SEXY ISSUE
Summer 2022
PLUS Real Estate: Calm After the Storm? H-Town’s Bubbles Bro Hamsa & Rice Village’s Resto Scene
HOUSTON, TX 2150 WESTHEIMER RD. | VALOBRAJEWELRY.COM
NEW ORLEANS, LA 333 ROYAL ST. | VALOBRA.NET
Dr. Paul Fortes Plastic Surgeon
“I combine my artistic vision with the latest technical advances to give my patients the results they deserve.” Dr. Fortes
16 6 GREETINGS 10 FEEDER / NEWS Champagne dreams, maverick mompreneurs, staycation ideas and more! 16 FEEDER / STYLE Go inside Houston’s hippest new boutique, and get busy with a punchy poolside trend. 20 FEEDER / MUSIC International breakout metal band Oceans of Slumber is touring its divergent new album now. 22 FEEDER / GIVING BACK Make-A-Wish grants its 10,000th wish. 28 FEEDER / PARTY PEOPLE 36 COVER STORY / WICKED GAMES Swimwear. Lingerie. A posh new hotel. The Sexy Issue takes New Orleans! 54 BOOK REPORTS / DINING Hamsa adds flavor to Rice Village. Plus: all the latest dining news, in small bites! 56 BOOK REPORTS / TRAVEL A new heart beats in Cabo. Plus: What’s new at La Cantera. 59 GUIDEBOOK PLUS! SUMMER REAL ESTATE REPORT Flip the issue over for facts, figures and the hottest homes on the market in Houston now!
On the Cover Model Luke Keogh in Versace, photographed by Jhane Hoang in the pool of New Orleans’ new Four Seasons
www.MyBeautifulBody.com 713.799.9999
945 McKinney Street, Suite 119, Houston, Texas 77002 832.514.3001 Phone | 832.514.3002 Fax FOR SALES INFORMATION sales@houstoncitybook.com TO CONTACT AN EDITOR evan@houstoncitybook.com
Dr. Abigail Rodriguez
Dr. Henry Mentz
Dr. Rolando Morales
Dr. Paul Fortes
Dr. Chris Patronella Dr. Germán Newall Dr. Kris� Hustak
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Greetings
LISA HOLTHOUSE Executive Publisher
WHEW. SUMMER 2022 is one for the books. For starters, it’s one for this book. The annual Sexy Issue of Houston CityBook. We did something unique this year and took the show on the road. We brag, and I think rightly so, that, among all the beautiful magazines in our competitive set, we are the most consistently and thoroughly committed to being Houston-exclusive. But we made an exception when Four Seasons New Orleans invited us to shoot our famously steamy fashion story on its grounds. New Orleans is not just generally considered Houston’s favorite regional playground; this particular property is very special to many Houstonians. Several friends have already visited the not-yet-year-old destination to celebrate special occasions and consider it one of their favorite hotels anywhere. And, for me personally, it holds particular meaning. As a child growing up in Louisiana, I
SUMMER IS SEXY! And thankfully, in full swing! No doubt in Houston, it’s sexy and hot (pun fully intended). It’s always fun to anticipate the summer issue for this reason: The photo shoot is often a little edgy and borderline provocative — at least for “formerly-edgy-turned-middleaged-conservative” me. Yes, there was a time I could be caught in those seductive little swimsuit numbers. Now it’s all about the cover-ups! Regardless, it’s always so fabulous to see what our team comes up with to entice you, to lure you into the flirtatious pages of this issue. I was excited to hear that we were invited to New Orleans for our photo shoot. NOLA has such close ties to Houston. It seems fitting that our first venture out of Houston for a photo shoot is to our sister city that we hold so dear to our hearts. And what better
remember visiting the top-floor observatory in the tower that has become the grand hotel. It was formerly the World Trade Center and open to tourists. Who’d have thought that that gawky Cajun boy would someday return to 2 Canal Street as a big city magazine editor? With hot swimwear models?! Ya boy has come a long way. The staff at the hotel was so generous and kind to our crew and me, and I can’t recommend Four Seasons highly enough. Fabulous food, bustling almost Euro-style energy, breezy subtropical glamour, and an ideal location near the Quarter! Summer of ’22 has also been one for the record books. It was 105 degrees day before yesterday, the hottest day in Houston since they started keeping track. Goodness. Fair warning: Perusing this annual Sexy Issue will only raise the temperature. Stay cool out there.
backdrop than a landmark tower on the banks of the Mississippi — the beautiful Four Seasons. Some of my favorite people in Houston are from NOLA, whom we were able to adopt after Katrina. New Orleans, and Four Seasons, we love you. I can’t lie. As I pen this letter, I am sitting in an equally sexy but less hot town in Colorado, grateful that summer is truly “back to normal” for the first time in three years. And every time I venture into town for a stroll, I see yet another Houstonian who has been able to sneak out of town and enjoy a summer vacation. People are all over the place having fun again. And as soon as we jump back into Houston after our travels, our sexy swimwear will be just what the doctor ordered to withstand the heat and enjoy our favorite city of Houston! With gratitude…
JEFF GREMILLION Editor-in-Chief
Discover The Reimagined La Colombe d’Or
AN ARTFUL ESCAPE Retreat from the energy of the city to our 32-room luxury hotel with over 400 pieces of original art. All at the doorsteps of Houston’s cultural landmarks.
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Summer 2022 STYLE, CULTURE, BUSINESS & MORE
Made in Shades RIVER OAKS DISTRICT is tackling the summer heat head-on: Boutiques in the upscale development tout must-have accessories like these flirty new sunglasses from LoveShackFancy; the just-opened Zimmerman storefront offers similarly feminine swimwear and cover-ups, plus irresistible silk habotai shorts that’ll take Houstonians all the way into fall. A bubbly bonus? Shoppers can chill out with free Champagne on Friday afternoons through Sept. 2. –evan w. black
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH
BOOKS
Journalists Lydia Schrandt and Biju Sukumaran have released Oldest Houston (Reedy Press, $21), a book outlining the area’s landmarks and businesses that have “stood the test of time.” The authors take readers through Houston’s oldest beer hall, barbecue joint and recording studio, examining the city’s culture and diversity through a unique lense.
Get Poppin’ Matthew Massey at Lees Den, one of many Houston restaurants pouring his 100-calorie-perserving Madame Zero Champagne, below.
MUSIC
White Oak Music Hall hosts tons of nostalgic bands making the rounds on their summer tours, including Third Eye Blind and Taking Back Sunday (July 29); The Shins (Aug. 1); Leon Bridges (Aug. 4); The Head and the Heart (Aug. 5); Franz Ferdinand (Aug. 5); and Slightly Stoopid (Aug. 20). whiteoakmusic hall.com
CULTURE
The Houston Shakespeare Festival returns to Miller Outdoor Theatre, July 28-Aug. 6, with performances of classics like King Lear, produced by UH.
10 | houstoncitybook.com
People
Bubbly personality
A
fter years of visiting Europe for international oil and gas biz roles, Houstonian Matthew Massey was inspired to learn more about the terroir styles of wine. He learned so much, in fact, that he came to own a Champagne house. Massey explored many of the 319 villages in Champagne, eventually selecting a maker in the Premier Cru village of Vertus, France, to join him in redefining the bubbly beverage. Committed to fitness and nutrition, the dashing 30-something wanted to create a modern brand that aligned with health trends. “I decided to include the nutritional information and calorie count right on the label,” he says. Madame Zero is the first Champagne house in the world to do so. It has zero of the bad stuff, but zero compromise in taste — just pure luxury, with aromatic notes of honey, fresh fig, and citrus and passionfruit on the palate with a crisp, elegant finish. Massey, who runs the business in France while based in Houston, wanted a “nonconformist style,” from the flavor to the bottle design and labeling. “This is not your grandma’s Champagne, but we invite her to drink it!”Madame Zero is poured at A’bouzy, Lees Den, Brasserie 19, Stella’s Wine Bar, Potente and MAD. –robin barr sussman, photo by phoebe rourke
SPIRIT OF BIG BANG HOUSTON BOUTIQUE Houston Galleria • 5085 Westheimer Road Tel. 281 768 3950
Vibrantly-coloured and patented red ceramic case. Self-winding chronograph movement. Limited to 250 pieces.
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH
ART
Fourteen large-scale gelatin silver prints by Samuel Fosso depict the artist as Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., and other icons from Black liberation movements. Samuel Fosso: African Spirits debuts at the Menil on Aug. 5 and runs through Jan. 15, 2023. menil.org
ART
The first solo exhibition of work by Maria A. Guzmán Capron, Forma Seductora, hangs at her alma mater, UH’s Blaffer Art Museum, beginning July 15. Her colorful, elaborate multimedia works depict figures in a quest for selfacceptance, a nod to her immigrant roots. blafferart museum.org
Duos
Hustle and Bustle
B
est friends and maverick mompreneuers Cassie Ghaffar and Sandy Nguyen are behind some of Houston’s most stylish new restaurants. Their Ordinary Concepts hospitality group is anything but — the portfolio touts Gin Braverman-designed fast-casual hangouts like Garden Oaks’ allday-café Sunday Press and the nearby Saigon
Hustle, both drive-throughs. The concepts were “strengthened by” the pandemic-induced to-go boom — and the duo isn’t stopping now. What’s next? A cookie biz called Crème dela Crumb, and the CBD skincare line Hello Good Sunday. “We’re just driven,” says Ghaffar. “The world’s a little crazy right now, but we’re trying to build some legacies for our kids.” –mellanie perez, photo by jhane hoang
Sips
That’s Tight!
PETS
The nation’s only wellness-focused dog-grooming facility has opened in Meyerland. Scenthound focuses on taking care of dogs’ skin, coat, ears, nails and teeth, and offers membership plans starting at $35 per month with no longterm commitments. A second location in River Oaks is on the way! scent hound.com
12 | houstoncitybook.com
The cofounders of Houston’s Yellow Rose Distilling and Austin’s Revolver Brewing have cracked open a cool new collab. Watertight Cocktail Co.’s agavesweetened canned cocktails are now available at Total Wine.
