Cheers to
ZEGNA BRUNELLO CUCINELLI ISAIA
JEFF GREMILLION Editor-in-Chief
Milestones abound. As I flip through this issue, I’m reminded of so many worth celebrating in this festive season.
Gracie Cavnar’s Recipe for Success turns 20, for example; I commissioned a fun portrait of her in ballgown standing in a field years ago, and she’s still as vivacious and committed as ever. And MFAH turns 100. Wow. The art museum has grown from its original space in a small house to having a 14-acre main campus. Its collection has grown from 60 works of art to about 80,000.
Equally admirable to me are my friends Murry and Karen Penner. Their shop, founded my Murry’s dad, turns 50. Besides their kindness — they’ve supported CityBook and me from the beginning — I’m impressed by how this literal mom-and-pop business has maintained its down-to-earth, treat-customerslike-old-friends sensibility, even as they represent the leading edge of sophistication and style for men.
Most of my favorite clothes are from M Penner. I think of Murry and Karen’s warmth and charm every time I put them on.
Thanks to the Penners, and all the other advertisers who backed this magazine this year. And thank you, too, dear reader. I appreciate you and wish you a grand and glorious holiday.
On the Cover On the Cover Photo by Ashkan Roayaee; model Lauren Blalock; gown, $4,290, by Tom Ford at Neiman Marcus; with estate gold bracelet with ebony inlay, $24,880, by Henry Dunay; estate gold necklace, ring, $8,590, geometric cuff, $23,880, and buckle ring, $7,650, by David Webb; diamond and gold bangle, $3,650; estate onyx ring, $8,590, by Mauboussin; vintage earrings, $6,890, vintage ring, $4,790, vintage gold cage bracelet, $23,850, vintage lattice cuff, $8,750; vintage gold cuff, $7,850, by Turbogas; gold cuff, $28,750, paperclip necklace, $13,750, and bracelet, $18,250, by Antonio Papini; necklace, $6,995, by Ippolita Bastille all at Tenenbaum Jewelers.
2024
Star Bright
IN 2021, CORY McGee completed his master’s at Rice’s Shepherd School of Music and won second place in HGO’s annual Concert of Arias competition — a star in the making, to be certain. Just a few short years later, the HGO Butler Studio alum and Virginia native is readying for scene-stealing roles in La Boheme (Jan. 24-Feb. 14) and, in the spring, the company’s highly anticipated new staging of Wagner’s Tannhäuser. –evan w. black
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH
JEWELRY
With locations in CityCentre and Highland Village, hypoallergenic piercing place Rowan has adorable offerings for the holidays! The candy-cane-striped huggies, snowflakeshaped studs and more are all made sans brass and zinc, and start at just $24.
HOLIDAY
For the first time ever, Buffalo Bayou Partnership will host holiday boat tours launching from a festively lit Allen’s Landing in Downtown (Friday and Saturday nights through Dec. 14). During the Snow Glow on the Bayou cruises (Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, Dec. 20-29), artists utilize special projectors and screens to create light-up designs on the water and banks of the bayou.
FITNESS
Open soon in Uptown Park: Ritual
One, a Dallas-based fitness concept offering classes like hot pilates, “Inferno Flow” and HIIT, all taking place in infrared-heated studios. Class temperatures range between 95 and 102 degrees, and the heat is said to increase blood flow, boost metabolism, burn calories, torch fat and detox the body.
‘Park’ place
Autry Park, the mixed-use development situated on Allen Parkway at Shepherd, is popular among foodies for its restaurants and farmers market. But its newest tenants will have the
Luisa Babarczy have opened their South to North pop-up with a bevy of colorful goods from Latin American designers like Maygel Coronel and Flabelus. And, also in Autry Park, beloved lifestyle boutique Sloan/Hall just opened its third location, coinciding
sparkling waterfall
Gucci’s holidayaccessories, like Canvas bag, which crystals have applied in varying dimensions by skilled artisans.
Good Direction
Alejandra Bravo and Luisa Babarczy with interior designer Alexandria Killian (center) at South to North
THE DISPATCH MUSIC
The Houston Grand Opera released a new album for streaming: a full recording of the 1892 French opera Werther, which HGO ambitiously presented in winter of 2023. Expect “world-class artistry from the full cast and HGO Orchestra,” per HGO’s director and CEO, Khori Dastoor.
SHOPPING
Designer-approved retailer Perigold will open its first Texas storefront in the spring in Highland Village, where shoppers can peruse nearly 20,000 square feet of lighting, kitchenware, flooring and furniture. Spaces within the store will be dedicated to showcasing the work and products of various designers, including Houston’s Marie Flanigan.
FITNESS
Slated to open early 2025, The Well is a new pilates studio in West Memorial. Located in the same quaint shopping strip as Bistro 555 and the new Mamasan Sushi, The Well is outfitted in soothing shades of deep green and warm tan — but don’t get fooled by the spa vibes. The reformer will make you break a sweat.
