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Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

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JUST FOR YOU

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AUGUST 2021 J U LY 2 0 2 1

contents CONTENTS

Outfor & About You: in houston & beyond 98 Just Arts, Events & Travel

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Arts & Events, Health & Beauty, Shopping House & Guide Home

Cooking, Gardening & Living 16 Getting Lost:

& Staycations JustTravel for You 22 July

Restaurants, Health & Wellness & Home: 26 House

A Day Gardening, in the Life At Home 30 Dining,

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GETTING LOST

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H O U STO N ’ S AU T H O R ATAT I

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Painter David McGee

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PUBLISHER ............................Mike Harrison, Ph.D. MANAGING EDITOR................Robin Barr Sussman ADVERTISIING EXECUTIVES ..........Christina Garza ..........................Michael Carnes, Gabriella Gomez CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR ......Robert Coplin CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ........................................

Anne Breux, Sam Byrd, Barbara Canetti, Marsha Canright, Mary Chavoustie, Natalie de la Garza, Joshua Kornegay, Katricia Lang CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS........................

Brad Coleman, Miro Dvorscak, Kohanowski Studio, Dragana Harris, Ben Hill, Katya Horner, Illumine Photographic Services, Joshua Kornegay, Morris Malakoff, Paula Murphy, Julie Soefer, Becca Wright PRINTING ............................................RR Donnelly

Get Lost Publictions LLC., dba Get Lost Houston (GLH), is a lifestyle magazine with emphasis on arts, events, home and garden and general lifestyle topics.

GLH does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does GLH or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication.

GLH has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has not verified claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. GLH makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products.

No reproduction is permitted without the written consent of the Publisher.

Copyright 2021, all rights reserved. GLH is distributed at hundreds of locations throughout Houston.

P.O. Box 131845 • Houston, Texas 77219 • (713) 523-6523 cgarza@GetLostHouston.com

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Contents

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Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

Above: Feges BBQ smoked meats, sides and drinks. Photo by Julie Soefer Cover photo: Roasted Strawberry Cream Ice Cream Cone, courtesy of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

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By Robin Barr Sussman AUGUST 3-7: Houston Shakespeare Festival It’s back! For their 47th Anniversary season, HSF presents 6 curated Shakespeare films in repertory. The HSF team will curate a selection of classic Shakespeare films, each one featuring a live pre-screening lecture by theatre historian and HSF executive Director Dr. Rob Shimko, 8:30 p.m. Fans will have to wait for beloved Romeo + Juliet on closing night.

Miller Outdoor Theatre, 6000 Hermann Park Dr., milleroutdoor theatre.com

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The AIA Sandcastle Competition in Galveston

AUGUST 7, 14, 21, 28: Superfine Summer Picnics Relish an all-inclusive evening picnic at the Arboretum! This locally curated experience includes all the picnic supplies you need for a perfect date night or group gathering.

Just show up, enjoy, and return the supplies when you’re finished. All picnic baskets prepared by A Bayou City Picnic include a complimentary 12-pack of Superfine Seltzers from Saint Arnold Brewing Company.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, 4501 Woodway Dr., houstonarboretum.org

A dayLIFE

THROUGH AUGUST 26: Texas Artist Lindy Chambers: Living the Dream Texas artist Lindy Chambers celebrates her premiere show at Deborah Colton Gallery featuring a mix of oil and acrylic in eye-popping colors depicting whimsical scenes inspired by everyday life.

Deborah Colton Gallery, 2445 N. Blvd., deborahcoltongallery.com

IN THE

AUGUST 6-8: Houston Abilities Expo, NRG Center For more than 30 years, Abilities Expo has been the go-to source for the Community of people with disabilities, their families, seniors, veterans and healthcare professionals.

Every event opens your eyes to new technologies, new possibilities, new solutions and new opportunities to change your life.

One NRG Park, NRG Center Hall E, abilities.com/houston/ Ernesto Neto: SunForceOceanLife at the MFAH

AUGUST 12 – OCTOBER 10: Immersive Van Goh Exhibit Houston Step inside this groundbreaking immersive art exhibit to experience Van Goh’s trippy oil and pastel landscapes that electrify with 60,000 frames of captivating video.

Designed by Italian film producer Massimiliano Siccardi, a pioneer in immersive content whose work was recently spotlighted in the Netflix series “Emily in Paris,” with music

by Italian multimedia composer Luca Longobardi, the production is a creative encounter like no other.

The soon-to-be announced environment dubbed Lighthouse Artspace will become a multi-year, next-gen, culture and art showcase. Reserve now—tickets sell out fast on select dates. For more information, visit immersivevangogh.com.

