Lubbock Magazine | December 2020

thelubbockmagazine.com DECEMBER 2020

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Spirit

HOLIDAY OF $5.95 US LUBBOCK MAGAZINE

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YOUR WINTER

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Contents

DECEMBER 2020

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On the Cover

8 HOLIDAY SPIRIT

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Making the best of an unusual Christmas ILLUSTRATION BY KAYLA MORRIS

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Features

5-5-5

How a Lubbock couple turned loss into hope.

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Sections

STYLE

Luxurious items to help place you in a peaceful mood

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16 COOKING LESSONS

Easy holiday bread recipes from Munchies Bakery

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CONTRIBUTORS............................5 EAT DRINK...................................21 YESTERYEAR..............................36

HAPPY HOURS!

EVERY DAY 3 P.M.-7 P.M.

COLD BEER BIG BURGERS HOT MUSIC!

orlandos.com

From T H E Editor Regional Director of Specialty Products/Editor Michele McAffrey 806.345.3256 mmcaffrey@lubbockonline.com Regional Designer Kayla Morris Contributing Photographer Sylvia Jennings Contributing Writers Jonathan Baker Jason Boyett

GM/Regional Advertising Director Shoni Wiseman Advertising Sales Manager Robin Morse Multimedia Sales Representatives Larry Guerra Craig Martin Newsstand Sales Kevin Woelfel Subscriptions Victor Uriegas

l Brand Logos

To advertise in Lubbock Magazine or on thelubbockmagazine.com, contact Shoni Wiseman at 766.8631.

Regional Executive Editor Jill Nevels-Haun Regional Distribution Director David Morel Regional Accounting Manager Sheryl Rycerz 710 Avenue J, Lubbock, TX 79401 806.762.8844 • thelubbockmagazine.com Lubbock Magazine is a monthly publication of AJ Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent.

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hese past few months have been a heartbreak, a stressor beyond anything we’ve ever experienced. As we look toward 2021 with hope, we’re also still in the middle of a life-changing crisis that has affected all of us in myriad ways.

Our final issue of 2020 is filled with ideas to help you safely celebrate the season with hope, a little TLC and holiday cheer.

As we’ve continued to work from home, we’ve found that items of comfort help sustain our bodies and spirits. It’s important to take the time to get our thoughts in order, calm our nerves, and even stay warm this winter. With that in mind, we asked for self-care product recommendations from a few of our favorite local boutiques. Find a new way to pamper yourself or a loved one on page 6.

We don’t know what December will hold, but Our “Holiday Spirit” feature (see page 8) includes family-friendly, safe events and ways that you can make a difference in someone’s life this Christmas, from giving trees, to feeding programs, to monetary donations.

The tragedy that struck three first responders on Jan. 11, 2020, grieved the entire community. Lt. Eric Hill lost his life that day, and his parents, Mark and Susan Hill, have launched a new local initiative, 5-5-5. The organization was founded to educate the public about driving safely and preventing injury or loss of life to other first responders. Learn how you can help them spread the word about 5-5-5 beginning on page 14.

As we’ve turned toward home cooking and baking these past months, food gifts will likely be a big part of giving this Christmas. When I was a child, we’d bake bread as holiday gifts with my dad. My grandmother’s simple white bread recipe is still my favorite, and I remember the smell of baking bread filling our small house. Baker Jessica Cuevas shares her sweet and savory bread recipes this month, just in time for the holidays.

Find them on page 16.

May you experience peace, joy and comfort this holiday season,

Michele McAffrey | Editor

Contributors

JONATHAN BAKER Writer

Jonathan’s copywriting has appeared in Esquire, Men’s Journal, and Popular Mechanics. In his spare time, he writes crime novels.

JASON BOYETT

SYLVIA JENNINGS

Jason has written more than a dozen books and is the host and creator of “Hey Amarillo,” an interview podcast. Visit heyamarillo.com and jasonboyett.com.

