FEEDER News Milestone
fOND FAREWELL
THE DISPATCH
HOLIDAY
Favorite holiday traditions are back in full force this year, including the Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker. A fully masked audience can view the inperson performance from Nov. 26 through Dec. 24. houstonballet.org
Coat Check Jewelry designer Jae and Megan Thee Stallion for Coach
REAL ESTATE
Development tycoon Marvy Finger of Houston has sold off a chunk of his apartment empire. A portfolio of more than 20 garden and mid-rise assets was sold to an outfit led by Greystar for $2 billion. Finger will retain many of his large complexes, which have become known for their innovative architecture and posh amenities, using proceeds from the sales to expand with new developments.
Style
Thee Fashion Icon
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-Town’s own Megan Thee Stallion stars in the latest Coach campaign, a collaboration between the fashion house and Schott NYC, known for its leather moto jackets. The three-time Grammy winner is pictured alongside her close friends, jewelry designer Jae, beauty influencer Queenie, internet personality Daren and hairstylist Kellon; the group shows off the street-style-savvy line of oversize shearling outerwear and funky accessories. The campaign also featured rapper Pardi Fontaine. “It was so fun getting Pardi, and my friends together, and we had such a blast at this shoot. All the clothes are fire, and it was great how each person’s personality came through with each look,” said Megan Thee Stallion.
AFTER ALMOST 28 years as a newscaster at KPRC, Dominique Sachse signed off for the last time at the end of October. “This is the hardest thing, yet it’s the right thing,” she said with tears in her eyes at a farewell party thrown in her honor the evening before her final newscast. The Emmywinning journalist plans to release a book called Life Makeover: Embrace the Bold, Beautiful, and Blessed You next year, and she’ll continue to broadcast from her YouTube channel, which has more than 1.5 million subscribers.
Art
Story Time JEWELRY
The latest iteration of Harry Winston’s Midnight watch, available in bold red, yellow, orange or violet, features an alligator strap and coordinating gemstones. The white version has a mother-of-pearl dial encrusted with all of the precious stones: yellow sapphires, amethysts, rubies and spessartites. harrywinston.com
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Newsum’s ‘A Dark Day 19’
Collected Stories, the first show at Nicole Longnecker Gallery’s new location in the Heights, runs through Jan. 15. It brings together recent works by two beloved Houston artists: Floyd Newsum and Meredith “Butch” Jack. 1440 Greengrass Dr., longneckergallery.com
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THE DISPATCH
ART
The Menil Drawing Institute has two new exhibitions, both on view through March 13, 2022. Draw Like a Machine: Pop Art, 1952-1975 includes drawings by artists including Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, all made during an era when many were exploring techniques informed by the advertising and mass-media industries. Meanwhile, Spatial Awareness: Drawings from the Permanent Collection explores artists’ understanding and rendering of physical space. menil.org
1. Birdie’s has gifts for adults and kids alike. 2. Golden Thread’s jewelry is now available at its Spring Branch brickand-mortar. 3. This Wild West dress, $148, is one of several stylish finds at new Heights-area Oak & Sparrow. 4. Women’s boutique Pell 1990 has opened in The Woodlands. 5. Casa Mi Bella Rosa touts gifts for home and flower deliveries.
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DESIGN
Houston designer Nina Magon has released a new line of light fixtures via Studio M. The “Contour” collection features artfully curved wall sconces, multi-light pendants and ceiling lights; the “Zeppelin” pendants and floor lamps are decidedly more geometric. The full collection can be viewed at studiomlighting.com/ ninamagon.
Shopping
Boutique Buzz
W ART
For Incomparable Impressionism, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston has lent some 100 of its most significant French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist pieces to the MFAH, through March 27. mfah.org
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ho says retail is dead?! If Houston’s scene is any indicator, brick-andmortar boutiques are alive and well — and ready for holiday shoppers. Houstonian Courtney Pell Wilkerson has opened Pell 1990 (24811 Gosling Rd.) in The Woodlands. It’s a “wink to the ‘90s,” she says. Find posters and photos of ‘90sera fashion icons and pop-culture moments; a custom neon sign featuring everyone’s favorite Clueless quote, “As if!” And after nearly 12 years of operating as an e-commerce site, Golden Thread (9135 Katy Fwy.) opened its first retail storefront in Spring Branch, featuring the jewelry
designs of former neonatal-ICU-nurse and native Houstonian Jennifer Welker. In the Heights, ethical fashion boutique Oak + Sparrow (1051 Heights Blvd.) by Houstonian Elizabeth Berg touts fair-trade and eco-friendly clothing and accessories. And florist Phuong Nguyen opened her Casa Mi Bella Rosa (1815 Taylor St.) by-appointment storefront with floral arrangements and accessories and gifts for home. It is open to all on Nov. 27 — perfect timing for holiday shopping! And go-to online giftshop Birdie’s has announced it will open a brick-and-mortar location in River Oaks, where customers can shop for unique, one-of-a-kind and buildable gift baskets for all occasions.
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH
Design
Ground Rules
ART
THE LATEST showroom to open in Decorative Center Houston, Arsin Rug Gallery boasts a massive inventory of more than 7,000 rugs and carpets. Find antique rugs, reproductions and modern styles from Persian and Turkish to European. And if they somehow don’t have what you’re looking for, Arsin — family-owned for three generations, with an original location in Dallas — offers an option to custom-design any floor-covering. 5120 Woodway Dr., suite 1000, arsinruggallery.com
Through Dec. 2, Harold Joiner’s show Colors of a Place is on view at Archway Gallery. Joiner grew up in New Mexico, the place the exhibition’s title refers to, and his work — landscape paintings, paper-andturquoise collages — is inspired by the history, culture and art of the region’s indigenous tribes, who inhabited the area centuries before Europeans arrived in the Americas. archwaygallery.com
HOLIDAY
The Alley puts on a brand-new version of A Christmas Carol, adapted by Doris Baizley and directed by Brandon Weinbrenner, through Dec. 29. alleytheatre.org
Style
Shear Perfection
CULTURE
Stages’ 2021-2022 season includes a couple of holiday offerings. Panto Little Mermaid (Dec. 3-31) is realized as a raucous pantomime by Houston playwrights ShaWanna Rene Rivon and Elizabeth A.M. Keel. Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi’s Gold also runs through Dec. 31. stageshouston.com
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This Jacquemus jacket is made for Houstonians — fashioned from soft lambskin leather, lined with cozy shearling, and cropped to suit our mild winter weather. $3,215, at Nordstrom
Film
in the ‘red’
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ilmed and set in Texas City, Red Rocket is the latest from indie director Sean Baker (Tangerine, The Florida Project). In it, washed-up porn star Mikey, played by actual ex-adult-film actor Simon Rex, flees L.A. and returns to his hometown in search of a semblance of redemption. Here, he reconnects with his estranged wife, a local pot dealer — and a 17-year-old gal named Strawberry working the cash register at the doughnut shop. Red Rocket debuted to select crowds in November, and arrives in theaters Dec. 3.
FEEDER News
THE DISPATCH
SHOPPING
Sweet news! In December, Sprinkles Cupcakes opens in Rice Village, down the street from a seasonal See’s Candies storefront. Nearby, artist Angela Fabbri will showcase her work at her Fabbriology holiday pop-up.