FEEDER News
Holly Jolly!
festive & Fresh
HOUSTON SPAS are ringing in the season with sugar, spice and everything nice. At the Houstonian’s Trellis Spa, treatments incorporate NaturaBissé’s Diamond warming gel with ginger, turmeric and cinnamon to melt away stress. Trellis also offers a holiday-themed Spa Tea on Sundays through Christmas! At the Thompson Hotel, the rooftop pool deck has been transformed into a winter wonderland, and on Dec. 17, the spa offers guests a custom-blended “festive scrub.”
And the Downtown’s Four Seasons has a Peppermint Peace massage that includes aromatherapy and a peppermint-scrub exfoliation, through Jan. 5. –ewb
1.
Glass flutes, $109 for two, by Fazeek for Mustard Made.
2. Stewart plaid cut-glass hurricane candleholder, by Pottery Barn.
3. Eveoree napkins, $48 for four, by Furbish Studio. 4. Red bow placemat, $32, by Revolve. 5. Styrofoam cups, $12 for 10, by Spice Paper
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH GIFTS
Interior designer Katie Kime has produced a beautiful toile fabric inspired by the town of Round Top, and turned it into fun PJ sets — shortsleeve shirts with shorts or pants, or a long-sleeve sleep shirt — just in time for cozy season. Purchase in-person at Hotel Lulu in Round Top, or on Kime’s website; online orders can be monogrammed.
STYLE
Houston entrepreneur Tina Zulu’s luxe, ecoconscious kimonos make unique holiday gifts — especially for recipients mindful of the pitfalls of fast fashion. Kimono Zulu’s curated and intricate wares come in various lengths, and are generally one-size-fits-all. The colorful kimonos are available locally at Magpies & Peacocks and Pop-Up Co-Op at M-K-T.
THEATER
The Alley’s cheeky production of A Christmas Carol, starring the brilliant David Rainey as Scrooge, runs through the end of the year.
from above:
talking shop
Some of Houston’s most popular shopping destinations have new tenants, just in time for the holiday rush! Check out the festively lit River Oaks District, where Loewe and Brioni have recently arrived, and local designer Christy Lynn just opened a holiday pop-up showcasing her Spring 2025
collection. Memorial City Mall welcomed Uniqlo with great fanfare in the fall, and transformed the wing where Sears used to be into a sprawling and totally lit holiday village called Classic Christmas And in Montrose, cute little Marcel Market has unique Frenchinspired gifts, and The RealReal’s brick-andmortar resale boutique opens soon. –ewb
Clockwise
Loewe in River Oaks District, a jacket from Uniqlo, spa goodies at Marcel
MAKING WAVES
MFAH presents five fabulously diverse exhibits. By Evan W. Black
The artist who ushered in the expressionist movement in the early 20th century was not, in fact, Picasso or Matisse. It was Paul Gauguin, whose career spanned the decades just preceding the turn of the century.
The French painter is the subject of the Museum of Fine Arts’ latest exhibit, Gauguin in the World , which was organized by Henri Loyrette
(formerly of the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, Paris). The show, just one of the museum’s diverse winter season shows, debuted in Australia in June and will be on display through Feb. 16, 2025, at the MFAH, the only U.S. venue for the survey.
Gauguin famously — and somewhat controversially, as he’s often accused of cultural appropriation — enjoyed the latter part of his life in Tahiti, where he deemed himself free from
Getting a Rise Bill Viola’s ‘Ascension,’ on display as part of ‘Living with the Gods’ at MFAH
VILLAGE life
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“returning to the questions that haunted him as an artist — the challenges that he set himself and solved in his quest for his own identity,” says Loyrette.
The MFAH’s winter season also includes 150 Years of Design , a joint project with the Houston chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The organizations’ collaboration is the only one of its kind in the country; they’ve curated hundreds of architect-designed objects made beginning in 1880 — furniture, metalwork, ceramics, glass, lighting and industrial design. It runs through next summer.
Living with the Gods: Art, Beliefs, and Peoples , on view until Jan. 20, 2025, is another expansive exhibit, this one featuring ancient and contemporary works depicting humanity’s relationship with spirituality over the course of 4,000 years. Objects are displayed across 11 different galleries,
transversing themes of the cosmos, light, water and fire; the mysteries of life and death; the divine word; and pilgrimage. Meanwhile, Grounded in Clay: The Spirit of Pueblo Pottery explores a specific medium as a vessel, both literally and figuratively, for indigenous narratives.
Finally, a collection of contemporary images depicts the role of photography in social and political movements in Cuba from the 1960s to the 2010s.
Navigating the Waves: Contemporary Cuban Photography, on view through Aug. 3, 2025, explores “individual identity, the body and spirit, AfroCuban heritage, and the margins of society, all while navigating the changing prescriptions and proscriptions of official cultural policy,” says the museum.