A Lubbock native and former state trooper, Sylvia has been a photographer for more than 30 years. Her work ranges from editorial to portraiture. Learn more at sjphotography-sylviajennings.com.

Writer

Photographer

DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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Style 1.

Stress Relief W

e’ve finally reached the holiday season in what has been an extraordinarily stressful year. The days may not quite be as “merry and bright” as all of us had hoped, so we’ve turned our focus this month toward stress-relieving products. Put these in the “treat yourself” category of self-care.

From bath salts and scrubs to some of the most aromatic candles we’ve encountered, these luxurious items for men and women should help place you in a peaceful mood. Merry Christmas, and here’s to 2021.

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1. Jack Black “Jack’s Most Wanted” Kit $65, CHROME 2. Lollia In Love bubble bath $44.99, Barque Gifts & Paper 3. Fabulous Furs eye mask $29, CHROME 4. Capri Blue Volcano bath bomb $10, Hulla B’Lu 5. Revision Skincare Finishing Touch exfoliating scrub $48, The Spa by Sheena 6. Mixture soothing salt soak $25, Katy & Co. 7. Fabulous Furs luxe faux fur blanket $349, CHROME

DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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COVER STORY

G THE B N I ES AK T M

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By Jonathan Baker

hings are going to be different this holiday, no question. But different doesn’t have to mean worse; in fact, you might find yourself having the best Christmas in memory. How? By returning to what the holidays were always supposed to be about: kindness, love, good works, stillness, patience, giving. There are still plenty of options that will allow you to have a little fun while keeping your family safe this season. Here, we list some of our favorite suggestions – and some great options for ways that you can safely give back to the South Plains community, in a year when everyone could use a little love.

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Celebrate the Season

We see this year as a chance to create some new traditions, to think creatively, and to remember what matters most. Whether you’re driving through the North Pole at Mackenzie Park or marveling at the drive-in’s showing of “The Nutcracker,” this is a year to make new memories.

Candlelight at the Ranch

While the National Ranching Heritage Center’s traditional, in-person Candlelight at the Ranch will not take place this year. The NRHC and Texas Tech Public Media will explore frontier holiday traditions in a televised Candlelight at the Ranch, premiering Saturday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m., on KTTZ-TV and online. Red Steagall will guide viewers through 10 historic ranch structures as re-enactors bring to life scenes from the past. depts.ttu.edu

“The Nutcracker”

This year, Lubbock Ballet’s beloved holiday tradition is coming to the big screen! Load up the car and head out to the Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre on Friday, Dec, 11 at 7:30 p.m., to see “The Nutcracker” under the stars. You’ll also be able to stream the magic straight into your living room beginning Dec. 11. Snack Boxes by Market Street will make a great addition to the experience.

5101 Clovis Road, 749.7469, driveinusa.com/lubbock

Christmas in the Park

This year, Adventure Park is pulling out all the stops for a safe, outdoor yuletide extravaganza, featuring 50,000 dazzling lights, campfire s’mores and hot cocoa every Friday and Saturday evening, Dec. 11-18, 5-8 p.m. The park is also offering “Dinner with Santa” every Friday night, an event that includes a slice of pizza, drink and s’mores kit – and PJs are welcome! 5110 29th Drive, 793.7275, adventureparkfun.com

Pancakes and Pajamas Breakfast with Santa

This holiday, enjoy reserved table seating and COVID-safe fun at this family-style breakfast, featuring build-your-own pancakes and socially distanced photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Visitors are encouraged to wear their most comfortable, festive pajamas! $5 of each ticket sold will benefit Texas Boys Ranch. Overton Hotel & Conference Center, 2322 Mac Davis Lane, 776.7010 to reserve a table. Dec. 12, 8-11 a.m.

Santa at the South Plains Mall

Santa’s found his way back to the South Plains Mall this year, for a new contactless experience. Meetings with Santa will be scheduled through reservations, everyone in the Grand Court will be socially distanced and masked up, and hand sanitizer will be plentiful. Daily through Christmas Eve. Call 792.4653 for information.

DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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Santa Land

Now in its 63rd year, this year’s Santa Land will feature a drive-thru wonderland, as Mackenzie Park is transformed into a sparkling winter utopia. On Dec. 10 at 6 p.m., Lubbock City Council members will welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus from the North Pole. Each year, more than 50,000 people visit Santa Land to marvel at the festive holiday village with its huge lighted Christmas tree, animated displays, bonfires, traditional holiday scenes, and of course, the jolly old elf himself. Dec. 10-23.

600 Cesar E. Chavez Drive, 775.2687, ci.lubbock.tx.us

Santa’s Castle

Train rides, horse and carriage rides, hot chocolate, sugar cookies and pictures with Santa are free of charge at this brightly lit, outdoor Christmas wonderland in Highland Oaks. Canned food and cash donations are appreciated but not required. Saturdays in December, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 15401 CR 1870, highlandoakslubbock.com

Lend a Helping Hand

This year offers an opportunity for our community to continue its spirit of giving, loving and volunteering. To that end, we’ve compiled a list of opportunities for locals of all ages to give back, so that we can all get through this crisis together – and come out on the other side stronger than ever.

The Volunteer Center of Lubbock has a number of recommendations for how you can spread kindness while keeping your own personal risk at a minimum. These include making donations to individuals and organizations in need; calling friends and family to check in on them; offering to deliver groceries or other supplies to homebound people; creating engaging opportunities for children in your neighborhood, such as sidewalk chalk messages, driveway block parties, or scavenger hunts; dropping off a “party in a box” or planning a virtual party for someone whose special celebration has been cancelled; making cards for elderly or high-risk people who are unable to go out; and assisting with yard work for at-risk people in your area.

Beyond these ideas, here are some of our favorite local organizations that need your help more than ever. Each of the organizations listed below is doing its best during the pandemic, but methods and availabilities are constantly shifting, so call to ask about current COVID protocols.

Buckner Family Hope Center

Buckner International is a ministry dedicated to the transformation and restoration of lives. The Center improves the quality of life for all kinds of groups, from newborns to the elderly. This holiday, you can help Buckner’s mission to strengthen families by offering the families in their programs a bit of Christmas joy. This means providing a Christmas wish or need for a child, youth, single mom or family. Call 799.0990 or visit buckner.org/family-hope-centers for information about how to give.

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Catholic Charities of Lubbock

The mission of Catholic Charities is to provide the vulnerable and in-need in the community with a path to well-being through support and empowerment, transitioning families and individuals from crisis to stability and self-sufficiency. Ways of helping include donations of money, clothing and household goods, and memorials and honorariums. Call 765.8475 or visit cclubbock.org/support.

Children’s Home of Lubbock

A mainstay in the Lubbock community since 1954, the Children’s Home’s mission is to care for children and families in crisis. On any given day, some 80 children live on the organization’s Idalou Road campus. Like any small community, the campus has numerous jobs that must be done to keep things running smoothly. Volunteers are needed to help with holiday celebrations on campus, as well as the usual needs of assisting with daily tasks, special events, big projects, or simply giving extra attention to the children. And, as with every organization on this list, monetary donations are also gratefully accepted. Visit childshome.org or call 762.0481.

South Plains COVID-19 Response Fund

The Community Foundation of West Texas and Lubbock Area United Way have joined together to create the South Plains COVID-19 Response Fund. When you donate to this fund, resources will be rapidly deployed to community-based organizations tackling the effects of the coronavirus outbreak in the South Plains region. This Christmas, consider making a donation in honor of a loved one. To help out, visit cfwtx.org/spneighbors.

Hospice of Lubbock

Each holiday season, the citizens of the Hospice of Lubbock network of communities are invited to make a donation in memory of, in honor of, or in celebration of their loved ones. A beautiful tree stays lit throughout the season in tribute to the patients and families the organization serves. You can make a donation through Covenant Health Foundation at covenanthealth.org or covenanthealth.org/hospice-of-lubbock.

