos courtesy of The Post Oak

The sumptuous Presidential Suite.

Tilman’s tower rises 38 stories into the air.

two-story Bentley and Rolls-Royce private showroom, catering to celebrities, athletes, and others who demand the crème de la crème. The tower will also offer direct helicopter pad access, perfect for those who always arrive in style. Within the hotel, the last word in amenities awaits. The hotel is comprised of 240 sleek, extravagant guest rooms and suites. At 5,000 square feet, the Presidential Suite is one of the largest in the city and affords its guests unmatched opulence— plus sweeping city views. She who holds the key to the Presidential Suite is also master of a private elevator, top-of-the-line media room, fitness space, and secluded terrace. This dedication to privacy perfectly suits the celebrity, public figure, or sybaritic guest.

The beautiful patio at the first Mastro’s Steakhouse in Texas.

The Post Oak’s two-story, full-service spa promises a serene, stunningly-designed space—the ultimate oasis for visitors to relax and rejuvenate. There is even an on-site boutique, expertly-curated with coveted finds. The Landry’s owner elaborates, “It will carry international brands, and some unique brands that come out of the East and West Coasts. The clothes will be very unique.” “I can tell you this,” Mr. Fertitta adds, “People who are spending the night at this hotel won’t have to leave the property to find the perfect place to eat.” True to his word, the finest dining waits within the property, including Texas’ first Mastro’s Steakhouse. This noted institution needs no introduction—its reputation as a preferred destination of celebrities and the elite

precedes it. Its elevated menu, featuring over 16 steaks and chops, is sure to please discerning palates, while nightly live music pairs perfectly with a glass of bloodred wine. With sister locations in Beverly Hills, Chicago, and Manhattan, Mastro’s brings the best of urban dining to Space City. A Houston institution for 35 years, Willie G’s is also a natural fit for The Post Oak’s exemplary dining scene. As the concept relocates to this fresh space, come experience the new, special changes made to the iconic restaurant. “I think it caters to a younger crowd, as well as the original patrons of Willie G’s,” Mr. Fertitta asserts. “Your long-time favorites are going to be there, but you’re going to see a lot of new things

on the menu, too.” Indulge in the finest seafood and wine on the spacious outdoor patio beneath a canopy of oak trees, or take your meal in the beautiful dining room. No matter your choice, the experience will be marked by the unforgettable atmosphere of Willie G’s. The same can be said of the entire Post Oak property. Headed by one of Houston’s greatest influencers and dedicated to the elite, The Post Oak is an homage to the extraordinary. Avail yourself of the lush property’s firstclass amenities, and take comfort in knowing that it will always be waiting to welcome you back when you return to Houston.

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Charcuterie Board, featuring original, spicy, & garlic biltong, spicy doerewors, sticky toffee bleu cheese, stuffed peppadews, and parmesan crackers. Cape Town Cucumber, a refreshing cocktail of cucumber vodka, mint, lemon, and a house-made Peri Spice rim.

The Rich Flavors of South African Cuisine Your New Favorite Food (That You Haven’t Tried Yet) BY NOAH NOFZ

lose your eyes for a moment and picture South African cuisine. What do you see? For most, the exercise is more difficult than it seems. People think of many things when they think of South Africa—Mandela, rugby, diamonds, penguins—but the food remains shrouded in mystery, victim to more recognizable world cuisines. Peli Peli, a blossoming group of Houston eateries serving the only South African fare available

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in Texas, is out to change that. First opened in 2009, Peli Peli has since conquered the Houston restaurant scene. It was no small feat—Houston, after all, is a new dining capital in America, a swaggering city that prides itself on its culinary chops. To Peli Peli co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer Thomas Nguyen, that made it the perfect place to bring his concept to life. “I don’t know if there’s a better place for us to have opened than Houston,” he says. Why Houston? In a word, diversity. “In this city, we’re used to diversity,” Nguyen points out. “You have Vietnamese-Cajun crawfish, you have Indian-Chinese food… It’s such a mix—not just for the sake of mixing, but because that’s what the city is made up of.” According to Nguyen, Houston’s fusion of flavors perfectly mirrors South African cuisine. “South Africa has so many differ-

ent cultures that influence the cuisine, from Indian to British to Dutch, Portuguese, and surrounding African countries,” he explains. “Since it’s made up of so many different cultures and people, there are many flavors that people haven’t had before.” Ultimately, Peli Peli found its way into the hearts of Space City diners through (what else?) their stomachs. The name of the restaurant is a romanization of the Swahili piri piri, and refers to a small, but potent, chili pepper that grows wild on the South African plains. The nod to spice suffuses the entire Peli Peli menu, which is overseen by South African-born Executive Chef Paul Friedman. “This was Paul’s opportunity to finally be the chef he’s always wanted to be,” enthuses Nguyen, and one look at the menu reveals the unmistakable work of an artist in the throes of delight.

Consider his award-winning Bobotie, a distinctive take on the South African national dish. Curried ground beef and carrot bredie are encased in a flaky pastry crust and finished with a jolt of mango chutney. A dizzying array of perfectly-prepared seafood forms the Cape Town Skillet, which makes its home on a bed of South African rice and is topped by a pair of exquisite tiger prawns. Even Friedman’s Charcuterie Board is an exercise in culinary glee, from the spicysweet tang of stuffed peppadews to house-made biltong, a kind of soft, South African beef jerky that rockets South African guests (and, one suspects, the chef) back to their childhoods. It’s not hard to see that this food is prepared from the heart. High local demand reflects that love for the cuisine. With three fine dining locations now open in Houston, plans to open

Two Cats Communications

The Short Rib Surf & Turf: Korean-inspired, marinated grilled short ribs and shrimp scampi with spicy Kudo seasoning.

The beautiful main dining room, with mood lighting set by an LED ceiling that changes color, evoking the atmosphere of the sky at different times of day. The Cape Town Skillet, a mouthwatering combination of scallops, Peli Peli shrimp, mussels, sauteed calamari, South African rice, and Peli Peli sauce, topped with two giant tiger prawns.

in downtown Austin early in 2018, plus a casual concept called Peli Peli Kitchen off the Interstate 10 Frontage Road, Peli Peli is taking South African food to the masses. “South African food is something that’s been overlooked just because no one’s been paying attention,” says Director of Growth & Development Michelle Cimafranca. “Back in the ‘70s, no one cared about Chinese food! But now, if you talk about Chinese food, people tell you, ‘Yeah, I had it last Friday!’” Cimafranca sees a similar phenomenon happening now with South African food—and drink. Peli Peli’s bar menu is full of thoughtfully-crafted specialty cocktails, each of which nods to South African flavors or ingredients to mouthwatering effect. But it’s the wine that truly stands out. “There’s a valley in South

Africa called Hemel-en-Aarde, which is very similar to Burgundy in France,” Cimafranca explains. “So they make great Pinot Noirs. Then you have Stellenbosch, which is very similar to Napa, Sonoma, and Alexander Valley. They can make incredible Cabs! Incredible Chardonnay!” As the head of the restaurant’s liquor, beer, and wine program, Cimafranca has embraced the opportunity to shine a spotlight on South African wine, which now accounts for 90% of the bottles in Peli Peli’s cellar. And why not? “If you go to a French restaurant, it’s an all-French wine list,” Cimafranca points out. As word continues to spread that South African cuisine is among the world’s finest, Peli Peli is becoming an integral part of the city’s fabric. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, Nguyen reports, Peli Peli supplied “over 10,000 meals for first respond-

ers” and teamed up with the Red Cross for 20,000 more. “All three owners are immigrants, and we’re very appreciative of being in this country,” he says by way of modest explanation. “I think we have a responsibility to give back.” Close your eyes again, and think of South African cuisine. The food and drink of Rainbow Nation is befitting of that inclusive nickname, and of the city of Houston. Diverse by its very nature, it is a crucible of flavors and cultures at once familiar and unexpected. Think of your favor- —Thomas Nguyen ite Indian spices. Think of British Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer, Peli Peli comfort food, Portuguese fish, and the clarity of Asian seasoning. Now think of it all coming together to form one inimitable cuisine, an ultimate celebration of food and of eating. Does anything sound better?

“South Africa has so many different cultures that influence the cuisine... there are many flavors that people haven’t had before.”

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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: III FORKS

The Prime Cit y FOR Prime Beef Fleming’s Steakhouse

Pappas Bros. 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. 2405 W. Alabama St. (River Oaks) 713.520.5959 788 W. Sam Houston Parkway North (Town & Country) 713.827.1120

III Forks Steakhouse Houston is a contemporary take on the classic upscale steakhouse, featuring a lively bar and lounge area with menu items ranging from USDA Prime beef, ocean-fresh seafood as well as lighter, local favorites. As you enter, the foyer welcomes you with an array of over 1,500 fine wines from the spectacular glass wine room. 1201 Fannin, Suite 129 713.658.9457 iiiforks.com

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.

1201 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands 281.362.0103 flemingssteakhouse.com

Morton’s The Steakhouse Morton’s, part of the Landry family of restaurants, opened in 1996 as 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. 5000 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.629.1946 1001 McKinney St. (Downtown) 713.659.3700 mortons.com

Mo’s … A Place for Steaks 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. 1801 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria) 713.877.0720 mosaplaceforsteaks.com

The Palm

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 atmosphere for luxury dining and drinking. The restaurant serves USDA Prime steaks, premium seafood, and award-winning wines. Pappas Bros. has two locations in Houston—the original in the Galleria area and a newer one Downtown. They provide their guests with a dining experience like no other by putting immeasurable care into everything they do. They buy the highest-quality ingredients, use a timeless recipe, and cook it flawlessly each and every time. Discover for yourself why Pappas Bros. is ranked as one of the top steakhouses in the country. 5839 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.780.7352 1200 McKinney Street (Downtown) 713.658.1995 pappasbros.com

Perry’s Steakhouse and Grille 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 including Perry’s Famous Pork Chop, chateaubriand, and flaming desserts, or sample from a spectacular selection of world-class wines. 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.

1 Birdsall St. (Memorial) 713.868.4444

5433 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.961.0333

brennerssteakhouse.com/bayou

ruthschris.com

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House

Shula’s Steakhouse

Opulent and romantic, Del Frisco’s in Houston is located in an elegant two-story space with sweeping windows, offering guests a luxurious dining experience. This location offers something you won’t find in any other Houston steakhouse with their New Orleans-inspired “lagniappe” menu. 5061 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.355.2600 delfriscos.com

The Palm proudly serves USDA prime-aged beef, jumbo Nova Scotia lobster, heritage Italian entrées, 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

Smith and Wollensky

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.

4007 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.621.7555 smithandwollensky.com

Sullivan’s 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. 4608 Westheimer Road (Highland Village/Galleria) 713.961.0333 sullivanssteakhouse.com

Texas Land & Cattle

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 11900 Dickinson 281.922.6333 8015 W. FM 1960 281.469.3838 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.

1200 Louisiana St. (Downtown) 713.375.4777

1510 Texas St. (Downtown) 713.228.111

donshula.com

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

N’S BES W O T T H

BRUNCHES SNAPPY HOURS

BARS &

BY MARY CATE STEVENSON

RIVER OAKS Amanda Calderon

FRENCH BRUNCH AT ÉTOILE CUISINE ET BAR Classic French cuisine at its finest—and without a trace of pretension. Chef Philippe Verpiand and co-owner Monica Bui have created a dazzling menu that embraces the flavors and spirit of France. Our favorite Étoile meal is brunch, where diners can enjoy everything from a humble croissant to a 10 oz. ribeye steak. All the classics are here—escargots à la Bourguignonne, gruyère omelette, coq au vin—as well as a few lesser-known and equally-tempting creations. For our money, you can’t beat the mussels, which are available in a variety of succulent styles. Like many things that are close to divinity, brunch at Étoile is a Sundays-only affair. 1101-11 Uptown Park Boulevard // (832) 668-5808 // etoilecuisine.com Photo courtesy of Étoile Cuisine et Bar

DOWNTOWN

WHISKEY + COCKTAILS AT RESERVE 101 This is where celebrities go to sip and be seen. Recognized as one of America’s top whiskey bars, Reserve 101 should top the must-try list of the whiskey enthusiast and travel-savvy alike. The downtown hotspot features more than 340 whiskeys from 14 countries, not to mention private barrels and rare selections. They also offer whiskey tastings, so be sure to check their online calendar for opportunities during your stay. If whiskey isn’t your drink of choice, no matter—their inclusive menu offers a slew of classic cocktails, a variety of beers, and wine by the glass or bottle. Visit Reserve 101 Monday through Saturday from 2 p.m.–2 a.m. and Sunday from 5 p.m.–2 a.m. 1201 Caroline Street // info@reserve101.com // reserve101.com

Photo courtesy of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations

MONTROSE

WINE BAR HAPPY HOUR AT UNDERBELLY Underbelly is one of the finest restaurants in the city, and it’s home to some of the best wine, too. Of particular note is the Monday through Saturday happy hour, which runs from 3–6:30 p.m. and picks up again from 10 p.m. until midnight. Reds, whites, and bubbles are half-price by the glass, and all of the wine is sourced from family-owned and operated wineries. Be sure to try a plate or two from the Wine Bar Menu, where James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Shepherd pays homage to some of his influences with his “covers” menu. It’s a rollicking tour of some of Shepherd’s favorite dishes from restaurants across the country, all with a unique Houston twist.

Julie Soefer

1100 Westheimer Road // (713) 528-9800 // underbellyhouston.com

RIVER OAKS

SUNDAY BRUNCH AT BOSSCAT KITCHEN & LIBATIONS This California implant has been making waves with their tasty menu of elevated comfort food, enviable whiskey program, and great location. Their Sunday Brunch offerings shine with clever plates featuring reimagined favorites—the Fruity Pebbles French Toast is a notable pick, as are the Pork Belly Breakfast Tacos and Sticky Bun Breakfast Burger. Pair your meal with one of their drink specials, or opt for a classic mimosa or Bloody Mary. Be sure to inquire after their whiskey, too—these folks know their barrels and are primed to introduce you to your new signature sip. Make your reservations now; brunch is served Sundays only from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. 4310 Westheimer Road, Suite 150 // (281) 501-1187 // bosscatkitchen-houston.com

GALLERIA

SOUTH AFRICAN HAPPY HOUR AT PELI PELI With their unbeatable location and happy hour specials, Peli Peli is a can’t-miss spot. Enjoy half-off cocktails, like the Cape Town Cucumber Martini, plus $10 light bites—the award-winning bobotie is delicious, and the flavorful seafood options are tops, too. Chances are, you’ve never had South African wine, and Peli Peli’s Happy Hour Menu makes each glass a steal at half-off. With rich wine regions that have been likened to those of France, you’re guaranteed to find a new and noteworthy favorite among the South African offerings. Peli Peli’s superb happy hour is served Monday to Friday from 2–7 p.m. Photo courtesy of Peli Peli

5085 Westheimer Road, Suite B2515 // (281) 257-9500 // pelipeli.com

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Courtesy: H Town Restaurant Group

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Paula Murphy

THE YEAR OF

Hugo Ortega Houston’s Star Chef on Mole and Memories

BY NOAH NOFZ AND MARY CATE STEVENSON

here’s a secret sauce bubbling in the Houston restaurant world, a differentiator which sets it apart from the glitzy kitchens of New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles. The hidden ingredient? “I think, without any doubt, it’s the diversity,” says chef Hugo Ortega, the 2017 James Beard Award-winning chef who rules the city’s enviable culinary scene. It’s a difficult point to argue. Picture something quintessentially American: A vanilla ice cream cone.

Its story isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Ancient Mesoamerican cultures were the first to cultivate the vine of the vanilla orchid, incorporating the aromatic caviar of seeds and pulp into their food and drink. They shared their concoctions with Spanish explorers in the early 1500s, who were so taken with the spicy, fragrant flavor that they brought bushels of the shriveled black beans back to Europe, where their popularity spread. The pods found their way to France, and

eventually into the hands of an inventive chef who whipped up the pulp with sugar, cream, and egg yolks, then stirred it over a bath of ice and salt—a technique borrowed from fourteenthcentury China—until it solidified into ice cream. Some fifty or a hundred years later, a traveling Thomas Jefferson purchased a scoop, fell in love, and brought the recipe back across the Atlantic. It was another 120 years before an enterprising Syrian concessionaire rolled up a thin zalabia pastry at the St. Louis H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

Courtesy: H Town Restaurant Group

spring day” in Houston after a harrowing overnight journey. It was 1982, and Ortega was just one face in a crowd of over 100,000 undocumented immigrants flocking to Bayou City following the economic boom of the late 1970s. He did not know the language; he did not have a job; he did not come with family. His early years in the U.S. were lonely, full of odd jobs and a fair share of frustration. But Hugo was determined not to give up.

The Stars Align

Chef Hugo Ortega and Tracy Vaught at their award-winning Mexican coastal restaurant, Caracol.

“

The diversity of this wonderful city is what has opened it up to international flavors, to accepting people from different parts of the world.