AUGUST 14: Summer Free Admission Day Holocaust Museum Presented by United Airlines, this action-packed day includes a special juried exhibition, Withstand: Latinx Art in Times of Conflict, which explores social justice and human rights through 100 artworks of Houston Latinx artists. Anticipate special performances, story-times in English and Spanish, and curator-led tours. The first 100 guests will

Out & About receive complimentary giveaways such as a Mi Tienda tote bag, conchas, and peanut snack bag. Online ticket reservations required.

Lester and Sue Smith Campus, 5401 Caroline St., hmh.org AUGUST 14: The Market at Sawyer Yards This curated market hosts a mix of artist mediums with a focus on folk art, artisan crafts and packaged specialty foods. Surrounded by the highest concentration of working artists in all of Texas, the market coincides with 2nd Saturday Open Studios, when artists from The Silos at Sawyer Yards, Winter, Spring, Summer and Silver Street Studios, open their studios to the public.

Sawyer Yards, 1502 Sawyer St., sawyerstreetmarket.com

AUGUST 14: Fall Organic Vegetable Gardening Class Vegetable gardening experts will share their knowledge and expertise in this informative class. Learn specific strategies for planting and growing vegetables in the fall -- the best season for gardening in southeast Texas. Register online at website link. Free event, 9:00 a.m. The Woodlands Township, thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov AUGUST 20-22: Houston Summer Jazz DACAMERA returns to the concert hall with Houston SUMMERJAZZ featuring vocalist and NEA Jazz Master Dianne Reeves; the Grammy Award winning Latin jazz of drummer Dafnis Prieto and his Big Band; and Chicago trumpet star Marquis

Hill. For tickets and information, visit dacamera.com/ summerjazz.

Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave., worthamcenter.org AUGUST 21: AIA Sandcastle Competition Galveston Get your architectural shovels ready for a fun day in the sun and a chance to win the coveted Gold Bucket award. This annual fundraising event for AIA Houston and ArCH Foundation culminates in an awards ceremony for the winning teams.

Open to the public to view. To inquire about participating, contact debby@aia houston.org.

East Beach, 1923 Boddeker Rd., Galveston, aiahouston.org

Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

A scene from the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit. Photo by Michael Brosilow

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Commune will bring over 200 chefs to Houston in late August.

AUGUST 21-SEPTEMBER 5: Commune Forks up! This new massive twoweek food festival organized by Indie Chefs Community, a Texas-based group known for its multi-course collaboration dinners, will bring over 200 chefs to Houston for a series of exciting pop-ups, amazing dinners, and other happenings at the new Heights House Hotel. The preliminary roster includes Food & Wine Best New Chefs, James Beard Award winners, former Top Chef contestants, and more.

Houston Heights Hotel, 100 W. Calvacade Rd., indiechefs.com AUGUST 28-29: Montgomery County Home & Outdoor Living Show This much anticipated annual show is back to guide you to the right professionals for any type of DIY or home improvement project. Create your dream home with featured home improvement professionals on coveted topics including Master Gardening, Organizing, Luxury Style, Interior Decorating, and more.

Come for the amazing line-up of guest presentations by Dana Cowen, The Houston Chronicle’s Architect and Design columnist; Houston garden guru Randy Lemmon of Gardenline 740KTRH; HomeShow radio host Tom Tynan; Floral Workshop by Joalys Briceno, owner of Houston Events & Florals, and many more.

Expect a special appearance both days by Woman Adventurer, Angela Maxwell, who will share her inspirational story about walking around the globe in six-and-a-half years and field questions on adventure, courage and connecting with the world.

Lone Star Convention Center, 9055 Airport Rd., Conroe, for tickets and more information: texwoodshows.com/live-shows/montgomery-show/ tony@texwoodsShows. com SEPTEMBER 11: Southern Quilters Show & Market More than 50 vendors set up to display and sell handmade quilts.

Ribbons and cash prizes are awarded for top quilts.

Brazoria Civic Center, Brazoria, brazoriahf.org

Texas Artist LIndey Chambers: LIving The Dream runs through August 26 at Deborah Colton Gallery.

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 19: Olga de Amaral: To Weave a Rock This major retrospective spotlights the acclaimed Colombian artist’s 60-year career. Organized into four themes “Radical Materialism,” “The Rebel Warp,” “Alchemy,” and “The Line,” the exhibitions showcase 50 pieces that trace Amaral’s architectural investigation of the woven form.

The Museum of Fine Arts, 1001 Bissonnet St., mfah.org THROUGH SEPTEMBER 26: Ernesto Neto: SunForceOceanLife The Museum’s summer series of grand-scale, immersive exhibitions continues with SunForceOceanLife.