Make-A-Wish North Texas

This is the season of wishes, and there’s never been a better time to consider becoming a “wish granter” – a trained volunteer that meets with children to determine their wish.

Wish granters work closely with Make-A-Wish staff to make each wish come true, meeting virtually with wish families.

Often, wishes can be granted in just several days, though some may take up to a year to complete. A specialized training program is provided before contact is made with a wish family.

The organization is especially interested in wish granters who are fluent in both English and Spanish. 9117 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 500, 785.9474, wish.org/ntx

DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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Meals on Wheels

During the COVID pandemic, Meals on Wheels has become more important than ever – safely delivering meals to the homebound elderly and severely disabled, and their pets, providing them with nourishment and a bit of socialization and comfort during difficult times. The organization is always looking for volunteers, especially during the holiday season, when special deliveries to seniors take place – a Secret Santa gift on Dec. 16 and food box on Dec. 18. 2304 34th St., 792.7971, lubbockmealsonwheels.org

Open Door

Open Door’s Community Center is accepting personal protective gear (masks and gloves) daily. The organization has also increased the amount of food it serves, and it’s asking Lubbockites to add a container of oatmeal and/or pancake mix and syrup to grocery lists on their behalf. Donations can be made at 1916 13th St. between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. 687.6876, opendoorlbk.org

Salvation Army Angel Tree

Paul’s Project Grace Campus

Paul’s Project isn’t just an important resource for the homeless on the South Plains, it’s actually one of the most impressive and revolutionary communities in all of Texas. The Paul’s Project “Grace Campus” runs a thriving little village on a very tight budget.

Paul’s Project is always on the lookout for groups that can help prepare and serve meals to residents. This holiday, you can also help by making encouraging holiday cards to place in Grace Campus mailboxes, or dropping off much-needed supplies. Visit paulsprojectlubbock.org or call 500.5006.

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The Angel Tree program is one of the Salvation Army’s most famous and beloved Christmas traditions. This year, due to the COVID pandemic, more people in the South Plains community are struggling to make ends meet. The Lubbock Angel Tree program helps families in need by providing toys and gifts to nearly 2,000 children in our area each year. Once a child is accepted as an Angel, donors can shop for their Christmas wish list. Just pick a tag off the Angel Tree located inside your neighborhood Walmart store – or you can help out online by visiting salvationarmyusa.org/usn/walmart-angel-tree/ and entering your zip code.

South Plains Food Bank

Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign

Despite current challenges, the Food Bank has managed to continue safely serving our South Plains neighbors. Indeed, last month it was announced that the SPFB would be partnering with H-E-B to deliver nearly 10,000 holiday meals to locals in need. You can help end hunger in Lubbock this holiday season by volunteering your time, donating food, or making a donation.

Find more information on spfb.org or call 763.3003.

Each year during the holiday season, the Salvation Army conducts its Red Kettle Campaign. Now in its 129th year, funds raised through the campaign go to help needy Lubbock families with Christmas gifts, food, shelter, transportation and housing and respite during the holidays and throughout the year. Lubbockites can volunteer to ring a bell at one of the many local Red Kettle locations throughout the city. Go to registertoring.com and type “Lubbock, Texas” into the search bar.

United Way

Lubbock Area United Way has long been focused on education, the safety and well-being of families, and the physical and mental health of individuals in the Lubbock community. Recently, the organization has been working with its community partners, local government, school districts, and other community stakeholders to address the numerous complexities surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak. If you want to help out this holiday, but you don’t have a targeted idea about how you can make a difference, call the United Way. They’ll steer you in the right direction. 747.2711 or visit liveunitedlubbock.org. L

DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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LUBBOCK FIRE RESCUE LIEUTENANT ERIC HILL

SUSAN AND MARK HILL

How a Lubbock couple turned loss into hope

By Jonathan Baker

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his holiday, a new Lubbock organization is shining a light on the importance of first responders in our community. It’s been nearly a year since tragedy struck three Lubbock first responders who were providing emergency services to a vehicle that had flipped during an ice storm on Interstate 27. A driver heading south in the early hours of Jan. 11, 2020, veered into the center median and oppositebound lanes, striking Lubbock Fire Rescue Lieutenant Eric Hill, police officer Nicholas Reyna, and firefighter Matthew Dawson.