’’

HUGO ORTEGA

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World’s Fair and handed it to the ice cream vendor next door. Finally, an American classic was born. History—of food, of painting, of government—is awash in such stories. Behind every new idea, every new dish, lies a lineage of individual ingredients and practices that come together to create something wholly unique—something better than the sum of each composite part. Such is life in Houston, a living, breathing symphony of ideas that has fast grown into one of America’s foremost cultural and economic powerhouses. Houston is characterized by its status as the most diverse city in the country, and visitors can scarcely travel the length of a city block without seeing an array of cultural markets and boutiques, hearing the thud of chopped-and-screwed music from a car whizzing down the road, or smelling the enticing aromas emanating from a multitude of restaurants. It’s this strength, in particular, that has put Houston on the map. Ours is a culinary city. “The diversity of this wonderful city is what has opened it up to international flavors, to accepting people from different parts of the world,” chef Ortega purports— and he knows firsthand about Houston’s capacity for acceptance. Hugo left his native Mexico when he was just 17 years old, arriving to “a beautiful

“I was hungry to do something with my life. I needed to ‘make it,’” he recalls. Five long years after he made his way to the city, Hugo found his chance. In the spring of 1987, he arrived at the back door of Backstreet Cafe, a fledgling bistro set in a charming 1930s home in River Oaks, unaware of the Shakespearean twist his life was about to undergo. He applied for a job as a dishwasher and was hired by Backstreet’s owner, Tracy Vaught. “You know, that was the turn of my life,” Hugo muses—not something many people can say of their first day washing dishes. Of course she didn’t know it at the time, but it was the turn of Tracy’s, too. Vaught had walked away from a budding geology career a few years prior. “I just found myself looking out the window a lot, and thinking, ‘Wow, I wish I wasn’t inside this high-rise building. I wish I was walking around in the sun,’” she remembers. Tracy began to develop her interest in cooking, and when she found the perfect location for her concept, she gave her uncle a call. “I asked him if he would help me, and what did he think, and he said, ‘Oh yeah, you’ve got to follow your dream.’” Hugo puts it simply: “Tracy is a rebel.” And Backstreet Cafe was a good place for rebels to dream. Hugo worked his way up through the Backstreet kitchen, progressing from dishwasher to line cook to grill operator to the sauté pans. “Backstreet is very close to my heart,” he shares. “Every corner

has so much history. The patio is like my second home. So it means everything to me. And I hope that we’ll stay here for another 100 years. There’s a lot of love here.” Love for cooking, certainly— but Hugo and Tracy formed a connection, too. “We had a company party down at the beach,” Tracy recalls. “All the employees came down, so that was where I got to know him more on a personal level.” “It was very romantic,” Hugo enthuses over Tracy’s protestations. The two struck up a relationship shortly thereafter. Ever his biggest supporter, Tracy put Hugo through culinary school at Houston Community College. Hugo graduated in 1991; he and Tracy married three years later. Today, their business, H Town Restaurant Group, owns four of Houston’s most acclaimed restaurants: Backstreet Cafe, Hugo’s, Caracol, and Xochi. Xochi, Ortega’s latest triumph, is a swank new concept located downtown in the Marriott Marquis, serving traditional Oaxacan cuisine elevated to dazzling contemporary heights. It was recently named the best restaurant in town in the Houston Chronicle’s annual report.

Taking Passion from Authenticity Hugo’s ascendancy is one that few could have seen coming—the kind of pull-yourself-up story that Hollywood dreams of. His journey from undocumented immigrant to dishwasher to award-winning Executive Chef and head of a blossoming restaurant empire is nothing short of inspirational. But beneath each uniform he wore, his heart beat with a love for food that can be traced to his earliest days. Hugo was born in Mexico City, but moved to the mountains of Oaxaca to live with his grandmother when he was seven years old. “It was such an incredible transition for me. I went from being a city boy to being alone in the mountains with 300 goats!” he recalls. “There was no electricity,

Photos this page by Julie Soefer, except top, Kenn Stearns

Top: Chef Hugo Ortega. Right: Tamal de Calabaza, a dish comprised of Oaxacan tamala squash, black beans, Calabaza de tacha, salsa macha, and crema fresca. Below: The entrance to Xochi, chef Hugo’s latest awardwinning concept, serving traditional Oaxacan dishes. Left: Pulpo: Crispy wood-roasted octopus, masa pancake, puya pepper adobo, and toasted pumpkin seeds.

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Courtesy: H Town Restaurant Group

Julie Soefer

Top: The interior of Caracol, chef Hugo and Tracy Vaught’s homage to the coastal cuisine of Mexico. Right: Chile Relleno, a poblano pepper stuffed with chicken and Chihuahua cheese, served with arroz a la Mexicana and frijoles a la olla. Opposite: Chef Hugo at Xochi.

Inside Chef Hugo’s Kitchen

Take a trove of chef Hugo’s favorite recipes home for your family to enjoy—it’s the next best thing to moving to Houston.

Hugo Ortega’s Street Food of Mexico

The regions of Mexico are rich with satisfying specialties, from the masa-based fare of the regional interior to coastal ceviches. Chef Hugo shares the stories behind each dish with accessible recipes for you to enjoy.

Backstreet Kitchen: Seasonal Recipes from Our Neighborhood Cafe

Over 120 of chef Hugo Ortega’s recipes, from where it all began. These carefullyselected recipes are accompanied by wonderful photography and personal stories.

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there was no running water,” he continues. “I traveled with my donkey about half a mile to get water from a well. My duties started at six o’clock in the morning. I remember my grandmother, a great individual, being on her knees and working the metate to grind masa from corn to make tortillas.” His younger brother Ruben, who joined Hugo in Houston in 1990 and eventually became the Executive Pastry Chef of H Town Restaurant Group, learned his own love of cooking through the same familial channels. “My aunt used to bake bread, make barbacoa, and sell the food in the market. My grandmother was an excellent cook. She was the one who had all the recipes for the moles, all the recipes for the food that they made in the village.” “That’s how we learned it, got the passion for it,” Ruben explains. “My aunt used to make her dough in a hollow tree—the old-fashioned way, how it was done in Mexico. So we take our passion from that.” It’s a passion that’s evident in everything the Ortega family does—from the delicate interplay of flavors on display at each of their restaurants to the meticulous handcrafting of ingredients in the traditional Mexican style. “We wanted to do what was right to do,” Ruben says. “We make our own cheeses, all

our moles are made in-house, our chocolate... Everything is produced in the most classic way, the way we grew up doing it.” Ever in pursuit of authenticity, Hugo and Ruben travelled to Mexico to procure a stone grinder, the tool of choice for grinding cacao beans into the bitter, earthy paste behind the world’s favorite dessert: chocolate. “That’s how they do it in Mexico, so that’s how we do it here,” Ruben proudly declares. That refrain echoes across all of their kitchens, but its call is particularly clear at Xochi (“sochee”), which opened its doors to immediate acclaim in January of 2017. “Xochi is dedicated to the great Oaxacan cuisine,” Hugo proclaims.“Oaxaca is just a jewel, culturally and gastronomically speaking. I go over there often and get inspired.” His inspiration is evident throughout Xochi’s menu, which is studded with Oaxacan staples like masa, chiles, and squash. Above all else, it is a rhapsodic ode to mole, the versatile sauce that underpins the region’s cooking. “Mole is the essential,” Hugo declares. He references a Oaxacan nickname, “The Land of Seven Moles.” But he’s quick to point out that whoever coined the phrase underestimated— there are far more than seven moles in Oaxaca. In fact, there are seven moles featured on

Xochi’s Saturday brunch menu alone. “Mole comes in many different flavors, textures, colors, ingredients,” he explains. “There’s an incredible number of moles. If you hear a person say, ‘Oh no, I don’t like mole,’ it’s because they have never tried yellow mole, or green mole. Or the fig mole!” “I have a fig tree in the parking lot of Hugo’s, and I was sick and tired of the birds taking the figs,” he remembers. “I said, ‘I need to figure out something with those figs.’ So I got inspired and created a mole recipe and we’re serving that.” It’s one of many such stories of culinary ingenuity. “In the alley behind Backstreet Cafe, there is this beautiful bougainvillea,” Hugo shares. “So one day I looked at it and said, ‘What can I do with that?’ So I made a little sauce with bougainvillea, and now I infuse our salt with the bougainvillea flower.” “It’s always like that, you know, when you have an opportunity to create a dish,” he reflects. “You’re just looking everywhere to see what connects. And you find inspiration everywhere.” “I like to listen,” chef Hugo goes on. “I learn from everybody, every day of my life. I learn from the dishwasher. I learn from the waiter, the busboy. Those people, at some point in my life, I was one of them. So it’s very

Courtesy: H Town Restaurant Group

Hugo knows a thing or two about always having something going on. 2017 was the year of Hugo Ortega in Houston: Just over three months after Xochi opened its doors, he won the

I learn from everybody, every day of my life.

’’

HUGO ORTEGA

H Town Restaurant Group

Hugo Ortega’s Houston Restaurants

Backstreet Cafe New American cuisine was never so cozy as in this gorgeous converted 1930s River Oaks home. Enjoy cocktails, a broad menu, and a quaint patio at this beloved neighborhood café. 1103 S Shepherd Dr, 713-521-2239 backstreetcafe.net H Town Restaurant Group

“

I like to listen.

the kind of food people want to eat. I also believe that all three of us are inspired by the city itself,” he says. “Hugo highlights the Mexican culture from the region he’s from. It opened a lot of people’s eyes about authentic Mexican food—not Tex-Mex, not a fusion cuisine of some sort. And he cooks from the heart, and it shows.” Fellow chefs aren’t the only ones bestowing accolades. On June 20th, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner paid tribute to one of his city’s most successful sons, declaring it Chef Hugo Ortega Day in Bayou City. Hugo was here when his city needed him most, too. When Hurricane Harvey’s inundatory rainwater displaced thousands of Houstonians and shuttered many businesses for weeks, Hugo and his team were back in the kitchen as soon as possible, working to serve their people. “We opened up three of the four restaurants on Tuesday after the storm, and one on Wednesday,” Tracy recalls. “We did it with a lot of love and support of our city,” Hugo adds. “It’s what makes us who we are. At the end of the day, we’re cooks. I felt a sense of responsibility to somehow get together and cook for a great city.” Houston holds their star chef in the same high regard: Three of his restaurants grace the Houston Chronicle’s list of the city’s best. Celebrating a year—and a lifetime—of extraordinary achievements, chef Hugo shares a satisfyingly authentic approach. “The only thing you can do is trust yourself,” he says. “Trust your flavors, trust all of those hours that you have put in this wonderful culinary world. And the most important thing: Trust your heart.”

Hugo’s Recognized as one of the best restaurants in the city, this upscale Montrose hotspot features regional interior cuisine alongside a fantastic spirits and wine list. 1600 Westheimer, 713-524-7744 hugosrestaurant.net Deb Small

James Beard and Beyond

James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest, becoming the first Mexican-born chef to take home the culinary equivalent of an Oscar. He was the third Houston chef to bring down the prize in four years, following Chris Shepherd in 2014 and Justin Yu in 2016. To chef Shepherd, the trio of Houston winners shares a common bond. “I think the three of us represent Houstonians and

Caracol Look no further than Caracol for phenomenal coastal cuisine. This celebrated seafood restaurant shines across its menu, wine list, and oyster bar. 2200 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 160, 713-622-9996 caracol.net Julie Soefer

meaningful for me to listen to them, to pay attention to what they tell me.” Hugo’s strong connection to the people with whom he works transcends borders. In 2016, H Town Restaurant Group partnered with chef Rodolfo Castellanos, whose Oaxaca City restaurant, Origen, serves local, sustainable cuisine to its guests. “I pay attention to what Rodolfo says and maintain a close contact with the people of Oaxaca,” Hugo relates. “When you go to Oaxaca, it’s like going back in time. The people are friendly, and the city of Oaxaca is very mystic—it celebrates life, and there is always something going on.”

Xochi Houston’s finest. Visit this swank downtown eatery to experience chef Hugo’s homage to the great cuisine of Oaxaca. 1777 Walker Street, Suite A, 713-400-3330 xochihouston.com

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DESTINATION

HOUSTON New Luxury Developments Are Turning Space City Into An Out-of-This-World Travel Destination

Photo courtesty of Marriott Marquis Houston

BY ANDREW RAISCH

Erika Brown

MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOUSTON Opposite: The Marriott Marquis’ iconic Texasshaped lazy river. Left: Another view of the Marriott Marquis’ lazy river from the Park View Terrace, their beautiful amenity deck. Below: The High Dive Bar, where your dreams of poolside cocktails come true.

Photo courtesty of Marriott Marquis Houston

here is no need to leave once you arrive,” explains Octave Brunet. He’s talking about the Omni Houston Hotel, a glittering urban oasis that graces the swank Galleria area with striking architecture and resort-style amenities. Although it suffered in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, the top-notch hotel will be back and better than ever in 2018. That’s the Houston spirit. Continued convention, business, and tourist travel—as well as trendy “local tourism”— has the nation’s fourth-largest city thriving, even as local recovery continues. Meanwhile, the hospitality industry continues to enjoy an extended hotel boom, as a plethora of high-end developments crops up across town. The cranes dotting the skyline foretell a dynamic city reshaping its own identity. As Houston sheds its strictly-business mantle and embraces its fun side, hotels

no longer have to cater primarily to business travelers. In fact, they’ve moved beyond the blackand-white delineation between business and pleasure altogether. With a strong national economy, years of climbing occupancy rates, and a developer-friendly state, the stage is perfectly set for new developments in Space City—and the stars of the show are shining brighter by the day.

Here & Happening The Marriott Marquis Houston opened in December, 2016 to immediate acclaim. The haute hotel is a holistic addition to the downtown area—no small compliment when referring to a city of Houston’s size—and it earns the accolade with its unmatched features: A skybridge connecting to the George R. Brown Convention Center, over 100,000 square feet of meeting space, a vast ballroom, six signature culinary outlets, and

an already-iconic Texas-shaped Lazy River and infinity pool. The Marriott Marquis houses 1,000 opulent guest rooms, as well as a thoughtful art collection and Houston-centric design details. Even the elevators glow with H-town pride: Each features a striking image of an astronaut floating in space, honoring NASA’s intrepid galactic explorers. Gracefully elevated to 110 feet in the air and surrounded by an unobstructed panorama of the downtown skyline, the Marriott’s Park View Terrace is easily one of the most unique amenity decks in the city. In addition to the one-ofa-kind Texas-shaped Lazy River, it features a full-service poolside bar and grill called the High Dive, making it the perfect stop for relaxing, al fresco dining, and catching up on emails poolside. Back at ground level, more dining options abound. Of the Marriott Marquis’ six fantastic

As Houston sheds its strictlybusiness mantle and embraces its fun side, hotels no longer have to cater primarily to business travelers.

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Photos this page courtesy of Omni Houston Hotel

OMNI HOUSTON HOTEL Above: Hotel guests enjoy a night out at Black Swan, the Omni’s popular nightclub. Right: The Omni’s welcoming lobby.

The moment you arrive at any number of Houston’s finest hotels, you’re a swift elevator ride from some of the most lavish amenities around.

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restaurants, two emanate a particular Houston pride. Bustling sports bar Biggio’s, named for and created in partnership with Astros Hall of Famer Craig, is the perfect place to relax before or after a ‘Stros showdown. Meanwhile, 2017 James Beard Award-winner (and HHM cover boy) Chef Hugo Ortega heads up his latest concept, Xochi, which serves a delicious Oaxacan-inspired menu in a luxe setting. Of course, visits to the Marriott aren’t only for play—the renowned George R. Brown Convention Center hosts many of the city’s most important events in its staggering 1.8 million square feet. With its climate-controlled skybridge offering guests direct access, the Marriott Marquis is the perfect host to out-of-town convention-goers. Across town, the 11-story Omni Houston Hotel cuts a striking figure even as it recovers. Chic red accent walls adorn the exterior, and a curved façade ensures that every room includes an unbeatable view. That’s just

the beginning—once travelers set foot in the expansive lobby, they find a world of entertainment waiting within. The sprawling campus boasts a slew of luxe amenities, including the Mokara Spa, award-winning NOÉ GRILL, pools and cabanas, and the popular Black Swan nightclub (complete with resident black swans Sam, as in Houston, and Rose, as in “The Yellow Rose of Texas”). Mr. Brunet, the Omni Houston’s Director of Sales and Marketing, is rightfully proud of the hotel’s obvious appeal. “We attract all types of travelers, from group conventions to business travelers to staycationers, wedding parties and various other social events.” It’s not difficult to see why. The Omni Houston’s Uptown location lends itself perfectly to travelers, but it also appeals to locals in want of a great cocktail and a prime location to see and be seen. It’s hard to do better than the perfectly-appointed Black Swan nightclub, a gem of the Omni enjoyed by a unique

mélange of international visitors and life-long Houstonians. Hotels as a cultural hub? As Mr. Brunet sees it, they’re a natural fit. “We embrace and reflect the local culture of each city we have a presence in,” he explains. “As an example, our hotel lobby contains a gallery of paintings by a famous local artist, David Adickes. We recently held a wine and art pairings dinner with Mr. Adickes, where attendees met him and learned about the inspiration for the famous paintings and sculptures throughout the City of Houston.” Such an authentic connection to the city stands to benefit visitors and Houstonians alike. All anticipate this local gem’s reopening.

Debuting Soon Elsewhere in the city, a wave of new construction is keen to further raise the bar for luxury travel experiences—or shatter it altogether. One approach? Make a trip to your hotel feel like a remarkable destination in and of itself. Such is the case at the

forthcoming Hotel ZaZa – Memorial City, which deftly melds decadence and design in a series of themed suites. “We like to think of the suites as taking the guest on a great fantasy adventure,” says principal designer Kimberley Miller, who also worked on a sister location in the Museum District. “The suites evoke either a sense of place, like ‘French Connection’ or ‘Beach House,’ or they can achieve a feeling, like the ‘Breathless’ suite.” It’s a designer’s daydream, made reality for design-forward guests. “ZaZa is unique, in that it really has no rules—it never feels like it has to conform to big box brand mentality,” Miller explains. “ZaZa has always led the charge among lifestyle brands to be thought-provoking, have a sense of humor, and bring art, style, and fashion together to truly inspire.” Miller and her team are taking great pains to weave the thread of the ZaZa vision into an unforgettable tapestry ahead of its December opening, and their dazzling concept demands nothing less than laser-eyed

attention to detail. “Each piece in the suite is hand-picked for an experience or feeling, much like how one would choose pieces for a bespoke residence. Many pieces will be one-of-a-kind from vintage sources or high-end designer showrooms. We also custom-make many pieces to align with the concept.” The result? The Hotel ZaZa is a dream, a lush homage to design, reverie, and custom luxury. It scoops you up at the door and deposits you beyond the boundaries of imagination. “Staying in a themed suite transports the guest to another place—we believe it inspires guests, too. For people who travel often, I believe the suites offer a ‘non-hotel’ experience. It really is like staying in someone’s home.” At the hotly-anticipated Post Oak, Houston tycoon Tilman Fertitta’s latest headline-grabbing endeavor, some guests truly never will leave—they can move in. Soaring towards an early 2018 opening as the city’s first vertical, mixed-use development, the Post Oak incorporates high-end residences, designer shopping, a full-service spa, and gold-standard

HOTEL ZAZA – MEMORIAL CITY Top: Poolside at the brand new Hotel ZaZa – Memorial City. Above: Hotel ZaZa – Memorial City’s luxurious new spa. Left: The Tipping Point, Hotel ZaZa – Memorial City’s chic restaurant and lounge.