Real Estate
eastern promise
S
eptember brings the long-awaited debut of East River 9, a nine-hole golf course and driving range, and its accompanying Riverhouse restaurant along Buffalo Bayou east of Downtown. It’s the centerpiece of Midway Companies’ 150-acre East River project. The waterfront development touts apartment homes, office space, and restaurant and retail space, with high-profile tenants like Broham Fine Soul Food & Groceries from James Beard-nominated chef Jonny Rhodes. –ewb
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FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH Design
sew chic
ART
Wood, metal and glass combine in beautiful new works by Houston artist Robert L. Straight, all on view at Archway Gallery Aug. 6-Sept. 1. He uses welding, forging, casting and other techniques to create the pieces, which are displayed in groups of five, hence the exhibit title Phase Five. A reception featuring a chat with Straight takes place on Aug. 13 at 5pm.
INTERIOR DESIGNER JILL Egan has set up shop in Rice Village, which has in recent months also welcomed outposts of West Elm, CB2 and Cru Home. The former elementary-school math teacher’s eponymous space is a nice addition to the bunch, with a more spacious, gallerylike feel. Finds include pieces by Parisian artist Lauren Collin and exclusive textiles imported from Argentina. jilleganinteriors.com –ewb
MUSIC
The Houston Symphony has temporarily moved to the Hobby Center as a massive renovation is underway at Jones Hall. Hear music from Final Fantasy July 22-23; rapper and activist Common in concert with the Symphony July 29-30; and a special show celebrating 75 years of India’s independence (Aug. 6). houston symphony.org
MUSIC
Favorite summerconcert destination Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presents Train (July 21); Music of the Beatles (July 27); an Encanto singalong (July 28); Wiz Khalifa and Logic (Aug. 6); Incubus (Aug. 19); and Robert Earl Keen (Aug. 20). woodlandscenter.org
14 | houstoncitybook.com
Staycations
SEASONAL special
T
he newly transformed cabana rooms at the Four Seasons Hotel Downtown are an ideal staycation destination. Sliding glass doors open to a semi-private, covered patio overlooking the pool and deck, which will host plenty of parties this summer. The Stay and Play package is catered to locals, and comes with a $100 resort credit each night, plus two cocktails, a 3pm checkout, and overnight valet parking. –ewb
NUMBERS DON’T LIE. Proven. Positive. Powerful.
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HBJ RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE LUXURY AGENT 2022
$
450M
+
IN CAREER SALES
550
+
350
+
TRANSACTIONS
SELLERS
200 + 30
+
BUYERS
YEARS SERVING THE HOUSTON LUXURY MARKET
#
5
TOP AGENT AT MARTHA TURNER SOTHEY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY 2020
All data per MLS. © MMXX Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.
Kellie Geitner 713.213.2011 | Kellie.Geitner@sir.com K E L L I EG E I T N E R .C O M
FEEDER Style
Get Busy This summer, make a splash with bold, playful patterns, perfect for the pool and beyond. By Amanda Llanes
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1. Flora cutout swimsuit, $450, by PatBo. 2. Printed Lycra swimsuit, $623, by Valentino. 3. Bamboo melamine dinner plate, $8, by Sarah Campbell at Anthropologie. 4. Tumbler, $22, by Lente Basso at Neiman Marcus. 5. Disco dome float, $299, by Funboy. 6. Bulldog swimshorts, $345, by Orlebar Brown. 7. Bucket hat, $620, by Adidas x Gucci.
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FEEDER Style
Color Me Happy Casey Larkin Blond in her justopened Southampton boutique Mr. Larkin
Blond Ambition
C
Meet the Mrs. who created Mr. Larkin, a sustainably chic new boutique in Southampton. By Sam Byrd, Photo by Jenny Antill
asey Larkin Blond knows fashion: Her great-grandmother taught Victor Costa how to sew and was Houston’s go-to wedding dress designer; her mother created a private label for Neiman Marcus and Bloomindales. “I was a shop kid,” she says. “My life was always clothing, retail and buying. It was all around me.” Following the family trade, Blond graduated from Texas Tech’s tailoring program before enrolling at Otis College of Art and Design in California. Through an Otis exchange program, she traveled to and lived in Europe, where she worked for Dior, Joseph, and for a British archivist who assisted with couture pieces worn by icons like Audrey and Katherine Hepburn before returning to the States. Blond always knew she wanted to launch her own line, and eyed sustainable practices at different companies along the way. She started the Mr. Larkin womenswear label in 2008, using plants to make dyes, and burying older textiles that would decompose and refresh the soil. Her efforts caught the eye of fashion execs in Denmark. “I traveled to Copenhagen every three months to deliver seminars and meet with huge corporations in the industry,” she says. “We would go to dinners afterward, and I kept being seated next to Alan Blond.” They fell in love, and 18 | houstoncitybook.com
she became pregnant and moved to Scandinavia, pausing her career to build a family, which soon included a second child. Within a few years, Blond jumped back into business, opening a physical location of Mr. Larkin in Copenhagen in 2014. In 2020, she moved it to one of the city’s most prestigious thoroughfares. With her operations gaining steam, she decided to open a second store — this time in Houston, in her childhood neighborhood of Southampton. Conceptualized in partnership with her uncle, Kevin Antill, Mr. Larkin opened this spring. The space features pieces by various local artists in different ways; Blond, who splits time between Texas and Denmark, commissioned her aunt, mosaic artist Katy Antill, to create a statement mirror to function as the store’s focal point. An eclectic mix of luxury and independent labels fills the store, including Rachel Comey, Jesse Kamm and Sophie Buhai. Many are “run by women, and they’re just like me,” says Blond. “They’re moms. Some of their husbands might work for them. It’s cool to support other women who are doing what I’m doing and with the same ideas – small production and using beautiful materials. “It’s really easy to sell their clothes because it’s … an extension of myself.”
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RESIDENCES DELIVERING 2023
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FEEDER Music
OCEANS AWAY
Touring its new album now, Houston’s international breakout metal band Oceans of Slumber ‘makes our own sense.’ By Chris Becker, Photo by Jamie LaCombe
‘T
o feel the most fulfilled, I need to do what is right for me,” says Cammie Gilbert, vocalist of the critically acclaimed Houston prog-metal band Oceans of Slumber. “If I’m trying to make space for myself in a space that hasn’t provided for me before, I need to make sure I’m not just fitting into somebody’s preconceived mold of what it means for me to be there.” Gilbert’s statement of purpose is shared by her bandmates, who have just released Starlight and Ash, their most stylistically diverse album to date. Six years after Gilbert appeared on the cover of the premier issue of CityBook, the group is navigating a more inclusive postpandemic cultural landscape, in which norms regarding music, gender and skin color have become irrelevant. Its sound has evolved as well. “We’re increasingly not metal,” explains Gilbert, 34. “We’re in this kind of tricky place of needing to make our own scene.” Nevertheless, the first three singles from Starlight and Ash — including “The Lighthouse,” with its steel guitar fills and lyrics inspired by science-fiction writer Octavia E. Butler — have been rapturously received, with only an armchair metalhead or two griping about the band’s “softer” sound.
20 | houstoncitybook.com
Gilbert joined Oceans of Slumber before she and its drummer and founder Dobber Beverly fell in love, and their relationship has always provided a romantic dimension to their music. They tied the knot New Year’s Eve, in a ceremony beneath a bandshell Beverly constructed with the help of his father, whom he describes as his “biggest driving support” to be a musician. Beverly, 43, is also a devoted dad, with an 8-year-old daughter from a previous marriage. Despite the praise she’s received since debuting on Oceans of Slumber’s 2015 covers album, Blue, Gilbert says recording her vocals is the hardest part of being in a band. She chokes up when describing her anxiety in the studio. “It’s a mirror and a microscope when I’m in there.” “The f—ing president could come in and tell her she’s amazing, and it still wouldn’t mean anything,” says Beverly dryly, instantly transforming Gilbert’s sobs into laughter. As Oceans of Slumber prepares for a summer U.S. tour, with Semir Ozerkan on bass, Jessi Santos and Alexander Lucian on guitar, and new member Kris Grahn on keyboards, Gilbert and Beverly are ready to take Oceans of Slumber to “the next level” with no compromises. “We’re going to make music first and foremost,” says Gilbert. “And it falls where it does.”
A World of Love A NEW BODY OF WORK BY
MACKENZIE THORPE September 8 - 24, 2022 MEET THE ARTIST September 9 & 10 rsvp@offthewallgallery.com Scan for details
Stand By Me, 2022 Original pastel on archival paper, 32 x 30 inches
Calm Waters, 2020 Cast sculpture in bronze, 46 x 46 inches
M AIN GALLE RY 5015 Westheimer, Suite 2208 Houston TX 77056 713.871.0940 AT E LI E R O FF T HE WA L L The Galleria, Level One / Suite K102B 832.804.6923
offthewallgallery.com
FEEDER Giving Back
Sky’s the Limit Make-A-Wish has granted wishes to kids who want “to be a mermaid,” “to meet the Blue Angels,” “to go to Hawaii,” and “to be a U.S. soldier,” and also to William Miller, who wished to go offshore fishing in Florida.
Dreams Come True
Focused on bringing a bit of magic into the lives of critically ill children, Make-A-Wish is poised to grant its 10,000th wish this summer. By Zachary McKenzie
W
hen a child faces critical illness, there’s an absence of unadulterated joy, a hallmark of childhood. Through the MakeA-Wish foundation, sick kids get to be kids living out their wildest dreams. “Simple, beautiful and straightforward,” says Yara Elsayed Guest, the president and CEO of the organization’s Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana chapter, of its mission. “There’s no reason to add complexity.” The nonprofit is slated to grant its 10,000th wish this summer. “Each of those kids has a family, friends, schoolmates, medical teams, and communities linked to them,” explains Guest, who notes that a great majority of the children go on to thrive into adulthood. “You can see the impact of these wishes on so many people.” Take 18-year-old William Miller, who was diagnosed with leukemia at 14 and was granted his wish of going 22 | houstoncitybook.com
offshore fishing in the Florida Keys last year. “It was such a humbling experience,” says his dad, Jud, who traveled with his son and wife Patricia. “We couldn’t fully understand how much work went into the planning of our trip until we were there, and it was overwhelming to be a part of it. After almost three years of chemotherapy, it was the perfect ending to our cancer journey.” Guest, who joined the org around the onset of Covid, explains that traveling is one of the top requests. “We had our fair share of challenges easing out of the pandemic,” she explains, noting a current backlog of more than 900 wishes in the system. Despite the circumstances, Guest has promised to double the number of annual wishes by 2025.“People ask if our staff cry all the time, and we do,” she says, “but the vast majority of the tears we cry are tears of joy. We owe it to these kids, who fight in such amazing ways, to bring happiness, joy and confidence. That’s what keeps me going each day.”