This major commission by renowned Brazilian artist Ernesto Neto transforms Cullinan Hall into a suspended walkway. Visitors can enter the epic sculptural work and explore a complex labyrinth of interactive pathways, all while suspended in mid-air.

The Museum of Fine Arts, 1001 Bissonnet St., mfah.org

Out & About

Amalfi Ristorante Italiano & Bar

HOUSTON RESTAURANT wEEKS Relish this chance to dine deliciously at a discount uring Houston Restaurant Weeks, August 1 through September 6, and raise money for the Houston Food Bank.

Over 200 notable restaurants stretched across the Houston area are participating. A few that you may have been hungry to try include: Amalfi; BB Lemon; Xin Chao; Brasserie 19; Coltivare; Brennan’s of Houston; Xochi; Hugo’s; Lucille’s; Bistro Menil; Carrabba’s Original; Tony’s of Houston and many more.

On the Houston Restaurant Weeks website, you can learn which restaurants serve lunch, dinner or brunch, the detailed prixe fixe multi-course menu, which eateries offer patios, and if delivery is an option.

Here’s the breakdown of how the donations to The Houston Food Bank work: • If you pay $49 for a dinner, $5 gets donated.

• A $35 dinner results in a $3 donation.

• $20 lunches and brunches earn $1.

Remember, every dollar donated means the food bank can provide three meals to The Houston Food Bank. Be a part of Houston’s largest annual fundraiser of its kind founded by “Dining Diva” Cleverley Stone of The Cleverley Stone Foundation.

Happy Dining!

CONNECT Facebook: www.facebook.com/HoustonRestaurantWeeks Instagram: @HoustonRestaurantWeeks Twitter: @HouRestaurantWk Share your delish dining stories above and with @getlost houston on Instagram and Get Lost Houston on Facebook!

Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

The Foodie’s Summer Holiday is here!

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A yLIFE IN THE

The Ice cream cookie sandwich from Frohzen

ice cream

worth a double scoop

By Robin Barr Sussman

Dip into these dreamy frozen treats and forget about Houston’s summer heat

A Craft Creamery ice cream flight. Photo by Dominuque McGhee

Ice cream season? That’s now and forever in Houston, but August probably gets the prize. We’ve got the scoop on the newest spots with the most decorative novelties, chef-driven flavors, and Instagram-worthy cones!

ARTFUL INDULGENCES Top off your inspirational adventure at the Museum of Fine Arts new Kinder Building with a stop at the Frohzen outpost in Café Leonelli for an ice-cold confection. Frohzen is a Miami-based ice cream shop created by Michelin starred chef Salvatore Martone, who is The Bastion Collection’s executive pastry chef. The award-winning chef is known for his sense of whimsy, boundless creativity and innovative techniques. Witness his signature popsicles, homemade ice cream, and eye-popping ice cream

Frohzen at Café Leonelli, MFAH, 5500 Main St., 713-714-3014, cafeleonelli.com

SAVORY SURPRISE With sixteen rotating flavors each week, Craft Creamery in Montrose focuses on smallbatch, French-pot-method ice cream crafted with local ingredients like Mill-King cream and farm eggs. You’ll find classic flavors like mint chocolate chip, but the real surprises lie in the ingenious pairings—think Oaxaca Hot Chocolate, Jalapeno Cornbread, Tomato Tarragon and Balsamic Strawberry. Thanks to chef-owner Steve Marques’ lifelong cooking career—classically trained in Europe and running impressive kitchens in Houston and elsewhere—the creativity never stops. Besides the new neighborhood shop, Craft Creamery ice cream is scooped at BOH Pasta and Pizza, The Pit Room BBQ and more. From savory to sweet, you can make a meal from ice cream.

1338 Westheimer Road, Suite B, 281740-4970, craftcreameryhtx.com

SWEET MISSION Howdy Homemade Ice Cream operated by Houston rapper, activist and philanthropist Trae tha Truth and his biz partner will open in Katy on July 22. The company is on a sweet mission to employ individuals with disabilities— and they are scooping up lots of fun. The signature flavor is Dr. Pepper chocolate chip,

Aqua S ice creams. Above; Howdy Homemade Ice Cream

Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

House & Home

sandwiches, all of which are as visually stunning as they are scrumptious.

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second Houston location in the Heights with perks for social media addicts like a wall of photo ops and wildand-crazy add-ons. But the ice cream itself is unique. Its blue base is slightly salty like the sea, which perfectly complements sweet swirl-ins and whimsical toppings.

Halo of cotton candy on a charcoal cone, anyone? One hundred rotating flavors such as watermelon lemon, Japanese yogurt, caramel popcorn, pineapple cheesecake and peanut butter keep fans flocking for more.