Photos this page courtesy of Hotel ZaZa – Memorial City

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Photo courtesy of The Post Oak

A CONSTELLATION OF LUXURY

From the smallest details (think fresh flowers in every room) to magnificent fun (a weekly evening of craft cocktails, jazz, and dancing), this Houston standard-setter offers guests the ultimate in accommodation.

The discerning Houston traveler has no shortage of high-end hotels from which to choose. But don’t lose any sleep over the decision. Consult this rundown of the 10 best Houston hotels, per a recent feature on U.S. News & World Report, then follow our recommendation and try them all, one by one.

The St. Regis

Photo courtesy of Hotel Granduca

Hotel Granduca

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

Hotel Granduca

Southern hospitality meets swanky splendor in this boutique hotel. Visit the calming on-site spa by day, then take advantage of the 24-hour concierge service to explore the nearby nightlife.

Four Seasons Hotel

It’s hard to beat the big-city vibes on tap at the Four Seasons, situated a block away from Discovery Green downtown. Don’t miss a chance to dine at Quattro, an on-site Italian restaurant widely recognized as one of Houston’s best.

Four Seasons Hotel

Hotel ZaZa

Culture is key at Hotel ZaZa, located in the heart of the Museum District. Similar in concept to its forthcoming sibling in Memorial City, ZaZa offers guests a glamorous escape from all things ordinary.

JW Marriott Houston Downtown

The elegant JW Marriott Houston Downtown seamlessly merges old and new. Case in point? An iPad awaits every guest of this historic hotel, which is housed in the beautiful 1910 Samuel F. Carter building.

Photo courtesy of Omni Houston Hotel

Nestled among 18 acres of woodland and only minutes from the high-wattage Galleria shopping district, the Houstonian has long been a favorite of canny travelers. It’s a nature-filled escape in the heart of a metropolis— what could be better?

Hotel ICON, Autograph Collection

Love a luxurious bathroom? The Hotel ICON is the place for you, with soothing rain showers, sumptuous whirlpools, and stately antique tubs. Once you towel off, hit the nearby theater district for an unforgettable night.

THE POST OAK Opposite: The fresh and relaxing patio at Mastro’s Steakhouse. Top: The remarkable private, two-story Rolls-Royce Houston showroom. Above: Prepare to pamper and relax in the hotel’s lavish five-fixture deluxe bathrooms.

Omni Houston Hotel

Photo courtesy of Hotel ZaZa

The Houstonian Hotel, Club, & Spa

urban dining to Space City. 35year Houston institution Willie G’s will also have a place at the table—this time with a new concept. Fans of the iconic establishment will find old favorites hidden among bold new menu items, while newcomers will be delighted by the contemporary new look and spacious patio. Mr. Fertitta was unequivocal. “I can tell you this: People who are spending the night at this hotel won’t have to leave the property to find the perfect place to eat.” In much the same way, travelers to Houston needn’t stray far to find world-class dining, entertainment, and big-city fun. The moment you arrive at any number of Houston’s finest hotels, you’re a swift elevator ride from some of the most lavish amenities around. Get used to the idea: Houston is fast becoming a coveted destination for extravagant excursionists the world over. It appears as though the new developments gracing the city will be able to have their Texas-shaped lazy river and relax in it, too.

Photos courtesy of The Post Oak

dining—to say nothing of the 240 rooms and suites reserved for guests in search of the city’s most lavish visitor experience. Mr. Fertitta, star of CNBC’s Billion Dollar Buyer, is famous for his no-nonsense approach and firm convictions. “I’ve always wanted to build a luxury hotel in Houston,” he reveals. “The one thing I hear as I travel across the country is, ‘Guys, where do you stay in Houston?’” Not one to rest on his laurels, Mr. Fertitta decided to tackle the problem head-on—sparing no expense. “Right now, we are searching all over the world for art that will complement special places in the hotel. The art in the hotel alone will be worth millions of dollars.” In any hotel worth its stars, fine art is a given, but Fertitta’s property promises to drive craftsmanship to a new level with an exquisite two-story RollsRoyce Houston showroom. These distinctions won’t be the only masterpieces on the grounds— guests will also have two culinary tours de force at their fork tips. Posh palates are already watering in anticipation of Mastro’s Steakhouse, the first in Texas. With sister locations in Beverly Hills, Chicago, and Manhattan, Mastro’s is bringing the best of

From the unbeatable cuisine to the famous Black Swan nightclub, the Omni serves as a one-stop destination for the best the city has to offer.

Magnolia Hotel

Set in a landmark 1926 building, the beautifully-renovated Magnolia Hotel elevates design and hospitality to soaring heights. Don’t miss your chance to relax over breathtaking views in the stunning rooftop pool.

Hotel Sorella CITYCENTRE White marble, Egyptian cotton, and rich hardwood floors define Hotel Sorella, an impeccable property boasting exquisite design details and a vibrant live music calendar.

Hotel ZaZa

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

The Art of The Gift From Christmas to Valentine’s Day, we’ve got you covered with our HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE.

ritons know how to queue; New Yorkers know how to hail a cab; Los Angelenos know how to find the beach; Houstonians know how to shop. Ever since the city struck liquid gold, the finest brands and boutiques have dropped a pin on the Texas gulf, well aware that Houston visitors and locals alike had a keen eye for the crème de la crème. The legacy of that appreciation for quality lives on today—no matter the occasion or holiday, Houston is guaranteed to offer the perfect token to show your friends and loved ones how much they mean. For the wintry season, Christmas jingle bells and the soft light of meno-

rahs make our worlds more merry and bright. When Valentine’s Day descends, soft pinks and flutes of champagne cast a rose-colored hue over our eyes and hearts. For each occasion, shower your loved one with the sparkle of diamonds from premier jewelers de Boulle or Deutsch & Deutsch. Mosey down to Lucchese’s showroom to be fitted for a custom pair of handmade boots. Bring the spice of life to your kitchen with 2017 James Beard Award-winning chef Hugo Ortega’s latest cookbook. Whether it’s for your significant other, your home, or your little one, we point you in the direction of the perfect gift. Happy holidays!

Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 by Rolex Stainless steel with smooth bezel, radium dial and Jubilee bracelet. $7,450 ›› deutschjewelers.com

In the Pink Earrings from de Boulle Collection Pink sapphires set in 18K rose gold in overlapping ovals with an inner circle of brilliant diamonds. Call for Pricing ›› deboulle.com

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Spalted Maple Bowl by Peterman’s Boards + Bowls, from Kuhl-Linscomb $75-$507, depending on size ›› kuhl-linscomb.com

Handmade Felina 22kt Gold Plated Spiral Choker and Earrings from Collectivo $360 + $300 ›› collectivostore.com

HearthCabinet Ventless Fireplaces Tall HearthCabinet in Black, Model #202 $6,650 Trade pricing available ›› hearthcabinet.com

Lucchese Juliette Women’s Boot in Black Python $1,495 ›› lucchese.com

Dos Carolinas #195: The Classic Guayabera Pictured: A custom, Classic Guayabera made with Orange Gingham Cotton and finished with Royal Blue Embroidery. Shirts from $160 to $300 ›› doscarolinas.com

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Paramount PM-TE Travel Guitar by Fender $699.99 ›› shop.fender.com

Scottie Dog Push-Along by Little Bird Told Me, from Kuhl-Linscomb $120 ›› kuhl-linscomb.com

iHome Zenergy Bedside Sleep Therapy Speaker, iZBT10 $99.99 ›› ihomeaudio.com

Patek Philippe 5270R Chronograph, Perpetual Calendar, from de Boulle Call for Pricing ›› deboulle.com

Passport Case by Stash Co Starting at $129 ›› stash-co.com

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

Lucchese McKinley Men’s Boot in Crocodile $2,695 ›› lucchese.com

Mischa Collection by Lauren K. Earrings, from Deutsch & Deutsch Black rhodiumed 18 karat white gold 39.89ct pink/grey sapphire dangle earrings with 0.77ct diamond pave frame and wire tops. Call for Pricing ›› deutschjewelers.com

Frame Bag This large bag is designed by Konstantin Grcic and made of nylon with webbing lattice. Its durable vinyl base with mesh detail makes it perfect for all weather and occasions. $295 ›› nashersculpturecenter.org

Chef Hugo Ortega’s Holiday Gift Set Street Food of Mexico cookbook, Mexican chocolate, molinillo, and mugs! $60 ›› chefhugoortega.com

Home Cinema 2100 Projector by Epson $849.99 ›› epson.com

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

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CALENDAR

FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 18

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo NRG Park

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. Houston Hotel Magazine is not responsible for schedules or changes in venues due to damage from Huricane Harvey. Please check with venues regarding cancellations and/or rescheduling of events.

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

Each year, the area’s most highlyanticipated annual event attracts legions of fans from around the world. From Old West cuisine and spectacular entertainment to cowboys and cowgirls of all ages, it doesn’t get much more Texan than this. Events like a wine dinner and barbecue competition provide a nice counterpoint to livestock auctions and Western skill shows. Then there’s the music. This year, record-breaking country artist Garth Brooks headlines a glittering lineup of performers. He’ll be playing his greatest hits on a lavish star-shaped stage, replete with a massive video backdrop screen. This is must-see stuff.

november NOVEMBER 21-26

Hobby Center For The Performing Arts

McGonigel's Mucky Duck

NOVEMBER 22

Shutterstock.com

Joe Ely Shutterstock.com

On Your Feet!

CALENDAR

Based on the lives and music of 26-time Grammy Award-winning husband-and-wife team Gloria and Emilio Estefan and their big band, the Miami Sound Machine. The colorful stage production is a cavalcade of music and dancing, featuring songs such as “1-2-3,” “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” “If I Never Got To Tell You,” “Conga,” and many more big hits.

The road warrior has been playing his tunes for years as a seminal member of Lone Star bands including The Flatlanders and Los Super Seven, all while fostering a solo career. The former State Musician of Texas has also collaborated with some of the biggest names in rock, including The Stones, the Clash (that’s Ely singing in Spanish on “Should I Stay Or Should I Go?”) and Springsteen.

THROUGH NOVEMBER 26

THROUGH JANUARY 8

NOVEMBER 21-22, 24-25

NOVEMBER 24

Todd Mission, TX

Moddy Gardens (Galveston)

Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston

Big Texas Saloon (Clear Lake)

With 55 acres of 16th century-inspired grounds, it’s the largest Renaissance Festival in the nation. 200 daily performances make it worth the drive.

Holiday magic glistens with more than a million lights and dozens of festive scenes including Santa, a gingerbread house, and the area's only outdoor ice rink.

Based on the 1965 television special and featuring the music of Vince Guaraldi, this charming holiday classic illuminates the true spirit of the season.

He was runner-up on season six of The Voice, blending old and new country with classics and originals.

THROUGH DECEMBER 30

THROUGH JANUARY 15

NOVEMBER 22

Ensemble Theatre

Houston Zoo

Stampede

A Christmas miracle adventure connecting two unlikely families is celebrated through soulful holiday music and gets the entire community into the spirit.

Thousands of twinkling lights and cups of hot chocolate with the whole family—a Texas holiday tradition just keeps on going.

The country singer has performed at the White House and traveled to the Middle East to perform for American troops.

THROUGH JANUARY 28

NOVEMBER 22

Texas Renaissance Festival

Festival of Lights

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Jake Worthington

NOVEMBER 24

Soulful Sounds of Christmas

THROUGH DECEMBER 31

Gems of the Sea: Guido T. Poppe Collection

Zoo Lights

The Glamour and Romance of Oscar de la Renta* Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Over 6,250 species are represented in the collection, which includes more than 10% of he known marine mollusk species worldwide.

A lavish display of more than 60 ensembles from the storied designer’s award-winning career, housed at one of the best museums in the state.

THROUGH JANUARY 7

NOVEMBER 21

Houston Museum of Natural Science

For Hire: Contemporary Sign Painting in America Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

The showcase features contemporary painters whose work includes banners, sandwich boards, paper signs, murals, fictional advertisements, and more. THROUGH JANUARY 7

Storyline: The Contemporary Quilt Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

The exhibit features a diverse selection of quilters, utilizing various techniques, patterns, and materials.

Raquel Cepeda McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

A Houston performer since 2011, she’s become an in-demand fixture among local musicians and at area events. NOVEMBER 21

Kelela

White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

Critics and others artists (Solange Knowles, Björk) became big fans of her first mixtape. Her debut album was released in 2017.

Granger Smith

The Reunion Beatles Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The Fab Four tribute group features the veteran Beatles look- and sound-alike artists, performing a salute to John, Paul, George, and Ringo. NOVEMBER 22

Reik

Revention Music Center

The band’s third studio album won a Latin Grammy for Best Pop Album By a Duo or Group with Vocals. NOVEMBER 22

H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade Lamar Street at Smith Street

This 68-year-old holiday tradition began 1949, when Santa chugged into Union Station before riding his sleigh downtown. Santa and the parade are still going strong—and admission is still free to the public.

Riders in the Sky Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Authentic and western, the talented swing band has been playing their distinctive cowboy songs since forming back in 1977. NOVEMBER 24

Fantasia

Arena Theatre

He took the music world by storm winning American Idol in 2004, later winning a Grammy and starring on Broadway. NOVEMBER 24

Bob Schneider and the Moonlight Orchestra Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The Tosca String Quartet and special guests join in for an evening holiday standards and other Texas favorites. NOVEMBER 24

Jeff Plankenhorn McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

He fuses the soul/funk he heard growing up with bluegrass (from his Nashville years) and the traditions of Texas Country. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

november

NOVEMBER 24

Sam Houston Race Jones Park Hall

Scheherazade Thanksgiving, Houston Symphony Shutterstock.com

Blue October

NOVEMBER 24-26

Hobby Performing Revention Music Arts Center Center

Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

The local alt-rockers have toured the world successfully for years after forming back in 1995. They found solid success with ten Top 40 singles, releasing platinum tunes such as “Hate Me” and “Into the Ocean.” The band is in now smack in the middle of a fall tour that is taking them all over Texas and beyond to play for enthusiastic fans.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada conducts Rimsky-Korsakov’s most popular work, the dazzling Scheherazade. Inspired by 1001 Nights, this sumptuously orchestrated tone poem takes listeners along on the grand voyages of Sinbad and ends with an electrifying festival at Baghdad. The talented Grammy Award-winning violinist, Canadian James Ehnes, also presents his unforgettable interpretation of Shostakovich’s grand Violin Concerto No. 1.

NOVEMBER 24

NOVEMBER 25

NOVEMBER 27

NOVEMBER 30

Avenida Houston

Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

Revention Music Center

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Celebrate one of Houston’s hottest new areas by taking in a dazzling performance from acrobatics group Cirque la Vie.

As a leading player in urban Latin music, he scored with “Dile Que Tu Me Quieres.” He was a Best New Artist finalist at the 2017 Billboard Latin Music Awards.

At just over 30 years of age, she’s quietly become one of the 21st century’s most innovative players with a groundbreaking vision of cinematic violin-driven music.

The Austin jazz vocalist from The Voice has the late show, while the trio of lockstep harmonies kicks off the evening.

NOVEMBER 25

NOVEMBER 28

The Dentler Building

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Celebrate Small Business Saturday with a trip to Houston’s historic First Ward. The building alone is worth the trip, to say nothing of the holiday gifts handcrafted by local artisans.

The talented fiddler and her musical crew bring a fresh new vitality to her band’s unique style of Irish rock.

Circo Avenida!

Ozuna

Lindsey Stirling

NOVEMBER 24-25

Christmas Wonderland Holiday Spectacular The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

The delightfully enchanting Christmas show features glittering costumes, a dazzling cast, and the high kicking chorus girls. NOVEMBER 24-26

Guy Torry Improv

He made appearances on Martin and starred in American History X alongside Edward Norton, Jr.

Holiday Art Market

NOVEMBER 26

Shelby Lynne and Allison Moorer Heights Theater

Galveston

NOVEMBER 26

NOVEMBER 24 - JANUARY 2

Deck the Trees Alley Theatre

Step inside a wonderland of trees decorated by top designers and sponsored by businesses and individuals. It’s a treasured tradition. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

Kristin Coyle and The Black Swans

Band of Heathens McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Weathered and road-tested, the folk rock band from Austin plays their own brand of Americana roots music.

Jason Boland & The Stragglers

Aaron West and the Roaring Twenties White Oak Music Hall (Upstairs)

The classic project of The Wonder Years’ lead vocalist/frontman Dan Campbell is an indie folk-rock delight.

House of Blues

The heavy-metal band is chock-full of irreverent humor with a razor-sharp satirical edge and a cult following.

The Hip Hop Nutcracker* Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

The Red Dirt band began while students at OSU. Based in Austin, the group is constantly on the road performing their country songs for fans.