Dawson was hospitalized in critical condition. Officer Reyna was pronounced dead at the scene, while Lt. Eric Hill died a short time later at the hospital.

Over the past 10 years, an average of 230 first responders have

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died per year in the line of duty. This includes 70 firefighter-EMTs and more than 160 police officers per year – public servants who give their lives in service to their communities. In memory of these brave heroes, the parents of one such first responder – Lt. Eric Hill, who died on that icy January morning – have created an initiative to draw attention to the safety and importance of first responders in our Lubbock community.

Mark and Susan Hill say they launched the 5-5-5 initiative “to keep Eric’s legacy alive. Firemen have told us that Eric was a really great paramedic, and that there are people alive today in Lubbock due to his skills.” Eric’s parents say that, because they aren’t trained to save lives in the way their son was, they’ve found another way. “Our goal is get a message out through the

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5-5-5 initiative, [asking] Lubbockites to drive safer and therefore hopefully saving both their lives and first responders’ lives.”

Plan, Act, Love

So, what is 5-5-5, and what’s the meaning behind the name? In a storied tradition among American fire crews, bells were used to relay information from one fire house to another. When a series of five bells were rung three times, it was a sign to the fire brotherhood that one of their own had died in the line of duty.

Today, Mark and Susan Hill have chosen to honor this firefighter tradition by giving “5-5-5” new meaning. “Our goal is to have as many drivers in Lubbock as possible remember the 5-5-5 Plan/Act/Love message every day.”

The first “5” asks Lubbockites to plan for five possible dangers before leaving home each day. These may include weather, errant joggers, construction, a traffic accident, or children playing in the road.

The second “5” asks motorists to consider five actions to protect themselves against these dangers. Protections could include leaving early, slowing down, taking a different route, turning cellphones off, or even staying home.

And the third “5”? “I talked to Eric on the phone the day before the accident,” says Mark. “And now that conversation means the world to me. So we want to encourage everyone to hug or contact five people you love every day.”

Plan, Act, Love. Seems simple enough. And yet, through these simple actions, the Hills believe we can all help to prevent another tragedy like the one that occurred on Jan. 11.

For those who’re interested, there’s another simple measure you can take to help: The organization is offering 5-5-5 stickers on its website, 555safety.com, and hoping Lubbockites will help spread the word.

“We’re trying to get them on as many vehicles in town as possible. Our hope is that when someone sees one on a car it will not only remind them of Eric and the others involved that day, [it] will also remind them

to slow down and drive a little safer that day.”

Move Over, Slow Down

The Hills say the most important action drivers can take is to “move over and slow down.” In fact, the initiative held its first annual “Move Over Slow Down Rally” this year on Oct. 17, national Move Over and Slow Down Day. So far this year, say the Hills, there have been 43 first responders killed by motorists in the United States – including the ones in Lubbock on Jan. 11. Texas Law says that once you see flashing red/ blue or amber lights on the roadway, you must move over at least one lane. If you can’t move over, you must slow down to at least 15 mph below the posted speed limit.

Additional projects 5-5-5 has been involved with include meeting with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection to request that roadway safety be a part of fire-training curriculum, as well as asking for continuing-education requirements for firefighters. The Hills also say that Lubbock Fire Rescue is working with Texas Tech University to test helmets for first responders that are better suited for working roadway incidents.