9889 Bellaire Blvd D232, 281-501-3220; 506 Yale St Unit D, (346) 293-9917, aquas.us.com

Jeni’s ice cream cones come in a multitude of flavors.

made in honor of Texans. Other scrumptious flavors on the 20-something roster include coconut loconut; cold brew & cookies; Girl Scout thin mints; hot tamale (!); cinnamon roll; chocolate covered strawberries, and butter pecan. So far, Howdy has one location in Dallas but the franchise is growing with plans to open two more stores in Texas. Outside of the Lone Star State, Howdy will be found in Asheville, North Carolina, and Las Cruces, New Mexico. Keep an eye out, road trippers.

PINT-SIZED CRAVINGS Dairy eaters and vegans alike are licking up New York City-based Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, an Instagram sensation. One of the most popular ice cream makers in America, it produces more than 30 flavors, plus frozen chocolate bars. Now it’s located in Rice Village, but lucky us, two more locations are planned in Uptown Park and Montrose. Velvety and rich (but not too sweet), the secret is its liberal use of eggs. Flavors include peanut butter honeycomb; Sicilian pistachio; chocolate chip Key lime pie, and only for Houstonians—Yellow Rose Bourbon pecan pie topped with a floater from the local distillery. You might not trust yourself with an entire carton (available in select supermarkets), so hit the shop to quell those cravings.

2565 Amherst St Suite A, 832-582-5750, vanleeuwenicecream.com

20920 Katy Freeway Suite #S Katy, 713-331-1950, howdyhomemadekaty.com

RETAIL THERAPY Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams now offers west bound shoppers sweet relief. The popular Ohio-based national chain, well ensconced in The Heights, has opened a new location in booming CityCentre. Get ready to drool over flavors that mimic a restaurant dessert menu including mango cheesecake; goat cheese and cherries; lemon and blueberries parfait; Texas sheet cake; wildberry lavender; raspberry rose jelly donut; brambleberry crisp, and more. There is no excuse not to share—they ship nationwide! Perfect for a birthday or hostess gift. Pints also available at upscale Houston supermarkets.

801 Town & Country Blvd. Building A, Suite 130, 281-409-3364, jenis.com

SOFT SPOT Almost everyone has a soft spot for mouth-watering soft-serve ice cream swirled high and mighty in a cone.

Born in Sydney, Australia, Aqua S recently opened a

Van Leeuwen ice cream pints satisfy dairy eaters and vegans alike.

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Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

House & Home

Tall and Stately Shade Trees — Our Beloved Summer Saviors

“When creating a tree-planting plan it is much better to plant five-, ten-, or 15-gallon trees because with proper care the roots will become established in two seasons.”

— Linda B. Gay

Story and photos by Linda B. Gay, Horticulturist and Gardener Selecting a tree for your home or workspace is like buying a pair of shoes; you want to make sure it fits and has the desired shape. Other factors include leaf type, fall color and whether or not you want flowers.

Trees are grouped into small, medium and large categories and knowing the mature height and spread when it’s fully-grown are critical to making the best selection. Note that a tree’s feeder roots always extend at least ten feet past the drip line of the tree, the furthest tips of the tree branches, so use this information to determine the best variety for your spot.

Above: Live Oak trees on North Blvd. Below: Tree roots need sun and air. Don’t bury them.

House & Home When creating a tree-planting plan it is much better to plant five-, ten-, or 15-gallon trees because with proper care the roots will become established in two seasons. Smaller, younger trees are like small children; they have lots of juvenile hormones and are more vigorous than trees grown in 30-, 45- or 65-gallon containers. Larger, older trees do not establish quickly and can take several years to root-in, turning the homeowner into a nursemaid hand-watering the trees until they become established. Smaller trees are easier to handle, more economical and respond faster to the environment.

In selecting your trees from the nursery make sure they are healthy, strong and straight. Inspect the trunks and branches ensure there are no cankers on the bark or the trunk — similar to the ones we get in the mouth — as these are an indication of a sick tree. Also inspect the trunk for unnatural cracks or loosened bark. Without bark there will be no flow of water and nutrients to the top of the tree; that side of the tree won’t be able to thrive and will eventually die.

Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

Above: Japanese Magnolias offer colorful flower blooms.

Right: A magnolia that is branched to the ground.

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Magnolias trees come in several varieties with different colored blooms. Photo by Richard BH, Wikimedia Commons

Reasons to Plant Trees There are many reasons for planting trees. For shade in the summer but sun in the winter, select a deciduous tree that will lose its leaves during the wintertime: Shumard Red Oak and black gum are excellent choices.

Houston is one of the 16 cloudiest cities during the winter months and we want to enjoy the sun when it chooses to come out. Planting for summer shade normally will be in the western exposure, but morning sun in the east can be just as brutal.