A holiday mash-up for the entire family features a contemporary re-imagination of Tchaikovsky’s timeless music with a totally modern twist in sound and dance.

NOVEMBER 30

NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 17

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Dave Alvin and the Guilty Ones Heights Theater

The Grammy-winning guitarist formed The Blasters in 1979 with brother Phil, creating some of America’s greatest roots rock. And he’s still at it. NOVEMBER 30

NOVEMBER 26

GWAR

NOVEMBER 30 NOVEMBER 30

NOVEMBER 24-26

Voted one of USA Today’s top three beer festivals in the country, BrewMasters is a celebration of all things beer with close to 70 participating craft breweries.

NOVEMBER 30

With 24 albums, a Grammy, an Oscar, and other awards and nominations between them, these country/folk performers share a transcendent musical bond.

BrewMasters Craft Beer Festival

Lex Land, Harpeth Rising

New Found Glory White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

Celebrating 20 years of music, the so-called “godfathers of power punk” roll into town playing from a deep catalog of songs.

The House Without A Christmas Tree, Houston Grand Opera Resilience Theater, George R. Brown Convention Center

Heartwarming and family-friendly, a precocious daughter struggles to understand her father’s resentment about holidays and longs for her own tree like other families. NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 3

An English Baroque Christmas, Mercury Houston MATCH, MFAH, MDCP, Dosey Doe Big Barn

Conductor Antoine Plante leads a one-hour program of seasonal songs and traditional music just right for the holidays.

december DECEMBER 5

Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith, Jordan Smith

Toyota Center

Lady Gaga Shutterstock.com

Shutterstock.com

DECEMBER 3

CALENDAR

The Grammy winners, musical collaborators, and close friends co-bill their popular Christmas tour this holiday season. For the second consecutive year, the pair is joined by Jordan Smith, best known from his work on season nine of NBC’s The Voice. Incorporating a full symphony orchestra at each performance, this seasonal crowd-pleaser is a must-see event for music fans. THROUGH DECEMBER 31

The Santaland Diaries, Alley Theatre Neuhaus Theatre

Todd Waite reprises his role as Crumpet the Elf in the outlandish chronicles of David Sedaris’ experience as a worker in a Macy’s display. THROUGH DECEMBER 31

The Condition of Being Here: Drawings by Jasper Johns The Menil Collection

Spanning 50 years of the artist’s career with works from 1954 to 2014, the exhibition maps introductions, continuities, and breaks among motifs. DECEMBER 1

SUSTO, Esmé Patterson

DECEMBER 1

Songs of Freedom: A Tribute to Abbey Lincoln, Joni Mitchell, and Nina Simone, Da Camera Cullen Performance Hall (The University of Houston)

Vocalists René Marie, Theo Bleckmann, and Alicia Olatuja pay musical tribute to prolific artists who championed freedom in the realms of civil rights, individuality, love, and politics. DECEMBER 1-2

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

A timeless tale of hope and redemption in a delightful theatrical performance featuring stunning sets, lush costumes, and plenty of music and dance. DECEMBER 1-3

The South Carolina country-rockers specialize in sneaky tunes that often employ single-note guitar licks playing the melody.

Jones Hall

Mayor's Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting

Very Merry Pops, Houston Symphony Soloist Megan Hilty (NBC’s Smash, Broadway’s Wicked) joins the orchestra and chorus for holiday classics, plus songs from her new album, A Merry Little Christmas.

Hermann Square at City Hall

DECEMBER 1-3

A towering tree glowing with brilliant lights, shimmering ornaments, and a stunning topper light up downtown for this 97-year tradition.

Galveston

DECEMBER 1

Del Castillo Heights Theater

Brothers Rick and Mark del Castillo founded the Latin rock back back in 2000, becoming fixtures on the Austin music scene.

DECEMBER 2

Navigation Esplanade

Jones Hall

Celebrate the Southwest’s most authentic treats. Some of the state’s finest wines and beers are also featured at the delicious annual event.

Dr. Seuss’ zany world of Whoville comes alive with local high school singers in the classic story of the grouchy, green creature, plus a festive holiday sing-along for all.

Houston Tamale Festival

Dickens on The Strand The holiday street festival is modeled on 19th century London and features parades, strolling carolers, roving musicians, jugglers, and more.

A Grinch Christmas, Houston Symphony

DECEMBER 2

Ruthie Foster, Grace Pettis

DECEMBER 2

Heights Theater

Wine Walk Houston

The native Texan mixes a wide swath of blues, jazz, folk, soul, and gospel in her musical palate.

MATCH

Find your favorite wine, sample appetizers and desserts, enjoy music, and raise money for Italian Greyhound Rescue at the annual event.

DECEMBER 2

AC2: Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen* Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

Warehouse Live

DECEMBER 1

She may be the best-known performer in the world. The Grammy and Golden Globe winner and Oscar-nominated superstar has amassed an outstanding 30 million global album sales, making her one of the best-selling musicians of all time. Her fifth studio album, Joanne, debuted in the top spot on the Billboard Top 200, marking her fourth consecutive number one album.

DECEMBER 3

Dream Theater Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

Get in on an unscripted, uncensored, and interactive look behind the scenes of pop culture and world events.

The pioneering group celebrates a quarter century since the release of their milestone gold album, Images & Words.

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 3

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Radney Foster

Lyle Lovett

A Texas Country mainstay (and former half of Foster & Lloyd), his music has been recorded by The Dixie Chicks and more.

The Grammy-winning native Texan is among the state’s great musical treasures, playing classics such as “If I Had a Boat.”

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 4

Home For the Holidays, Houston Choral Society The Foundry United Methodist Church

Christmas favorites, sing-alongs, plus Conrad Susa’s “Carols and Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest,” a collection of Spanish carols set for soloists, harp, guitar, and marimba.

SonReal

House of Blues

The Canadian rapper has made a name with a steady stream of hip-hop, releasing four EPs and albums since 2012.

*Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

december

DECEMBER 7

Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

A Wynonna and The Big Noise Christmas, SPA Shutterstock.com

Joe Biden: American Promise Tour

Jones Hall

Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

The former Vice President of the United States is traveling the nation for a series of conversations to connect with friends and neighbors around the topics that matter most. He’ll discuss big political moments of his career and life-altering choices, share how the loss of his son tested his resolve, and explain how he is finding new purpose in a time of uncertainty. Maria Shriver moderates.

DECEMBER 5

DECEMBER 7-10 & 14-17

DECEMBER 9

Stude Concert Hall, Rice University

Improv

Heights Theater

When Chuck Daellenback and Gene Watts founded the ensemble back in 1970, little did they know it would become a global sensation!

The stand-up veteran was once named "Funniest Serviceman in America,” while Ebony declared him "Black America's Favorite White Comic.”

The venerable ensemble has carried the torch of New Orleans music aloft for more than 50 years with their inimitable dedication to jazz.

Canadian Brass

Gary Owen

DECEMBER 6

The Drums White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

The New York indie pop band has played on the same stages as Florence and the Machine and Kings of Leon.

Dispatch

Heights Theater

Together for 20 years, the indie roots band has been called “the biggest band nobody’s heard of” more than a few times.

The Neighbourhood White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

The California indie rock outfit began in 2011 and made a name performing at festivals such as Coachella and SXSW. DECEMBER 8

Poptone, Giraffage Warehouse Live

Daniel Ash and Kevin Haskins worked together in Bauhaus and Love and Rockets before forming their new post-punk band.

DECEMBER 6-7

Timothy B. Schmit Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The former Poco (1970-77) and Eagles (1977-2016) bassist helped the country rock movement find its groove years ago.

DECEMBER 8

Stage Flight, One Man’s Quest to Soar MATCH

DECEMBER 7

Jim Mackenzie draws from 43 years of circus arts for his stage show with influences ranging from Buster Keaton to Wile E. Coyote, featuring physical stunts and hilarious comedy.

Heights Theater

DECEMBER 8-10

Hal Ketchum, Travis Linville He’s sold over five million albums and had a half-dozen Top 10 hits, including "Small Town Saturday Night" and "Hearts Are Gonna Roll.” *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

Preservation Hall Jazz Band*

DECEMBER 9 DECEMBER 8

DECEMBER 6

As one half of the Judds, she charted 26 singles, of which 14 were number-one hits. The duo’s memorable songs include "Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout the Good Ol' Days),” “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Love Is Alive,” and “Have Mercy.” For the holiday season, the awardwinning country singer takes the stage with her band to sing Christmas favorites and more.

German Christmas Market & Festival Tomball

Over 150 unique and interesting vendors line the streets selling Christmas items, plus music stages and biergartens decorated with German themes and lights.

Corelli's Christmas Concerto, Mercury Houston

DECEMBER 10

Bach Magnificat: Vespers for Advent, Bach Society Houston Christ the King Lutheran Church

The evening features the Bach Choir and Orchestra performing brilliant trumpet fanfares, plaintive melodies for oboe d’amore, and jubilant flourishes for strings. DECEMBER 10-23, DECEMBER 30-JANUARY 6

Stude Concert Hall at Rice University

The Nutcracker, Houston Ballet

The evening features Mozart’s Exsultate, jubilate, K. 165 Laudamus te from Great Mass, K. 427, Bach’s Aria from Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248, and more.

Smart Financial Centre

DECEMBER 9

DECEMBER 12

Christmas Boat Lane Parade Clear Lake

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

Timeless and dreamy, join young Clara, flying cooks, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the rest on the classic, unforgettable journey.

From Renaissance to Reich: Mahan Esfahani, Da Camera The Menil Collection

DECEMBER 10

He’s almost single-handedly reintroduced the harpsichord into the mainstream of concert life. The musician was honored as BBC Music Magazine Newcomer of the Year in 2015.

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

DECEMBER 12-24

Mark Chesnutt The Beaumont native charted 20 Top 10 hits over the years with his country songs “Bubba Shot the Jukebox,” “Almost Goodbye,” and more. DECEMBER 10

The Wood Brothers Live Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

The three-piece folk/blues band is a kick, featuring brothers Chris and Oliver, as well as multi-instrumentalist Jano Rix.

Sleeping Beauty and Her Winter Knight, TUTS Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The familiar story gets a contemporary treatment featuring music from Blondie, Bruno Mars, John Legend, Katy Perry, and Pharrell Williams.

december DECEMBER 15

Arena Theatre

Tommy Emmanuel’s Classics & Christmas Tour Shutterstock.com

Brian Setzer Orchestra

Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

Shutterstock.com

DECEMBER 10

CALENDAR

Christmas rocks! For the 14th year, the former Stray Cats guitarist takes his swingin’ big band groove machine on tour. It’s time to jump, jive, and wail with the hippest seasonal stuff, plus dance to numbers laced with his special rockabilly touch. The coolest cats and kitties wait all year long for this special evening of boogiewoogie fun. Meow.

The Australian guitarist/songwriter is a six-string virtuoso, a talented player with complete command of his instrument. His energized performances and use of percussive effects on his guitars are nothing short of mesmerizing. This tour is chock full of seasonal classics, with the musician’s special touches attached. Guitar Player named him “best acoustic guitarist” twice in the magazine’s annual readers’ poll.

DECEMBER 14

DECEMBER 16

DECEMBER 22-27

Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

Warehouse Live

Jones Hall

He's famous for his 1975 song "Love in the Hot Afternoon," the number one hit "Fourteen Carat Mind," and his signature "Farewell Party."

The three-piece Canadian noise-rock band records for Sub Pop, was a hit at SXSW, and recently released their third album.

The performance features the world’s foremost classically trained dancers in a unique blending of East and West, creating one spectacular night.

DECEMBER 14-17

DECEMBER 17

Sugar Land Baptist Church, Jones Hall

House of Blues

From “Rejoice Greatly” to the final “Hallelujah” chorus, conductor Paul Agnew leads the Symphony Chorus, soloists, and orchestra.

Local talent takes the stage, performing inspirational music made for a minister, while mouthwatering southern cuisine rules.

DECEMBER 15

DECEMBER 19

Heights Theater

The Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame member is a treasure, best known for years of rockin’ blues.

Her album Sprained Ankle made a number of end-of-the-year “Best of” lists and led to features in The New Yorker and the New York Times.

DECEMBER 15

DECEMBER 19

Warehouse Live

Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

As a music pioneer, his MTV video hit “Cars” in the 1980s paved a road for other electronic musicians to follow.

The winners of season four of NBC’s Sing Off have taken flight and are always a big hit with their Christmas shows.

DECEMBER 15 - MARCH 25

DECEMBER 19

Gene Watson

Metz

Handel’s Messiah, Houston Symphony Gospel Brunch

Delbert McClinton

Gary Numan

Christopher Knowles: In a Word The Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

The artist’s work spans text, sound, painting, drawing, sculpture, and performance, including pieces in collaboration with theater director Robert Wilson.

Julien Baker, Half Waif

Home Free

The Here & Now and The Nollaig Irish Dancers

Shen Yun

DECEMBER 23

Winter Wonder: The Magic of Robby Bennett MATCH

His spellbinding routines have left audiences emotionally charged, astounded, and laughing to tears. And to top it off, the audience is his co-star. DECEMBER 23

James McMurtry McGonigel's Mucky Duck

CNN calls the Austin-based songwriter/ musician and occasional actor “America’s fiercest songwriter.” DECEMBER 27

XSCAPE

Toyota Center

The powerhouse group is on the road, headlining a tour with special guests Monica and Tamar Braxton.

McGonigel's Mucky Duck

DECEMBER 27

Experience an evening filled with Christmas song, music, and dance with a rollicking Celtic twist.

McGonigel's Mucky Duck

Hadden Sayers ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons calls him "pretty much my hero," while The Austin Chronicle says he’s "Houston's best all around rock guitarist."

DECEMBER 28

The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker* Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

It’s the quintessential holiday performance as toy soldiers, Sugar Plum Fairies, and more dance to Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s immortal theme. DECEMBER 28

Two Tons of Steel McGonigel's Mucky Duck

Somewhere between rock, blues, and edgy country are these Texas cow-punkers and their irresistible high-energy live shows. DECEMBER 29

Toadies

House of Blues

The Texas grunge band struck gold with “Possum Kingdom” in the 1990s, broke up, then reformed and continue rockin’. DECEMBER 30

Amplify Your Voice MATCH

Hear the inspirational messages from 12 influential women to inspire, engage, and impact the audience. DECEMBER 30

A Piano… Guitar and Sax Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

It’s a special pre-New Year’s Eve show with Grammy-nominated jazz guitarist Doc Powell, pianist Marcus Johnson, and saxophonist Dee Lucas. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

january Toyota Center

DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 29

Mannheim Steamroller Shutterstock.com

Trans Siberian Orchestra

Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

Over the past 20-plus years, this critically acclaimed, multi-platinum musical powerhouse has steamed along with annual winter tours. Now, TSO returns with a completely updated presentation of the unforgettable “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve.” It features enduring fan-favorites "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24," "O’ Come All Ye Faithful," "Good King Joy," "Music Box Blues,” and "This Christmas Day." The beloved, multi-generational holiday tradition continues. DECEMBER 30

Eli Young Band House of Blues

The Texas Country band met at the University of North Texas, later scoring big with “Crazy Girl” and “Drunk Last Night.” DECEMBER 31

New Year’s in Berlin, ARS Lyrica Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The annual New Year’s Eve celebration includes an elegant dinner, musical program, and festive gala—the most popular event of the year. DECEMBER 31

South Austin Moonlighters McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Spend the end of 2017 and beginning of 2018 with the Lone Star band that mingle all sorts of genres into a single, fun sound. TUESDAYS THROUGH SATURDAYS

Heritage Society Historic Homes Tour 1100 Bagby Street

Nestled in the heart of downtown are eight historic structures dating from 1823 to 1905. Each is authentically restored to reflect its original magnificence. THROUGH JANUARY 7

Telepathic Improvisation The Contemporary Art Museum of Houston

Referencing current violent social conditions, the exhibit uses humans and nonhumans, movement and speech, music and light, to interpret. *Editor’s Choice 44

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

THROUGH JANUARY 12

Founder Chip Davis’ groundbreaking musical ensemble brings their sizzling electric stage show back to Texas. The group has toured for over three decades, and sold more than 40 million albums. Their holiday CDs have become synonymous with Christmas and occupy top positions on Billboard’s Seasonal Chart year after year. Live performances feature classic Christmas hits and multimedia effects in an intimate setting. JANUARY 6

JANUARY 12

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

Well-known for his narrative paintings since the 1990s, the artist is known to incite, confuse, or arrest his audiences.

The guitar legend supplied licks from some of the most memorable music ever made, playing with Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, and Michael Jackson.

Their bouncy hit “Let Your Love Flow” served as a launching pad for Howard and David’s career and remains a sunny anthem of positivity.

THROUGH JANUARY 21

JANUARY 11

JANUARY 12

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

Arena Theatre

Works of art by U.S. Latino and Latin American artists from the late 1950s to the present focus on the universal concept of “home.”

During the 1980s, he had five singles on the Hot Country Songs charts, in addition to performing in his dad Merle’s band.

The former lead singer in The Gap Band ("Burn Rubber on Me,” “You Dropped a Bomb on Me”) has also had a stellar solo career.

JANUARY 4

JANUARY 11

JANUARY 13

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

University of Houston-Clear Lake

The Telling and the Told: The Art of David McGee Houston Museum of African American Art

HOME-So Different, So Appealing

Nathan Quick The Houston artist plays new music from his debut release. JANUARY 5

Beer and Brass, River Oaks Chamber Orchestra* Saint Arnold Brewing Company

The “spirited” event features craft beers and traditional beer hall music, including jazz selections from the 1920s. JANUARY 5-7

Disney’s Fantasia, Houston Symphony

Larry Carlton

Marty Haggard

Bumper Jacksons The band combines Appalachian folk, New Orleans jazz, and Texas swing, creating powerful music. Bursting at the seams with some of the richest threads of vintage Americana. JANUARY 11-13

Bellamy Brothers

Charlie Wilson

Loving Clara Schumann, Mercury Houston Visit mercuryhouston.org for venue information

Antoine Plante conducts a staged performance around the life and works of Clara Wieck Schumann and her relationships with Robert Schumann and Johannes Brahms.