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PROMOTED
INNOVATORS IN
MEDICINE
“FROM A VERY YOUNG AGE, I HAVE FELT THAT MY PURPOSE IN LIFE WAS TO BE A HEALER”
Lindsey Nguyen
Aesthetic-Wellness Specialist and Owner of Bare Beauty Spatique Tell us about your medical practice and your specialty. I am a licensed aesthetic-wellness specialist. Bare Beauty Spatique — an aesthetic-wellness boutique spa — was created on the principle that one need not connect with a place, but with an experience. Every one of our services offers a transcendent experience through the art of energy-focused human connection and wellness. Why did you choose to become a healthcare professional in this area? From a very young age, I have felt that my purpose in life was to be a healer. I always envisioned an experience that would make people feel transformed and to feel beautiful, not only physically, but emotionally and mentally—to create a holistically spiritual impression that transcends the physical. In what way have you been an innovator on the
cutting edge of your field? It really comes down to my approach. When my clientele leave my space, they do feel great about the services they received, yes; but they also leave feeling enlightened — like they learned something, whether it’s a practical approach to their own self-care or a spiritual revelation. When they enter my space they give the gift of themselves and allow themselves to be open and vulnerable, journeying through abstract self-reflection, experiencing transcendence to finally … emerge blissful. What’s the most rewarding part of your work? The trust my clients gift me. What do you hope your patients tell others about you? “Bare Beauty is a revelation!” Haha! But seriously, simply that people can feel completely at ease when they come to us — that they truly feel a human connection.
PROMOTED
INNOVATORS IN
MEDICINE
Dr. Vanessa Barrow Specialist in Regenerative and Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery of the Foot and Ankle
Why did you choose this area of medicine? I wanted to change the face and perception of the specialty. I wanted to make a difference by offering more options to patients that would allow them to live the lifestyle they wanted. In what way have you been an innovator? I am the only foot and ankle specialist in the Houston metro area offering both alternative customized Aesthetic and Regenerative options for patients with foot and ankle pain. Many times patients are never offered or even aware of these alternative options and are often told to give up their lifestyle of fitness or fashion. What is most rewarding about your work? Being able to see patients get back to doing what makes them happy and live the life they want again. I understand wanting to be active because I live that life as well, so treating my patients becomes more personal to me. What do you hope your patients tell others about you? I hope that patients continue to tell others that they have more options for living the life they want. To be active, pain free and live their best life again... Photography: Ashkan Roayee Makeup: Kristin Jones-Coyle of Perfect Pout Houston
“I UNDERSTAND WANTING TO BE ACTIVE BECAUSE I LIVE THAT LIFE AS WELL, SO TREATING MY PATIENTS BECOMES MORE PERSONAL TO ME.”
PROMOTED
INNOVATORS IN
MEDICINE
Left to Right: Megan Underwood, PA-C Dr. Karan Sra, M.D. Dr. Audra Clos, M.D.
Bayou City Dermatology
A Premier Dermatology Practice Providing Exemplary Care to Patients with Three Locations in Houston, Webster, and Cypress Why did you choose to become a healthcare professional in Houston? Not only is Houston one of the fastest growing cities, but it’s also home. Born and raised in Houston, I felt there was no better place to establish roots for Bayou City Dermatology, hence the inspiration for our practice name. Houston is full of culture, great food, friendly people, and let’s not forget — we can experience all four seasons in one week! In what way have you been an innovator on the cutting edge of your field? Dermatologists know that medical and cosmetic dermatology is always evolving, and we stay on top by providing customized and cuttingedge treatments for all skin conditions. There are several factors that set the physicians of Bayou City Dermatology apart, such as our informative newsletters offering skin care tips, monthly specials, and giveaways. Also, by offering convenient communication methods, we’ve made it simple for our patients to reach our team.
Patients can quickly send a text message requesting an appointment or asking about a prescription. What’s the most rewarding part of your work? We are able to develop long-lasting relationships with our patients. Skin and physical appearance can be personal topics for some people, and we appreciate our patients trusting us with their concerns to help improve their skin health. Skin health is important. Your skin is the body’s first defense against disease and infection, and it protects your internal organs from injuries. What do you hope your patients will tell others about you? Visiting your doctor can seem like a chore, but we know that our patient’s time is valuable. By improving our practice with convenient communication methods (text message and email), and offering same-day, nextday, and Saturday appointments, we hope they feel valued and confident with the care we provide.
“VISITING YOUR DOCTOR CAN SEEM LIKE A CHORE, BUT WE KNOW THAT OUR PATIENT’S TIME IS VALUABLE.”
PROMOTED
INNOVATORS IN
MEDICINE Marie Ekpema, PharmD
Owner, Summerwood Pharmacy and Compounding Trusted Community Resource and Innovative Pharmacist in Northeast Houston Tell us about what makes Summerwood Pharmacy & Compounding unique? We focus on empowering patients through education, working with providers to solve complex cases through the art and science of personalized medicine, and guiding patients on the proper combination of nutritional supplements with prescription medications and a variety of disease states. As the only member of the professional compounding centers of America in the area, Summerwood Pharmacy and Compounding offers patients and physicians unique solutions using state of the art equipment. The pharmacy also offers concierge pharmacy services to high-profile Houstonians backed with absolute privacy. Why did you choose to become a pharmacist? Because of an overwhelming desire to help people live happier and healthier lives. My grandfather’s healthy lifestyle further inspired me to help people in a more meaningful and holistic way. When I changed my focus to a more holistic and integrative approach to patient care, I realized that I could help patients better address their needs and this has been very rewarding! In what way are you an innovator? I empower patients with education. I am the only pharmacist in Lake Houston who regularly hosts educational events at the pharmacy, community centers, online, and at Lone Star College. This year, I also successfully launched “The Children’s Apothecary.” This is an innovative and interactive Summer Camp designed to spark children’s interest in STEM fields. During the camp, children not only make non-medicinal versions of compounded medications, but they learn about drug safety and the opioid epidemic, as well as the benefits of maintaining a healthy diet. As Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” My passion is to change the world by offering patients accurate and valuable health and wellness advice from a pharmacist they can trust.
“WE VALUE THE PRIVILEGE OF SERVING OUR COMMUNITY ON A DAILY BASIS.”
What’s the most rewarding part of your work? The problem-solving process. We have a saying that goes: “There is never a dull moment at Summerwood Pharmacy and Compounding.” On any given day, we may have a patient walk through the door with questions on how to safely do a detox while properly controlling their diabetes, a physician calling for compounding suggestions for a patient who experiences gastrointestinal distress on Metformin, or a veterinarian calling for suggestions on the perfect medication for a parrot who has an infection, and more. It is very humbling that so many patients and providers rely on our expertise, and we value the privilege of serving our community on a daily basis. What do you hope your patients tell others about about you? That they were empowered to sit at the decision-making table of their healthcare, and felt more educated about their health after visiting me. I also hope they tell others of my commitment to help patients feel supported, safe, and cared for in a very compassionate way.
FEEDER Party People
LEGEND HAS IT A who’s who of Houstonians — from the arts, big business, the media, philanthropy, pro sports and much more — came together to celebrate CityBook and Gittings Photography’s 2022 “Leaders & Legends” portrait series, presented in partnership with Residences at The Allen and Bentley Houston. The annual event was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid, so the VIP guests were thrilled to gather in person for the occasion, in Residences at The Allen’s sunny hospitality space, in the shadow of its rising hotel and condominium tower. Along with CityBook Executive Publisher Lisa Holthouse and Editor Jeff Gremillion, The Allen
Jim Crane and Lynn Wyatt
Aaron and Stefanie Lyons
Carolyn Farb and Danny Nguyen
Lisa Holthouse and Ray Childress Leisa Holland Nelson and Marilyn Oshman
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Franklin and Cindi Rose
Lucinda Loya and Felicia Stone
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FEEDER Party People developer Roberto Contreras, himself among the Leaders & Legends honored, welcomed guests with warm remarks. Many other honorees, all of whom were featured in the magazine’s mid-spring issue, were also on hand, including Astros owner Jim Crane, society doyenne Hallie Vanderhider, fundraising legend Carolyn Farb, popular locavore restaurateurs Benjy Levit and Aaron Lyons, noted gallerist Mimi Sperber-Wasserberg of Off the Wall and Marilyn Oshman, founder of the Orange Show organization and the Art Car Parade. Leaders & Legends is an annual portrait series that seeks to honor both icons of the city, responsible for its growth and prominence, as well as Houston’s current leaders, charting the path forward. Guests enjoyed fun, fabulous treats from Monarch Hospitality including lobster “corn dogs,” timber-smoked Wagyu carpaccio under glass, caviar “twinkies,” foie gras and cognac mousse served in little ice cream cones and adult Cosmopolitan popsicles. Father-and-son UH basketball coaches Kelvin and Kellen Sampson were also among the community luminaries featured in the 2022 “Leaders & Legends” collection.