CULTURE
Through Jan. 3, the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit’s virtualreality art experience allows Houstonians to step inside the paintings and the life of the celebrated artist. The 35-minute production, comprised of 60,600 frames of video projected across 500,000 cubic feet, explores Van Gogh’s final years leading up to his taking his own life. The venue is located at 1314 Brittmoore Rd., in the Founder’s District, next-door to The Cannon. immersive vangogh.com
The Symphony’s Valcuha and, at left, HGO’s Dastoor
Culture
Face the Music
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wo of Houston’s most prominent arts organizations have announced new leadership. Khori Dastoor will become Houston Grand Opera’s general director and CEO in January. She will also hold the Margaret Alkek Williams Chair. Dastoor, a former opera singer herself, is described as a trailblazer by HGO. The lyric soprano has served in various roles including general director at the Opera San José in California’s bay area since 2013. Dastoor replaces, essentially, a duo of
leaders who co-led the organization for a decade. Former Managing Director Perryn Leech left the company last year to become general manager of Toronto’s Canadian Opera Company; Patrick Summers remains as artistic and music director. And the Houston Symphony has named Juraj Valcuha as its next music director, succeeding Andrés Orozco-Estrada. Having made his Symphony debut in 2011 as a guest conductor, Valcuha, who is currently the music director of the Teatro di San Carlo in Naples, Italy, will begin his appointment at the start of the 2022-2023 season.
Holiday
GREEN LIGHTS!
FESTIVE AND INTERACTIVE light installations have become all the rage in recent years. Two new ones light up this holiday season, including Mosaic of Light at Discovery Green, in which 24 sculptures made of laser-cut metal will glow in the dark. Houston Botanic Garden hosts Lightscape, an immersive, after-dark holiday lightshow designed to transform a one-mile trail through the Garden into a neon-lit labyrinth of stars, cherry blossoms, and giant flowers. And, of course, Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo remains a crowd favorite. (Get tickets early!)
CULTURE
The Holocaust Museum Houston has announced that the first museum exhibition exploring the meaningful life and pop-cultural relevance of Ruth Bader Ginsburg will make its Texas debut on March 11.
‘Lightscape’
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FEEDER Style
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1. Sacaria pearl platform sandals, $2,050, by Jimmy Choo. 2. A fall/winter look by Isabel Marant. 3. Bracelet, by Hermes. 4. Alpaca midi skirt, $750, by Johanna Ortiz. 5. The Mount shoulder bag, $3,200, by Bottega Veneta. 6. Pleated wide-leg trouser, $770, by Etro. 7. Satin crop top, $1,450, by Fendi.
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FEEDER Nightlife Turn It Up The crowd partied with Galantis at the grand opening of Sekai Night and Day in EaDo.
The New Impresarios As a pair of posh new multimillion-dollar Vegas-style nightspots bow, targeting the city’s growing ranks of monied Millennials, will Houston become the next club capital? By Sam Byrd, Portrait by Fulton Davenport
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ouston is widely known for many things. Space exploration, medical research, energy production, even dining and shopping. But, much to the chagrin of some party-hearty Houstonians, the city hasn’t been in the national spotlight for its nightlife. Of course, Midtown is fun, with hotspots coming and going all the time, serving the cocktailing needs of yopros, as the Washington Corridor perennially pops. We have 46 | houstoncitybook.com
smart wine bars and popular sports bars, to be sure, and dives done right. But compared to clubbing capitals like New York, Los Angeles, Miami and Las Vegas, H-Town doesn’t quite compete. That may be about to change, though, as a group of entrepreneurs, many new to Houston, gets serious about having fun, investing big bucks in Vegas-y new venues, looking to change the city’s after-dark destiny amid a tech-driven population boom of moneyed Millennials. “Houston’s population growth has expanded with both
FEEDER Nightlife
Reign Man Sekai Hospitality Group’s Mario Azodinia
East Coasters and West Coasters,” says Mario Azodinia, the lead impresario and CEO of Sekai Hospitality Group, who feels his operation is striking while the iron is hot with two large, sexy new clubs debuting now. “As diversified as the Houston economy is, and with the increasing population, the city is ready for clubs that rival the style, density, design and operation of other major cities. “My vision,” adds Azodinia, a high-energy and unabashedly old-school lady’s man, exactly the type you’d expect to see holding court in the VIP section at his establishments, “has been to create multiple hospitality venues — nightclubs and restaurants — that cater to an emerging population that is coming from different parts of the country.” Azodinia, who takes a personal interest in making sure the service staff is beautiful, likening the hiring process to auditions for a movie, is also an investor in the new Gatsby’s steakhouse in Montrose. Azodinia is an immigrant from Tehran who grew up in Ohio and Pennsylvania and moved to Houston in 2008 after trying his hand at development efforts in Miami, Chicago and New York. He found Houston to be more stable, less affected by the slings and arrows of the Great Recession, and decided to make H-Town home base. He resides in a posh three-story Versace-vibe penthouse at 48 | houstoncitybook.com
Bayou Bend Towers with a grand staircase and a private pool on the terrace. His group’s first project, Sekai Night and Day, has just opened on Saint Emanuel Street in EaDo, with a mission to attract world-class DJs, dancing, lounging and private events. Aesthetically, think tropical art deco inspirations, with a long black-marble bar, as well as advanced lighting, video and audio elements. The 10,000-square-foot main room’s ceiling soars two stories high, and showers the room with an array of tech including 200 LED strips and moving light heads. Black mirrored walls create a shimmering backdrop, while 60 feet of curved LED screens cascade above a huge, next-level DJ booth. The 27 VIP tables, prime for people watching, offer unobstructed views of the central, circular dancefloor. Hidden away is a full catering kitchen, and a slick green room for top talent. Need some fresh air? The megaclub’s deck showcases a lavishly landscaped pool surrounded on three sides by an additional 6,000 square feet of covered and indoor space. A 30-foot patio bar, 16 cabanas and five daybeds are available for guests’ leisure. “Houston is following a same trajectory as Las Vegas,” says Sal Wise, one of Azodinia’s partners. “Vegas went from family-friendly to gambling to the dining scene to
FEEDER Nightlife the entertainment scene to a full-service entertainment scene. Houston is insanely popular in the culinary aspect, so we’re trying to fill that void between 11pm and 2am [after the restaurants close]. With Sekai, you’ll have that full-service entertainment component that brings Houston alive.” Sekai Partner Robert Gamch says the goal is to “keep putting smiles on people’s faces by creating amazing experiences,” while he emphasized that service, safety and cleanliness will be hallmarks of a Sekai Night and Day experience. “From booking a reservation to entering the front door to leaving the venue, people will have a great time.” The club currently operates a weekend evening schedule and, as the name suggests, will expand into a daytime operation when the Houston weather allows. Wise and Gamch know what of which they speak. They both worked at some of the biggest nightclubs in Vegas and are bringing what they learned to Houston. For example, guests opting for table service will enjoy expedited entry and may have a dedicated server tending to their needs. Gamch has already moved to Houston, and Wise is also in the process of relocating. For the night owl who wants to grab a nightcap but prefers something more intimate and exclusive, Sekai Hospitality also recently opened Wyld Chld in the former The Classic space on Washington Ave. Wyld Chld fills 7,500 square feet of interior space, split between the main floor and stage, in addition to a 1,300-square-foot patio and 1,000-square-foot rooftop terrace. “It’s a ‘who’s who’ crowd that attends,” Azodinia notes. Sekai Hospitality Group declines to say just how much it’s invested in the clubs, except to confirm it’s multimillions at this point, with more to come. Several other club concepts are in the works for the group, they say, and Azodinia hints he’ll be announcing new restaurant ventures independently soon, as well.