Kirill Gerstein Plays Brahms, Houston Symphony

JANUARY 13

Jones Hall

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Take a tour of Bartók’s masterful Music for Strings, Percussion and Celesta, famously featured in Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. Gerstein performs Brahms’ powerful Piano Concerto No. 1.

The southwestern guitar duo plays an interesting blend of folk, Red Dirt, and old school country that’s always pure Texas.

Shake Russell and Michael Hearne

JANUARY 13

Jones Hall

Gallagher & Artie Fletcher

A crowning achievement in the history of animation, the film is an imaginative celebration of great orchestral music, with scores from Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky, and more.

It’s two of the funniest comics around performing on the same stage when The Joke’s On You Tour comes to town.

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

january JANUARY 7

JANUARY 16

Toyota Center

Jones Hall

Shutterstock.com

2Cellos Shutterstock.com

Katy Perry

CALENDAR

She skyrocketed to fame in 2008. Since those days, the young superstar has been a constant on the charts, with mega hits including “I Kissed a Girl,” “California Girls,” Last Friday Night,” “Teenage Dream,” and “Firework.” With the release of Witness, and sizzling hot singles “Chained to the Rhythm” and “Bon Appétit,” she’s on track for even more success.

Fast and furious, the dynamic Slovenian-Croatian cello duo consists of classically trained Luka Šuliè and Stjepan Hauser. The pair gained international fame and developed legions of fans while playing instrumental arrangements of well-known pop and rock songs by bands such as Coldplay, U2, Sting, and Guns N’ Roses, in addition to classical and motion picture scores of all sorts.

JANUARY 13

JANUARY 17

JANUARY 19

The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston Island)

Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

A powerhouse band performing “Soul Man,” “Rubber Biscuit,” “Sweet Home Chicago” and more backs Wayne Catania and Kieron Lafferty.

The English progressive rockers celebrate the 50th anniversary of the band’s seminal album, Days of Future Passed.

The Channelview native’s live shows are a crosssection of styles and influences. The music is fresh and is delivered with energy and expertise.

JANUARY 18

JANUARY 19

The magician and comic is a high-energy blend of showmanship, stage presence, versatility, audience participation, live animals, costumes, and illusions.

Stude Concert Hall (Rice University)

White Oak Music Hall

JANUARY 20

This twelve-member vocal group’s glorious melodies light up stages whenever and wherever they perform.

The Aussie psychedelic rockers have toured the U.S, playing big festivals such as SXSW with songs like “Sweep Me Off My Feet.”

House of Blues

JANUARY 18

JANUARY 19-20

The alternative band has been together since the 1990s, successfully banging out their brand of metal thrash and shoegazing rock.

Galveston

JANUARY 20

Sample various chili recipes as well as over 100 craft and import beers from all over at the popular annual festival.

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The Official Blues Brothers Revue

JANUARY 13

Josh Ritter & the Royal City Band Heights Theater

The songwriter/musician and New York Times best-selling author is the consummate performer. Re-energized after collaborating with Bob Weir, he’s back with new material. JANUARY 13

La India Yuridia Arena Theatre

The Moody Blues*

Chanticleer, Chamber Music Houston

John Hiatt & The Goners, Featuring Sonny Landreth House of Blues

The Mexican comedian is hilarious, poking fun at everything from male tendencies and relationships to pop culture.

As one of his generation’s most respected songwriters, he’s penned tunes such as “Have a Little Faith in Me” and “Child of the Wild Blue Yonder.”

JANUARY 15

JANUARY 18

24th Annual MLK Grande Parade Midtown

It’s billed as the largest single-day multicultural activity in America, commemorating the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. national holiday observance. JANUARY 17

Ray Benson Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

The lead dog of Grammy winners Asleep at the Wheel brings a deep repertoire of Texas Country and swing to town.

Bob Schneider McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

He’s been called “the best artist you’ve never heard of.” For the many fans of the Austin pop/rock/folk artist, that’s a real stretch. JANUARY 18-20

Rod Man Improv

He made a definitive mark in stand-up as the winner of season eight of Last Comic Standing on NBC.

Harry Chrisman

Pond

Yaga's Chili Quest & Beer Fest

JANUARY 20

Ted Schwank’s Family Comedy & Magic Show Improv

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

Wild Kratts Live!

JANUARY 19 - FEBRUARY 2

This all-new theatrical stage show is based on the popular Emmy-nominated animated television series.

Visit houstonfirsttheaters.com for venue information

JANUARY 20

Elektra, Houston Grand Opera Blood-soaked, horrifying, and perfect for the opera stage, Richard Strauss’s one-act tragedy crushes everything in its path for 100 gripping minutes. JANUARY 20

Michael Grimm Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

He made a name winning season five of America’s Got Talent with a soulful, bluesy Mississippi voice and authentic stage presence.

Tab Benoit Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The 50-year old Louisiana guitarist specializes in an eclectic brand of soulful, swamp blues, and rock music. JANUARY 20-21

The Oak Ridge Boys The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Always entertaining and still going strong, with an unparalleled four-part harmony and string of number-one country hits from Billboard’s charts. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

january

JANUARY 9-14

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

JANUARY 19-21

Jones Hall

Kinky Boots Shutterstock.com

The Color Purple

Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

Hailed as “a direct hit to the heart,” the joyous American classic has conquered Broadway in an all-new “ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold” (the New York Times). With a soul-raising score of jazz, gospel, ragtime, and blues, the revival gives exhilarating new spirit to a Pulitzer-winning tale. It’s a stunning re-imagining of an epic story about a woman's journey to love and triumph. JANUARY 23

Charles Ives’s America, Da Camera Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Award-winning pianist Jeremy Denk explores the music of the maverick composer with violinist Stefan Jackiw and members of Houston Chamber Choir. JANUARY 25

Honey Dewdrops McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

With their gorgeous harmonies, creative arrangements, and insightful songwriting, the alt-folk band is a rising star. JANUARY 25, 27-28

Mozart & Tchaikovsky, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Israeli conductor Omer Meir Wellber makes his local debut with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, a compelling drama the composer regarded as his best symphonic work. JANUARY 25, 27-28

The School for Scandal Moores Opera Center (University of Houston)

Written by the creators of A Room with a View, the sharp, witty comedy swiftly skewers the pretentious and exposes the frauds.

Concerti for Three and Four Harpsichords, Bach Society Houston* Christ the King Lutheran Church

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

L’amico Fritz

JANUARY 27

The Barber of Seville, Houston Grand Opera

Visit houstongrandopera.org for venue information

Rossini’s opera includes one of the world’s most recognizable pieces of music, the iconic “Figaro, Figaro, Figaro!” aria. JANUARY 26

German Cornejo’s Tango Fire The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

The dance master and his sensuous partner join a cast including world champions and performers from the greatest Tango houses in Buenos Aires. JANUARY 26

Radney Foster Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

JANUARY 26 - FEBRUARY 18

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

JANUARY 26 & 28

JANUARY 26 - FEBRUARY 10

Ensemble Theatre

*Editor’s Choice

JANUARY 27

Moores Opera Center (University of Houston)

JANUARY 25 - FEBRUARY 25

Set on the eve of the Cassius Clay-Sonny Liston rematch, the play is based on the friendship between the actor Stepin Fetchit and Clay, soon to become Muhammad Ali.

Alley smash All the Way left off.

A concerto for two? Three? Four harpsichords? Guest harpsichordists Mario Aschauer and Michael David Ging join the Bach Orchestra to present these spectacular works.

His biggest hits include "Just Call Me Lonesome" and "Nobody Wins,” as well as songs written for artists including Keith Urban and Sara Evans.

Fetch Clay, Make Man

JANUARY 26

Broadway’s huge-hearted, high-heeled hit steps into H-Town with memorable songs by Grammy- and Tony-winning pop icon Cyndi Lauper, plus direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (Legally Blonde, Hairspray). Broadway legend and four-time Tony Award-winner Harvey Fierstein (La Cage aux Folles) wrote the book. The show is winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Choreography.

The Great Society, Alley Theatre Hubbard Theatre

The sensational political drama about LBJ continues where the Tony Award-winning

Set in the countryside, the warm and nostalgic Italian opera recalls the musical style of La Bohème—but without any deaths.

An Evening with Byrne and Kelly Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The Irish musicians perform original songs from their album Echoes, Irish classics, and anthems from their band, Celtic Thunder. JANUARY 27

Max Stalling McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

His delicious country pitch moves seamlessly from high and lonesome to a definitive honky tonk vibe. JANUARY 27

Jim Curry Presents The Music of John Denver Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

The storied tribute artist has performed Denver’s music throughout the country and has emerged as today’s top performer of this vast legacy of multi-platinum hits. JANUARY 27

Wolf Parade White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

The scrappy Montreal post punk group recently returned from a hiatus and is on tour promoting a new album, Cry, Cry, Cry.

The Lettermen For nearly 70 years, the lineup has morphed and changed but continued to perform solid gold hits such as “Graduation Day.” JANUARY 27

Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute House of Blues

As the longest-running Jacko tribute act, and the only one to predate his untimely passing, they continue to impress critics and fans alike. JANUARY 28

G3 featuring Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, and Phil Collen Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

With the release of his latest solo effort, the guitar star is touring with a pair of primo players from Dream Theater and Def Leppard. JANUARY 28

Hear the Future: Invitational Choral Festival, Houston Chamber Choir South Main Baptist Church

The festival features an elementary, middle, and senior high choir in a performance to acknowledge and encourage high standards for all school choirs. JANUARY 28

Travis Tritt Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The Grammy-winning Georgia country rocker’s five number ones include “Foolish Pride,” “Best of Intentions,” and “Anymore.”

february

George R. Brown Convention Center

Houston Safari Club Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention Shutterstock.com

John McEuen and Friends

JANUARY 26-28

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Shutterstock.com

JANUARY 19

CALENDAR

The legendary country/bluegrass musician, a founding member of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, has assembled a unique cast to share the music and memories of the 1972 seminal album, Will the Circle Be Unbroken. It brought country’s elite—including Doc Watson, Maybelle Carter, and Merle Travis—together with contemporary players of the day to create something timeless. McEuen and pals relive the experience in stories and song.

Every year, outdoorsmen from all over gather in Houston for this massive event. It’s time to celebrate wildlife, wild places, and the sensational sporting lifestyle around the globe with hundreds of hunting exhibits from South Texas to South Africa and everywhere in between. Plus, inspect the finest in wildlife art, jewelry, firearms, sporting accouterments, and worldwide expeditions.

JANUARY 30

THROUGH FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 2

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Visit dacamera.com for venue information

The evening features works by Robert Schumann, Clara Schumann, and Johannes Brahms, including Robert Schumann’s “Piano Quartet in E-flat,” op. 47.

The New York–based photographer uses staged photographs of everyday objects to bring viewers face-to-face with themes central to U.S. history, identity, and consciousness.

The jazz master returns with bassist Reuben Rogers, Houston drummer Eric Harland, and storied guitarist Bill Frisell.

Love Triangle, St. Cecilia Chamber Music Society

David Levinthal: Photographs 1972-2016

Charles Lloyd and the Marvels, Da Camera

FEBRUARY 2-4 JANUARY 30

THROUGH FEBRUARY 25

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

The Menil Collection

A group of alumni from The Voice, including Lex Land, Nakia, Rebecca Lobe, and Suzanna Choffel, perform.

The artist’s first large U.S. solo exhibition in more than 20 years features provocative sculptures and installations in a technological world divided by politics and war.

Voices in the Round

Mona Hatoum: Terra Infirma*

JANUARY 30-FEBRUARY 4

School of Rock The Musical

FEBRUARY 1

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Cooking Up a Cure

Follow a wannabe rock star posing as a substitute teacher, turning a class of straight-A students into guitar-shredding, mind-blowing little rockers.

The Astorian

The third annual fundraiser supports the rapidly expanding Food Allergy Program at Texas Children's Hospital.

JANUARY 31

Machine Head

FEBRUARY 2

House of Blues

Walk the Moon

For years, the California band has been on the leading edge of the New American Heavy Metal music movement.

House of Blues

THROUGH FEBRUARY 11

Bestowing Beauty: Masterpieces from Persian Lands he Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

The exhibition features some 150 works from the 6th to the 19th centuries, on view publicly for the first time highlighting the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Iranian civilization.

The pop rock band has toured with groups including Panic! at the Disco and Weezer before releasing their breakthrough hit, “Shut Up and Dance.” FEBRUARY 2

Warren Hood McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

The fiddle champ is a downright joy to see; his performances include covers and originals, all delivered with a Texas country twist.

Ravel’s Daphnis And Chloé, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Acclaimed conductor Fabien Gabel returns with a program of French and American classics, including a breathtaking musical sunrise. FEBRUARY 3

BØRNS

FEBRUARY 3

Dua Lipa

Revention Music Center

The young pop star began her career covering tunes on YouTube, and then released Top 10 material including “Be the One” and “New Rules.” FEBRUARY 3

Xochiquetzal/Kukulkan, Aperio MATCH

Inspired by Mayan and Aztec cultures and indigenous mythology from the Amazon, the music conjures an exotic and distant landscape. FEBRUARY 4

Sigurd Øgaard, Bach Society Houston Christ the King Lutheran Church

His recent single, “Electric Love,” is another example of the great psychedelic pop music from the glam rock star.

The acclaimed Norwegian organist returns bringing virtuosity to the Bach Organ, presenting works by Bach, Buxtehude, Krebs, and little-known Norwegian composers.

FEBRUARY 3

FEBRUARY 6

Arena Theatre

House of Blues

White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

Caifanes

Jacob Sartorius

The Spanish-language progressive rockers from Mexico City have been a band since the 1980s with a long string of hits to their credit.

The young singer rose to fame by lip syncing videos and has grown into a pop star with a long line of fans.

FEBRUARY 3

FEBRUARY 7

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

Shelley King She’s written for Lee Hazelwood and Nancy Sinatra and toured with Levon Helm as well as the Subdudes.

Sleigh Bells With an energetic mix of danceable blown-out drum beats, fuzzed guitars, and synth-pop, the vocal duo presents solid live shows. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

CALENDAR

february

JANUARY 24-28

JANUARY 26

NRG Center

Shakira

Shutterstock.com

Houston Auto Show

Toyota Center

Get into high gear with over 700,000 square feet of the hottest vehicles from the world’s top automakers. For over three decades, this Texas showcase has brought the automotive world to town, allowing consumers to see, touch, drive, and experience the industry’s latest and greatest offerings. Visitors can explore the Aftermarket Exhibit area, plus learn what’s new in innovation at the Energy Pavilion.

The multiple Grammy-winning superstar is on her El Dorado World Tour to commemorate her recent album of the same name, which includes hits like “La Bicicleta” and “Deja Vu.” For the Colombian firecracker, this marks her sixth number-one album on the charts. Her earlier hits include “Hips Don’t Lie” and “Waka-Waka (This Time For Africa),” the theme song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

FEBRUARY 8

FEBRUARY 10

FEBRUARY 14

FEBRUARY 16

Silver Street Studios

Stude Concert Hall at Rice University

University of Houston-Clear Lake

Arena Theatre

The premium tasting event highlights up to 50 brown spirits with delicious chef pairings, couture cocktails, and live music.

The evening’s performance features opera arias and duets by the great baroque composer, and Pergolesi’s stirring hymn to the Virgin Mary.

The Texas fiddling trio’s spent the last decade touring, recording albums, and playing with some of the biggest names in country.

The Latin pop star’s album El carpintero achieved quadruple platinum sales in his native Colombia back in 2001.

FEBRUARY 9

FEBRUARY 10

FEBRUARY 14

FEBRUARY 16

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Bayou City Event Center

His country classics have populated the charts for years, including “Seminole Wind,” “Swingin’,” and “Wild and Blue.”

Nothing is more Texas than a hot bowl of red! The annual event by the Houston Bar Association Auxiliary raises money for their student scholarship fund.

The Texas Monthly Whiskey Affair

John Anderson

FEBRUARY 9

Nufonia Must Fall, SPA* Jones Hall

Montreal scratch DJ and producer Kid Koala, under the direction of K.K. Barrett, presents a magical, multi-disciplinary, and theatrical adaptation of his graphic novel. FEBRUARY 10

Legendary Love, River Oaks Chamber Orchestra The Church of St. John the Divine

The classical piece by Dan Visconti honors Christian Kidd of The Hates. Dvorák’s Legends pairs with Wood Notes by William Grant Still, who was heavily influenced by Dvorák. FEBRUARY 10

The Illusionists Present: Adam Trent, SPA Jones Hall

The internationally-recognized magician fuses magic, comedy, and music to create a one-ofa-kind immersive entertainment extravaganza. *Editor’s Choice 48

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

Handel & Pergolesi, Mercury Houston The Quebe Sisters

HBAA Chili and Pie Cook-Off

FEBRUARY 10 - MARCH 22

Sing4Life 2018, Houston Boychoir Grace Presbyterian Church

The Preparatory Choir, the Chamber Choir, and the Olde Boys and guest choirs from neighboring public schools perform the best in children’s choral music. FEBRUARY 11

MattyB, The Haschak Sisters Warehouse Live

The young pop singer/rapper quickly became a web superstar with more than 5 billion video views and over 27 million followers. FEBRUARY 12

Grace Vanderwaal Warehouse Live

Her America’s Got Talent audition, featuring the song “I Don’t Know My Name,” went viral and is approaching 200 million views, with fans such as Stevie Nicks.