China and Roberto Contreras IV
Vanessa Barrow
Roberto Contreras
Randy Hale, Michael Holthouse, Kim and Dan Moody
photos by jhane hoang
Hamilton Rowan and Mimi SperberWasserberg
Demola the Violinist and Bianca Bucaram
Connor Walsh and Chae Eun Yang
Properties Sold in First Half of 2022 0 Baywood 2725 Bluebonnet Ridge 16102 Bollard 2412 Branshill 1602 Brooktrail 1503 California 2420 Canter 4813 Caroline 2803 Clinton 1721 Edwards 2911 Ferndale 4415 Floyd 2234 Foreland 1735 French Village 5614 Garden Point 10218 Golden Meadow 4433 Jessamine Creek 13722 Lake Livingston 549 Lakeshore 2122 Lazybrook 201 Main 1119 Malone 102 Mayhaven 1706 McDuffie 13726 McKinney Creek 3614 Montrose
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1714 Northwood 5509 Pagewood 4226 Pebblegate 2633 Peckham 2700 Revere 358 Ripple Creek 1005 Shepherd 21506 Sierra Long 1327 Tulane 6013 Valley Forge 15606 Westward Lake
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PROPERTIES a place to f ind your home
FEEDER Party People
Arcy Munoz and Jonathan Marshall at ‘Latin Women’s’
Riley Devlin and Branson Packar at ‘Latin Women’s’ Hallie Vanderhider and Fady Armanious at ‘Symphony’
Aaron Bludorn and Cherif Mbodji at ‘Memorial Hermann’
Kamilah Todd and Eric Brueggeman at ‘Symphony’
Roland and Karen Garcia at ‘Hope Farms’
The busiest spring social season in years went out with a bang, including a handful of noteworthy bashes. The florals- and twinkling-chandeliers-bedecked backyard of Melissa Juneau’s pink-hued River Oaks home was the setting for an elegant dinner by Aaron Bludorn, benefitting Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital’s Fetal Center. The Houston Symphony raised more than $650,000 at its onstage wine dinner at Jones Hall; a lucky raffle winner took home 12 bottles of Wine Advocate 100-point wine. A two-in-one gala chaired by Cheryl Byington and Beth Wolff at the Med Center’s Intercontinental Hotel raised funds for Virtuosi of Houston, the city’s premier youth orchestra, and
Jay and Allie Fields at ‘Memorial Hermann’
photos by daniel ortiz, johnny than, priscilla dickson, jenny antil
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FEEDER Party People honored top docs C. Richard Stasney and James Versalovic. Chairs Vicky Dominguez and Patricia Garcia welcomed guests to the 20th anniversary edition of the Latin Women’s Initiative luncheon, marketplace and Tootsies fashion show event the Hilton Americas, which raised $400,000 for nonprofits dear to the Latin community. Other A-List luncheons included the Men of Distinction event at River Oaks Country, and the Hilton Post Oak lunch in support of the Menninger Clinic, chaired by Kathy Flanagan and Susan Sportsman. And, per her custom, the indomitable Gracie Cavnar and her Recipe for Success nonprofit hosted the annual “Delicious Alchemy” dinner on the grounds of the organization’s Hope Farms in Sunnyside, featuring an incredible multicourse meal by the city’s best chefs, often sourcing produce from the farm.
Gracie Cavnar at ‘Hope Farms’
Haylie Duff and Matt Rosenberg at ‘Symphony’
Susan Sportsman, Armando Colombo and Kathy Flannagan at ‘Menninger’
Susan and Denis DeBakey at ‘Virtuosi’
Ann and Jonathan Ayre at ‘Symphony’
Cheryl Byington, James Versalovic, Richard Stasney and Beth Wolff at ‘Virtuosi’
Tony Bradfield, Devinder Bhatia and Walter Aymen at ‘Men of Distinction’
PROMOTED
MEET
LAUREN VARNADO
L
auren Varnado is the Managing Partner of Michelman & Robinson, LLP’s Houston office, a member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation Practice Group, and an energy law powerhouse. She represents oil, gas and petrochemical clients in high stakes, “bet the company” lawsuits in state and federal courts nationwide. These include contract cases, fraud and tort actions, lawsuits alleging environmental contamination, international and domestic arbitrations between energy producers, class action royalty litigation, and market manipulation disputes related to trading in the energy and commodity markets. Beyond the courtroom, Lauren routinely advises private and public E&P companies about rights and obligations under upstream, midstream, power and LNG contracts; litigation avoidance and
risk mitigation; climate change litigation; and investments and contractual rights and obligations in renewable energy (solar and wind). Clients also frequently seek guidance from Lauren on matters concerning the acquisition and divestiture of oil & gas properties and midstream assets; oil & gas production and business operations; oil & gas leases; accounting obligations to interest owners; and royalty payment practices. Lauren prides herself on her "personal touch" approach—being in a room, one-on-one with fellow partners, associates, clients or prospects looking to hire counsel. A dynamo within her firm and the legal industry more broadly, Lauren is willing to bet on herself and take suitable risks. At the same time, she charts her own course, working with the best team possible at M&R on engaging matters that truly leverage her expertise.
Michelman & Robinson, LLP 717 Texas Ave. Suite 3125, T: 713-422-2121, F: 713-383-6151
Photography by Jhane Hoang Styling by Todd Ramos Art Direction by Patrick Magee Hair and Makeup by Edward Sanchez Styling Assistance by Aldyn Gremillion Shot on Location at Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans
Wicked Game. HOUSTON HAS A few favorite playgrounds — the Texas Hill Country, Aspen, Cabo. But none are more beloved than the sultry, always just a bit scandalous Big Easy, whose towering new Four Seasons has been described as a must-hit by H-Town’s travel-savviest. It’s the perfect place to stage CityBook’s annual Sexy Issue fashion shoot highlighting swimwear, lingerie and other racy little numbers right off the runway from Gucci, Versace and much more, oui? Carved from the historic mid-century skyscraper formerly home to World Trade Center New Orleans, the Four Seasons and Private Residences New Orleans underwent a $450 million renovation and has reopened where Canal Street meets Old Man River. Just steps from the French Quarter and across the way from the Harrah’s casino complex now being expanded and redeveloped by Caesar’s, the hotel is a sparkling, bustling showplace of marble columns and Dom Perignon toasts under a mammoth crystal-
dripping lobby chandelier — with a sleek cabana-happy pool deck overlooking the river and touting a delightful herbed frosé. Nobody’s had so much fun on the Mississippi since Huck Finn. Unique details abound, from the speakers pumping jazzy rock tunes underwater in the pool and the spa’s citrus-scented massage inspired by Sazerac cocktails, to the fabulous Miss River restaurant’s signature chicken that’s buttermilk-marinaded and fried whole. Miss River’s chef Alon Shaya, by the way, is only one of the James Beard-winning chefs under roof; Donald Link presents Chemin à la Mer on floor five, where you can nibble foie gras while watching paddle boats go by. But, then again, you may never leave your beautiful room, especially if you’re lucky enough to stay in the corner Presidential Suite, which has, among other well considered luxuries, a team shower of Carrera marble and lots of peekaboo glass. Now that’s sexy.
On Luke: Jeans, $189, by Seven for all Mankind at Neiman Marcus. On Marion: Negligée, $40, by Simone Perele at Neiman Marcus.
On Marion: Swimsuit, $330, by Maygel Coronel, and sunglasses, both at Tootsies. Opposite page, on Joao: Orange speedo, $19, by Aimpact on Amazon.
On Ally: One-piece swimsuit by Versace. Opposite page, on Marion and Joao: Custom swimwear by Cesar Galindo.
On Ally: Gown by Valentino with diamond necklaces, yellow-gold bangles and a rose gold ring, all at Valobra Master Jewelers. Opposite page: Suit, belt and jewelry, all by Chanel; Bella bralette, $125, by Else at Neiman Marcus.
On Joao: Swim trunks, $22, by Coofandy on Amazon. Opposite page, on Ally and Marion: Custom one-piece swimsuits by Cesar Galindo.
On Marion: Dress by Gucci with onyx and diamond earrings by Valobra Master Jewelers. Opposite page, on Luke: Three-piece suit by Gucci with diamond choker and studs by Valobra Master Jewelers.
On Marion: Custom lingerie by Cesar Galindo. Opposite page, on Ally: Custom swimwear by Cesar Galindo.
On Joao: Pants by Gucci Opposite page, on Marion: Dress by Gucci, black onyx earrings from Valobra Master Jewelers
Models: Joao Diniz, Luke Keogh, Ally Rosinsky and Marion Sealy
HOUSTON’S PREMIER WEDDING AND CORPORATE EVENT CENTER
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Eat. Drink. Travel. Live.
High Cotton
photo by jenn duncan
Fine-dining stalwart Tony’s is fluffing up its offerings this season, with new tasting menus, happy-hour deals, and an off-the-menu celebratory dessert: The Lady, pictured, is a soughtafter dinner companion, with sweeping hair of sweet cotton candy. See Latest Dish on page 54
Dining
LATEST DISH! HOUSTON’S BEST FOOD NEWS, IN SMALL BITES ...
Coming Up Roses Hamsa’s Basboosa Malabi cake and, above, grilled branzino
Tel Aviv Vibes
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With brightly modern flair, Hamsa bows. By Jeff Gremillion, photos by Kirsten Gilliam
When it’s hot, you crave lighter fare, served in a breezy environment. Nothing too rich but humming instead with bright flavors and healthfulness. So modern Hamsa in Rice Village, a lovely modern setup with a hip soundtrack of Tel Aviv pop, is right on time this summer. Emanating from the Israeli masterminds of Doris Metropolitan steakhouse and Badolina bakery, it joins an exciting foodie scene emerging in the neighborhood also home to year-old Gratify, the beloved and newly expanded Sweet Paris Creperie & Café and, coming soon, Navy Blue from Aaron Bludorn and wife Victoria Pappas. Lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine will find many of the gastronomic touchstones they expect on Hamsa chefs Sash Kurgan and Yotam Dolev’s compact menu — hummus, skewers — but with twists. Hummus, for example, may come Shakshukastyle, topped with an egg soft-poached in spicy tomato sauce. Or, then again, it may arrive piled with caramelized onions, pine nuts and cubes of roasted lamb. Other shareable starters include beef tartare with pomegranates, runny egg yolk and aioli — and the utterly guiltless cauliflower couscous with cranberries and almonds offered up on a plate lined with creamy, tangier-thanyogurt labneh. Mains include the most appealing chicken shawarma ever — chunks of juicy chicken thighs cooked in lamb fat, which you mix with pickled veggies and tahini and stuff into fluffy fresh-baked pita — and grilled branzino, which is butterflied, grilled till the skin is crispy and delicious, and served atop a snappy, sweetly herbaceous fennel salad. Desserts are beautiful, as in the pinkhued, architectural, lightly rosewater-infused Basboosa Malabi cake, and the grilled pear served in a cardamom-scented syrup made from its own cooking liquids.