“Eric didn’t think of himself as a hero at all,” says Mark Hill. “I don’t think many first responders would [think of themselves this way] either. Yet he was out there on a cold, snowy, icy morning doing his job, trying to help those in need, and he ended up giving his life while serving others. He is our hero, for sure.”

Eric’s mother, Susan, agrees. “Aside from being a fireman and cowboy, Eric was a great daddy to his two daughters. They were his pride and joy. Also, Eric loved the open range and horses, and he lived life to the fullest. He gave 100% at anything he attempted.”

In the end, the Hills are trying to encourage small, daily changes that can result in the prevention of major tragedies. “We don’t want any other family – especially first responder families – to go through what we are going through.” L

DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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COOKING LESSONS

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Bread

here’s a reason bread isn’t just considered a dietary staple, but also a linguistic one. We “break bread” with friends and family. The work most important to us is our “bread and butter.” The greatest things in society are routinely compared to “sliced bread.”

Bread is prominent in our thoughts and conversations because bread is one of our most versatile foods. “Bread can be a dessert or a breakfast item. It makes a good gift. Bread is always popular,” says Jennifer Cuevas of Munchies Bakery, a home-based artisan bakery with a constant presence at the Wolfforth Farmers Market. In this issue, she shares with readers a few of her favorite sweet and savory bread recipes.

All of them take less than 90 minutes to accomplish, and Cuevas says home cooks shouldn’t be intimidated by the idea of baking a first loaf. There may be a lot of instructions, but the process is much easier than most kitchen novices think. Besides, she says, “if it doesn’t come out pretty, you can just call it ‘rustic.’”

RECIPES COURTESY OF JENNIFER CUEVAS, MUNCHIES BAKERY

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DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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Pumpkin Bread 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ cups white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon ground ginger 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (2 cups)* 4 eggs ¼ cup oil (vegetable, butter or coconut) 1 ½ cups water ½ to 1 cup dried fruit, nuts or chocolate (optional) Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl or bowl of stand mixer with paddle attachment. Add wet ingredients to dry mixture and combine thoroughly. Pour batter into three medium (8-by-4-by-2 ½ inch) greased loaf pans. Bake on center rack for 60 to 70 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool 30 minutes before slicing. Serve toasted with butter, use for French toast, or serve with your favorite jam. *Note: Can use 2 cups fresh, roasted and pureed pumpkin in place of canned pumpkin Makes 3 loaves, 10 to 12 slices per loaf

Zucchini Bread 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup white sugar ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark) 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 2 medium zucchinis shredded or chopped (6 to 7 inches long, 1 to 1 ½ inches around) 4 eggs ¼ cup oil (vegetable, coconut or butter) 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 ½ cups water ½ to 1 cup dried fruit, nuts or chocolate (optional) Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl or bowl of stand mixer with paddle attachment. Add wet ingredients to dry mixture and combine thoroughly. Pour batter into three medium (8-by-4-by-2 ½ inch) greased loaf pans. Bake on center rack for 60 to 70 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Let cool 30 minutes before slicing. Serve toasted with butter, use for French toast, or serve with your favorite jam.

Makes 3 loaves, 10 to 12 slices per loaf

Banana Bread 3 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup white sugar 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark) 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon baking powder 4 to 5 ripe bananas (the browner the better) 4 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla ¼ cup oil (vegetable, coconut or butter) 1 ½ cups water ½ to 1 cup dried fruit, nuts or chocolate (optional) Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl or bowl of stand mixer with paddle attachment. Add wet ingredients to dry mixture and combine thoroughly. Pour batter into three medium (8-by-4-by-2 ½ inch) greased loaf pans. Bake on center rack for 60 to 70 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool 30 minutes before slicing. Serve toasted with butter, use for French toast, or serve with your favorite jam.

Makes 3 loaves, 10 to 12 slices per loaf

Whole Wheat Bread 4 cups whole wheat flour 2 cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon instant yeast (no need to proof, just add to dry ingredients) ½ cup oil or butter 2 to 2 ½ cups warm water (115 to 120 degrees or just before it’s too warm to put hand in; you may need less or more water depending on kitchen environment) Dried fruit, nuts, herbs and spices to taste (optional) Heat oven to 375 degrees. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl or bowl of stand mixer with dough hook attachment. Add oil or butter and mix thoroughly.