Go Wyld An interior rendering of Wyld Chld on Washington
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Move It! Clockwise from top: The grand opening of Space Cowboy; Trash Panda Drinking Club; Night Moves' Greg Perez
YOU BETTER QUIRK
At Greg Perez’s four new offbeat bars, bigger isn’t always better. SEKAI’S PRINCIPALS aren’t the only new nightlife-minded entrepreneurs shaking things up in town. Greg Perez, owner-operator of the Night Moves company, has opened four venues in recent months. His Heights and Spring Branch places more closely resemble neighborhood bars and kitschy, intimate lounges — Trash Panda Drinking Club, Space Cowboy, Chivos and Live Oak Bar & Grill. Trash Panda’s interior and covered patio offer a nice indoor-outdoor experience — and a mural of the bar’s mascot, a boozeloving raccoon named General Rigby, exemplifies the bar’s irreverent vibe. Space Cowboy, located in the Heights House Hotel, serves as a poolside lounge that blends out-of-thisworld creative cocktails and Asian- and Hawaiianinfluenced nosh. At Chivos — a modern Mexican-American concept, not to be confused with Tex-Mex — guests can expect a more current representation of the
Mexican-American experience; the menu includes pozole dumplings and duck with fig molé, and cocktails made from gin and sotol, going beyond tequila and mezcal. Texasthemed Live Oak Bar & Grill, set in a century-old house nestled under even older oak trees, has an expansive deck and downhome Southern influences in the food and drink. “You’re going to see a lot of growth of cocktail bars,” says Perez, 31, a former Houston Baptist University football coach who got into bartending to make ends meet before taking on the creation and management of venues. He personally prefers smaller, more unique spaces where the personalities of the people running them shine through. “There’s a lot of great talent owning their own spots. People my age are finally getting a shot at interpreting their vision of what a bar can and should be. It’s going to be an exciting time. You’ll get a lot of diverse bars in a lot of new areas.” –sb
Party People
PARTY ON! Fun, food and philanthropy are the names of the game when it comes to getting Houston’s social scene back up and running. A casino-themed fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House garnered nearly $700,000, while the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston pulled in more than $900,000 during its Great Futures dinner. Dress for Success hosted a colorful — and sold-out! — cocktail soiree at its Eastside Street HQ, with tasty bites from local restaurants. Another colorful bash took place in honor of the Orange Show’s 40th anniversary. More than 500 festively clad guests attended the out-of-this-world, Big Bangthemed event. And a celeb-studded crowd turned out to toast the grand opening of the highly anticipated Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit in West Houston.
Cyndy Garza Roberts and Hallie Vanderhider at 'McDonald'
Mario Elia, Tamara Washington, Gina Gaston, Laura Ward at Children's Charity
Melissa Dobrowski at 'Orange'
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Jeff Gunst and Brooke Bentley Gunst at 'Homemade'
Party People
Kam Franklin, Donkeeboy and Sylvia Roman at 'Van Gogh'
Amy Johnston and Carrie Evans at 'Van Gogh'
Ilene Allen and Doug Vrooman at 'Children's'
Brittney Ellis, Kari Anderson and Natalie Cortez at 'Homemade'
Amy and Rob Pierce at 'Children's'
Emcee Mia Gradney at 'Success'
Alexa Burrow, Jen Garaghty and Paula Gonzalez at 'Boys & Girls'
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Party People Margaret Alkek Williams and Stanton Welch at Ballet
Chuck Silverman and Maria Victoria Varagas at HGO
Daniel Zilkha at Alley Aparna Dave and Sydney Scott at Alley
OPEN SESAME The performing arts are back! The Houston Grand Opera officially opened its first live season of shows in two years with a bold, colorful presentation of Bizet’s Carmen followed by a fabulous crimson-tented dinner on Ray C. Fish Plaza just outside the theater. Meanwhile, a well heeled crowd packed the ballroom of The Post Oak Hotel to raise a glass — and give a standing O — to the Alley Theatre, which this season rings in its 75th year. About 250 supporters attended the opening-night dinner, followed by a lively performance by Tony- and Grammy-winning composer Duncan Sheik and Broadway star Jennifer Damiano. And the Houston Ballet returned to the Wortham Theater Center stage this fall for Margaret Alkek Williams Jubilee of Dance performance, followed by a fabulous dinner onstage with patrons that lingered into the wee hours. 58 | houstoncitybook.com
Lynn Wyatt at HGO
Edward and Deborah Koehler and Jim Nelson at Ballet
Party People
Natalia Syminis and Ford Hubbard at Alley
Yuriko Kajiya and Akemi Saitoh at Ballet
Aaron and DeeDee Howes at HGO
Josephine and Phil John with daughter Elena at Alley
Emily Bivona and Ryan Manser at HGO
Brian Bunham and Allyson Pritchett at HGO
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Ann Bean and Susan Binney at Ballet
Ileana and Michael Trevino at Ballet
Party People Linda McReynolds and Phoebe Tudor at 'Heritage'
Jana L. Phillips and Karina Barbieri at 'Rotary'
Allison Schulze, Mark and Lisa Jakel, and Emily George at 'Literacy'
OUT TO LUNCH Hundreds of book-loving Houstonians welcomed Kathie Lee Gifford to the Post Oak Hotel for the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s sixth annual luncheon. Dominique Sachse moderated a convo with Gifford, whose new book came out on Nov. 30. At the River Oaks Country Club, all things Italy — from food to fashion to fab performances — were on display for the La Dolce Vita fashion show and luncheon benefiting the Italian Cultural & Community Center. The event honored Houston-born designer Victor Costa. And Lynn Wyatt was the honoree at the Downtown Rotary Club’s luncheon at the Bayou Place ballroom. Wyatt was also front-and-center at the Heritage Society luncheon, which highlighted a bit of retail-biz history. Wyatt’s brother, Robert T. Sakowitz, longtime executive at his family's Sakowitz department stores, was the featured speaker. 62 | houstoncitybook.com
Sarah Ray, Dana Miller, Paige Griffin and Candy Knudson at 'Literacy'
Ann Ayre, Brian McCulloch, Marla Hurley and Tara Martin at 'Italian'
Cardigan, $6,195, and dress, $820, both by Dries Van Noten at Saks Fifth Avenue; Kashmir earrings, $4,500, Kashmir collar necklace, $65,000, Kashmir bracelet, $55,000, and Kashmir ring, $4,200, all by Sutra at Zadok Jewelers. Opposite page: Love in Black, $390 for 75 millimeters, which comes in a bottle made from black volcanic sand, is a daring floral fragrance, full of warmth and mystery, with notes of violet, cedar and blackcurrant. White gold and emerald earrings, price upon request, diamond Riviera necklace, $76,350, graduated diamond necklace, $69,850, diamond clover bracelet, $21,050, yellow gold and emerald bracelet, $33,150, oval emerald ring, $44,950, and flower ring, $12,950, all at I.W. Marks Jewelers. Model: Brenda Arens for Page Parkes
SCENTS OF OCCASION Call it naked ambition. This holiday, Houston’s top jewelers tout bling beautiful enough to pair with the season’s most festive fashions — or with nothing but a luxurious fragrance from centuries-old Parisian perfumer House of Creed, which just opened a Galleria boutique. Would you dare to bare? Photos by Ashkan Roayaee, Styling by Todd Ramos Hair & Makeup by Edward Sanchez, Art Direction by Patrick Magee Shot on Location at The Silos at Sawyer Yards
Dress, $2,845, by Dolce & Gabbana at Neiman Marcus. Dangle earrings, $15,500, multistrand diamond necklace, $39,500, dome cocktail ring, $35,000, brown and white cocktail ring, $19,750, diamond bracelet with black rope, $7,500, and double sword bracelet, $9,950, all at Valobra Master Jewelers.