Champagne & Chocolat Scholarship Gala River Oaks Country Club

Moulin Rouge-themed affair featuring a champagne reception, dinner, CanCan entertainment and more benefitting the Gaston LeNotre Scholarship. FEBRUARY 14-16

Ann

Stages Repertory Theatre

Written by Emmy-winner Holland Taylor, it’s a no-holds-barred look at the life and trailblazing career of Texas Governor Ann Richards.

Andres Cepeda

Esther & Jonah, ARS Lyrica Houston Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Produced with Bach Society Houston, the program creatively comprises two dramas from opposite ends of the 18th century. FEBRUARY 16

Busty and the Bass White Oak Music Hall (Upstairs)

The Montreal ensemble synthesizes a swirling mix of funk, soul, rock, hip-hop, pop, and gospel in a layered, polished, and unified spirit. FEBRUARY 16, 18, & 22

FEBRUARY 15

Willie Watson

Un Ballo in Maschera (A Masked Ball), Opera in the Heights

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Lambert Hall

He’s a folksinger in the classic sense: a singer, storyteller, and traveller, with a catalog of songs bridging both past and present.

Verdi's most sophisticated masterwork is also among his darkest and most politicallycharged.

FEBRUARY 15, 17-18

FEBRUARY 17

Andrés Conducts Dvorák 7, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Experience Andrés Orozco-Estrada and the orchestra’s gripping account of the dramatic classic. Plus, enjoy Dvorák’s spooky retelling of the Czech legend of the Noon Witch.

Terri Hendrix McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

The talented singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and fiercely independent artist is a blast of fresh air, mixing country, blues, jazz, and pop.

september

february FEBRUARY 2-13

Revention Music Center

Mardi Gras Shutterstock.com

The Fab Four

Downtown District (Galveston)

It’s been called the ultimate salute to John, Paul, George, and Ringo. The award-winning Houston tribute ensemble is known for their uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles classics such as “Can't Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day In The Life,” “Twist And Shout,” “Here Comes The Sun,” “Hey Jude,” and more. Their lavish stage performances include costume changes representing every era of the band’s ever-changing career. FEBRUARY 17

Houston Ballet Ball Houston Ballet Center for Dance

An elegant evening includes an extensive silent auction, seated dinner, and first class entertainment and dancing amongst friends and company dancers. FEBRUARY 17

Don McLean* Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

His iconic single, “American Pie,” has been referred to as the definitive song of the 20th century, and is still played today on stations around the globe. FEBRUARY 17

Sérgio and Odair Assad and Avi Avital, Da Camera Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

From Bach, Ginastera and Ravel to Piazzolla and Flamenco, the Israeli superstar mandolin player and celebrated Brazilian-born guitarists play globally. FEBRUARY 17

Parsons Dance The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Exuberant, virtuosic, athletic, the company is everything that is right about American modern dance. Innovative and gifted, they always deliver.

Shutterstock.com

FEBRUARY 2

CALENDAR

Laissez les bons temps rouler! You don’t have to be in New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. Texas’ strong Cajun influence blossoms as festivals, parades, happy hours, and freshly baked King Cake take over. Grab your krewe and celebrate along Texas’ Gulf Coast this year—you’ll be glad you did.

FEBRUARY 17

FEBRUARY 22

MATCH

Stude Concert Hall (Rice University)

Through works by Dvorák, Bartók, Prokofiev, and a new commission by composer Virko Baley, explore Slavic and Eastern European musical heritage.

With virtuosity and passion, the Trio performs Haydn’s lush and lyrical Piano Trio in E Major and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Trio in A Minor.

The San Antonio group is one hard rockin’ band, beginning in 2003 and leaning on influences ranging from renowned philosophers to other musicians.

FEBRUARY 22

FEBRUARY 22-24

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Rec Room

Ukrainian Muse, Apollo Chamber Players

FEBRUARY 18

The White Buffalo

Vienna Piano Trio, Chamber Music Houston

Gary Nicholson

FEBRUARY 23

Nothing More House of Blues

A Number

Also known as Jake Smith, the folksy singersongwriter has shared stages with Jack Johnson, Grace Potter, Ziggy Marley, and more.

A Grammy-winning producer/artist, he’s been nominated for the Nashville Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, and inducted into the Texas Songwriter’s Hall of Fame.

The psychological thriller blends topical science, speculation, and the dynamic between fathers and their sons. Actor Charles Krohn stars.

FEBRUARY 18

FEBRUARY 23-25

Beth Hart

House of Blues

ROCO Unchambered: The Wonderful English and Oz, River Oaks Chamber Orchestra MATCH

Led by trumpeter George Chase, the performance features a world premiere of a commission by jazz composer Paul English, plus works by Farnaby, Sarchich, and Ewazen. FEBRUARY 21

Dailey and Vincent University of Houston-Clear Lake

The recent Grand Ole Opry inductees are also one of the top bluegrass outfits in the country, named three-time “Entertainer of the Year” by the International Bluegrass Music Awards.

Hilary Hahn & Bernstein, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

The orchestra celebrates Leonard Bernstein's 100th birthday with one of the world's greatest contemporary classical violinists, Hilary Hahn. FEBRUARY 23

Ty Herndon Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

He debuted with “What Mattered Most” in the 1990s, followed by hits such as “I Want My Goodbye Back,” “Loved Too Much,” and “Hands of a Working Man.” FEBRUARY 23

Charlie Fay and the Fayettes McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

The trio is a salute to Motown, Spector, and the Brill Building, where pop meets sixties soul. And these songs are just as good as your favorite classics.

FEBRUARY 24 House of Blues

Her “L.A. Song (Out of This Town)” in 1999 set the table for good things to follow for the singer/songwriter. FEBRUARY 24

Mind Craft, Houston Chamber Choir St. Philip Presbyterian Church

The program contains selections from leading composers of the Renaissance, including Josquin Desprez, Henricus Isaac, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, and Carlo Gesualdo. FEBRUARY 24

Dancing with the Stars: Light Up the Night Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

This all-new production showcases every style of dance seen on ABC’s hit show, from sizzling salsas to elegant waltzes and high-energy group numbers. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

february

FEBRUARY 10

FEBRUARY 16

Toyota Center

George Winston Shutterstock.com

Lana Del Rey

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

JHK2303 / Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

With a sizzling new album (Lust For Life) debuting at number one on the Billboard 200, the pop star is off on a new, highly anticipated 24-date tour. The singer/songwriter brings the LA To The Moon Tour on a big swing through Texas, and features Colombian pop singer Kali Uchis as her opening act.

Originally, his early musical heroes included the New Orleans stride players such as Fats Waller, Professor Longhair, and Teddy Wilson. However, he’s probably best known for a series of plaintive solo piano pieces on Windham Hill Records that began in the 1980s. Several of his albums from that period sold millions of copies each. His evocative piano compositions also helped popularize the beginnings of New Age music.

FEBRUARY 24

FEBRUARY 27

MARCH 1

MARCH 3

The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Smart Financial Centre (Sugar Land)

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

Jones Hall

They infuse each performance with vitality and passion, living, learning, and perfecting their art with originality, innovation, and the sheer joy of making music together.

The global pop culture phenomenon is celebrating 25 years. They’re on tour with a new martial arts spectacular.

In 1994, the National Academy of Songwriters tabbed him Artist of the Year. The blue-eyed soul singer/guitarist remains a musical tour de force.

Enter a land of enchantment as the Symphony performs along with a local high school chorus in a special fairytale fantasy to help find your own song.

MARCH 1-3

MARCH 3

Yamato, The Drummers of Japan

Power Rangers Live

Martin Sexton

Be Our Guest, Houston Symphony

FEBRUARY 28 FEBRUARY 24

BJ Thomas

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

His “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” was an Oscar winner and set the table for many more hits for the native Texan.

House of Blues

The all-female grunge band has had a major influence on the riot grrrl musical movement in America. THROUGH MARCH 18

FEBRUARY 24

Texas Lunar Festival

Satchmo at the Waldorf, Alley Theatre

Viet Hoa Center

Hubbard Theatre

The annual celebration of the Chinese New Year is a time to honor ancestral customs with performance, art displays, and more.

This moving portrait of trumpeter Louis Armstrong looks into the mind of an American musical genius and the man behind the legend.

FEBRUARY 25

John Waite

Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The former singer in The Babys has had a memorable solo career, too, with mega hits such as “Missing You” and more.

THROUGH MARCH 18

Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission*

The Oscars’ Best Original Songs, Houston Symphony* Jones Hall

The program includes over 80 years of cinematic sounds, including “Over the Rainbow,” “The Way We Were,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Skyfall,” and “Let it Go.” MARCH 2

Garrick Ohlsson Plays Beethoven, Da Camera Stude Concert Hall

The celebrated pianist tackles four of Beethoven’s most beloved masterpieces, bringing to life the passionate and dramatic spirit of these revolutionary works.

Space Center Houston

MARCH 2

White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

FEBRUARY 27

See more than 20 artifacts from the mission on this, the first time the command module has left the Smithsonian since a 1971 national tour.

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

MARCH 1

The extraordinary musician is considered among the best and the brightest of the young Celtic fiddlers in contemporary music.

Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

Mari Black

*Editor’s Choice 50

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

Larry Gatlin The native Texan is a country star with solid gold hits such as “Houston (One Day Closer to You)” and “All the Gold in California.”

Ron Pope The pop-rocker from North Georgia has released some stellar music including the singles "A Drop in the Ocean" and "I Believe."

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds House of Blues

The former Oasis guitarist and frontman began the solo project back in 2010 with a number of former Oasis bandmates, and continues today. MARCH 3

Cultural Kite Festival Brazos River Park (Sugar Land)

Kites will adorn the Texas skies with countries around the world represented in the annual community event that displays a mixture of international cultures and diversity. MARCH 3

Julian Bliss Septet: A Tribute to Benny Goodman The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston Island)

He’s one of the world’s finest clarinetists, excelling as a concerto soloist, chamber musician, jazz artist, and tireless musical explorer. MARCH 3

globalFEST Warehouse Live

Over the last decade, the company has become one of the most dynamic global music platforms. Catch an evening of infectious Latin style music.

september FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 4

march FEBRUARY 22 - MARCH 4

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Swan Lake, Houston Ballet

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

/ Shutterstock.com

TUTS - Memphis, The Musical

CALENDAR

He was the first to broadcast Elvis Presley on local radio, and he helped promote the careers of many others who followed. Loosely based on the life of visionary rock ‘n’ roll disc jockey Dewey “Daddy-O” Phillips, this delightful show played Broadway for several years, winning four Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Now it comes to the Hobby Center’s Theatre Under The Stars. MARCH 3

MARCH 6

White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

The Nashville-based indie pop quartet shot to success in 2015 with their single, “Run.” Their second studio album, How Will You Know If You Never Try, was released in 2017.

His own songs (“You’re Only Lonely”) and those written for others (“Best of My Love” and “New Kid in Town” for the Eagles) are unforgettable.

COIN

JD Souther

MARCH 6 MARCH 3-4

Little Red's Most Unusual Day Opera in the Heights

The operatic version of the story of Little Red Riding Hood is based on scenes from operas by Offenbach and Rossini.

Hats Off to Mothers Luncheon River Oaks Country Club

The annual Easter Seals event honors Houston mothers who’ve made significant contributions to families and community. MARCH 8

MARCH 3-18

Houston Jewish Film Festival Evelyn Rubenstein JCC

Watch documentaries, dramas, comedies, and musicals that are entertaining, thought provoking, and high quality—the best Jewish and Israeli films from across the world. MARCH 4

A Night at the Opera Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The Texas Medical Center Orchestra and soloists from Opera in the Heights perform works by Verdi, Bizet, Delibes, Tchaikovsky, and more.

Ellis Paul McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

The decorated folk artist was inducted into the Maine Music Hall of Fame and has his songs on movie and TV soundtracks.

Peacock in the Desert: The Royal Arts of Jodhpur, India Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

Over 250 royal treasures from Jodhpur explore the culture and legacy of India’s Rathore dynasty. Many of the objects are making their U.S. debut.

MARCH 9

Young Artist Competition Winners, Houston Civic Symphony Dunham Theater, Morris Cultural Arts Center

Each year, Houston-area middle and high school musicians are invited to perform in this inspirational musical event. MARCH 9

Josh Grider Dosey Doe Big Barn (The Woodlands)

The Las Cruces, New Mexico native moved to Nashville by way of Waco just to try something different. His brand of country music is all his own. MARCH 9

Nigel North, Bach Society Houston Christ the King Lutheran Church

MARCH 8-18

With a freedom of expression rivaling the best jazz musicians, one of the world’s finest lutenists performs some of Bach’s more rarely-performed works.

Visit houstonballet.org for venue information

MARCH 9-11, 15-19, & 22-24

Rock, Roll, & Tutus, Houston Ballet The program features Stanton Welch's Play, the Ballet’s premiere of Tim Harbour's Filigree and Shadow, and the premiere of Alexander Ekman's Tulle. MARCH 9-11

OPENING MARCH 4

The classic ballet premiered in 1895 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia as a four-act production set to composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s (The Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker) unforgettably magical musical score. Today, it is widely hailed as his greatest work. This marks the Houston company’s fourth time performing Stanton Welch’s production as part of its main season.

Riverdance Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The international Irish dance phenomenon is back. Drawing on Irish traditions, the talented performers propelled Irish dancing, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages.

The Exonerated, Dirt Dog Theatre MATCH

Six true stories of wrongfully-convicted death row inmates in their own words. Journeys to redemption remind us that freedom is not free. MARCH 10

A Night on Broadway, Houston Choral Society The Foundry United Methodist Church

MARCH 10

Black Violin Cullen Performance Hall (University of Houston)

A talented pair of classically trained string instrumentalists met in high school, then connected after college to form their band. An inventive take on jazz, funk, and hip-hop all mashed into one. MARCH 10

Compañía Nacional de Danza, Carmen, SPA* Jones Hall

The Madrid company performs the masterpiece in minimalistic fashion on an open stage, allowing audiences to interpret the story using their own imagination. MARCH 10

Doug Supernaw Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

He scored a number one country song with “I Don’t Call Him Daddy,” and released hits such as “Not Enough Hours in the Night” and “Reno.” MARCH 10

Bach's St. Matthew Passion, Mercury Houston Stude Concert Hall (Rice University)

Antoine Plante conducts one of the true masterpieces of sacred classical music, featuring the members of the Houston Symphony Chorus.

The chorus performs big hits from Broadway, including selections from“Oklahoma,” “The Sound of Music,” and “Les Misérables,” among others. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

march FEBRUARY 22-24

Hobby Performing Arts NRG Center Park

MARCH 2

World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest

Houston Race Park Dosey Doe BigSam Barn (The Woodlands)

Over 250 teams, led by barbecue aficionados from all over, converge on Houston to participate in the annual affair. While most team tents are invitation-only, visitors can enjoy several public venues, including The Garden, Rockin' Bar-B-Que Saloon, and the Chuck Wagon. Plus, the carnival is open for wild rides and fun games. Trophies are awarded to teams by category (brisket, chicken, pork, and more), plus an overall champ is crowned.

MARCH 10

Buffalo Bayou Regatta San Felipe and Voss

One of largest canoe and kayak races in the U.S. features 200 vessels battling to cross the finish line in Sesquicentennial Park. MARCH 10

On Golden Pond, Montana Repertory Theatre The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Both lighthearted and moving, the theatrical masterpiece is the story of a father confronting his strained relationship with his adult daughter. MARCH 11

St. Patrick's Day Parade Downtown

Erin go Bragh (Ireland Forever)! One of the nation's largest parades returns for its 59th glorious year on the streets of Houston. MARCH 13-25

Bright Star, TUTS* Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Set in the picturesque hills of North Carolina, the Broadway musical opened to rave reviews. Written and composed by a pair of TexansSteve Martin and Edie Brickel.

MARCH 13

Mixed Metaphors, St. Cecilia Chamber Music Society St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

Cellist Barrett Sills is joined by Sean Krissman, Rodney Waters, and soprano Julia Fox to perform Brahms’ “Trio,” op. 114, for clarinet, cello, and piano, and Schubert’s “Shepherd on the Rock.” MARCH 14

John Fullbright Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

A veteran of The Late Show with David Letterman, this Oklahoma-born singersongwriter has earned comparisons to the legendary Townes Van Zandt. MARCH 14-16

We are Proud to Present a Presentation About the Herero of Namibia…

Shutterstock.com

Judy Collins

CALENDAR

She is the legendary namesake of the CS&N hit “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” and the Grammy-winning force behind dozens of huge songs in the 1960s and 1970s. Collins helped launch a worldwide folk movement with her beautiful voice and acoustic guitar behind unforgettable renditions of songs such as “Both Sides Now,” “Send in the Clowns,” “Cook with Honey,” and “Chelsea Morning.”

MARCH 16-17

Alvin Ailey American Dance, SPA Jones Hall

Experience the power of the great contemporary dance company, often hailed as America’s cultural ambassador to the world. MARCH 16-17

Jacqui Sutton with the Houston Jazz Orchestra

MARCH 18

The Rob Landes Trio: The Fabulous '50s The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

From Elvis to Little Richard to Chuck Berry, plus Frank Sinatra, Johnny Mathis, and Roger Williams, take a musical walk down memory lane. MARCH 18

MATCH

Houston Chamber Choir Gala

"Un-Cross Talk" is evening of original Frontier Jazz compositions, which is supported in part by the Houston Arts Alliance.

JW Marriott Houston Downtown

The annual event features a silent auction, dinner and, naturally, a wonderful performance by the Chamber Choir.

MARCH 17

Slaid Cleaves

MARCH 18

Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

Bach Marathon, Bach Society Houston

The Austin-based folkie has crafted a successful solo career in the mold of artists including Woody Guthrie and others.