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A long-vacant spot on Wash Ave is now El Venado (6502 Washington Ave.), an indoor-outdoor cantina with craft cocktails, a variety of tequilas and mezcals, and Mexican streetfood-inspired bites. Also on Washington, another tequila bar called Todos Santos (5317 Washington Ave.) has bowed in the 4,000-square-foot space previously home to Concrete Cowboy. The next brewery to touch down? Bad Astronaut Brewing Company opens this fall in Hardy Yards, from Karbach alums Chris Fall and Craig “Rocky” Keener. The taproom will offer four beers to start, plus arcade games and pool tables. 1519 Fulton St., bad astronautbeer.com Modern Vietnamese headlines the menu at Moon Rabbit, a colorful new Heights
Cheers! The Strawberry Sabor cocktail at El Venado and, below, Bad Astronaut’s Keener and Fall
café and bar. Expect five pho choices, plus vermicelli bowls, sandwiches, cool starters like beef carpaccio, and a Shaken Beef entree with a mouthwatering lime dipping sauce. 605 W. 19th St. Chef Kate McLean’s summer tasting menu at Tony’s touts ingredients like Umbrian black truffles and sea-urchin butter. And her tasty take on caviar service is $125 on Wednesdays. Three half-ounce servings of Sasanian Osetra caviar come with accoutrements like blinis, brioche and chopped egg yolk. 3755 Richmond Ave., tonyshouston.com Now open: Chris Shepherd’s Georgia James steakhouse, in its new Regent Square location just off Allen Parkway. 3503 W. Dallas St., georgia jamessteak.com
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Travel
GREAT ESCAPE San Antonio’s La Cantera resort is more enticing than ever. By Robin Barr Sussman
Cabo Cool Clockwise from top: The Beach Club at Corazón, sunset at the Club, and a filet at Aleta restaurant.
Racing Heart
A
Chic Corazón beats in Cabo. By Jeff Gremillion A sexy, architecturally modern resort has opened on the tip of the peninsula in Cabo, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific, with a perfect view of the famous Arch from the hot tubs on the terraces, just beyond roll-away glass walls in the guest rooms. There’s a bit of Mykonos in the air at Corazón — Spanish for “heart” — a labyrinthian affair with shimmering pools nestled into this corner or that, with a succession of sun-bleached staircases leading down to the sandy Medano. The beach club here is special, as the largest one in this part of Cabo, set upon the only swimmable white-sand beach around. Piña Coladas flow, and snacks include punchy salads of always seasonal tomatoes and peppers. A constant parade of jet skiers, parasailers, and boaters big and small keeps the bay waters churning. Corazón also boasts the only on-site brewery and brew pub in Cabo, and the only rooftop pool lounge with a 360-degree view of the sea, the city of Cabo San Lucas and the distant mountains. Rooftop 360, also the highest such bar, is popular with the party set, both guests and locals; raw oysters dolloped with caviar make for stellar pub grub, and after dark, the thumping music here echoes throughout the resort. Most nights, there’s a firework show somewhere on the horizon. Other dining options include the al fresco Aleta; Diego’s Salad — dense chunks of avocado and grilled salmon, shrimp and octopus in miso dressing — isn’t to be missed. And, for the morning after, hit The Office next door. At the little spot right on the beach, festooned with colorful streamers flapping overhead, you can wash down lobster omelets with passion fruit mimosas.
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LA CANTERA’S SPRAWLING setting — Texas-chic with design inspiration from west Texas’ iconic King Ranch and myriad amenities — attracts guests craving ‘me time,’ be it the spa, yoga classes, sound bowl meditation, winery excursions, golf, or enjoying the many luxury pools. It’s easy to pitch tent at the adults-only cabana-flocked infinity pool surrounded by San Antonio’s rolling hills. Fancy a glass of bubbly? The new Instagramworthy Veuve Clicquot cabana touts Champagne service with cool treats, and a few steps away, the poolside bar Topaz serves lunch. But the star player of the amenity lineup is the stunning 25,000-squarefoot Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness center decked out with a solarium, steam showers, a sauna, saline pool and private outdoor pool. It’s the first resort spa in Texas to offer the JetPeel “dermal infusion” facial, which uses pressurized oxygen to deliver customized serum into the skin to correct a range of issues. Also unique are the private Sky Loft open-air treatment rooms overlooking the hill country scenery — in high demand for guests looking to connect with nature. Its splurge-worthy 60-minute “Escape Together” package includes a foot sugar scrub ritual and body massage, plus options like a soak in your own outdoor wooden cowboy tub. Sunset at Topaz bar at the adults-only infinity pool
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Good enough to eat. SKIP STRAIGHT TO DESSERT THIS SUMMER WITH COLORFUL, CANDY-LIKE JEWELRY
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Milan’s Fashion Week set the tone for summer 2022’s most delicious and decadent looks. Playing with proportion and color, stylists dressed their models in bold, vibrant jewelry featuring oversized chains, raw gemstones, and intensely saturated colors. Bedazzled Y2K chokers wrapped around models’ necks, while chunky cuffs and oversized rainbow jewels continued the season’s unofficial theme of more is more. From the runway to Sunday Funday, these maximalist styles will leave you looking good enough to eat. 3747 WESTHEIMER @ WESLAYAN | 713.627.7787 DEUTSCHHOUSTON.COM
Focaccia di Mirtillo at Trattoria Sofia
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GuideBook Here’s where to dine, what to order, and who to know now in the most deliciously diverse city in America.
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DINING DISTRICT 1 MEMORIAL, GALLERIA AREA, RIVER OAKS, UPPER KIRBY, MONTROSE
51FIFTEEN american Located inside Saks Fifth Avenue in the Galleria, this two-story restaurant is a design dream, with an
oversize spiral staircase joining the first-floor coffee-and-wine bar to the second-floor dining room. The restaurant’s lunch and dinner plates are as pretty as the designer wares. 5175 Westheimer Rd., 713.623.6100 A’BOUZY american This sceney restaurant and patio combines a menu of shareable plates with prime meats and a raw bar. Pick from the substantial wine list that includes more than 250 Champagnes or sparklings. Excellent take-out and delivery specials! 2300 Westheimer Rd.,
UPDATE! ADAIR KITCHEN american
This Tanglewood gem is popular for its cold-pressed juices, big breakfasts and giant salads. Healthful homestyle meals are casual and quick, but regulars are known to settle in with a bottle of wine at dinnertime and stay awhile. New location opening soon in West U! 5161 San Felipe St., 713.623.6100 UPDATE! ALBA RISTORANTE italian When a European vacation is not in the immediate future, visit the newly rebranded Italian gem inside Hotel Granduca. The elegant
menu, executed by Maurizio Ferrarese, boasts Italian plates and a wine list for days. 1080 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.418.1104 AMALFI italian Charming Amalfi touts coastal Italian dishes like homemade fettuccine in creamy black-truffle sauce by Salerno native chef Giancarlo Ferrara. 6100 Westheimer Rd., 713.532.2201 BACKSTREET CAFÉ american Housed in a two-story 1930s home, Hugo Ortega’s Backstreet Café became a River Oaks staple 30 years ago. Expect a menu boasting
GuideBook
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an imaginative take on seasonal fare along with hefty vegetarian selections. 1103 S. Shepherd Dr., 713.521.2239 BCN TASTE & TRADITION spanish
Named after Barcelona’s airport code, BCN offers authentic Spanish cuisine in a white-tablecloth setting. The specialty gin and tonics are a must-have, as is the Spanish Iberico ham. 4210 Roseland St., 832.834.3411 BLUDORN american Aaron Bludorn and his wife Victoria Bludorn (née Pappas, of that Pappas family) deliver a Gulf-tinged New American menu and low-key fine-dining to Montrose. 807 Taft St., 713.999.0146 BRENNER’S ON THE BAYOU steakhouse Enjoy dinner with a view at this steakhouse nestled on the lush banks of Buffalo Bayou. Steaks, sides and decadent desserts are all good bets, and the restaurant’s hip Blue Bar offers a less formal — yet still sophisticated — vibe with craft cocktails. One Birdsall St., 713.868.4444
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CARACOL mexican/seafood Hugo Ortega’s seafood-savvy concept boasts Mexican coastal cuisine in a swanky, mod space on Post Oak. 2200 Post Oak Blvd., 713.622.9996 UPDATE! COMMON BOND bakery Enjoy gourmet coffee and buttery croissants as big as your face at this Montrose bakery and cafe. Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and post up with a lavender latte on the dog-friendly patio. Now with a sit-down restaurant in Downtown! 1706 Westheimer Rd., 713.529.3535 DA MARCO italian High-end Da Marco puts a luxurious spin on Tuscan cuisine with dishes like spaghetti-and-sea-urchin and sweet-corn ravioli with lobster. The elegant space is one often considered for special occasions. 1520 Westheimer Rd. NEW! DAILY GATHER american
This CityCentre spot is the latest under the Five 12 Restaurant Concepts brand, which also has Dish Society.
A nicely outfitted patio overlooks the complex’s green space. Shareable starters and well rounded entrees make up the hefty but not overwhelming lunch and dinner menus; weekend brunch is fun! In CityCentre, dailygather.com UPDATE! DISH SOCIETY american
Fast-casual diner Dish Society is known for its relationships with local purveyors. From fresh juices to the customizable farmer’s plate, diners love the revolving menu of clean eats. 5740 San Felipe St., 832.538.1060 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details DORIS METROPOLITAN steakhouse
This glam steakhouse is inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. Hot tip: The breadbasket alone may be worth the trip, with rolls flavored with caramelized onions and presented with crushed-tomato spreads and herb butters. 2815 S. Shepherd Dr. EL TIEMPO tex-mex El Tiempo — now open in Kingwood and The Woodlands — delivers Tex-Mex in a big way with platters like the anchoglazed grilled quail with cheese enchiladas and spicy shrimp chalupas. 322 Westheimer Rd, 713.807.8101 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details ELOISE NICHOLS southern Regulars post up at this Highland Village restaurant where hearty plates like the maple-brined grilled pork chop are offered alongside craft cocktails and wine.