Silver Mountain Water, $430 for 100 milliliters, said to evoke sparkling streams coursing through snowy landscapes, has hints of blackcurrants mixed with green tea, bergamot, mandarin and sandalwood. White diamond necklace, $180,000, diamond dangle earrings, $11,500, white diamond bracelet, $59,000, antique-style bracelet, $59,000, sunburst ring, $67,500, and diamond ring, $145,000, all at Valobra Master Jewelers. Model: Sophie Johnson for Page Parkes
Jacket, $1,695, by Corneliani ID, pants, $498, by Zanella, all at Neiman Marcus; Spirit of Big Bang watch, $46,200, by Hublot.
Aventus, $445 for 100 milliliters, intended to connote success and sophistication with its notes of pineapple, birch, patchouli, jasmine and oak moss, is Creed's best-selling fragrance of all time. Aero Fusion Moonphase Titanium Diamond watch, $22,400, by Hublot. Model: Siya Rostami for Neal Hamil
Dress, $1,995, by Talbot Runhof at Saks Fifth Avenue. Rose gold drop earrings, $10,800, chain-link bangle, $6,250, hexagonal link bracelet, $6,175, all by Lesley Ann Jewels; diamond-drop choker, $13,650, cognac diamond cage ring, $7,350, cognac diamond bracelet, $7,075, and rose gold diamond double ring, $11,825, all by Norman Covan at Lesley Ann Jewels.
Aventus for Her, $405 for 75 milliliters, boasting notes of rose and sandalwood, with green apple, pink berries, patchouli, peach, cassis and lilac, is bold and fresh. Diamond drop earrings, $17,250, blooming flower ring, $13,200, rose gold chain-link bracelet, $5,300, diamond bangle, $9,225, yellow gold oval-link bracelet, $10,025, alternating link bracelet, $16,800, five-banded ring, $6,600, chain link necklace, $40,200, and diamond chain, $19,200, all by Lesley Ann Jewels. Model: Raliat Akinlolu for Page Parkes
Turtleneck, $775, by Ermenegildo Zegna, and pants, $498, by Zanella, all at Neiman Marcus; watch, $19,850, by Ulysse Nardin at Tenenbaum Jewelers.
Millésime Impérial, $430 for 100 milliliters, citrusy and rich and offered in a metallic gold bottle, is an opulent fragrance, with its salty-sweet mix of bergamot, green mandarin, lemon, sandalwood and iris. Yellow gold handmade twist-link necklace, $4,750, and bracelet, $7,890, at Tenenbaum Jewelers. Model: Johnathan Calton for Neal Hamil
Dress, $1,090, by Chiara Boni at Neiman Marcus. Rubellite pendant, $24,500, rubellite, pearl and diamond earrings, price upon request, Burmese ruby ring, $65,000, ruby and diamond bracelet, $49,800, all at Tenenbaum Jewelers.
Original Santal, $430 for 100 milliliters, perfect for fall and the holiday season, has a warmly spiritual quality, touting notes of fiery cinnamon, vanilla, cedar, rosemary and peppermint. Pearl and diamond earrings, $43,750, pearl tincup necklace, $5,575, pearl and diamond necklace, $4,800, tennis bracelet, $19,825, pearl cluster ring, $15,600, and emerald ring, $30,000, all at Deutsch Houston. Model: Anyta Chen for Page Parkes
Dining
Delizioso The Pesce Spada alla Siciliana at Trattoria Sofia is one of several fish-forward dishes at new Italian restaurants opening all over Houston for holiday dining.
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Buone Feste!
Houston’s love of Italian cuisine flourishes anew as a trio of restaurants bow for the holidays. By Robin Barr Sussman
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Mediterranean, truffles from Italy, pristine miniature local vegetables. Desserts are exquisite — the ethereal raspberry panna cotta wrapped in red velvet may rival any gift under your tree. Speaking of, feeling holiday-stressed? Settle into cush banquettes in this softly lit, intimate space, and the tension will suddenly melt away. Rilassare. Italians do not rush meals. Ferrarese assures “holiday degustazione menus are in place.” So, let’s start at the stunning new Champagne Bar, complete with an 18th-century Italian bibliotheque and a hand-painted ceiling mural. Ideal for casual drop-ins, the bar’s Champagne Encounter pairs three Champagnes with a trio of fancy snacks (think blini and caviar, Italian cheeses, cocktail shrimp). Optionally, consider the Cocktail Encounter. “We are adding dishes to our tasting menus that represent holiday traditions in Italy,” says Ferrarese. “Growing up in Piedmont ... we always had lots of antipasti, panettone desserts, and the best Barbera and Barolo wines.” Holiday tasting menus are on offer
sofia photo by kirsten gilliam
Much like buzzy trattorias across Italy during the holidays, Champagne corks pop, flutes clink and white lights twinkle among a hum of international chatter at newly rebranded Alba Ristorante in Hotel Granduca. Owner Giorgio Borlenghi named Alba for both a city in northern Italy that’s celebrated for its white truffles and the Italian word for “a new beginning.” With an alluring setting and menu, it’s just one of several new Italian spots — each one unique, from lavish to chic and upbeat American-Italian. At Alba, formerly Ristorante Cavour, chef Maurizio Ferrarese touts a sleek new menu showcasing his flair for Northern Italian cuisine, specifically truffles and risotto. He personally delivers signature dishes to the table, like scallops with shaved black truffles met with “oohs and “ahhs” from guests. “We offer an experience, not just fine cuisine,” says Ferrarese, who has helmed Granduca’s kitchen since 2018. Alba aims to provide seamless service without being invasive, and proffer opulent dinner selections: seafood dishes made with ingredients sourced from the Gulf and
Dining
LATEST DISH! HOUSTON’S BEST FOOD NEWS, IN SMALL BITES ... Beloved Uptown Sushi’s spinoff, Sushi Rebel, is now open at City Place on Houston’s north side. The menu and vibe will be familiar to Uptown patrons, as both are rooted in classic, crosscultural flavors, with a chicly modern spin. Diners can’t go wrong with any of the colorful traditional and vegetarian rolls. There’s even an indulgent one with a Texas twist, made with A5 Wagyu beef. In City Place Tonight & Tomorrow, the still-new restaurant in La Colombe d’Or, isn’t resting on its laurels. The modern European eatery touts a made-over menu for fall, which may be enjoyed in the sculpture garden outside while the weather’s nice. Try shareable plates like
The Melange cocktail at Tonight & Tomorrow
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the panisse chickpea fries, and wash them down with new craft cocktails from the property’s Bar No. 3. 3410 Montrose Blvd. Clark Cooper Concepts’ Punk’s Simple Southern Food is now Gratify, a seafood-forward neighborhood bistro in Rice Village that just started serving brunch. Think charred octopus and oysters galore. The comfort-food spin didn’t disappear: Dishes like pecantopped croissant bread pudding ooze with satisfaction. 5212 Morningside Dr. Tropical-tinged Idle Hands, a Rainey Street favorite in Austin, has opened an outpost in Montrose. Expect Caribbean-cool patio vibes and surprisingly good bar bites. 910 Westheimer Rd.