Christ the King Lutheran Church

Professional musicians volunteer their talents and perform Bach's music all day, with donations collected to benefit Houston Food Bank.

Stages Repertory Theatre

MARCH 17

Six actors tell the story of a rarely-examined African genocide in this searing drama, a bold look at race in America and beyond.

Revention Music Center

Sylvan Esso

The young Canadian DJ (Jeff Abel) has made quite a name in electronica, collaborating with artists such as Dion Timmer, Datsik, Space Laces, Prototype, and others.

White Oak Music Hall (Downstairs)

MARCH 16

Skinny Lister Warehouse Live

The British folkies became a band in 2009, endured a number of personnel changes, and emerged as a touring favorite among fans.

Excision

MARCH 19

This indie pop duo from North Carolina took the music world by storm when their first single, “Hey Mami,” was named Paste's number 1 song of 2014.

MARCH 17-18, 21-25, 29-31

Eighth Day of the Week Ensemble Theatre

A tale infused with humor brings awareness to a condition that affects families around the world—a stunning glimpse into Alzheimer’s. *Editor’s Choice H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

march

MARCH 9-11

Toyota Center

Lorde Shutterstock.com

Riverdance 20

MARCH 19

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Shutterstock.com

CALENDAR

The international Irish dance phenomenon is back. Drawing on Irish traditions, the talented performers propelled Irish dancing, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures in an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music, and song. Of all the performances to emerge from Ireland—rock, music, theatre, and film—nothing has carried the riveting energy and sensuality quite like Riverdance.

MARCH 20

MARCH 23

McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

Jones Hall

This English quartet consists of two brothers and a pair of school friends. The lads from Leeds have honed a big, bold pop sensibility.

The Canadian singer/trumpeter wields a unique blend of contemporary pop sensibility with elite jazz chops artfully mixed with worldly rhythms and a sophisticated pop sound.

The Dunwells

Bria Skonberg, SPA

MARCH 20-24

Houston Black Film Festival

MARCH 23

Location Varies

Origins, Apollo Chamber Players

Join actors, directors, producers, and decorated state and national film luminaries to sample some of the best the medium has to offer.

MATCH

The program features composers who inspired Apollo to pursue programmatic concert themes connected to Houston’s cultural diversity.

MARCH 22

Ron Chernow, Beyond the Page Luncheon* Marriott Marquis

MARCH 23-25

German Heritage Festival Tomball (Old Downtown)

The Pulitzer-winning author of Alexander Hamilton, the biography that inspired the Broadway hit, speaks at this Houston Library Foundation event.

Fans from around the state converge annually for the live music, food, beer, and wine, plus shopping and more.

MARCH 22

Chris Botti, Houston Symphony

Jerusalem Quartet Stude Concert Hall (Rice University)

One of the world’s most popular string quartets, they are renowned for their expert playing and stunning treatment of the classical repertoire.

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

The local chamber orchestra is made up of talented young classical musicians striving for a career in professional music. MARCH 24

Mystery Loves Company McGonigel’s Mucky Duck

The Houston chamber rockers are mesmerizing, performing songs on acoustic guitar and electric cello, with pitch-perfect harmonies. MARCH 24

Mingus Big Band featuring Helen Sung, Da Camera Visit dacamera.com for venue information

Jones Hall

MARCH 25

The talented, Grammy-winning trumpeter returns to share the stage with his electrifying band members, the orchestra, and one of his favorite conductors, Steven Reineke.

The Grand 1894 Opera House (Galveston)

Saddle up for an action-packed theatrical thrillride as the Wild West comes alive in this intoxicating mix of theater, music, and acrobatics. H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

Concerto Concert, The Virtuosi of Houston

MARCH 24-25

Cirque Éloize: Saloon

*Editor’s Choice

MARCH 24

Touring extensively, with seven Grammy nominations, pianist and Houston native Helen Sung has long been associated with the band and makes a homecoming appearance.

MARCH 24

The Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum New Zealand artist is on tour, promoting and performing new songs from her anticipated sophomore album, Melodrama. She's been heating up festival stages all season with acclaimed performances at Coachella, the Governors Ball, and Bonnaroo, gathering praise from fans and critics alike. Top hits include "Royals," 'Tennis Court," and "Green Lights."

Handel Brockes Passion, Bach Society Houston Christ the King Lutheran Church

Beautiful and melancholy, this chamber setting features tenor Tony Boutté as Evangelist and rising star baritone Phillip Gay as Jesus.

MARCH 28-29

Cory Morrow Main Street Crossing (Tomball)

The Red Dirt performer carved a reputation over 20 years with tunes such as “Texas On My Mind,” sung with fellow Texan Pat Green. MARCH 29

Why Don't We House of Blues

Their latest album, Invitation, dropped last September, generating serious buzz for the pop quintet. MARCH 29-31

Bernstein & Stravinsky, Houston Symphony Jones Hall

Leonard Bernstein’s Symphony No. 2, The Age of Anxiety, features pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. The program concludes with choral settings by Igor Stravinsky. MARCH 30 - APRIL 1

Anime Matsuri

George R. Brown Convention Center

Music, fashion, art, and collectibles—it’s the latest and greatest from Japan’s catwalks, studios, and concert stages at one of the largest anime conventions in North America.

SPORTS & RECREATION

2017-2018 Season Houston Rockets All games at Toyota Center

November 22 November 25 November 27 November 29 December 11 December 13 December 15 December 16 December 18 December 20 December 22

vs. Denver Nuggets vs. New York Knicks vs. Brooklyn Nets vs. Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Pelicans vs. Charlotte Hornets vs. San Antonio Spurs vs. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Los Angeles Clippers

January 20 January 22 January 28 January 30 February 9 February 11 February 14 February 23 March 3 March 12 March 15

vs. Golden State Warriors vs. Miami Heat vs. Phoenix Suns vs. Orlando Magic vs. Denver Nuggets vs. Dallas Mavericks vs. Sacramento Kings vs. Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Boston Celtics vs. San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Clippers

December 31 January 4 January 10 January 18

vs. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors vs. Portland Trail Blazers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

March 22 March 24 March 25 March 27 March 30

vs. Detroit Pistons vs. New Orleans Pelicans vs. Atlanta Hawks vs. Chicago Bulls vs. Phoenix Suns

Houston Texans

DECEMBER 2

JANUARY 5-14

FEBRUARY 25

NRG Arena

NRG Stadium

Sugar Land

DECEMBER 3

JANUARY 13-14

FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 4

Chevron Houston 5K & Marathon

Houston Fishing Show

George R. Brown Convention Center

SWAC Football Championship

All games at NRG Stadium

vs. San Francisco 49ers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Run Girl Half Marathon, Two-Person Relay and 5K

NOVEMBER 21

WWE Smackdown Toyota Center

Houston Boat Show

As One Foundation Darling Dash

Deussen Park and Eisenhower Park

NOVEMBER 23

Shutterstock.com

DECEMBER 9

TXU Energy BakerRipley Turkey Trot

Rudolph Fun Run

MARCH 17-18

Cross Court Classic George R. Brown Convention Center

CITYCENTRE

Uptown/Galleria

MARCH 18

Tour de Houston

DECEMBER 27

ADVOCARE Texas Bowl

NOVEMBER 23-26

AutoRama

NRG Stadium

George R. Brown Convention Center JANUARY 1

The yearly marathon, half-marathon, and 5K begin and end downtown, attracting more than 20,000 entrants and 200,000 spectators.

Run Houston

DECEMBER 1-3

Jurassic Quest

Sam Houston Race Park

Shutterstock.com

JANUARY 21

Choco Loco 5K and 10K Fish Plaza JANUARY 27

Komen Race for the Cure

MARCH 24

Fight For Air Climb 1001 Fannin Building (Formerly First City Tower)

FEBRUARY 7-11

Houston RV Show

NRG Center

City Hall

NRG Center

MARCH 28-APRIL 1

Houston Open Golf Club of Houston

FEBRUARY 18

Galveston Marathon and Half Marathon

Shutterstock.com

Dec. 10 Dec. 25

NBA.com/Rockets

All games at Toyota Center

Saengerfest Park

Academy Sports & Outdoors (Katy Freeway)

It’s a dinosaur adventure for the whole family featuring over 80 ultra-realistic, life-size animatronic dinosaurs visitors can interact with, and even ride a few.

JANUARY 27

Harlem Globetrotters NRG Arena

FEBRUARY 24

Rodeo Run NRG Park

Many of the world’s best golfers compete in pursuit of a multi-million dollar purse. Founded in 1946, it’s the PGA’s 10th-oldest event.

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

DINING

51fifteen Restaurant & Lounge

The Blue Fish Exquisite sushi and sashimi, innovative chef-inspired rolls, and exceptional grilled entrées 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.

brennanshouston.com

prepared food served in an “urban relaxed” atmosphere. Italian-born owner-chef Marco Wiles is the genius behind the unique, upscale menu.

The Capital Grille

1520 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.807.8857

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.

damarcohouston.com

Del Frisco’s Grille

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.

550 Texas St. (Downtown) 713.225.3474

thebluefishsushi.com

5365 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.623.4600

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.

5115 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.963.8067

Brasserie 19

840 West Sam Houston Parkway (CityCentre) 713.463.5051

2800 Kirby Drive (River Oaks) 832.623.6168

thecapitalgrille.com

delfriscosgrille.com

Coppa Osteria

Dolce Vita

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

5820 Washington Ave. (The Heights) 713.862.3474

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 with 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

Located in Rice Village, this sister restaurant of Coppa Ristorante features rustic Italian cuisine, including small plates, pastas, and pizzas, designed by Executive Chef Brandi Key, who reinvents Italian classics using local ingredients. The stylish, airy space is the perfect spot to sip fine wine while enjoying an artisanal salumi and formaggio board.

2311 Bissonnet St. (West University) 713.521.1155

brasserie19.com

5210 Morningside Drive (Rice Village) 713.522.3535

anticarestaurant.com

BRC Gastropub

coppaosteriahouston.com

Américas

Corner Table

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

Down House

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.”

Enjoy a Prohibition-style cocktail while lounging in this eclectic-toned neighborhood spot. Known best for its award-winning cocktails, Down House serves New American cuisine with a Southern influence and features classics such as chicken and waffles, fish and chips, and shrimp and grits. Desserts are so delicious they should be illegal.

2736 Virginia St. (Upper Kirby) 713.568.9196

1801 Yale St. (The Heights) 713.864.3696

cornertablehouston.com

treadsack.com/downhouse

americasrestaurant.com

Executive Chef Lance Fegen’s concept of the perfect neighborhood restaurant includes superb food and a continually curated selection of interesting beers and wines, all presented in a casual, friendly atmosphere.

Cuchara This authentic Mexico City bistro in the Montrose district provides an open aesthetic juxtaposed with jolts of color and texture. With a modern twist on classic Mexico City fare, the menu, which changes weekly, features ceviche, chicharrones, guacamole tradicional, and mole verde.

El Big Bad

Benjy’s

519 Shepherd Drive (The Heights) 713.861.2233

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

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 ambiance, a top-notch happy hour, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. 2424 Dunstan Road (Rice Village) 713.522.7602 5922 Washington Ave. (The Heights) 713.868.1131 benjys.com 56

3300 Smith St. (Fourth Ward) 713.522.9711

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

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.

214 Fairview St. (Montrose) 713.942.0000 cuchararestaurant.com

Da Marco Cucina E Vino This 13-year-old Houston restaurant has earned a reputation for delicious, authentically

This feisty gastrocantina specializes in infused tequila, fresh-juice margaritas, and fresh Mexican fare. The bar features 50 handcrafted tequila infusions that change to reflect the season. The menu created by Chef Randy Rucker and executed by Chef Ben Rabbani features scrumptious dishes such as roast duck empanadas, blue crab tostadas, and mushroom tacos. 419 Travis St. (Downtown) 713.229.8181 elbigbad.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!”

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.

chutneys and light, flavorful sauces.

218 Travis St. (Downtown) 713.225.8079

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.

510 Shepherd Drive (The Heights) 713.863.7777

hearsayhouston.com

thefederalgrill.com

Houston’s Restaurant

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

Giacomo’s Cibo e Vino The casual, neighborhood Italian cafe and wine bar specializes in small plates of hot and cold antipasti for grazing, sharing, mixing, and matching. Located in River Oaks, the restaurant features scrumptious fare prepared from scratch using the best local, imported, and all-natural ingredients available. 3215 Westheimer Road (River Oaks) 713.522.1934 giacomosciboevino.com

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 ambiance and overall dining experience. 5888 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.975.1947

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

La Griglia

Indika Located in the middle of Montrose’s bustling culinary scene, this local favorite is known for its innovative Indian dishes and handcrafted cocktails, served in an airy, colorful, contemporary environment. Founder Anita Jaisinghani, the creative force behind Indika’s unique menu, brings personal influences to the flavorful menu.

2555 Westheimer Road (Upper Kirby) 713.255.4440 2424 Dunstan Road (West University) 713.521.7800 houstonlocalfoods.com

Masraff’s

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. 1050 Studewood St. (The Heights) 713.622.1010 libertykitchenoysterbar.com

Liberty Kitchen & Oysterette

1611 Lamar St. (Downtown) 713.337.7321

3600 Kirby Drive (Upper Kirby) 713.802.0533

thegrovehouston.com

katarobata.com

Hearsay Gastro Lounge

Kiran’s

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.

Kiran Verma, considered the godmother of Indian fine dining, has created world-class Indian cuisine at her eponymous restaurant. Here, diners enjoy Indian hospitality with French sophistication and American informality. Kiran’s house specialties include sea bass, lobster, lamb, and an array of the chef’s own fresh-fruit

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. 1753 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.355.1975 masraffs.com

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. 214 Fairview St. (Montrose) 713.528.9200 4720 Washington Ave. (The Heights) 713.880.8737

indikausa.com

Kata Robata Sushi and Grill

Local Foods

Liberty Kitchen

516 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.524.2170

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.

hotelicon.com

lagrigliarestaurant.com

2002 W. Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.526.4700

Ibiza

2450 Louisiana St. (Midtown) 713.524.0004

220 Main St. (Downtown) 832.667.4470

The menu showcases seasonal bounties from farms throughout Texas and is best described as fresh, local, and inventive. Local Foods celebrates Texas with artisan sandwiches crafted of locally handmade bread, farmer’s market sides, homemade soups, and an all-Texas beer and wine list.

hillstone.com

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.

DINING

kiranshouston.com

4848 Kirby Grott Drive (Upper Kirby) 713.529.2385

ibizafoodandwinebar.com

Grotto Ristorante

4100 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.960.8472

maxswinedive.com

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

McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood and Steaks 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.

libertykitchenoysterette.com

1201 Fannin St. (Downtown) 713.658.8100

Line and Lariat

1151 Uptown Park Blvd. (Uptown) 713.840.7900

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.

791 Town & Country (CityCentre) 713.465.3685 mccormickandschmicks.com

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

DINING 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. 4 Riverway (Galleria/Uptown) 713.871.8177 omnihotels.com/hotels/houston/dining/noe-grill

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

Petite Sweets

Punk’s Simple Southern Food For classic Southern dishes derived from deep family roots but featuring a simplistic and chef-driven approach, head to Punk’s, located in the heart of Houston’s Rice Village. A local favorite is the Waldorf chicken salad sandwich. 5212 Morningside Drive (Rice Village) 713.524.7865 punkssimplesouthernfood.com

Quattro A warm, inviting retreat in downtown Houston’s business and financial district, Quattro’s focus is authentic, contemporary Italian cuisine by Chef Maurizio Ferrarese. Bringing Houston seasonally driven cuisine from Ferrarese’s native Italy, Quattro serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily and a popular Sunday brunch. 1300 Lamar St. (Downtown) 713.276.4700 quattrorestauranthouston.com

RA Sushi A “RA”ckin’ vibe with fresh sushi, distinctive Japanese-inspired dishes, and creative cocktails sets RA Sushi apart from a typical sushi joint. Founded in Arizona, the award-winning concept has 28 locations throughout the United States. Discover why it’s more fun at RA. 3908 Westheimer Road (Highland Village) 713.621.5800 799 Town & Country Blvd. (CityCentre) 713.621.5800 RAsushi.com

RDG + Bar Annie

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

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

Ristorante Cavour

Pondicheri Striving to bring together the best of classic, homestyle, and street foods from India, this restaurant inventively pairs traditional flavors with nourishing, locally sourced ingredients. The eatery also features fresh-baked goods in the Bake Lab and spices, chutneys, and snacks to take home. Pondicheri serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an afternoon happy hour.

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

granducahouston.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/gallery/spindletop

Tango and Malbec 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 wagyu, 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. 2800 Sage Road (Galleria) 713.629.8646 tangomalbec.com

The Tasting Room 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 818 Town & Country Blvd. (CityCentre) 281.822.1500 1101-18 Uptown Park Blvd. (Uptown) 713.993.9800 tastingroomwines.com

Tony Mandola’s

2800 Kirby Drive (Upper Kirby) 713.522.2022 pondichericafe.com

1080 Uptown Park Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.418.1104

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

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.” 1212 Waugh Drive (River Oaks) 713.528.3474 tonymandolas.com

Triniti Restaurant and Bar 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. 2815 S. Shepherd Drive (Montrose) 713.527.9090 trinitirestaurant.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 Weekly menus showcase the city’s diversity and trifecta of farming, ranching, and fishing within an eclectic decor 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 grass-fed beef. His monthly Off-the-Wall dinner series features local chefs and benefits the Underbelly Scholarship at the Art Institute of Houston. 1100 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.528.9800 underbellyhouston.com

Uptown Sushi Houston’s premier, upscale sushi bar and restaurant specializes in unique Japanese fusion cuisine for business lunches and elegant dinners. Nigri sushi, sashimi, and 16 signature maki-sushi combinations await pairing with the diner’s choice of 20 sake selections. Entrées include Kobe beef, pork loin, rib-eye, snapper, and chicken. A late-night bar is also available. 1131 Uptown Park Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.871.1200 uptown-sushi.com

Vinoteca Poscol With a focus on Italian wine and small Italian bites, this intimate setting is reminiscent of a typical wine bar found on the streets of Venice. Internationally acclaimed Chef Marco Wiles, a native of Italy, has designed each dish to include the freshest ingredients and complement the ever-changing selection of wines. 1609 Westheimer Road (Montrose) 713.529.2797 poscolhouston.com

ATTRACTIONS

MUSEUMS Art Car Museum This private institution is dedicated to contemporary art by local, national, and international artists, especially those rarely acknowledged by other cultural institutions. The museum focuses on art cars and other fine arts and seeks to encourage public awareness of cultural, political, economic, and personal dimensions of art. 140 Heights Blvd. (The Heights) 713.861.5526

science, and the human body.