Trees also work well as privacy screens; the best choice here would be a group of trees that are evergreen and grow more slowly than deciduous trees.

Another good choice would be a large evergreen shrub that provides ten- to 15-feet of height for privacy and where the shrubs are branched to the ground. It’s important to note that shrubs are faster growers than evergreen trees. For shady spots select viburnum Awabuki or Japanese yew; for sunny areas choose pineapple guava or olive tree.

When deciding on a flowering tree, first determine whether it’s a sunny spot (receives six or more hours of direct sunlight) or a shady spot (fewer than six hours of sun). For shade select a Japanese magnolia and for sun choose a Chinese fringe tree.

The Dos and Don’ts of Planting There are so many ways that a tree planting can go wrong. From the difficulty of Houston’s clay soil to

placement, mulch types and pruning, this is an area where even those with the greenest of thumbs can get in trouble. Refer to our handy ten-step guide for best practices.

The Tree is Planted. Now What?

Do not depend on irrigation systems to water in a newly planted tree. Handwatering with a hose at least three to four times a week will help your fertilizer, soil, and shale “marry” to create the perfect growing environment for your new tree.

So come out to The Arbor Gate and let us help you select just the right tree for your landscape.

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Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

House & Home

Life Begins at Home

“They like to entertain outside, so we decided to orient everything to the north and create a large side yard on the south side.”

— Jesse Hager, AIA

Heights Homestead Fits Family Lifestyle, Both Indoors and Out Story by Marsha Canright | Photos by Leonid Furmansky On a tree-lined street in the heart of the Heights, Amy and Josh Wolfshohl have built a serene, contemporary homestead fit for their active family.

Designed by Houston architect Jesse Hager of CONTENT Architecture™ to accommodate the lifestyle and aesthetic of the owners, the 4,000-square foot house has indoor-outdoor areas for entertaining, an open kitchen at its center, and three bedrooms floating above on the second level. All the rooms offer a view and feature abundant natural light.

It took almost two years to plan, design and build but now the couple, their son and dog Harley have been in the house for more than a year. It was a group effort between Hager and the homeowners, who were deeply involved.

“Josh and Amy enjoy being outdoors. They like to entertain outside, so we decided to orient everything to

the north and create a large side yard on the south side,” says Hager.

A horizontal fence made of rich brown Brazilian hardwood encloses the space that contains a sleek pool, spa and an outdoor kitchen equipped for a special family pastime: smoking brisket.

A long covered breezeway flanks the south side of the structure.

“One of my favorite features is the porch and the long entry into the house. I love the sound of the wood deck as you pass the entire public space of the home. On a sunny day, everything is thrown open and it’s beautiful,” says Hager.

It also works well for a busy family. “When Josh and Amy come home, they are completely tucked away in their own private zone. They tell me they can look through the glass wall onto the expansive landscape and truly relax,” Hager says.

House & Home

ipating in what’s happening around them on all sides.

That’s why there is a wraparound peninsula instead of a wall that separates the kitchen from the living room.”

The kitchen is equipped with Thermador and Wolfe appliances and Silestone countertops in White Zeus Extreme.

Another useful space that “lives” well for the family is a mudroom adjacent to the garage that doubles as a utility room and study. “The room has an island where you can put your feet up and take off your shoes, and there are cubbies with cushions for the dog to sleep,” Hager says.

The downstairs flooring is sealed concrete throughout, finished by Dungan Miller Design. The upstairs flooring is white oak.

The stairway to the second story is based in the kitchen, while the stairs were poured by Amy’s father who does industrial concrete work. He wanted to do something special for his daughter, Hager says.

The upstairs master suite has oversized windows that allow the couple to wake up with a view of the large live oak across the street. The suite includes a small exercise room and a spacious, comfortable bath.

“They can get up and do yoga or make coffee while they’re getting ready for the day,” he adds.

Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

He says the family chose the Heights because they love the neighborhood. Such a new, contemporary structure might seem out-of-place in an enclave of classical revival and Craftsman-style houses, but Hager says his team of architects made a focused effort to blend the façade of the new house with surrounding homes. “Our goal was to make sure that it fit in,” he says.

They did a typical window pairing — one that echoes houses on the street — and used fiber cement siding on the upper floor, HardiePlank®, to connect to the neighborhood. The durable material is made more playful by varying its height.

“The house has been well-received by neighbors.

They can see it’s well done and thoughtful. That was important to us and important to the homeowners,” he adds.

On the ground floor the ceilings are ten-foot, four-inches in height, with nine-foot ceilings on the second level. The house has a neutral color palette and a well-considered storage plan that contains clutter.

The kitchen is more than a place to prepare food; it’s a common gathering area in the center of the house.