Meanwhile, at the museum’s Glassell School of Art, Dec. 6-8, visitors can shop artworks — jewelry, prints, ceramics, paintings and more — by talented students.
Light Touch
Adjustable table lamp c. 1951, part of ‘150 Years of Design;’ Alberto Korda’s ‘Guerillero Heroico,’ from ‘Navigating the Waves;’ ‘The Offering of a Sentient Cry,’ by Tuan Andrew Nguyen, from ‘Living with the Gods’
HOLIDAY MUST-HAVES
Unwrap Beauty
ALIRA MED SPA, established in 2012, offers premier medical spa services designed to enhance natural beauty and wellness. With a commitment to excellence and personalized care, Alira Med Spa delivers advanced treatments, from skin rejuvenation to body contouring, helping clients achieve radiant, confident results.
At Alira Med Spa, we blend luxury with innovation to offer transformative beauty experiences. Our signature GLO2 Facial is a client favorite, delivering
unparalleled hydration and radiance. We’re proud to feature The Lumenis ResurFx treatment, an advanced laser therapy that revitalizes skin texture with minimal downtime.
Our Laser Hair Removal uses the latest in precision technology for smooth, long-lasting results, while our expertly administered Botox treatments create a naturally refreshed appearance. Discover the exceptional care and refined expertise that sets Alira Med Spa apart in Houston’s luxury beauty landscape.
HOLIDAY MUST-HAVES
Timeless Luxury
VALOBRA MASTER JEWELERS is Houston’s premier jewelry store. Since opening in Italy in 1905, the Valobra family has been committed to offering the highest quality of custom jewelry and timepieces in a warm and welcoming environment. The River Oaks showroom is a MUST visit this
GREAT EIGHT!
For the holidays and new year, Houston’s art scene is vibrant and alive. Here are eight must-sees!
By Evan W. Black
On, Dancer!
In the midst of its always-celebrated production of The Nutcracker, the Houston Ballet’s annual Jubilee of Dance (Dec. 6-8) includes the premiere of a new work by choreographer Brett Ishida and a toast to principal dancers Connor Walsh and Jessica Collado’s 20th
1season with the company. Spring brings a trio of expressive ballets fusing contemporary and classic: In the Night (Feb. 27-March 9) will include Irish-folk number Celts, Stanton Welch’s Maninyas, and, naturally, Jerome Robbins’ In the Night
2
Night Lights
Dubbed a “multisensory holiday escape,” Artechouse is an interactive digital-art space near M-K-T in the Heights. Its exhibits Spectacular Factory — an exploration of a holiday toy factory — and Tingle Bells promise to capture the nostalgia and festvitiy of the season. Raise a glass at the city’s only “extended reality” bar, inside Artechouse.
Houston Ballet’s Connor Walsh and Sara Webb in ‘In the Night’
By a Thread
HOUSTON’S GALLERIES ARE full of gems year-round, especially during the holiday season. At Anya Tish Gallery, Hedwige Jacobs’ whimsical drawings and animations — inspired by her time living in Indonesia, particularly the overwhelming presence of cardboard shipping boxes — populate the walls through Dec. 28. In January, Korea-born and Texas-based artist Bumin Kim hangs colorful new thread-and-acrylic pieces. The Montrose gallery also curated a group show called Hurry Up, You’re Dreaming in the lobby of 700 Louisiana; works by József Bullás, HJ Bott and others explore the allure of the Op Art movement of the 1960s.
‘Nature’ Calls
Houston Botanic Garden’s illuminated holiday exhibit has been popular for a few years running. This season, HBG brings back Radiant Nature (through Feb. 23), a dynamic, artistcreated light show celebrating the Lunar New Year.
Immersive and photo-friendly installations — plus plenty of pit stops for hot chocolate and more — will have guests of all ages lighting up!
Home Girl
Hidden-gem music venue Heights Theater hosts a handful of homegrown stars this winter, including Hayes Carll (Dec. 7-8), Jack Ingram (Dec. 19), and jazz songstress Kat Edmonson (pictured, Feb. 16).
A detail of Bumin Kim’s thread-and-acrylic piece ‘Spring Shadows’
The dragon tunnel at Houston Botanic Garden
Big Top! C
irque du Soleil returns to Houston with Echo , an all-new production (its 20th!) that will set up at Sam Houston Race Park in February. Filled with dynamic lights and projections, quirky characters and aweinspiring acrobatics, the fantastical show explores the sacred bond between humans, animals and nature.
Echo runs Feb. 6 to March 9.
A Festive ‘Flourish’
THE LANDSCAPE-INSPIRED abstractions by New York’s Heather Bause Rubinstein cover the walls of Barbara Davis Gallery until Jan. 10. The show, Flourish + Fade, is comprised of huge oil-on-canvas paintings that were largely created during Rubinstein’s stint in Houston — she called it a “self-created residency” — in early 2024.