Sea Change Alba’s executive chef Maurizio Ferrarese and, at top, the revamped restaurant’s salmon and foie gras
Dec. 24 and Dec. 31, and private parties of 25 to 35 guests can be booked in advance. At stylish hidden gem Concura near the River Oaks District, owner Jessica Biondi, who lived in the San Marino beach region of central Italy, describes her new concept as “traditional Italian meets contemporary, with Adriatic coastal flavors.” The restaurant has been a passion project in the works for almost a decade for Biondi, a fashion and design consultant who pays keen attention to detail, right down to Concura’s signature fragrance added to the air conditioning system. Chef Angelo Cuppone’s menu has a focus on fish, including sea bass carpaccio, vitello tonnato (thinly sliced veal draped in tuna sauce) and a riff on tuna tartare served over snowy burrata. Seafood is inventively worked into pastas: Witness sturdy homemade gnocchi with saffron and shrimp, and fresh chitarrine egg pasta with rich fish ragu. But Cuppone knows “meat is a must in Texas,” and prepares a beautiful filet of beef dish with smoked herbs, rabbit in porchetta, and three tasting
Dining
LATEST DISH!
‘Laal maans,’ a new lunch dish at Musaafer, with millet brittle and Mathania chili-oil yogurt
Gather the brunch bunch and head Downtown to Rosalie Italian Soul inside the C Baldwin hotel. Hearty plates include hanger steak with eggs and salsa, and the restaurant’s Sunday gravy with poached eggs and grilled bread. Brunch is served on weekends from 10am-3pm. Also Downtown, the Four Seasons Hotel has debuted its new restaurant, Toro Toro from chef Richard Sandoval. It’s a panLatin steakhouse with Ridizio-style Churrasco steaks and other exotic meats, plus empanadas, tacos and more — all served family-style. Musaafer now serves lunch! There are two- and threecourse prix fixe menus available, with starteres like lentil soup with cubed coconut and mains including savory traditional butter chicken. It’s worth
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trying a few others a la carte, like the coriander prawn or the indulgent Kundan Kaliyaan — beef short rib topped with gold leaf. In the Galleria
menus. Do try the chocolate salami and Parmesan ice cream! “When in Italy, the holidays are the annual highlight, so we are following suit,” adds Biondi. Concura’s Grand Italian Christmas Dinner is Dec. 23; reserve ahead for the prix fixe spread of Italian classics spotlighting fish, “the Italian sacrifice meal to save beef for Christmas day.” A peek at the menu reveals baccalà (cod) in tomato sauce with potatoes, gnocchi de pesce, and panettone (dessert bread) with sweet cream. For an added treat, custom gift baskets with pannetone, wine and Concura candles are on offer. As a gathering spot, the captivating patio with flickering candles, strings of lights and festive décor channels a charming Italian village, even though you are tucked away off Mid Lane sitting under towering oaks. Meanwhile, Heights-area Trattoria Sofia, scheduled to open late November from Berg Hospitality, is all about exploring different culinary regions of Italy with a fun, approachable vibe — reminiscent of cruising in an Alpha Romeo convertible through the Tuscan countryside. With stucco walls covered in vines and hues of teal, dusty pink and terracotta, Sofia looks like a trattoria you might stumble upon in rural Italy, with enchanting and spacious indoor and outdoor garden seating. Sofia’s menu will usher you back home after the holiday with familiar American-Italian favorites — veal chop Milanese, clams oreganata tartine, eggplant toast — all lifted with surprising twists. “Restaurateurs always refer to their concepts as their ‘babies,’ but as the first restaurant I’ve named after one of my children, Trattoria Sofia holds a special place in my heart,” says owner Benjamin Berg.
Politan Row dining hall in Rice Village closed earlier this year, much to foodies’ disappointment. But to their delight, one of Houston’s buzziest chefs, Aaron Bludorn, along with his partners, wife Victoria and Bludorn GM Cherif Mbodji, will open a new concept in the space next summer. 2445 Times Blvd. Masterchef Christine Ha will open a permanent location of her popular Blind Goat restaurant, currently a food stand at Bravery Chef Hall. The Vietnamese gastropub will post up in Spring Branch, next to neighbors Feges BBQ and Kevin Floyd’s new bar Shoot the Moon. 8141 Long Point Rd.
Christmas Lights Concura’s patio along Mid Lane
Travel
Play It Again With a nod to its magical musical history, the new Memphis may be poised to become the next great weekend getaway. By Patrick Magee
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One can simply hear Hopper Seely’s name to know he was destined to brew beer. The native Memphian — a charming 30-something built like one of the Avengers — opened his Grind City Brewery during the pandemic in a former furniture factory, situated on a nearly five-acre property with views of the downtown skyline. He is one of many reimagining Memphis — a storied town known for its soul, rock and roll, barbecue and Black history — for savvy weekend travelers. The centerpiece of Memphis’ transformation is the massive investment made by another 30-something Memphian, Chance Carlisle. His investment firm is spending $400 million on three Hyatt-branded hotels, the first of which, Hyatt Centric, opened during the pandemic in a converted ironworks factory. Opening nearby in the next year are the Grand Hyatt and Caption by Hyatt, the latter a Gen Z-focused concept — one of only two in the world; the other is in Tokyo. The hotels alight on the Mississippi River, 84 | houstoncitybook.com
along Beale Street, the city’s iconic nightlife center immortalized by B.B. King and Elvis Presley. The Hyatt Centric — the first-ever hotel on Beale Street, if you can believe it — took its design cues from the best parts of Memphis. Think treble-clef light fixtures in the hallways with carpets that look like soundwaves; the front desk is made from salvaged iron from the old factory, and the walls of the frosted-glass showers are adorned with the names of local hot spots. On the ground floor is the city’s only riverside restaurant, Cimas, with floor-to-ceiling windows to make the most of the view. The menu is Latin-American with a touch of Southern charm for good measure. Brunch, for example, brings carnitas hash with sweet potato edamame succotash — or, for an Insta-worthy moment, there’s the coconut-and-corn-flake-crusted French toast. The bar program here is anything but typical. Mark, the head bartender and part-time trombone player
WEEKEND UPDATE
Hear the Sound Performers on Beale Street and, at left, Beck & Call, the rooftop whiskey lounge at the Hyatt Centric
(because, well, Memphis) makes a mean dry martini. Upstairs is another first: the city’s only rooftop bar with views of what the locals refer to as the “M” bridge — named for the bridge’s shape — that stretches across the Mississippi and features a themed-light show every evening at sundown. Within walking distance of the hotel are endless food and live-music options. On Beale Street, you’ll find a lively atmosphere with street performers. Plus, expect live goats (yes, goats) at Irish pub Silky O’ Sullivans — and B.B. King’s has live music seven days a week starting at 11am. A couple of blocks over, the juxtaposition of old-andnew Memphis is even more apparent. The town’s oldest operating café, The Arcade, opened in 1919; there’s a small shrine to Elvis at the back corner booth he used to frequent. Meanwhile, up the street is SOB —South of Beale — a stillnew spot with hip dishes like General Tso’s Cauliflower. It would be a crime to visit Memphis and not indulge in the friendly-rival barbecue joints. The town is famous for its dry ribs and vinegar-based barbecue sauce. Rendezvous BBQ is an easy walk from the Hyatt Centric, while a short Uber away is Central BBQ, known for its barbecue nachos, which are just as satisfying as they sound. Throughout the city, Memphis continues to pay homage to its heritage. But it is ready for its second act in the new decade.