Visitors can stroll among 10 historic structures built between 1823 and 1905 at this museum complex nestled in 10 acres of beautiful green parkland in the heart of downtown Houston. At its home at Sam Houston Park, the museum collects, preserves, exhibits, and celebrates the diverse history of the Houston region.

Children’s Museum of Houston

heritagesociety.org

Holocaust Museum Houston Charged with educating students and the public about the dangers of prejudice and hatred in society, this institution opened its doors in March 1996. Since that time, impassioned notes, poems, artwork, and other gifts from schoolchildren and adults alike attest to the life-changing thoughts generated by just one visit to this unique facility.

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 camh.org

The Health Museum A member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, this museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center. Located in the heart of the city’s rich, varied Museum District, the museum seeks to foster wonder and curiosity about health, medical

spacecenter.org

Heritage Society Museum

1100 Bagby St. (Fourth Ward) 713.655.1912

5401 Caroline St. (Museum District) 713.942.8000 hmh.org

The Houston Museum of Natural Science 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.

PERFORMANCE VENUES Alley Theatre

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, 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

Through historical research and education, this organization seeks to provide greater appreciation of Texas citizens who served their country in defense of liberty. Its members are recognized professionals who hold national standing for authentic restoration, and their efforts are displayed in historically accurate exhibits of military artifacts from all branches of service.

615 Texas Ave. (Downtown) 713.220.5700 alleytheatre.org

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

nusafm.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.

Space Center Houston

800 Bagby St. (Downtown) 713.315.2400

8611 Wallisville Road (Pleasantville) 713.673.1234

thehobbycenter.org

Houston Grand Opera – Wortham Center

hmns.org

The Menil Collection

1533 Sul Ross St. (Montrose) 713.525.9400

Founded more than 60 years ago, the organization provides audiences with quality theater through a broad variety of performances, including classics, new plays, rediscovered and rarely performed works, and musical theater, with emphasis on new American works. The Alley strives to be both inspirational and provocative as it motivates audiences to think, feel, and dream as they are entertained.

National United States Armed Forces Museum

5555 Hermann Park Drive (Museum District) 713.639.4629

The museum houses the private art collection of its founders John and Dominique de Menil that includes approximately 17,000 paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs, and rare books. The collection contains works by Max Ernst, Man Ray, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and more. Award-winning Italian architect Renzo Piano designed the building, his first in the U.S.

inspire and amaze as they tell the story of NASA’s manned space-flight program. 1601 NASA Parkway (Clear Lake) 281.244.2100

mhms.org

artcarmuseum.com

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.

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

1515 Hermann Drive (Museum District) 713.521.1515

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

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. 500 Texas Ave. (Downtown) 832.487.7000 houstongrandopera.org houstonfirsttheatres.com/wortham-center

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

ATTRACTIONS

ZOOS & AQUARIUMS

Minute Maid Park

This award-winning center, which opened in 2003 and features a playing surface set 32 feet below street level, is considered one of the premier sports and live-entertainment venues in the nation. Toyota Center is home to the Houston Rockets, an NBA team, and plays host to the nation’s top concerts and touring shows.

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

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

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.

Houston Zoo

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

NRG Stadium

615 Louisiana St. (Downtown) 832.487.7050 houstonsymphony.org houstonfirsttheaters.com/JonesHall

Miller Outdoor Theatre This popular outdoor theater offers the most diverse season of free, professional entertainment of any Houston performance venue. Classical, jazz, ethnic music, modern dance, ballet, Shakespeare, musical theater, classic films, and much more are included in this year’s outstanding lineup. Relax in the covered seating or enjoy a pre-performance picnic on the hillside. 6000 Hermann Park Drive (Museum District) 832.487.7102 milleroutdoortheatre.com

NRG Park 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.

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

nrgpark.com

Situated on a six-block urban site near Houston landmarks, including Minute Maid Park, the George R. Brown Convention Center, and Toyota Center, this eye-catching stadium is easily accessible to patrons from the entire Houston metropolitan area. The building is readily recognizable, thanks to its distinctive façade that features Dynamo orange color and geometrically-shaped, tessellated aluminum mesh encompassing the structure.

House of Blues

2200 Texas Avenue (EaDo, Warehouse District) 713.547.3000

One NRG Park (Medical Center) 832.667.1400

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 houseofblues.com

bbvacompassstadium.com

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

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

Toyota Center

1510 Polk St. (Downtown) 713.758.7200 houstontoyotacenter.com

GOLF Champions Golf Club Since its founding by Jack Burke, Jr. and the late Jimmy Demaret in 1957, this superior course consistently has reestablished its place in golf history, hosting such prestigious events as the Ryder Cup Matches in 1967, United States Open in 1969, and Champions International, a PGA tour event. 13722 Champions Drive (Champions) 281.444.6262 championsgolfclub.com

TopGolf NRG Stadium is the only rodeo and NFL indoor/ outdoor stadium that can be configured to utilize a 125,000-square-foot space for general sessions, catered functions, exhibits, concerts, and much more. In addition, NRG Stadium offers four immense concourse levels for special events. The design of the stadium roof provides a flexible rigging configuration for major audio and visual presentations.

Sports competition meets your favorite local hangout at this premier golf entertainment complex where friends and families compete in addictive, point-scoring golf games. The 215yard outfield is studded with ground-mounted, dartboard-like targets that determine points based on the distance microchipped balls travel. TopGolf is designed for all ages, from the hopeful pro golfer to the 7-year-old wannabe.

One NRG Park (Medical Center) 832.667.1400

1030 Memorial Brook Blvd. (Energy Corridor) 281.406.3176

nrgpark.com/nrg-stadium

topgolf.com/houston

Sam Houston Race Park

Wildcat Golf Club

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

The preferred golf club of Houston’s professional sports teams, Wildcat boasts two spectacular golf courses designed by Roy Case. Located just south of the city, both courses feature elevations up to 100 feet, providing spectacular views of the downtown skyline, the Galleria, and the Reliant Stadium complex. 12000 Almeda Road (Central Southwest) 713.413.3400 wildcatgolfclub.com

All attractions are located in Houston unless otherwise noted.

SHOPPING

SHOPPING CENTERS BLVD Place BLVD Place encompasses 20 acres at the intersection of Post Oak Boulevard and San Felipe in the heart of Houston’s Uptown District. Post Oak Boulevard’s prestigious shopping address and San Felipe’s connection to Houston’s exclusive residential neighborhoods provide BLVD Place with the ultimate location, one that surpasses all others. 1800 Post Oak Blvd. (Galleria) 713.621.1700 blvdplace.com

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

The Galleria

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.

GreenStreet The revitalization of a 570,000-square-foot mixed-use center in downtown Houston, now known as GreenStreet, is quickly becoming a destination hot spot. It features dynamic green space, monthly event programming, and a variety of eateries, entertainment, and shopping options. 1201 Fannin St. (Downtown) 832.320.1201 greenstreetdowntown.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. 1101 Uptown Park Blvd. (Uptown) 713.850.1400 uptownparkhouston.com

West Ave at River Oaks

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.

Rice Village

galleriahouston.com

riveroaksshoppingcenter.com

premiumoutlets.com

marketstreet-thewoodlands.com

5085 Westheimer Road (Galleria) 713.622.0663

1964 W Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.866.6982

29300 Hempstead Road, Cypress 281.304.5820

9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands 281.419.4774

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.

Jill, Chico’s, Sur La Table, Barnes & Noble, Ann Taylor, Steinway Piano Gallery, Araya Artisan Chocolate, and Steven Cash Jeweler.

Lankford. Knowledgeable staff members are dedicated to helping you find the perfect piece. 5600 Kirby Drive (West University) 713.668.6350 chardejewelers.com

Deutsch & Deutsch Fine Jewelry and Watches

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

A carefully planned, pedestrian-friendly urban village is at the center of this already thriving area at the intersection of River Oaks and Upper Kirby Districts. The art deco-inspired development captures the spirit of the surrounding neighborhood, while offering a contemporary collection of cafés, fine-dining establishments, boutiques, luxury apartment homes, and more.

deBoulle

2800 Kirby Drive (River Oaks) 713.533.9966 westaveriveroaks.com

JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES 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.

À Bientôt This chic River Oaks accessories boutique offers everything from earrings and shoes to bags and bracelets. The storefront is stocked with Jeffrey Campbell animal-print flats, Italian leather handbags, pashmina shawls, one-of-a-kind reading glasses, and more. 2501 River Oaks Blvd. (River Oaks) 713.523.3997 shopabientot.com

Chardé Jewelers

Chardé represents more than 100 jewelry designers from all around the world and features local artists, including Lemel Designs and Rebecca

Timeless beauty, refined luxury, attention to detail, and fine craftsmanship are hallmarks of deBoulle Diamond & Jewelry. Experience a premier collection of fine jewelry, worldrenowned Swiss watchmaker, Patek Philippe, impeccable service, and a beautiful and friendly environment. 4444 Westheimer Rd., Ste A 169 deBoulle.com

HUBLOT Houston

From in-house watch complications, to revolutionary materials, to world class collaborations, HUBLOT characterizes itself through the “Art of Fusion” philosophy, bringing tradition into the future. Visit the HUBLOT Boutique in the Galleria to view their latest timepiece collection. 5085 Wertheimer Rd., Space B2635A 281.768.3950 hublot.com H O U S TO N H OT E L M A G A Z I N E

SHOPPING IW Marks Jewelers

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. 3841 Bellaire Blvd. (Braeswood Place) 713.668.5000 iwmarks.com

Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott is an American accessories brand inspired by the personal experiences, travel, and sense of community of its CEO and 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 For additional locations, visit kendrascott.com

Tourneau Houston Located in the Houston Galleria, Tourneau is ever-evolving to provide its customers with the finest luxury watch shopping experience and watch service. The company currently holds an unrivaled presence in the luxury watch retail market, with 38 stores throughout the country. 5015 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.871.8282 tourneau.com

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

ANTIQUES & FURNITURE Alyson Jon Interiors

An array of exquisite, handmade, and engraved buckles and buckle sets from the finest artists in the United States are found at this unique store. The heirloom quality buckles can be worn and enjoyed now and also passed down to future generations.

This family-owned business opened its doors in the Houston area in 1967. Alyson Jon features quality furniture, accessories, bedding, and lighting carefully selected from around the world. The expert staff is available to assist clients in choosing unique accessories, from a single room accent to furnishings for an entire home.

5727 Westheimer Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.629.9091

2401 Bissonnet St. (West University) 713.524.3171

maidasbelts.com

alysonjon.com

Maida’s Belts & Buckles

Tenenbaum & Co. Classic Jeweler

The Antiquarium

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

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

Lam Bespoke 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. 2032 W Alabama St. (Montrose) 713.523.1558 lambespoke.com

Past Era Antique Jewelry 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.

close collaboration by the brand, designers, and manufacturers. 4810 San Felipe Road (Galleria/Uptown) 713.629.0442 roche-bobois.com

WOMEN’S APPAREL Abejas Boutique 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. 5600 Kirby Drive (West University) 713.522.3025 abejasboutique.com

Ann Mashburn Since opening in 2010 as a feminine counterpart to Sid Mashburn, this stylish shop strives to be a place where women can come and enjoy the experience of finding something they need (the perfect white shirt) or just something that they want (African beads in beautiful colors). Ann Mashburn aims to make a woman’s life simpler by making getting dressed a joyful and effortless part of her day. 2515 River Oaks Blvd.(River Oaks) 713.936.9503 annmashburn.com

Atrium Ready to Wear

3433 W. Alabama St. (Highland Village) 713.621.3433

Shop the largest collection of estate jewelry in the southern United States with styles ranging from antique from renowned designers including David Webb, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Van Cleef & Arples. Now home to Past Era Antique Jewelry and Queen of Heirs. Inventory changes daily so be sure to stop by often!

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.

4310 Westheimer Road 713.629.7444

3021 Kirby Drive (River Oaks) 713.622.7531

tenenbaumandco.com

theantiquarium.com

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.

Thomas Markle Jewelers

Antiques & Interiors at the Pavilion

2040 West Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.520.0206

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. 4417 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood 281.360.4367 9595 Six Pines Drive, The Woodlands 281.363.2400 For additional locations, thomasmarklejewelers.com

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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

pastera.com

Roche Bobois

atriumrtw.com

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

Cakewalk Style Shop

2047 West Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.520.0060

2601 Westheimer Road (Upper Kirby) 713.629.9990

shophemline.com

tootsies.com

KB Kasuals

MEN’S APPAREL Billy Reid

Founders Gina Cartwright and Jennifer Grigsby fill their charming River Oaks shop with handcrafted jewelry and stylish fashion by Vince, Elizabeth & James, Tibi, Equipment, Mother Denim, Current Elliott, and more. 3201 Westheimer Road (Upper Kirby) 713.284.8283 cakewalkstyleshop.com

Dao Chloe Dao Formerly LOT 8, this boutique is one of the premier shops located in the Rice Village shopping district. Its philosophy centers on service with openness, warmth, and charm and seeks to ensure each customer feels she is shopping with a trusted girlfriend. 6127 Kirby Drive (West University) 713.807.1565 chloedao.com

Elaine Turner 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. 2429 University Blvd. (Rice Village) 713.255.0052 800 Town and Country Blvd. (CityCentre) 713.255.9095 elaineturner.com

Elizabeth Anthony 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.

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. This upscale women’s clothing boutique in River Oaks offers top designers at affordable prices for all ages. Providing a versatile selection ranging from pajamas to everyday clothes to cocktail dresses, KB Kasuals is always searching to find the next new hot designers and trends. 2015 West Gray St. (River Oaks) 713.679.8481 kbkasuals.com

Pinto Ranch Fine Western Wear

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 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

1180 Uptown Park Blvd. (Galleria/Uptown) 713.622.1331 elizabethanthonyhouston.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

2702 Westheimer Road (Upper Kirby) 713.552.0333

GIFTS & SPECIALTY STORES Events More than just a gift boutique, Events is a complete sensory experience and offers an abundance of gift ideas for him or her, a bridal registry, stationery, and home accessories. 1966 West Gray (River Oaks) 713.520.5700 eventsgifts.com

Maida’s

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

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.

Maida’s is the oldest family owned and continuously operating boot and shoe company in the U.S. 100% hand crafted in Houston by master boot and shoe makers, one pair at a time. Come in and experience what it’s like to select your exotic leathers, design, and get fitted for custom footwear. 3733 Westheimer Road 713.492.0645

Lucchese

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

Sid Mashburn This men’s shop, which opened in 2010 as the counterpart to women’s clothing store Ann Mashburn, expresses its spirit by pairing iconic pieces with its own stylish products. The staff assists customers through wardrobe combinations, while offering the perfect suit, shirt, sweater, and socks to provide buyer’s confidence. 2515 River Oaks Blvd. (River Oaks) 713.936.9502 sidmashburn.com

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.

SHOPPING

Texas-based Lucchese is a legendary bootmaker and iconic brand of the American West. Applying the same craftsmanship principles and techniques since 1883, Lucchese artisans use only the finest leathers and unrivaled materials to construct handmade boots of exceptional quality, comfort, fit, and style. 4051 Westheimer Rd. 713.960.1121

Oolala Located in The Heights, this quaint store specializes in women’s apparel, fashion accessories, home decor, bath products, books, art, and more, and focuses on unique, quality merchandise and one-on-one customer service. 833 Studewood St. (The Heights) 713.862.9800 oolalagifts.com

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

Photo courtesy of J.J. Watt Foundation

OUR PARTING SHOT

Number 99 Gives 100% When Hurricane Harvey came crashing through Houston, the devastation was swift and shocking. The multi-day storm displaced thousands and claimed homes, cars, and lives. Before the rain had even stopped falling, local and national communities rose together to assist those affected by the hurricane. One of the greatest efforts was led by Houston Texans No. 99, defensive end J.J. Watt. Watt launched his Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund on Monday, August 28 with a donation

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of $100,000. His goal? To raise $200,000 to give in support of hurricane victims. No one could have anticipated what happened next. The giving campaign went viral, garnering donations from the likes of Ellen DeGeneres, Walmart, NBA star Chris Paul, Tennessee Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk, Drake, and Jimmy Fallon’s The Tonight Show. When the fundraiser closed on September 15, Watt had raised in excess of $37 million dollars from over 200,000 donors.

In early September, Watt, his Texans teammates, and girlfriend Kealia Ohai, captain of the Houston Dash, hand-delivered ten semi trucks worth of donated supplies to victims of the storm. Now, the focus has turned to distributing the funds to the Houstonians who need it most. Our support is with J.J. Watt and all involved with the Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. We are Houston Strong!

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SILLY SHOE SMILES Author Lawson Gow Gets Goofy

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FINDING FUTURELAND Mayor Annise Parker On The Rebirth Of Urban Cores

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