Cool Cat
A pioneer in the immersive-art world, Meow Wolf has expanded to Houston with Radio Tave, created by 100 artists, many of whom are local. The experience begins with guests walking into what looks like a radio station — but office drawers, doors (even the fridge!), and windows offer portals into new worlds, each surreal and otherworldly in its own way.
‘Echo’ arrives in February.
‘Untitled (Overcast)’ by Rubinstein
’GOLD STARS
The who’s-who gathered at Chef Austin Waiter’s red-hot Marigold Club to toast Houston CityBook ’s 2024 Leaders & Legends, presented by The Village of River Oaks. Other sponsors include Bentley Houston and Valobra Master Jewelers. Editor Jeff Gremillion and Jim Gray, founder and CEO of The Village’s parent company, The Aspenwood Company, toasted honorees including arts activist Michelle Barnes, Recipe for Success founder Gracie Cavnar, “Enchilada Queen” Sylvia Casares, restaurateur Itai Ben Eli, and sustainable fisherman Raz Halili, UH Chancellor Renu Khator, former Rice president David Leebron, playwright ShaWanna Renee Rivon, jeweler and philanthropist Franco Valobra and renewable energy champion Bobby Tudor. Gin “Marigold Martinis” flowed, and popular bites included Waiter’s tartare of beef filet with whole grain mustard and thyme, freshly shucked Mere Point oysters in shallot mignonette, and brûléed treacle tarts with citron crème.
Bill Stubbs, Lisa Holthouse and Kurt Grether
Samantha and Raz Halili
Shawanna Renee Rivon and Eddie Brown Sylvia Casares
Phoebe Tudor and Connor Walsh
Thy Mitchell and Kyle Denton
Shawn Lynch and Jentry Kelley
Bob and Gracie Cavnar and David Leebron
Jacquie Baly and James Craig
HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE
FEEDER Party People
SOCIAL SEASON
Houston Grand Opera bowed with a stirring performance of Verdi’s Il trovatore at The Wortham followed by a lavish al fresco dinner in a tent on the plaza out front. The Symphony also hosted an opening-night concert, followed by a party channeling New York’s Golden Age at The Corinthian. ... The 2024 Grand Gala Ball was a centennial bash for the MFAH, raising an incredible $5.5 million. Some 375 guests turned out to celebrate the milestone in 1920s style. With a western theme, and big turnout from law enforcement, politicians and Mattress Mack, the Crime Stoppers gala at The Revaire raised $2 mil. ... The Buffalo Bayou Partnership hosted its gala at the Water Works, and guests enjoyed tours of the Cistern and the sounds of Houston Groove Society. ... The newly renamed “Voices for Hope” in support
Fireman at ‘Red Hot’
Al and Stacey Lindseth at ‘Dec’
Imani Guillory at ‘Symphony’
Beth Muecke and Justin Garcia at ‘Z’
Hallie Vanderhider and Bobbie Dees at ‘Boo’
Lynn Wyatt and Steve Wyatt at ‘MFAH’
Morris Smith, Tilman Fertitta and Toni Smith at ‘Children’s’
TO HOUSTON COMING HOME
WELCOME BACK, DIETER LEHMANN
German immigrant Dieter Lehmann was one of Houston’s best known and most trusted restaurateurs and auto dealers in the ’90s and ‘00s. After eight years away — he opened some businesses in Sedona — he’s returned, with interests in EaDo’s Chapman & Kirby, where a rooftop bar is in the works. He’s also involved in The Warwick restaurant and Slowpokes coffeeshop. We asked him about his interesting history and his exciting comeback.
Can you give the highlights of your previous time in Houston. When I first came to Houston, I was a partner in Ruggles, with a live-music club next door called The Birdwatcher. I was also involved with Café Moustache and The Remington Club. And I was with BMW for 15 years.
Why did you come home? I have four daughters here in The Woodlands. I wanted to be near my family. Also, coming from Germany over 30 years ago, Houston has always been my home. I love the way Houston comes back after a crisis. People here have always believed in me, and I’ve always been an honest person providing great service. Houston made me who I am. People here are loyal. Also, I love the sports scene. We may be involved in the World Cup!
You’ve already gotten involved in some of Houston’s hottest clubs and restaurants, including Chapman & Kirby in EaDo, where the Sunday funday has become legendary lately. What are you most excited about there? Yes, Sunday brunch is crazy popular. I’ve never seen anything like it. People come from out of town!
We’re adding a rooftop bar overlooking the skyline, since we are surrounded by the sports events. The Dynamo, The Dash, the Rockets and the Astros. We’ll have more live music. We’re bringing that back. Latin Night is soon to come.
Also, some people don’t know that we have a 40-seat restaurant serving dinner Wednesday through Saturday. It can be reserved for private events. Chapman & Kirby is an event center. We do lots of corporate events. Turns out there’s huge demand.