AHEAD OF A busy holiday travel season, RedCoach, a high-end bus company based in Orlando, now offers daily nonstop routes between Houston, Dallas, Austin, Waco and College Station. Fares start at $25 for one-way and max out at $120 for round-trip; amenities on board the 26-seat buses include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, snacks and water, plus no baggage fees. Buses enter and depart Houston from the Marriott Residence Inn at 904 Dallas St., in the heart of Downtown. Arguably the best part: Passengers need to arrive just 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure. redcoachusa. com ... Located on the Riverwalk level of San Antonio’s brightly modern, all-suite Hotel Contessa is new Ambler Texas Kitchen and Cocktails. According to its exec chef, John Zaner, an alum of La Cantera and the Ritz-Carlton in Maui, it’s more than Tex-Mex:
Sweet and Sour Strawberry and margarita tart at Ambler
“We are offering flavors that are rooted in Texas cuisine,” like housemade smoked meats and unique cuts of steaks. Plan for predinner cocktails on the patio, which is perfectly situated on a lovely bend of the Riverwalk ideal for watching tourists and boats go by. Local musicians perform ThursdaySunday as part of the curated music series Ambler Unplugged. amblersanantonio.com ... Closer to home, The Woodlands Resort, newly acquired by Lowe — along with its neighbors The Westin at The Woodlands and Embassy Suites at Hughes Landing — will soon receive a multimilliondollar makeover. Its 10,000-square-foot spa and the pool area will be completely overhauled; in addition, the hotel’s dining and bar options as well as the fitness facility will receive major upgrades. woodlandsresort.com
Figs, burrata and prosciutto at Relish Restaurant & Bar
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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second-floor dining room. The restaurant’s lunch and dinner plates are as pretty as the designer wares. 5175 Westheimer Rd., 713.623.6100
home-style meals are casual and quick, but regulars are known to settle in with a bottle of wine at dinnertime and stay awhile. 5161 San Felipe St., 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 takeout and delivery specials! 2300 Westheimer Rd., 713.722.6899
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
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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
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ADAIR KITCHEN american This Tanglewood neighborhood gem is popular for its cold-pressed juices, big breakfasts and giant salads. Healthful
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 AVONDALE FOOD & WINE french
L’Olivier on Westheimer is now Avondale Food & Wine. Expect still-amazing shareable plates that chef Olivier Ciesielski rotates seasonally. There’s a private dining room filled with 100 bottles of wine, selected by consultant Nate Rose, available for retail purchase. 240 Westheimer Rd., 713.360.6313 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 an imaginative take on
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
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
CARACOL mexican/seafood Hugo Ortega’s seafoodsavvy concept boasts Mexican coastal cuisine in a swanky, mod space on Post Oak. Order the banana-leaf-wrapped sea bass or coal-roasted peppered tuna, and spring for the signature El Coco dessert and use a wooden mallet to crack open its chocolate shell. 2200 Post Oak Blvd., 713.622.9996
NEW! BLUDORN american Aaron Bludorn — who’s worked in several Michelinstarred restaurants and appeared on Netflix’s The Final Table — and his wife Victoria Bludorn (née Pappas, of that Pappas family) deliver a Gulftinged New American menu and low-key fine-dining to Montrose.
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. There’s drive-through locations now open in the Heights and Garden Oaks! 1706 Westheimer Rd., 713.529.3535
BOLLO WOODFIRED PIZZA italian
Although it’s authentic Neapolitan pizza baked at 800 degrees has been cited as among the best in the country, the real draw here maybe the intimate neighborhoody vibe and friendly staff. Oh, and the lobster ravioli. 2202 West Alabama St., 713.677.0391
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GIANCARLO FERRARA Executive Chef & Owner
Italian born, Amalfi Coast native, will transport you to his homeland with his inspired menu of fresh seafood, vivid citrus, and cozy olive oil in addition to fresh pastas, assorted meats, family-made cheeses, and an extensive, thoughtful Italian wine list.
ROMOLO BIANCO
Book Romolo Bianco for Your Special Event or Private Party.
WORLD-CLASS MUSICIAN FROM NAPLES, ITALY
Pianist, Guitarist & Singer 6100 WESTHEIMER RD., HOUSTON, TEXAS 77057
/AmalfiHouston
specializing in his heartfelt
713.532.2201
ballads from his native Napoli www.amalfihouston.com Performing Nightly at Amalfi. @AmalfiHouston
2022 Buon Natale! Don’t have plans for Christmas Eve?
La Cena di San Silvestro! Celebrate the New Year at Amalfi!
Be sure not to miss Chef Giancarlo 2021 is on it’s way out! Come ring in Ferrara’s one-night only special à la the New Year with a glass of bubbly! carte menu for Christmas Eve which features the “Festa dei Sette Pesci” We are looking forward to bringing in (Feast of the Seven Fishes), a time- the new year with you, with great food, honored Italian Christmas tradition. wine and wonderful live Italian music.
Book Romolo Bianco for Your Special Event or Private Party.
ROMOLO BIANCO WORLD-CLASS MUSICIAN FROM NAPLES, ITALY
Pianist, Guitarist & Singer specializing in his heartfelt ballads from his native Napoli Performing Nightly at Amalfi. GIANCARLO FERRARA Executive Chef & Owner
GuideBook
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. DESSERT GALLERY bakery This Upper Kirby café is clean and bright, with colorful treats that range from bite-size brownies to decadent custom cakes for big parties. Sit and enjoy with a cappuccino. 3600 Kirby Dr., 713.522.9999 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. Now open in Bellaire! 5740 San Felipe St., 832.538.1060 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details
leches cake and sopapillas. 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 — “Afternoon Bites” include a yummy cheese board — is offered daily. 2400 Mid Lane, Ste. 100, 713.554.0136 UPDATE! FADI’S mediterranean
steakhouse
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. It’s now back in the Galleria area, after having closed its former flagship there a few years back. 6365 Westheimer Rd., 713.532.0666 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details
This glam steakhouse in the old Triniti space 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 crushedtomato spreads and herb butters. 2815 S. Shepherd Dr.