Breakfast is served on weekday mornings and happy hour is offered daily. 2400 Mid Lane, Ste. 100, 713.554.0136 FADI’S mediterranean Founded nearly 25 years ago by Lebanese immigrants, Fadi’s is the city’s go-to for Middle Eastern, with a big menu of wraps, kebabs, delicious family-recipe hummus, fresh breads and much more. 6365 Westheimer Rd., 713.532.0666 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details FLEMING’S steakhouse Situated at the corner of West Alabama and Kirby, this River Oaks steakhouse is beloved for its happening happy hour and impeccable service. 2405 W. Alabama St., 713.520.5959 FLOWER CHILD vegetarian Wash down a scratch-made vegan wrap — the Thai Dye has spicy tofu and daikon radish — with flavored lemonade or organic wine or beer at this healthy resto. New location just opened in the Heights! In Uptown Park, 713.730.4261 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details GROTTO RISTORANTE italian
Find sophisticated takes on Italian classics like Veal San Pietro. A festive Sunday brunch brings French toast with Grand Marnier batter and frozen peach Bellinis. 4715 Westheimer Rd., 713.622.3663 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details HUGO’S mexican Chef Hugo Ortega’s namesake restaurant is a Houston staple, serving up authentic Mexican cuisine with margaritas
GuideBook
to match. Guests love the festive weekend brunch buffet where indulging in seconds — even thirds! — is a must. 1600 Westheimer Rd., 713.524.7744 KATA ROBATA japanese Discreetly situated in a retail center, this top-notch sushi bar serves up fresh, innovative Japanese dishes daily under the direction of executive chef Manabu Horiuchi. 3600 Kirby Dr., 713.526.8858 KILLEN’S southern Ronnie Killen’s first innerLoop endeavor is now open in the former Hickory Hollow space. At Killen’s, expect mouthwatering comfort-food fare like fried chicken and fried green tomatoes with buttermilk sauce, and an ever-comforting chicken-anddumplings dish. 101 Heights Blvd., 713.637.4664 LA GRIGLIA italian From caprese salad to wild mushroom lasagna, the menu at La Griglia is simple, but elegant. When Houston weather permits, enjoy the patio, complete with fire pits and scenic River Oaks views. 2002 W. Gray St., 713.526.4700 LE COLONIAL french/ vietnamese
French-Vietnamese cuisine is presented in a posh space in River Oaks District. Dishes like the crispy whole duck — which serves up to four people and must be ordered in advance — are authentic and full-flavored. 4444 Westheimer Rd., 713.629.4444 LIBERTY KITCHEN american A fab brunch destination with locations in River Oaks and Memorial City, Liberty Kitchen touts over-the-top, seafood-savvy comfort food. Live music in Memorial City
on weekends! 4224 San Felipe St., libertykitchen oysterette.com multiple locations visit restaurant website for details MAD spanish Everything at this BCN sister concept — from the mirror-lined hall to the bathroom and the cartoonlike, cheese-stuffed shiny red MAD Tomato — is photo-worthy. Reservations highly recommended. 4444 Westheimer Rd., 281.888.2770 MALA SICHUAN chinese This longtime Chinatown favorite is equally popular inside the Loop. Mala’s menu packs a punch with dishes like the dry-pot chicken and three-pepper duck. 1201 Westheimer Rd., 832.767.0911 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details MARCH mediterranean An exclusive and pricey tasting-menu-only affair, March lives up to the hype. Posh snacks in the lounge include bite-size vehicles for caviar and foie gras; the main event is six or nine courses of highly refined, Mediterranean-inspired dishes by chef-owner Felipe Riccio. 1624 Westheimer Rd., marchrestaurant.com MASTRO’S steakhouse At more-is-more Mastro’s, Vegas comes to Houston, with everything but showgirls and roulette wheels. Try something out of the steakhouse box, like the Wagyu hamburger helper. 1650 W. Loop S., 713.993.2500 MERUS GRILL american Uptown Park’s newly enhanced dining scene includes industrial-glam Merus Grill, from the folks at J. Alexander’s. The menu touts
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beautifully prepared, classic American dishes — fresh seafood, burgers, piled-high salads. 1180 Uptown Park Blvd., 346.299.5775 NOBU sushi At socialite-savvy Nobu, hyperinformed waiters float around, delivering bite-sized delicacies on geometric white plates to tables. Unique takes on sushi include ones with pickled cucumbers, Shiso leaf and Japanese mackerel. In the Galleria, 832.987.2599 NORTH ITALIA italian Stop in to this hip Uptown Italian restaurant for happy hour on weekday evenings and all day on Sundays to enjoy the $20 special: a choice of a pizza, bruschetta, or meat-and-cheese board, with a bottle of wine. In BLVD Place, 281.605.4030 OSTIA mediterranean Ostia is an indoor-outdoor oasis for farm-to-table Italian and Mediterranean eats. The terracotta-and-stuccobedecked patio feels worlds away from Houston, and is a nice place to post up and enjoy a cocktail. 2050 Dunlavy St., ostiahou.com OUISIE’S TABLE southern This River Oaks institution serving Southern standards — shrimp and cheese grits, New Orleans red snapper, chicken and waffles at brunch! — is charming. With a beautiful patio and private rooms, it’s a popular locale for showers, receptions and more, too. 3939 San Felipe St., 713.528.2264 OUZO BAY mediterranean This Greek spot in River Oaks District, known for its eye-catching seafood displays and simply delicious wholefish presentation, is next door to the whiskey-centric Loch
Bar. 4444 Westheimer Rd., 832.430.6610 PAPPAS BROS. STEAKHOUSE steakhouse Given its expansive wine list and in-house dry-aging process, diners can expect nothing short of perfection when dining at family-owned Pappas Bros. Steakhouse. 5839 Westheimer Rd., 713.780.7352 PEPPER TWINS chinese Don’t take the “pepper” in foodie fave Pepper Twins lightly. The dishes at this Szechuan-style restaurant incorporate serious spices like the fresh nine-leaf peppercorn, helping customers to feel the burn. 315 Fairview St., 832.649.7175 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details RAGIN’ CAJUN cajun Crawfish season is here! There’s no better spot to get the fixins for a backyard boil than the original Ragin’ Cajun on Richmond. 4302 Richmond Ave., 713.623.6321 NEW! REIKINA asian fusion This Euro-Asian tastingmenu-only restaurant, open Thursdays-Saturdays, has an art gallery featuring large-format paintings by Houston artists. There’s only one seating each night. In CityCentre, reikina.xyz RELISH american Quick counter service is offered for lunch and brunch at this café run by a husband and wife team, while evenings are reserved for a full-service dining experience. 2810 Westheimer Rd., 713.599.1960 RIEL american Riel offers an American
menu inspired by local color and chef Ryan Lachaine’s Ukrainian heritage; the Montreal smoked meat is splashed with French’s mustard. 1927 Fairview St., 832.831.9109 STATE OF GRACE southern Grab a seat at the oyster bar during happy hour for $1 oysters at chef Ford Fry’s River Oaks restaurant. The new weekend brunch touts mouthwatering cinnamon rolls and batch cocktails — even to-go! 3258 Westheimer Rd., 832.942.5080 STEAK 48 steakhouse A steakhouse standout delivers in its rich side dishes — the Hasselback potatoes are excellent — and desserts. Crowds of pretty people pour in early and stay late, so reservations are recommended. In River Oaks District, 713.322.7448 TONIGHT & TOMORROW
and Mexico. Book the private wine room for a special occasion and pick your own playlist! 111 N. Post Oak Ln., 713.680.2626 UCHI japanese It’s hard to beat Uchi for fresh, interesting sushi and sashimi — and the Brussels sprouts are can’tmiss. 904 Westheimer Rd., 713.522.4808 WILLIE G’S seafood The new Willie G’s, steps from Tilman Fertitta’s new Post Oak Hotel, is glam and modern. Enjoy the rotating selection of fresh fish, and the Mexican-street-corn- topped seared scallops. 1640 W. Loop S., 713.840.7190
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Storied Montrose hotel La Colombe d’Or has reopened after years of restoration, and its restaurant was worth the wait. Expect eclectic but sophisticated European dishes with Southern touches. A new cocktail list touts ones named after works in the hotel’s sculpture garden! 3410 Montrose Blvd., 713.517.1001 TONY’S italian A cherished part of the Houston dining scene, Tony Vallone’s namesake restaurant is an exquisite treat from start to finish. 3755 Richmond Ave., 713.622.67788 TRIBUTE southern At this restaurant in the Houstonian hotel, savor unique fare that blends the flavors of Texas, Louisiana
DINING DISTRICT 2 GARDEN OAKS, THE HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON CORRIDOR
BB’S CAFE southern Get your Cajun-food fix at BB’s: From Maw Maw’s gumbo to a platter of fried catfish, find New Orleansstyle cooking with a Texas twist. 2701 White Oak Dr., 713.868.8000 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details B&B BUTCHERS steakhouse Venture in for the deepfried A5 Wagyu katsu sando, or similarly stacked deli sandwich in the adjoining butcher shop, at
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this boutique steakhouse. A rooftop terrace makes B&B a premiere Sunday brunch destination. 1814 Washington Ave., 713.862.18144 B.B. LEMON american Ben Berg has combined the best of his two favorite cities, Houston and New York, at his concept located across from his flagship B&B Butchers. Expect flavorful plates like bluecrab beignets, craft cocktails and retro-inspired desserts. 1809 Washington Ave., 713.554.1809 COLTIVARE italian With its “no-reservation” policy, the restaurant’s onsite garden — where many of the herbs and produce for the Italian dishes are grown — doubles as a charming waiting area. 3320 White Oak Dr., 713.637.4095 FIELD & TIDES american This Heights restaurant in an old 1940s gas station may seem unassuming, but the food is incredible. Try the braised octopus with chorizo and chimichurri, or the colorful soba noodle salad. 705 E. 11th St., 713.861.6143 FEDERAL GRILL american An open kitchen and sensationally stocked whiskey bar make this upscale-casual restaurant a fun destination for a spontaneous night out. Now open in Memorial, Katy and The Woodlands! 510 Shepherd Dr. multiple locations visit restaurant website for details NEW! LORO fusion In a former church on 11th Street, Loro melds the flavors of Southeast Asian and Texasbarbecue cuisines, courtesy of Austin-based Tyson Cole
(of Uchi fame) and Aaron Franklin, the nationally acclaimed pitmaster who operates the cult-followed Franklin Barbecue. Like the original on Austin’s South Lamar, Houston’s Loro touts an elevated-country-dancehall vibe courtesy of architectdesigner Michael Hsu. 1001 W. 11th St., loroeats.com MAX’S WINE DIVE southern Here, keeping it classy means pairing fried chicken with a glass of Champagne. Max’s is hardly a dive, with a serious wine list and hearty Southern plates. 4720 Washington Ave., 713.880.8737; maxswinedive.com NEW! NOPO CAFE american An all-day café from Ben Berg, NoPo offers a menu of classics like a piled-high club sandwich, pizzas and more. In the front, find unique local provisions, premade meals and freshly baked pastries, available to grab to-go or enjoy amidst the rusticFrench-country environs. New happy-hour specials and cocktail list! 1244 N. Post Oak Rd., nopocafe.com POSTINO italian Rosé — and everything else — all day! This patio spot in Heights Mercantile is always packed, especially during the bottle-and-board special, available after 8pm on Mondays and Tuesdays. Now open in Uptown Park! 642 Yale St., 346.223.1111 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details RAINBOW LODGE steakhouse