What can you tell us about the Warwick and Slowpokes? I’m associated with Slowpokes. We have five coffee shops in some of Houstons best neighborhoods. Slowpokes roasts and blends their own coffee in Spring Branch. Our shops are very comfortable, warm cafes that have a great food options, as well. We’re about to open our sixth one, and the seventh is in the middle of construction in the Eastside neighborhood.
The Warwick is upscale Cajun cuisine. Popular spot on weekends and for brunch. Great happy hour on weekdays. I love the pork chops on Tuesdays.
You have a great reputation as a car dealer, which is rare! Still doing anything with auto? Yes! I’m associated with Viking Hiline in The Woodlands. We have all exotic and Hiline brands, all the great toys. It’s a high-end trading post.
I’m looking forward to treating old friends like I did before, working hard for their loyalty. Loyalty in important in Houston. It’s one of the reasons I came home. I’m proud of the name I achieved for myself. Especially in the service industry.
I’m a proud German-Houstonian coming home!
Photograph by Gary Glenn Portraits
of Avenue 360 Health and Wellness and its Omega House hospice for HIV patients bowed at River Oaks Country Club. ... The largest-ever crowd showed up for Arts of Healing, which showcased art pieces created by 15 physicians. Dec My Room threw a country-music-filled bash at House of Blues, where supporters two-stepped the night away to the sounds of Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen. ... Meanwhile, the Boots & Bourbon party benefiting Sunshine Kids was another boot-scootin’ good time. ... Artist Justin Garcia hosted a rooftop bash at Le Meridien’s Z on 23 bar, where guests toasted his new art collection displayed in the hotel. ... Eight chefs, 30 years — and one big dinner! Urban Havest rang in its fourth decade with its annual farm-to-table dinner. ... Benefiting Recipe for Success, the Delicious Alchemy event featured an all-female lineup of 10 chef stars. The Red Hot Gala in support of the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association Charitable Foundation drew more than 500. ... Guard and Grace’s
Fady Armanious, Brigitte Kalai and Alicia Smith at ‘Crime Stoppers’
Army Sadeghi and Mason Clark-Sadeghi at ‘Delicious’
Judy and Scott Nyquist at ‘Buffalo’
Bram Kohlhausen with Chip at ‘CAPS’
Jana Fant, Richard Fant and Laura S. Ward at ‘Children’s’
Janet Gurwitch, Raehann Bryce-Davis and Michelle Hevrdejs at ‘HGO’
Margaret Alkek Williams at ‘MFAH’
Ryan and Katherine DeLongchamps at ‘Howl’
Diana Madero, Thea Pheasey, Alejandra Peterman and Hillary Jebbitt at ‘Urban’
Marty Lancton, Mayor John Whitmire and Fire
Chief Tom Munoz at ‘Red Hot’
Brendan Mulder and Chelsea Vandermolen at ‘Sunshine’
Michelle and Jonathan Zadok at ‘Crime Stoppers’
Matthew McLaughlin was crowned Iron Sommelier at the wine-fueled fundraiser for Periwinkle Foundation. An animal-loving crowd turned up for CAP’s annual Celebrity Paws gala. On Halloweekend, the annual Boo Ball benefiting Ronald McDonald Houston was themed “Once Upon a Time,” and raised a true happily-ever-after amount of $1 million, while SPCA’s annual Howl-o-Ween was also a raucous rave for a cause. And at the Children’s Museum’s Noir Ball, 600 guests went goth-glam at The Corinthian — garnering $1.1 million for the museum’s outreach services. ... Chicago headlined at the Houston Children's Charity gala which raised a record $6.2 million.
Luke Whitney at ‘Ave 360’
Derek Shore and Brandon Bourque at ‘Arts’
Sippi and Ajay Khurana at ‘Symphony’
Trey and Kelly Mattson at ‘Noir’
Omar and Maria Moncada Alaoui at ‘Ave 360’
Lauren and Dave Upton at ‘Iron’
Gold high-low tulle mini dress, $698, by Chloe Dao, with diamond-and-pearl necklace, diamond earrings, diamondflower bracelet, and diamond rings, all vintage Buccellati, and Macri cuff bracelets, from $32,000, by Buccellati, all at Tenenbaum Jewelers.
The Gilded Age
In the warm glow of the holidays, festive frocks, elegant resort looks and baubles from Houston’s finest jewelers take on a regal new light.
Photos by Ashkan Roayaee, styling by Todd Ramos, hair and makeup by Edward Sanchez, art direction by Patrick Magee, model Lauren Blalock for Neal Hamil Agency
Blouse, skirt and jewelery, all by Chanel.