Add water slowly, about ¼ to ½ cup at a time, until a ball starts to form. Knead dough 3 to 5 minutes in stand mixer with dough hook, or by hand on lightly floured surface for 10 to 15 minutes. The dough should be tacky but not stick to your hands. Cover dough and let stand and rise in warm place until dough has doubled in size, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Punch dough and divide into 2 balls. Shape each ball into a loaf and place into large (9-by-5-by-3 inch) greased loaf pan. Cover and let stand until dough has doubled in size, about 30 to 45 minutes. Bake on center oven rack for 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool 20 to 30 minutes before slicing. This bread is perfect for sandwiches or toasted for breakfast.

Note: An equal amount of warm milk may be used in place of warm water. Add 2 eggs for richer flavor and reduce water/milk as needed. For smaller loaves, divide into 3 equal balls, shape into loaves and use medium (8-by-4-by-2 ½ inch) loaf pans.

Makes 2 loaves (9-by-5-by-2 ½ inch), 12 to 16 slices per loaf

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Challah Bread 6 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon instant yeast (no need to proof, just add to dry ingredients) ¼ cup oil or butter 3 eggs 1 ¾ to 2 cups warm water (115 to 120 degrees or just before it’s too warm to put hand in; you may need less or more water depending on kitchen environment) Dried fruit, nuts and herbs and spices to taste (optional) Heat oven to 375 degrees. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl or bowl of stand mixer with dough hook attachment. Add eggs and oil and mix thoroughly.

Add water slowly, about ¼ to ½ cup at a time, until a ball starts to form. Knead dough 3 to 5 minutes in stand mixer with dough hook, or by hand on lightly floured surface for 10 to 15 minutes. The dough should be tacky but not stick to your hands. Cover dough and let stand and rise in warm area until dough has doubled in size, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Punch the dough and divide into 6 equal size balls. Roll each dough ball into ropes of equal length and thickness. Take 3 ropes and pinch the pieces together at one end. Braid the rest of the ropes until you reach the ends and pinch the ends together. Repeat with other 3 ropes of dough. Carefully place braided dough into two large (9-by-5-by-3 inch) greased loaf pans. Cover and let sit in warm place until dough has doubled in size, 30 to 45 minutes. Bake on center oven rack 25 minutes, until golden brown on top. Cool for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing. Challah is a beautiful addition to your holiday table, great for French toast and bread pudding, or toasted with butter and jam.

Note: An equal amount of warm milk may be used in place of warm water. For smaller loaves divide into 9 balls/ropes and use medium (8-by-4-by-2 ½ inch) loaf pans Makes 2 loaves (9-by-5-by-3 inch), 12 to 16 slices per loaf; or 3 loaves (8-by-4-by-2 ½ inch), 10 to 12 slices per loaf

Potato Bread 6 cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup white sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon instant yeast (no need to proof, just add to dry ingredients) ¼ cup oil or butter 1 cup prepared mashed potatoes (ingredients below) 1 ½ to 2 cups warm water (115 to 120 degrees or just before it’s too warm to put hand in; you may need less or more water depending on kitchen environment) Prepared mashed potatoes: 1 cup instant mashed potato flakes (any brand or flavor) ¼ cup butter 1 cup milk 1 cup water Mix ingredients in microwave-safe bowl; heat for 3 minutes and stir.

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Mix dry ingredients in large bowl or bowl of stand mixer with dough hook attachment. Add oil or butter and prepared mashed potatoes; mix thoroughly. Add water slowly, about ¼ to ½ cup at a time, until a ball starts to form. Knead dough 3 to 5 minutes in stand mixer with dough hook, or by hand on lightly floured surface for 10 to 15 minutes. The dough should be tacky but not stick to your hands. Cover dough and let stand and rise in warm place until dough has doubled in size, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Punch dough and divide into 2 balls. Shape each ball into a loaf and place into large (9-by-5-by-3 inch) greased loaf pan.