True to its name, Rainbow Lodge provides steakhouse and wild game fare in a rustic lodge setting. Outdoor seating on the newly expanded wine deck is coveted. 2011 Ella Blvd., 713.861.8666
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REVIVAL MARKET american Part grocery store, part coffee shop, part sidewalk café, Revival Market is your onestop shop for a midday treat. Try the hot chicken honey butter biscuit and stock up on meat and charcuterie for the week. 550 Heights Blvd., 713.880.8463 TRATTORIA SOFIA italian A new Italian-American spot from Berg Hospitality looks like a trattoria you might stumble upon in rural Italy, with enchanting and spacious indoor and outdoor garden seating. 911 W. 11th St., trattoriasofia.com
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Sunday brunch in the courtyard. The turtle soup with sherry is famous, as are the pralines. 3300 Smith St., 713.522.9711 INDIANOLA american This retro-chic diner reopened after Covid with a new focus on Gulf cuisine. On the simple menu, find not only superb seafood, but lots of plates with influence from Mexico and ones utilizing local beef and pork. Now serving brunch! 1201 St. Emanuel St., 832.582.7202 THE NASH american With a globally inspired menu of shareable seasonal items, plus plenty of hearty steaks and chops, The Nash occupies the ground floor of the historic Star building. Guests can expect to be enticed by pies like the Pizza Bianco with truffled honey! 1111 Rusk St., 713.222.6274 NINFA’S ON NAVIGATION
DINING DISTRICT 3 MIDTOWN, DOWNTOWN, EADO, THIRD WARD, FIFTH WARD
THE BREAKFAST KLUB southern
Enjoy a feast of homestyle classics — wings and waffles, catfish and grits — at this no-frills Midtown diner. The line starts forming bright and early, but being part of the “klub” is worth the wait. 3711 Travis St., 713.528.8561 BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON southern Count on this decadesold Houston staple for an exquisite dining experience full of Southern-Creole flavors. Seating spans two levels and guests love
tex-mex
The origin of Tex-Mex as we know it, Ninfa’s is always packed no matter when you dine. Guests love the sizzling fajitas and loaded quesadillas. For something different, try the grilled octopus. 2704 Navigation Blvd., 713.228.1175 THE PALM steakhouse Houston’s 43-year-old location of The Palm steakhouse has relocated from the Galleria to Downtown’s mixed-use GreenStreet development. 1201 Fannin St., thepalm.com POTENTE italian Top-tier chef Danny Trace and Astros-owner-turnedrestaurateur Jim Crane
hit a haute homerun at this elegant eatery by the ballpark. Opt for tableside truffle service on handmade spaghetti al tartufo, and save room for intricate desserts. 1515 Texas Ave., 713.237.1515 STREET TO KITCHEN thai Chef-owner Benchawan Painter finally has a permanent home for her Street to Kitchen pop-up concept. The East End restaurant spotlights elevated Thai street foods. 6501 Harrisburg Blvd., 713.428.1975 TOUT SUITE bakery/coffee Stop by this all-day-bakery for a macaron or cupcake, or post up for a while at a community table and enjoy bites like avocado toast and fresh-squeezed juice. There are also CBD-infused pastries, chocolates and more! 2001 Commerce St., 713.227.8688 WEIGHTS + MEASURES
bakery/american
Glass walls at this industrialchic bakery and restaurant allow guests to witness the pastry-making magic up close. 2808 Caroline St., 713.654.1970
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DINING DISTRICT 4 BELLAIRE, WEST UNIVERSITY, MUSEUM DISTRICT, MED CENTER
NEW! AGNES mediterranean Café-grocery-store hybrid
concept Agnes offers indooroutdoor, counter-servicestyle, Mediterranean-tinged breakfast and lunch, and sitdown dinner. A retail portion includes grab-and-go food, baked goods, gifts and more. 2132 Bissonnet St., agneshtx.com UPDATE! BADOLINA bakery From the owners of Doris Metropolitan, this unique bakery offers the classics and standbys, plus unique and artful desserts. Tip: Get there early, as items often sell-out before noon! Next door, the sit-down Hamsa just opened. 5555 Morningside Dr., badolina bakery.com CARRABBA’S italian One of two locations which are still familyowned by Houston’s famed Carrabba family, the original Carrabba’s on Kirby serves made-from-scratch Italian fare — from pizzas fresh out of the wood-fired oven to housemade cheeses and pastas. 3115 Kirby Dr., 713.522.3131 COPPA OSTERIA italian All of the Neapolitan-style pizzas and handmade pastas are popular at this Rice Village winner. While the restaurant and wraparound patio are bustling with activity, it is the walk-up pizza window that is truly a hit in the largely pedestrian-friendly area. 5210 Morningside Dr., 713.522.3535 GRATIFY american Billed by owner Grant Cooper rather understatedly as a “neighborhood bistro,” Gratify is a see-and-be scene, with a creatively curated and highly shareable menu. The most memorable and delicious dish? It might be the charred octopus with
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Mushroom Ceviche at Musaafer Owner Nicholas Bagwell and family
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Nicholas Bagwell, owner 832.992.3631 radiantpoolstx.com charred sweet potato. 5212 Morningside Dr., gratifhouston.com LE JARDINIER fine dining The fine-dining French resto inside the MFAH’s new Kinder Building is, itself, a work of art — both in its decor and its food presentation. Adjacent to the more casual Italian spot Cafe Leonelli, Le Jardinier serves food celebrating French culinary technique and inspired by seasonal veggies. 5500 Main St. LOCAL FOODS american This fast-casual diner has a guilt-free menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and sides, all made fresh using locally sourced ingredients. The Rice Village location has a market! 2424 Dunstan Rd., 713.521.7800 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details
LUCILLE’S southern Named after his greatgrandmother, Chris Williams brings the comforts of down-home Southern cooking to the table at Lucille’s. Go for the crab cake beignets or oxtails and grits, and adding on the piping-hot pan of corn bread is a must. 5512 La Branch St., 713.568.2505, lucilleshouston.com TINY BOXWOOD’S american
Expect a line at this popular garden-set getaway, where the chocolate-chip cookies have earned as much of a reputation as the restaurant itself. Snag some, along with housemade ice cream, at the next-door Milk & Cookies booth. 3636 Rice Blvd., tinyboxwoods.com multiple locations visit restaurant website for details
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A residence at Bluejack National
SUMMER REAL ESTATE REPORT
NUMBER CRUNCH
$
2,239
The average rent for a single-family home in May — an all-time high. The number of properties rented increased by 25 percent over May 2021, and listings were active for an average of three weeks.
TRENDS
Get Your Fix
HOT ’HOOD
NORTH STARS For the second year in a row, the family-friendly, outdoorsoriented, master-planned community of The Woodlands snagged the top spot on Niche.com’s list of “Best Cities to Live in America.” It was also named the second-best place to buy a house based on current trends. With home prices up around 16 percent so far this year compared to last, and the average days-on-market figure cut in half, to 15, The Woodlands is certainly a hot market. Neighboring areas, such as Bluejack National, have noticed an uptick in interest over the last couple of years, too. “What used to be very remote is becoming less remote,” says the resort-style community’s Josh Governale. “The opening of Highway 249 truly reduced travel time.”
After years of most buyers desiring turnkey and new-build homes, and in spite of supply-chain bottlenecks, fixer-uppers are now in greater demand. “One thing I’m starting to see more of is buyers not being afraid to do some work or update a house,” says Jeremy Fain of Greenwood King. “With how competitive the market has been, some buyers ... are willing to put their personal touch on a home to make it their own.”
HOT ’HOOD
Garden Party
A characterfilled bathroom at 524 W. 32nd Street
Home prices in the Heights have, unsurprisingly, continued to increase, up around 10 percent for the first half of this year compared to last, and last an average of 16 days on the market. The overall supply, however, has remained somewhat stable. Such is not the case for neighboring district Garden Oaks, where a dwindling supply means prices are soaring: The average home sold in the first half of this year went for $809K, a 17.6 percent increased compared to the same timeframe of 2021. Buyers here get a similar charm to that of the Heights, but more square footage for the price tag, as in a nearly 4,000-square-foot Craftsman-inspired place on W. 32nd St., sold by Bill Baldwin after just one day on the market for around $1.5 mil.
XX | houstoncitybook.com
LOCK & LEAVE LIFESTYLE
Samuel Aaron Katz In-house Sales Director at Residences at The Allen 832-784-8355 sam@residencesattheallen.com
The Allen Development - Residences Delivering 2023
SUMMER REAL ESTATE REPORT
NUMBER CRUNCH
1
Houston’s ranking on Penske Truck Rental’s list of moving destinations in 2021, up from No. 6 in 2020. Texas has four of the reigning top 10 destinations.
LISTED
Hunters Paradise The Lodge in Hunters Creek is currently the most expensive off-market listing in Texas, up for private sale via Icon Global. The $60 million moated complex is situated on a nine-acre swath of land straddling Buffalo Bayou and Houston Country Club, and has a 22,000-square-foot mansion and a 3,500-square-foot guest house — plus a massive garage, pool, cabana and more amenities to be seen on an invitation-only basis. “I expect to show it less than a half dozen times,” says Icon Global owner Bernard Uechtritz of the secluded property, which can’t be viewed on HAR and has very few photos available to protect the owners’ privacy.
TREND
THE HIGH LIFE As high-rise offerings in Houston continue to increase, along with the walkability built in to new developments, many are taking an opportunity to “right-size” their homes. According to Acho Azuike of DC Partners, which is nearing completion of its hotelcondo project across Allen Parkway from Buffalo Bayou, empty nesters want to nix the upkeep required by their big Memorial and River Oaks homes, but maintain the luxury quality. “They want to be in the city, be somewhere with amenities,” he explains, noting that the safety and security provided by high-rises like Residences at The Allen, above, is also a big part of the appeal. “Residents can live like they’re on vacation, with room service, a house account and a bartender who knows them by name.”
NUMBER CRUNCH
100.9%
The average sale-to-list ratio for single-family homes sold in May, per HAR, meaning most buyers paid more than list price for their home.
The Lodge in Hunters Creek
SUMMER REAL ESTATE REPORT
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5.63%
Average rate on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage as of July 7. This number was 2.87 percent just one year ago.