Opposite page: Dress, coat and scarf, all by Georgio Armani, with sterling silver necklaces, from $1,040, accent bangles, from $350, chain bracelets, from $395, bead-and-brass bracelet, $650, two-tone hoop earrings, $695, and rings, from $295, all by Gurhan at Cotton Club.
by Georgio Armani, with chain-link necklace, $4,250, paperclipchain necklace, $2,070, paperclip-chain lariat, $1,700, blue topaz pendant, $1,190, kyanite tennis bracelet, $2,835, diamond chain bracelet, $2,050, Urbaetis twisted bangle, $3,779, pavé diamond dome band, $2,656, Doves blue topez cocktail ring, $2,656, blue topaz signet ring, $1,925, and kyanite halfway band, $1,150, all by Bella
Suit
Madre Jewelry.
Mini dress, $1,598, and overlay skirt, $1,400, by Chloe Dao, with a ruby-and-diamond necklace, $114,000, diamond belt bracelet, $78,000, cocktail ring, $16,500, and ruby-and-diamond hoop earrings, $17,700, all at Valobra Master Jewelers.
Opposite page: Rose petal strapless gown, $3,498, by Chloe Dao, with a diamond floral choker, $15,000, cocktail ring, $11,500, sunburst diamond ring, $19,750, pink-diamond bangle, $93,000, and diamond earrings, $19,500, all at Valobra Master Jewelers.
Indigo floral brocade fishtail gown, $3,195, by Cesar Galindo with diamond bangle, diamond and sapphire stretch bracelets and eternity band, white-gold pavé diamond ring, whitegold hoop earrings, 34-inch diamond tennis necklace and platinum bezel-set bracelet and necklace, all at Zadok Jewelers.
Opposite page: Shell and fur-collared coat by Michael Kors, with pearl necklace with champagne and white diamonds, $18,750, and ombre Tahitian pearl necklace, $6,250, both by Deutsch Design, and South Sea tincup pearl necklace, $6,250, and dangle earrings, $2,590, both by Emily Armenta, all at Deutsch Fine Jewelry.
Eat. Drink. Travel. Live.
Buttered Up
Berg Hospitality’s Buttermilk Baby in the Heights is pouring on the fun this holiday season, with cheerful (and ohso-giftable) swag proclaiming “Come Get this Bun, Hun!” and the like. Get in line early for old-school soda-fountain fare — breakfast, brunch and dinner — in retro-chic environs! For more on this and other food news, see page 50.
Mediterranean Montrose
With crisp flavors and sexy style, Októ joins Spanish-savvy Mi Luna as nifty newbies on the Montrose Collective scene. By Evan W. Black, Photos by Becca Wright
TThough it’s been in Houston less than a decade, Sof Hospitality has made major inroads with foodies and critics alike. Its concepts include Doris Metropolitan, Hamsa and Badolina Bakery, all of which deliver the rich flavors of Israeli cuisine in complex, photogenic and delicious dishes. Its newest, Októ , opened earlier this year, one of several energetic restaurants to bow in the Montrose Collective, just in time for the holidays. With moody environs, a DJ-spun soundtrack and an olive-oil martini that will keep you at the sceney bar for a while, Októ skews more Mediterranean rather than Israeli. The name means “eight” in Greek, a nod not
only to the culture and cuisine of the new restaurant, but also its address: 888 Westheimer. The flavors show up in mouthwatering shareables like octopus skewers, and squidink linguine with crab and a buttery sambal sauce. And if you’ve eaten at any Sof concept, you know the bread service is not to be skipped. (Two words: pistachio butter.)
Elsewhere in Montrose Collective, similarly nightlifesavvy Mi Luna — which was a staple in Rice Village for decades — has been resurrected by its original owners. Fan-favorites like paella, empanadas and Gambas al Ajillo (lemon-garlic shrimp with peppers) remain; chef-kissed newcomers include whole roasted branzino, and Rabo
Ginned Up
The Októ G&T and, at right, Paella Valenciana at Mi Luna.
de Toro a la Sevillana, which is braised oxtail with chickpeas. Expect flamenco performances on Friday and Saturday nights, and a sultry acoustic-guitar-accompanied brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-3pm, too.
And here’s another holiday tip: Italianstyle steakhouse Marmo , one of Montrose Collective’s original restaurants, has a fun happy hour every day except Saturday from 3-6pm. Think glasses of wine and bubbly for $6 a pop, a $9 charcuterie board, and deals on an impressive spread of savory bites — meatballs with whipped ricotta; little bowls of veal bolognese. Lingering in the bar-slash-lounge area for nightly live music is recommended.
In fact, a progressive evening of tapasstyle treats and live performances throughout Montrose Collective sounds like a festive (and delicious!) way to celebrate the season.
LATEST DISH!
HOUSTON’S BEST FOOD NEWS, IN SMALL BITES ...
(Michelin) stars are born! The Guide’s inaugural Texas edition awarded a single star to six Houston restaurants: BCN Taste & Tradition, Corkscrew BBQ, Le Jardinier, March, Musaafer and Tatemó. Hear, hear!