“People always seem to gather in the kitchen so Josh and Amy decided to embrace it. They envisioned a social area that makes it possible to cook while partic-

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Cucumber and lime oysters at Pier 6 in San Leon. Photo by Becca Wright

DESTINATION DININg

It’s not just a meal, it’s a destination

By Robin Barr Sussman

Houston spans the globe in cultural diversity with an enticing array of authentic global cuisines paving our sprawling city. These eight new spots not only wake up jaded palates, but offer a chance to get a little lost. Pre-or-post dinner, hit the theatre, grab a concert, tackle that boutique sales rack until your stomach growls, or graze the farmers market for local take-home treats and unique culinary finds.

DOWNTOWN CULTURE TRIP James Beard award-winning chef Chris Shepherd and his buzzy Underbelly group have made their first foray downtown with Georgia James Tavern, a low-key version of his widely successful Georgia James steakhouse. Located in the art-deco luxury high-rise Market Square Tower, the area hosts some of the oldest buildings in the city, as well as myriad bars, restaurants, and entertainment within walking distance to Houston’s Theatre District. On the menu of chef’s personal faves: cast-iron seared steaks, hearty (and gorgeous!) roasted vegetable salads, and of course, a tavern-style burger made with 44 Farms ground chuck and crowned with melted American cheese, smoked onion mayo, pickles, and red onions. 777 Preston St., 281-846-6938, georgiajamestavern.com

THE CULINARY JOURNEY Are we in Houston or the Napa Valley? The journey starts and ends in Montrose at MARCH restaurant. Modern and light, this stunner explores different culinary regions of the Mediterranean with side trips through a 12,000-bottle wine cellar. The Lounge is the first stop and included in the tasting menu tariff where you’re invited to nibble on inventive snacks and sip exotic cocktails while sinking into leather banquettes. In the dining room, choose from a six or nine-course dinner conceptualized by chef-partner Felipe Riccio. Perfectly seared tuna belly; braised goat dumplings in lamb consommé; beef rib with hibiscus roselle

Just for You

and apricot kernel ktefa dessert are complex offerings displaying a rainbow of Mediterranean flavors.

Pair it all with exhilarating wines by partner-master sommelier June Rodil. MARCH is housed upstairs a winding staircase in a fine newly constructed complex by Goodnight Hospitality with other adventures including Montrose Cheese & Wine and Rosie Cannonball. Reserve way ahead for your night at MARCH. 1624 Westheimer Rd., 832-380-2481, marchrestaurant.com

SHOP, SIP & BARBECUE Feges BBQ, the smoked meat destination in Greenway Plaza by married couple chef Erin Smith and pitmaster Patrick Feges, recently spawned an outpost in Spring Branch. Known for stellar brisket, a smart wine list and inventive sides, the newbie is roomy with 5,000 square feet indoors, a large outdoor patio and an indoor playground for the small tots. In addition to myriad smoked meats, expect a broader menu with dishes including southern fried chicken, loaded nachos, charred Caesar salad with serrano vinaigrette and a porcini-crusted hanger steak. Don’t pass up the hog fat cornbread and sweet-spicy Brussel sprouts! Spring Branch is booming with new restaurants and bars including Shoot the Moon featuring pizza and wine flights, as well as two farmers markets. 8217 Long Point Rd., 346-

GET YOUR ART ON Two Bastion Collection eateries, Café Leonelli and Le Jardiniere in the new Kinder Building, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, have given visitors a reason to stay all day. Start at Café Leonelli, an attended counter-serve with top-notch coffee and house made European pastries, fancy focaccia, sandwiches and soups, baked pasta and meat and seafood entrees with an Italian accent. Or sneak a frozen treat from the artisanal Frohzen case (see our Ice Cream story). Save French-kissed Le Jardinier for special occasions. Michelin-star chef Alain Verzeroli helms this luxurious dinner destination which looks out on the Isamu Noguchi-designed Lillie and Hugh Roy Cullen Sculpture Garden. The artful menu is dictated by the seasons: think marinated watermelon with ginger and heirloom tomatoes, Ora King salmon with lemongrass emulsion, and Wagyu bavette with charred eggplant mousse. 5500 Main at MFAH, lejardinier-houston.com; 713-714-3014, cafeleonelli.com

Downtown’s Georgia James Tavern by James Beard awardwinning chef Chris Shepherd is in the art-deco luxury high-rise Market Square Tower. Photo by Claudia Casbarian

Tucked into the new Kinder Building at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Le Jardiniere’s menu is dictated by the seasons. Photo by Emily Chan

Get Lost Houston | August 2021 | GetLostHouston.com

319-5339, fegesbbq.com

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SAIL AWAY Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House in San Leon is a great weekend or day trip escape for brunch, lunch or dinner on the water. The new Bayside Brunch proffers a feast for the eyes and palate: watch the boats (they even have their own marina!) and imbibe in bubbles or Bloody Marys while noshing on Gulf seafood, Nashville hot chicken, gussied-up donuts, fresh oysters and egg specialties.