FIG & OLIVE mediterranean Taste the elegant — and healthful — flavors of coastal Mediterranean cuisine in the expansive 7,000-square-foot restaurant in the Galleria, which features a terrace, lounge and two lavish private dining rooms. In the Galleria, 832.632.6632
DORIS METROPOLITAN
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. Pair with a peach margarita and be sure to save room for tres
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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 GEORGIA JAMES steakhouse Chris Shepherd puts a distinct spin, as only he can, on this steakhouse named after his parents. Cast-iron-seared or wood-fire-grilled steaks from 44 Farms are presented with sides like Steen’s-vinaigrettedressed Brussels sprouts. 1100 Westheimer Rd., 832.241.5088 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 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. Try a heaping bowl of spicy soy ramen — or Chef Hori’s inventive new caviar service. 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 much of the same mouthwatering comfort-food fare experienced at his friedchicken pop-ups throughout the last year, plus fried green tomatoes with buttermilk sauce, and an ever-comforting chicken-and-dumplings dish. 101 Heights Blvd., 713.637.4664 KP’S KITCHEN american A BYOB spot from Benjy’s alum Kerry Pauly offers savory apps like spinachartichoke dip and a seared ahi tuna salad, along with mains such as a hot chicken sandwich and chili-citrusglazed baby-back ribs. 700 Town & Country Blvd., kpskitchen.com 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. Weekend brunch brings Vietnamese steak and eggs and “exotic” mimosas! 4444 Westheimer Rd., 713.629.4444 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
GuideBook weeks in advance highly recommended. 4444 Westheimer Rd., 281.888.2770 MALA SICHUAN chinese This longtime Chinatown favorite is equally popular inside the Loop, where its corner location in a Montrose shopping strip is reminiscent of a trendy New York resto. Mala’s menu packs a punch with dishes like the dry-pot chicken and three-pepper duck. Now open in Sugar Land! 1201 Westheimer Rd., 832.767.0911 NEW! MARCH mediterranean A highly anticipated, exclusive and pricey tastingmenu-only affair, March lives up to the hype. Posh snacks in the lounge include bitesize vehicles for caviar and foie gras; the main event is six or nine courses of highly refined, Mediterraneaninspired dishes by chefowner Felipe Riccio. 1624 Westheimer Rd., march restaurant.com
run by father-and-son team Narin and Sanjay Sehgal. Visit during weekend brunch and see what’s cooking on the tandoor in the main dining room. 3005 W. Loop S., 713.622.2005 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 UPDATE! ONE FIFTH gulf cuisine
In its final phase, Shepherd’s groundbreaking One Fifth is currently exploring the full breadth and depth of red-sauce Italian! 1658 Westheimer Rd., 713.955.1024
Burrata at NoPo Café Market & Bar
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 beautifully prepared, classic American dishes — fresh seafood, burgers, piledhigh salads. 1180 Uptown Park Blvd., 346.299.5775 NARIN’S BOMBAY BRASSERIE south asian
Indulge in saag paneer and chicken tikka masala (and oh so much more) at this traditional Indian restaurant 91 | houstoncitybook.com
GuideBook
UPDATE! 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. Dining out with the fam? Try the festive Sunday supper for $29/person. The new weekend brunch touts mouthwatering cinnamon rolls and batch cocktails — even to-go! 3258 Westheimer Rd., 832.942.5080
Chocolate Mousse Cake at Badolina
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 whole-fish 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 dryaging process, diners can expect nothing short of perfection when dining at family-owned Pappas Bros. Steakhouse. Visit the newest location in the heart of Downtown.
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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, now open in CityCentre, incorporate serious spices like the fresh nine-leaf peppercorn, helping customers to feel the burn. Try the mung bean smoothie! 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. Don’t miss Jambalaya Tuesday, when a bowl is served with bread and a drink for just $10. 4302 Richmond Ave., 713.623.6321 NEW! REIKINA asian fusion This Euro-Asian tastingmenu-only restaurant, open Thursdays-Saturdays,
blends art, music and cuisine — a gallery featuring large-format paintings by Houston artists such as Bradley Kerl and Molly Koehn, music from chef Thomas Stacy’s eclectic personal vinyl collection, and food designed to match. 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 fullservice dining experience. 2810 Westheimer Rd., 713.599.1960 UPDATE! 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. Check out the sandwiches at lunchtime, when Riel operates as Louie’s. 1927 Fairview St., 832.831.9109
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 NEW! TONIGHT & TOMORROW european 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. Be sure to check out the cocktail lounge, Bar No. 3. 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. Opt for the three-, fiveor seven-course tasting menu for a true culinary experience, featuring the foie gras flambé — a feast for the senses! 3755 Richmond Ave., 713.622.67788 UPDATE! TRIBUTE southern At this restaurant in the Houstonian hotel, savor unique fare that blends the flavors of Texas, Louisiana
GuideBook
and Mexico. Book the private wine room for a special occasion and pick your own playlist! 111 N. Post Oak Ln., 713.680.2626 UPDATE! UB PRESERV
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Underbelly lives on at Chris Shepherd’s cozy concept on the Westheimer curve. Chef Nick Wong’s dim sum-style Sunday brunch was called out by Food & Wine as the most interesting brunch in America. Check out the new late-night menu on Thursdays! 1609 Westheimer Rd., 346.406.5923 UPDATE! UCHI japanese It’s hard to beat Uchi for fresh, interesting sushi and sashimi — and the Brussels sprouts are can’t-miss. The sake social hour seating, which offers heavily discounted plates and wine from 5 to 6:30pm, is one of the most sought-after in the city. Prepare to wait in line. Equally delicious: An eight-course dinner to-go, with wine, for less than $100. 904 Westheimer Rd., 713.522.4808 VIBRANT american It’s easy to be happy and healthy at this adorable neighborhood café. Enjoy breakfast — dishes like the coconut-chia pudding, which is both creamy and crunchy, are served all day — and lunch in an indooroutdoor space that feels much more Santa Fe than Houston. 1931 Fairview St., 832.409.6423 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-corntopped seared scallops. 1640 W. Loop S., 713.840.7190
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 this boutique steakhouse. A rooftop terrace makes B&B a premiere Sunday brunch destination. 1814 Washington Ave., 713.862.18144
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 FEGEN’S american At F.E.E.D. TX’s latest concept, grab approachable comfort food in a cozy atmosphere. At the bar, order bites like “chowder fries” and cheeseburgers, and wash ’em down with creative spins on classic cocktails — heavy on the gin and whiskey. 1050 Studewood St., fegenshouston.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
B.B. LEMON american Ben Berg has combined the best of his two favorite cities, Houston and New York, at his latest concept located across from his flagship B&B Butchers. Expect flavorful plates like blue-crab beignets, craft cocktails and retro-inspired desserts. 1809 Washington Ave., 713.554.1809
NEW! NOPO CAFE american Ben Berg’s newest all-day cafe has bowed on North Post Oak, with a menu of classics like a piled-high club sandwich, perfectly crispy-crusted pizzas and more. In the front, find a large selection of unique local provisions, premade meals and freshly baked pastries, available to grab to-go or enjoy amidst the rusticFrench-country environs. 1244 N. Post Oak Rd., nopocafe.com
COLTIVARE italian With its strict “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
POSTINO italian Rosé — and everything else — all day! This patio spot in Heights Mercantile, with a second location in Montrose, is always packed, especially during the bottle-and-board special, available after 8pm
on Mondays and Tuesdays. Now open in CityCentre! 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 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
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DINING DISTRICT 3 MIDTOWN, DOWNTOWN, EADO, THIRD WARD, FIFTH WARD
THE BREAKFAST KLUB southern