Convivial trattoria Milton’s, named after restaurateur Benjy Levit’s late father, resides in the former Eau Tour space above his original Local Foods. A scratch-made pasta program is at the heart of the menu. Wash ’em down with a Milton’s Martini kissed with Champagne bitters!
Traveler’s Cart is now open on Montrose at West Gray, a counterservice-style outfit from the owners of popular Traveler’s Table nearby. The food menu includes street snacks
— think falafel bites and butter chicken samosas, and small plates like Thai fried chicken wings and pan-fried lamb dumplings.
Rumi’s Kitchen has a new brunch menu highlighting its signature Persian flavors in unique new dishes. Chef Ali Mesghali is serving a bread basket with Jerusalem bagels, za’atar biscuits and more, plus a stellar take on Shakshuka. Brunch is available on weekends between 11am and 2:30pm.
Destination sushi spot Kira has rolled out a new Sundaynight experience dubbed Bar Kira, a high-energy, music-fueled take on its intimate sushi counter. The menu on Sunday nights (7pm-midnight) includes a lobster roll on housemade milk bread; and a
Spanish-style iberico ham sandwich.
Now open in Midtown: Medium Rare, offering a single pre-fixe meal of steak frites with artisan bread and a green salad ($31 per person) — and more extensive dessert menu with a specialty sundae, key-lime pie and more, which can be tacked on for an additional $12.
A shopping center on Westheimer near Dairy Ashford has been dubbed West On West (WOW), and is home to several exciting and delicious concepts already beloved in Chinatown and Katy Asiatown, like SomiSomi ice cream and Paris Baguette The latest restaurant to bow is Kaiten, from Michelin-starred group Sushi Ginza Onodera, who delivers traditional Japanese fare via conveyor belt.
Tiramisu at Milton’s
Beach, Please
Serene but style-forward W Punta de Mita finds its place in the sun. By Evan
VVerdant, winding branches arch up and over a pathway as a soundtrack of herons and chachalacas (and the occasional monkey) plays overhead. Concrete rectangles artfully jut up through the green, painted in rays of sunlight. Eventually, the path leads down to the beach, where the streaks of sun create a cinematic moment: A slim, tan couple emerges from the ocean with their surfboards in hand and their dogs at their heels, the scent of the Pacific lingering in the thick, humid air.
This slice of paradise is the W Punta de Mita, about an hour outside of Puerto Vallarta. With fewer than 130 rooms, the property is glam enough for jet-setting influencer couples but approachable enough for families, an ideal blend of bold style and Huichol tradition.
Upon arrival, guests sip a cocktail as the sea breeze filters in through the open-air lobby; below, a centerpiece bar and sliding glass doors frame the view of the beach. While the sit-down restaurants are indeed fantastic, the best first stop is Chevychería, a beachfront bar carved out of an old pickup truck. Daily ceviches and crudos — and the best guacamole this Texan has ever had (a bold statement, no?) — are enjoyed with
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sand between the toes and a mojito in hand. Vacation mode, activated.
Some of the most artful touches at the hotel are found on the Camino Huichol, a chic teal-tiled backdrop for photos. The elevated walkway, with 751,000 mosaic tiles representing elements of the Wixarika culture, doubles as an extension of the pool cabanas down below; the entire thing is framed by a waist-high wall of clear glass panels.
Speaking of pool cabanas, it’s possible that the whole trip could be enjoyed in one of them. The Wet Deck, as the main pool area is called, is pristine and positioned equally well for those who favor catching rays and those who prefer shade. If privacy is of importance, the new adults-only Wet Deck Too is a few yards away, an infinity-edged pool with several chaise-style chairs and tables. It’s situated in front of a row of just-opened suites that each boast their own plunge pool, and an open-air bathtub worthy of Architectural Digest
But if that’s not relaxing enough, hop back on that jungle-lined walkway, which in the other direction leads to the AWAY Spa. Say ahhh.
Dive In! Clockwise from top left: Chic and comfy pool cabanas; Thai noodles at the resort’s Spice Market restaurant; a spa treatment room; the entrance to Away.
Winter Winner
Jackson Hole’s laid-back-luxe pioneer Rusty Parrot reopens — and it’s cozier than ever.
By Evan W. Black
JJackson Hole is the 400-square-mile valley between the Gros Ventre and Teton mountain ranges. Its namesake town, Jackson, Wy., is a special place where several identities converge. It’s the heartbeat of the Wild West, the old frontier. It’s also filled with spectacular geology and awe-inspiring wilderness. And finally, it’s a coveted destination among the posh travel set; Jackson consistently tops lists of America’s wealthiest towns.
The Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa opened in 1990, when the laid-back luxury train was first pulling into town. The area’s first boutique hotel, it’s today run by the original owner’s son, who helped build it as a freshman in high school. He lived on-property, enjoying chef-made cookies as an after-school treat (those delicious cookies are still set out daily at 3pm, FYI). Destroyed by a fire in 2019, it was rebuilt and reopened in July.