113 6th St., San Leon, TX, 281-339-1515, pier6seafood.com

Gratify restaurant is a stylish addition to the Rice Village dining scene. Photo courtesy of Gratify

LET’S PLAY Pinstripes welcomes kids of all ages for bowling, bocce, a vast menu of house-made Italian-American fare, craft beer and monthly specials. The two-story facility sports 13 bowling lanes, six indoor and outdoor bocce courts and a casual bistro. The kitchen doesn’t play around when it comes to options: maple-glazed salmon, ribeye steak, grilled burgers, wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta and gelato are a few temptations, while the bar dispenses a curated roster of wine and handcrafted cocktails. August 27 is Craft Beer and Barbecue Night with a cookout on the upstairs terrace and a buffet of summery food and local beer pairings (Saint Arnold’s, Karbach and 8th Wonder) for $40. 3300 Kirby Dr., 346-297-1770, pinstripes.com FOOD HALL OF FAME Is there any better place to get lost than a food hall? This summer, Finn Hall, a next-gen collection of diverse eateries, welcomes newcomer Pho Binh from chefs Kevin Pham and Di Nguyen. The downtown location is a descendant of their family’s highly lauded restaurant, Pho Binh by Night located in Houston’s Asiatown and has been recognized as some of the best pho in the country. Although pho is the thing here with dozens of slurp-able combos, expect other delicacies including eggrolls and chicken cabbage salad with ginger dressing. We know where we will eat this winter, pho sure!

Finn Hall, 712 Main Street, finnhallhou.com. Check out the full roster of vendors.

March restaurant offers a culinary journey in the heart of the Montrose restaurant scene. Photo by Julie Soefer

TRANSPORT YOURSELF TO GRATIFY Enter Gratify, a bustling Parisian-style bistro hot off the sidewalks of Rice Village, and you’ll be greeted by a disco ball and vividly colored whimsical furniture. It’s the latest concept by Clark Cooper Concepts (Brasserie 19 and Coppa) and these restaurant veterans make it easy to escape reality while soaking up the chic ambiance.

You’ll need a break after shopping new CB2, Crate & Barrel’s modern furniture brand, or scouring the 40-plus vendors at Rice Village farmers market. Anticipate classic American choices of caviar, crab Louie salad and fall-off-the-bone short ribs. Graze on grilled lamb meatballs with tzatziki or The Gratify Board—a mélange of charcuterie, cheese, almonds and surprises. The towering Gratify Burger will indeed gratify along with a glass of the affordable bubbles!

5212 Morningside, 713-524-7865, gratifyhouston.com

Left: Head to Pinstripes for a seriously delicious fun time in Upper Kirby.

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By Robin Barr Sussman

AUSTIN AUGUST 4-8: Lady

IN THEBird: Beyond the

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Wildflowers This new exhibition celebrates the life and legacy of former first lady of the United States, Lady Bird Johnson.

Using the LBJ Presidential Library’s unique collection and never-before-seen memorabilia, letters, and photographs, the exhibition highlights Mrs. Johnson’s many remarkable achievements throughout her life, including her pioneering and influential efforts in environmental conservation. LBJ Presidential Library, 2313 Red River St., Austin, lbjlibrary. org

Heading to Austin on 290? Don’t forget to stop by the Junk Gypsy Store in Round Top.

ROUND TOP AUGUST 24-27: Get Lost with Us: Daydreamers & Boss Babes!

This curated Farmhouse Retreat at The Junk Gypsies Wander Inn is full of ambitious women who want to be a part of something bigger. The retreats and free monthly memberships help develop the skills and relationships you need to be successful. The Junk Gypsies promise to make sure you have everything you need to not only reach your goals, and crush them, but to work toward a life you love! The hiatus kicks off with a welcome party at the shabby-chic Junk Gypsy Store. Junk Gypsy Company, 1215 Texas 237, Round Top, gypsyville.com

AUGUST 28: Batfest Come see 1.5 million Mexican freetailed bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk.

Along with the main attraction, enjoy two stages with live music, more than 50 arts and crafts vendors, delicious food and adult beverages, children’s activities, a bat costume contest, and other “batty” activities.

Congress Avenue Bridge, Austin, roadwayevents.com, $20 with advance purchase.

AUGUST 26-SEPTEMBER 6: Prism 34 Austin’s oldest film festival and premiere LGBTQ+ film fest, aGLIFF

The Horseshoe Bay Resort on Lake Travis hosts its Beer by the Bay Music festival Aug. 13-14.