HOT ’HOOD
‘Village’ People A quaint outer-Loop pocket located at the Beltway and 290, Jersey Village has enjoyed quite the boom over the past year, with home prices up 25 percent, to $366K, compared to one year ago. This year, homes here have sold in an average of 13 days, and the number of transactions taking place Jan.-June 2022 is up by 60 percent compared to the same timeframe in 2021. Hip and family-friendly businesses — like Senate Avenue Brewing Company — are opening in Jersey Village, adding to the existing appeal of its easy-access location and still modest home prices.
7342 Palmetto Springs Dr. in Katy sold for over $2.2 mil the same day it hit the market earlier this year.
HOT ’HOOD
The pool view at 15906 Tahoe Dr., a nearly 6,000-squarefoot home under contract for $1.25 mil at press time
SUBURBAN BLISS The California-to-Texas pipeline just got a little wider: Chevron has offered to pay its San Ramon-based employees to relocate to Houston. Those selling in Cali and buying in H-Town are surprised at what money can buy in terms of home size and amenities, specifically in suburbs like Katy, where prices have shot up an average of 21 percent across all four market areas. Houses are selling especially fast in the Katy Southeast district, which includes Cinco Ranch. The supply can’t quite keep up with demand, as inventory sunk to 0.5 months in May — meaning it would only take about two weeks to sell every home on the market if things continued at the current pace.
NUMBER CRUNCH
4.9 billion
The total cost in dollars of all properties sold in May, up 12 percent from May 2021.
SUMMER REAL ESTATE REPORT
TRENDS
Time to Buy? According to a survey conducted by HAR, 71 percent of consumers think that now is a “bad time” to buy a home. “The number-one question I get these days is, ‘Should I buy now?’” says Rose Spice of Nan and Company Properties, who has a dual license as a residential loan officer and realtor. Would you be moving closer to your place of work, and saving on gas, she asks? Are you moving out of an apartment that just spiked your rent? Are you cashing out on an existing home that has also appreciated to move to your dream home? “It has to make sense for you.”
GJ Tavern, in the base of Downtown’s luxury apartment building Market Square Tower
TRENDS
RENT ASCENT
Nan and Company lists this new-construction Afton Oaks manse for $2 million.
LISTED
If it feels like the boom of new apartment buildings is neverending ... that’s sort of the case. There are currently 15,000 units under construction, and another 34,000 in the pipeline; more than 22,000 have opened in the past 12 months. As of June, the average monthly rent in Houston is $1,233, according to ApartmentData.com, up 15 percent compared to just one year ago. Even still, the site reports an average occupancy rate of 91.4 percent across all subsets of the market, from newly built, amenity-filled Class A apartments to ones older than 40 years and in need of repair, or Class D.
‘Stable’ Market A sprawling home in the exclusive enclave of Stablewood is among the most expensive homes sold in Houston this year. Literally made for entertaining, the 20,000-squarefoot property at 8843 Harness Creek Ln. has a two-story ballroom, a closet for china and silver, and, surprisingly, just four bedrooms. Listed for $13.9 mil, it sold in less than three months for just under $10 mil. The lavish formal dining room of 8843 Harness Creek Ln.
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$ 272,381
The average sale price of a townhome in May, an all-time high. Inventory was down from 2.4 months last year to just 1.4 months.
Why Choose a Nan Realtor?
@rosespice
I’m a part of a dedicated marketing team. I believe in relationships based on trust and confidence. I’m local to the Houston area and understand the real estate market. I’ll use the latest technologies and strategies to help you find a home, not just a house.
Nan and Company Properties is the industry leader in servicing the Houston real estate market as well as foreign national clientele. As Houston’s exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, our technology-driven real estate company also specializes in luxury residences. I promise to provide excellent customer service to clients buying, selling or leasing properties. Your trust is valuable to me, so if you have thought about selling or know a friend who does, I can help sell your new home quickly!
Rose Spice
REALTOR ASSOCIATE
C: 832.928.3121 E: rose.spice@nanproperties.com nanproperties.com
SUMMER REAL ESTATE REPORT
Walter Bering has listed 3940 Inverness Dr., which backs up to Buffalo Bayou, for $8.9 million
HOT ’HOOD
Two Good! Sometimes no news is good news, as in the case of markets like Montrose and Museum District, where pricing remains relatively flat and the market is comparably balanced. HAR reports that so far in 2022, average home prices in both neighborhoods have increased by 3.9 percent over the same timeframe last year, to $761K and $1.06 mil, respectively. Houses in both ’hoods tend to last just 30 days on the market, and the number of transactions in both areas are on pace with 2021, too. Montrose remains desirable for its proximity to restaurants and nightlife, such as Traveler’s Table.
HOT ’HOOD
LISTED
TOWERING OAKS During the pandemic, many who could afford it actually increased the square footage of their homes, ensuring a more desirable setting for social distancing. Neighborhoods like River Oaks saw lots of families upgrading their quarantining quarters, which contributed to a brief boom. So far in 2022, there have been nearly 30 percent fewer transactions compared to the first half of 2021, though homes are also selling 30 percent faster (and 70 percent faster than the same timeframe in 2020!). The average sales price remains unchanged, hovering around $3.1 million.
Go Wilde The priciest public listing in Texas is a Memorial mansion — five bedrooms, eight bathrooms and 11,200 square feet — built by Iraj Taghi in 1995 and recently fully renovated. With a price tag of $17.5 million, the property at 402 Timberwilde sits on two and a half acres, and has an impossible quantity of marble in the beautiful chef’s kitchen, and amenities like a game room, gym and full-size tennis court.
NUMBER CRUNCH
$ 58,000
The average increase in the value of a Houston-area single-family home over the past year, about 23 percent, per Zillow. This figure for the years between 2010 and 2020 annually averaged 3.6 percent.
Vaulted ceilings with century-old beams at 402 Timberwilde
Laid-Back Luxury
Golfweek’s #1 in Texas & #9 in the U.S. Schedule a tour with Bluejack National Realty today. www.bluejacknational.com | (281) 475-2166 | life@bluejacknational.com 4430 south fm 1486 | montgomery, texas 77316 Pricing, plans and specifications subject to change without notice. See sales consultant for details. © Copyright 2021 Bluejack National. All Rights Reserved.
SUMMER REAL ESTATE REPORT
A $3 million Tanglewood abode complete with a wood-wrapped study that opens up to an outdoor loggia, below, was listed by Kelli Geitner with Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty and sold after 17 days on the market.
The temps outside are hotter than ever, but is Houston’s scorching real estate market finally cooling off? As a return to a balanced market, in which neither the buyer nor the seller has a big advantage, approaches, here’s a closer look at the record-high prices roller-coaster inventory, and more trends of 2022. By Evan W. Black, with data from the Houston Association of Realtors
HOT ’HOOD
Tangled Up After a couple of stagnant years, things are really moving in the wealthy enclave of Tanglewood: The number of transactions taking place January through May of this year is up more than 250 percent compared to the sime timeframe in 2020. Meanwhile, months of inventory — or the amount of time it would take to sell every home on the market if things continued at the current pace — is just four, down from 11 two years ago. The average price of homes sold in May of this year was $1.9 million, a modest 7 percent increase over May 2021.
EXCEPTIONAL RIVER OAKS 5 BR | 7.5+ BA | $8.9M 3940INVERNESS.COM
Situated on approximately 2.8 acres, this River Oaks home has been called a ‘residential country club’.
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WALTER BERING #1 TOP PRODUCER 713.851.9753 | walter.bering@sir.com WALTERBERING.COM
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Some call it luxury. We call it living well. Resort-style amenities above Houston’s first Thompson Hotel
STA RT I N G AT
$1M
RESIDENCES DELIVERING 2023 residencesattheallen.com | 832.784.8355 Sales Gallery: 759 Gillette St. Houston, TX 77019
“
We encourage our agents and clients to eat, drink, shop and live locally. Support your community, and it will prosper.
”
PROMOTED
BILL BALDWIN AND THE BOULEVARD DIFFERENCE
B
ill Baldwin, broker and owner of independent boutique firm Boulevard Realty, is becoming known not only for his successful business — with $271 million in sales last year, it’s ranked in the top 10 in central Houston — but also for his commitment to volunteerism and the betterment of life for all Houstonians. Not to mention his newly minted status as an author! His new book, Heroes, Hope, and High Water: Life Lessons in Turbulent Times, is out now. It documents Bill’s 112-day experience in Harvey relief and lessons learned along the way. The experience led to his creation of the Harvey Relief Hub, and he says the immediate outpouring of support from the community was humbling. “Not only were there donations from Houstonians and from around the nation, but so many volunteered their time, skills and talent. Do not believe the rhetoric that divides us more than unites us, because it isn’t true. Harvey showed us how united we can become.” Bill’s passion for people and community informs his work at Boulevard, too. His initiatives at the firm include ChooseHOU, a list of local businesses updated and sent to clients every week. “We encourage our agents and clients to eat, drink, shop and live locally. Support your community, and it will prosper.” This is just part of what Bill calls the “Boulevard difference.” Another part is Bill’s approach to technology. “We value technology,” he says. “We invest and grow in the digital realm, but we’re proud to be a locally owned and operated real estate firm, not a tech company. Root yourself in genuine
relationships with clients.” As for the state of the realty market right now, Bill has some analysis and tips for buyers and sellers. “After more than two years in a truly unprecedented seller’s market, we are seeing that the Houston housing market has finally started balancing,” he explains. “Frenzied, highstress bidding wars have begun to cool slightly, but the market is exceptionally strong.” For sellers, that means it’s still a “fantastic” time to sell — with moderated expectations. “Prices aren’t going to crash,” he says, “but we are likely to see a drop in just how fast they rise.” Instead of a few days to sell a home, it might take a few weeks. And numerous offers above asking may be the exception, not be the rule. “Be prepared to negotiate.” Sellers should be realistic about pricing and timetables, Bill says. “Comparisons over last year are not a good indicator of the market. Look at historic numbers for a normal year to see a more accurate assessment.” Bill says that, for buyers, there may be some great opportunities, even considering rising interest rates. “Those rates have knocked some potential buyers out of the market, so if you are still looking for home, you have less competition.” Also, the squeeze on inventory is likely to loosen — “inventory really has nowhere to go but up” — which will benefit buyers this fall and next spring. In any case, Bill says both buyers and sellers need expert guidance. “Interest rates rise and fall,” he says. “Now is more important than ever to have an experienced real estate expert to help you navigate the process.”
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