The new building has plenty of nods to the old one, considered iconic by many. Much of its priceless art was lost in the fire, but has been painstakingly recreated. The design is effortlessly stylish, uniting the classic — wainscotting, rich fabrics — with the contemporary, a la the mod two-way fireplace in Wild Sage restaurant.
A grand staircase spans the three stories, and on a brisk autumn morning, a walk to grab coffee from the secondfloor library feels like a walk down the hall of a good
friend’s (a very tastefully rich good friend) home. Upstairs, find sprawling decks, outdoor fireplaces, and a “wildlife perch” from which grazing creatures may be spotted.
While it’s worthwhile to soak in the lodge’s coziness, the town square is steps away, and there is plenty of cozy to be had here, too. Pop in Jackson Drug, a former drug store that is now a diner with wild-game burgers and boozy milkshakes. Peruse the highest of high-end westernwear and its souvenir counterparts; alternatively, creative, nicely priced and locally sourced goodies are found at a shop called Made.
Depending on the time of year, the glorious wilderness is rife for exploration. There’s skiing at Teton Village and Snow King Resort, the latter of which recently opened a new observatory. While Yellowstone is a two-and-a-half hour drive from Jackson, the entrance to Grand Teton National Park is just 15 minutes from Rusty Parrot. A wildlife safari is an incredible way to see the region’s hallmarks — maybe a herd of bison, some feeding moose, migrating elk, or regally perched bald eagles. And the truly lucky will get a glimpse of a majestic grizzly shuffling over vast fields.
And with that, the “Big Five” have been spotted. Celebrate with a pint at the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar — or a decadent meal at Wild Sage.
Grand Gesture Grand Gesture The jagged peaks of Grand Teton National Park and, right, the Rusty Parrot Lodge’s cushy lobby with Jackson’s iconic elk-antler decor
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Heart of the Highlands
Art-filled and fantastical, Scotland’s Fife Arms is what fairy tales are made of. By Evan
TThe tallest mountains in the U.K. pale in comparison to those in the States. The majesty here is more subtle, more whimsical. It’s available only to those willing to entertain the thoughts and dreams of all who came before… the royalty, the medieval characters. The foggy clouds dance atop the hills, lifting periodically to reveal a fittingly royal blue. The language used to describe the surroundings — lochs, moors, lichens — is foreign, helping to entertain the imagination, and bringing to mind toadstools and fairytales.
In the heart of Caringorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands is The Fife Arms, a place that offers as much cozy-comfort as it does high-end luxury: The wood-burning fireplaces are always aglow, crackling away as guests read a book or enjoy afternoon tea under the watch of a funky Picasso original. The tea comes highly recommended, by the way: Little sandwiches consist of the usual (cucumber and cream cheese; duckegg mayo) and the not-so-typical (a lobster roll that is both fluffy and crispy), and the pastries are things often only seen on Food Network seasonal bake-offs like choux buns.
Elsewhere in the hotel, textured, tartan-clad corners with turned-wood legs and claw-foot everything invite travelers to slow down and take a seat. Strikingly contemporary art offers a unique counterpoint to the ornate, Victorian-style furniture and décor — in fact, more than 16,000 pieces of art fill the hotel, whose rooms are often named for Scottish artists and writers. The Fife Arms was built as a coaching inn in
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the 19th century, just a few miles from Balmoral, and was acquired and reimagined by Iwan and Manuela Wirth, who own the iconic art house Hauser & Wirth. It reopened in 2019, and plans are already afoot for an expansion.
The surrounding village of Braemar is tiny and picturesque, filled with stone cottages called bothies boasting delightfully pastel-candy-colored doors. (The local coffeeshop, The Bothy, overlooks the Clunie, a tributary of the River Dee.) The Fife Arms staff can arrange a low-key walking tour of the town and hillside, focusing, if desired, on the literary history of Braemar. A local bibliophile may share tales of Nan Shepherd and read couplets inspired by the region during a casual hike yielding beautiful views of the Caringorms.
Vivacious redheaded Annie Armstrong, who grew up summering in Braemar and now runs a naturebased travel business, offers guided hikes in the park for solo travelers and families alike; she often brings sketchbooks, charcoal and a stainless-steel mug of hot tea, not to mention fascinating knowledge of the region’s geology and plant life. Showcasing its five-star conciergestyle service, The Fife Arms will coordinate — and pack an epic picnic lunch. (Same goes for fly-fishing, claypigeon-shooting, and even helicopter rides.)
In the fall and wintertime, the sun begins to set around 4pm — but not to worry. Back at the hotel, wine and whiskey tastings await, as does the Albamhor spa with a sauna and hygge-ful surroundings. It adds up pretty quickly to a fantastical, fantasy-worthy vacation.
Great Scot!
The Fife Arms hotel from across the Clunie waterway and, at right, one of its many ornate, wood-burning fireplaces