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GULF COAST AUGUST 14: The Texas Tenors in Concert Named one of the top 50 acts in the world and the only vocal group from the United States invited to compete on “America’s Got Talent: The Champions,” The Texas Tenors present a concert celebrating music legends. There are two performances (4 p.m. and 8 p.m.).

The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St., Galveston, thegrand.com

SAN ANTONIO

Throngs of enthusiasts watch as over 1.5 Mexican free tail bats emerge from under the Contress Ave. bridge during Bat Fest.

presents PRISM 34. The 34th annual event emerges this year in a hybrid fashion, as a virtual festival along with a few in-person events. Virtual and various locations in Austin, agliff.org/pride

HORSESHOE BAY AUGUST 13-14: Beer by the Bay Music Festival Award winning Texas breweries plus great cuisine make this one of the most popular music festivals in the Texas Hill Country. Tickets sell out fast!

Horseshoe Bay Resort, 200 Hi Circle N., Horseshoe Bay, hsbresort.com

AUGUST 27: Parade of Lantern Floats If you happen be on the River Walk enjoying a margarita, catch the annual Ford Parade of Lanterns where beautiful 26-foot-long boats are filled with large illuminated lanterns floating throughout the downtown section. The colorful pageantry is free to enjoy and held on the weekends nightly from 8-10 p.m., weather permitting. Starting point, 203 S. St. Mary’s St., visitsanantonio.com

THROUGH DECEMBER: Frida Kahlo Oasis at the San Antonio Botanical Garden This unique exhibition will bring to life a captivating rendition of the famous Mexican artist’s iconic blue home and lush green sanctuary, ‘Casa Azul,’ which profoundly influenced her timeless art. Visitors can explore famous Casa Azul landmark replicas such as Kahlo’s desk and easel, frog-themed fountain, Diego Rivera’s Pyramid, as well as six monumental animals sighted throughout the garden. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place, San Antonio, www.sabot.org

San Antonio’s Parade of Lantern Floats is a free boat parade at the Riverwalk.

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29

A dayLIFE IN THE

david mcgee

By Robin Barr Sussman

Beloved local artist dishes on his early passion to paint, creative inspirations, latest exhibitions and a masterpiece chocolate cake.

When did you know your passion was art?

Like most creative people, I started early and drew as a child. Growing up in Detroit, I did not go to museums and did not even know about galleries. An avid reader, I discovered the world through the series of Old World books. I moved to Texas in the 80s and started drawing and creating paintings at about 18 years old.

After about a year, I knew this was my career.

Ranging from figurative to the abstract, David McGee’s original thought-provoking paintings, drawings, and prints can be found in collections across the nation, including the The Menil Collection, Houston; the Dallas Museum of Art; Blanton Museum of Art, Austin; The Grand Rapids Museum of Art; The Seattle Arts Council and more. Houston-based McGee was born in Louisiana, grew up in Detroit, and moved to Texas to study at Prairie View A&M University. His work draws from

Some assume your art is about the African American experience.

True or false?

This assumption is to a large degree because I am an African American living in America. But my work is populated by all races. My work is about the human experience and navigating through a curious world.

Where are your current shows?

We just finished a few shows recently: Beaumont, Texas; The Grand Rapids Museum of Art, Michigan, and the Barry Whistler Gallery show in Dallas. There is usually a 3 to 4 year gap between my exhibitions because most of my work is concept work and I sit on it for a while.

his interests in poetry, history painting, class, pop culture, and their connections. We chatted with the fascinating McGee to discover just what makes him tick.

What is a typical day for you?

I’ve been a steady worker my whole life. I don’t wait for inspiration—I believe in doing, so I work every day and find inspiration. I’m either drawing, planning or painting.

What do you do for hobbies or leisure time?

I like plants, gardening and doing yard stuff. Reading and watching films relaxes me.

Do you have any favorite dishes/foods?

My favorite dessert in the world is my mom’s German chocolate cake.

It’s a masterpiece. It is so fantastic; you just want to run down the street in tears. She makes it once a year—for my birthday.

I used to share the cake with someone that I like, but now I devour the entire thing by myself. I will starve and only eat this cake until it is all gone!

If you were not an artist, what would your profession to be?

I would want to be a film director because I’m really into movies. But I love baseball and thought I would be a baseball player. Many in my family were baseball players. I’m completely obsessed with the Yankees!

What’s on your playlist?

I’ve been listening to a lot of older Miles Davis, Bach, and local composer Chris Becker.

Your proudest moment?

It was an art moment: When I first saw my painting next to a Picasso at The Menil Collection. I couldn’t believe my eyes. The Menil is beautiful, accessible, intimate and welcoming.

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