Enjoy a feast of home-style 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 UPDATE! BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON southern Count on this decadesold Houston staple for an exquisite dining experience
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GuideBook
full of Southern-Creole flavors. Seating spans two levels and guests love Sunday brunch in the courtyard. The turtle soup with sherry is famous, as are the pralines. Inquire about cocktail kits and DIY bananas foster, to go! 3300 Smith St., 713.522.9711 UPDATE! 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. 1201 St. Emanuel St., 832.582.7202 NEW! 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
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. In the mood for something different? Try the grilled octopus from the wood-burning oven. 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. Jimmy Martin, the original general manager of The Palm in 1978, has returned to serve as maître ’d of the new operation. Martin’s
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original recipe for Veal Chop Parm with prosciutto, fresh basil and fontina cheese is among the refreshed menu’s highlights. 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
WEIGHTS + MEASURES
bakery/american
Glass walls at this industrialchic bakery and restaurant allow guests to witness the pastry-making magic up close. Partake in the lively Sunday brunch with plates like cake donuts and fried chicken (which comes with a side of spinach, making this a very healthy choice). 2808 Caroline St., 713.654.1970
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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 self-proclaimed “unapologetically, authentically Thai” food, elevating items that are traditional street foods in Painter’s native Thailand to chef-driven dishes made with local and organic ingredients. 6501 Harrisburg Blvd., 713.428.1975 THEODORE REX american Justin Yu’s modern American bistro is housed in the same location as his late, lauded resto Oxheart. He presents farm-fresh a options like the uncomplicated tomato toast or Gulf snapper in broth and a short but sweet wine list. 1302 Nance St., unit A, 832.830.8592, trexhouston. com TOUT SUITE bakery/coffee Stop by this all-day-bakery for a macaron or cupcake, or post up for a while at one of the community tables and enjoy brunch bites like avocado toast and freshsqueezed juice. There are also CBD-infused pastries, chocolates and more! 2001 Commerce St., 713.227.8688
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DINING DISTRICT 4 BELLAIRE, WEST UNIVERSITY, MUSEUM DISTRICT, MED CENTER
NEW! AGNES mediterranean Café-grocery-store hybrid concept Agnes opened in the space formerly occupied by Tropicales in June, offering indoor-outdoor, counterservice-style, Mediterraneantinged breakfast and lunch, and sit-down dinner. A retail portion includes grab-and-go food, baked goods, gifts and more. 2132 Bissonnet St., agneshtx.com CARRABBA’S italian One of two locations which are still family-owned 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 multiple locations visit restaurant website for details
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 GINGER KALE american This fast-casual, healthconscious café is a fab addition to Hermann Park. Watch the train roll by and be entertained by the ducks and geese on the lake, all while enjoying plates like beet-and-goat-cheese toast, or a crisp salad. Smoothies and popsicles, too! 6104 Hermann Park Dr., 713.429.5238 NEW! 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. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Alain Verzeroli and located 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. A cocktail and wine list at the Upper Kirby, Downtown and new Heights and Tanglewood locations make it a hip hangout. Plus: Find essentials like eggs, milk, bread and produce — plus grab-and-go gourmet items — at the new Local Foods Market in Rice Village. 2424 Dunstan Rd.,
713.521.7800 visit restaurant website for details multiple locations
LUCILLE’S southern Named after his great-grandmother, 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. Williams’ nonprofit, Lucille’s 1913, which combats food insecurity, is worth supporting, too! 5512 La Branch St., 713.568.2505, lucilleshouston.com UPDATE! TINY BOXWOOD’S american
Expect a line at this very 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. Milk & Cookies is also now open in River Oaks, with a third coming to Memorial soon! 3636 Rice Blvd., 713.664.0141; tinyboxwoods.com multiple locations visit restaurant website for details
OUTSIDE THE LOOP HIMALAYA south asian Hidden in a retail plaza in Little India, this ultra-casual cafe is BYOB and serves up spicy Indo-Pak classics like chicken tikka masala and lamb biryani. If you’ve beenthere-eaten-that, try the smokedbrisket masala or top-secret fried chicken. 6652 Southwest Fwy., 713.532.2837 TRIS american Find modern American fare at this prized Woodlands bistro under the direction of Chef Austin Simmons. Tris’ new menu, which debuts Sept. 7, will include casual lunch fare, high-end dinner options, and craft cocktails. The interactive, tastingmenu-touting Cureight remains. 24 Waterway Ave., Ste. 125, 281.203.5641
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and acting jobs until, upon seeing some of the art Bell was making, the grandmother of the girl he was dating at the time told her: “This young man has a gift. Tell him I said not to waste it.” It was a pivotal moment for Bell, who made the decision to take the wheel, and channel his energies into painting. “I believe in God,” says Bell. “I believe in a higher power and His purpose for us all. But I also believe, as carnal, human, physical creatures, we are in the driver’s seat. Our life is our canvas.” Now in his third year back in Houston, Bell is represented by Bisong Art Gallery, the city’s only black-female-owned gallery. His next show, Trapeze, opens Dec. 10 as part of a one-night-only black-tie fundraiser at the Lone Star Flight Museum and Hangar. Organized by Carla Bisong and sponsors, proceeds from ticket sales to Trapeze will go to benefit minority students pursuing a degree in fine arts. For the show, Bell’s paintings — some on canvas, others on mirrors — will be suspended above the attendees, transforming the interior of the museum into an aerodynamic cathedral, a place for selfcontemplation and spiritual ascension. In Bell’s sunlit studio in Midtown, near a turntable and vinyl copies of The Best of Sade and Prince’s spiritual and sensuous breakthrough album 1999, lies a well-worn copy of Mark Rothko’s The Artist’s Reality: Philosophies of Art, personally autographed by Rothko’s son Christopher. Bell strongly connects with Rothko’s work and appreciation for Rembrandt’s emotive use of light, and is pleased his own paintings seem to also be making a long-lasting impression on viewers and collectors. “I do believe my work is beautiful. But it’s humbling to see people look at the work with such astonishment,” says Bell. “Sometimes, I still can’t believe I can make a living off of this.”
ago, and now the company is worth 10 times what I invested.” Since then, Curate Capitol has invested some $6 million in a variety of companies, ranging from ArtSugar, an e-commerce pop-art company, to IntuiTap, a medicaldevice company than facilitates easier implementation of epidural anesthesia during childbirth. In Houston, Colbert has invested in Ampersand, a career-training company that helps land internships and mentorships for women, and Live Tinted, a beauty brand for South Asian women. By the end of 2021, Curate Capital will have raised and invested $10 million. “What is amazing is how many women who have stepped up and written a sizable check — $100,000 or more.” She admits that the stuggle has been convincing men to participate — particularly the monied set from the energy industries from which she came. “But once they do invest, they double down every time,” said Colbert. To help with the pitch and oversee operations (and childcare) Colbert has brought on as a business partner in the project Mark Latham, a fellow business executive, who also happens to be her husband. The couple are parents to Elle, 4, and Luke, born on New Year’s Eve 2020. “A pandemic surprise,” says Colbert. What’s next? Despite the acute demand for more investment, Colbert said she anticipates steady consistent growth. “There is so much money out there looking for deals, that they are having a hard time finding them — but we aren’t. There are just so many opportunities to invest in women, that we are taking it carefully, picking winners, and will build from there.” Asked one thing she says she’ll do differently from now on, Colbert is quick to reply. “Easy. Going forward, I’m going to ask people for a lot more money!”
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