Cover and let stand until dough has doubled in size, about 30 to 45 minutes. Bake on center oven rack for 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool 20 to 30 minutes before slicing. This bread is perfect for sandwiches or toasted for breakfast.

Note: An equal amount of warm milk may be used in place of warm water. Add 2 eggs for richer flavor and reduce water/milk as needed. For smaller loaves divide into 3 equal balls, shape into loaves and use medium (8-by-4-by-2 ½ inch) loaf pans.

Makes 2 loaves (9-by-5-by-2 ½ inch), 12 to 16 slices per loaf

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MEET THE BAKER JENNIFER CUEVAS

T

hree years ago, Jennifer Cuevas was speaking to a friend who’d had some success selling jellies at the Wolfforth Farmers Market. Nothing pairs with jam and jelly like homemade bread, and the friend knew that Cuevas had baking experience. The friend suggested that she think about selling bread at the market.

Cuevas jumped at the chance to earn a little more money while working from home, and started Munchie’s Bakery in early 2018.

“I’ve baked off and on my whole life,” she says. Originally from Amarillo, she moved to Lubbock in 2000. “Growing up, my dad baked bread all the time. I’ve always done homemade bread, baking at holidays or for kids’ birthdays. Somewhere down the line, my dad had a grandfather or great-grandfather who was a baker. It might be in the family.”

She estimates that 95% of her sales these days take place at the market, but Cuevas still takes on a number of custom orders each month, from cupcakes and custom cakes to jalapeño cornbread.

Cuevas appreciates the opportunity to connect with her customers

JENNIFER (FAR RIGHT) AND HER DAUGHTERS, MARY-JANE AND JAMIE-LEA AT THE WOLFFORTH FARMERS MARKET

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Lubbock Magazine • thelubbockmagazine.com • DECEMBER 2020

while working from home, especially since she is legally blind.

Diagnosed with a form of glaucoma when she was 5 years old, she completely lost sight in her left eye while pregnant with her youngest child in 2004. The vision in her right eye continues to decline, though she is not yet completely sightless. She and her husband are raising their three kids on what she calls “a small poultry farm,” where they also raise chickens and ducks – along with rabbits and dogs.

Despite the disability, Cuevas continues to get things done in the kitchen. She has placed special, colorful markings on her cooking utensils to help her visualize ingredient amounts. Plus, she has a lifetime’s worth of experience to draw from.

“I’ve cooked and baked enough in my life that I do a lot of things by feel,” she says. “Baking is a job I can do to help provide for the family without having to see. Finding a job in the ‘real world’ outside my house would be more difficult for someone with my vision.”

That’s to her customers’ benefit, especially this time of year, as Munchie’s Bakery continues to be one of our favorite destinations at the Wolfforth Farmers Market. L

Eat Drink

PROVIDED PHOTO

JALAPEÑO AND CHEESE BURGER

MONTELONGO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

M

ontelongo’s serves “Grandma’s recipes,” offering menu items created from recipes that have been passed down for generations – four generations, to be exact. The restaurant’s humble beginnings as a small take-out service have bloomed into the family-owned Lubbock icon that it is today.

You’ll find traditional Mexican food items like the ever-popular enchiladas and carne asada, or fresh-made tamales. Choose Montelongo’s for dine in, takeout, or catering.

3021 Clovis Road 762.3068 montelongosrestaurant.com Open Monday and Tuesday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday; and Sunday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

PRICING GUIDE $ most entrees less than $10 $$ most entrees $11 to $20 $$$ most entrees more than $21

NEW New to Eat Drink UPDATE

Updated entry

THE EAT DRINK RESTAURANT GUIDE IS A READER SERVICE COMPILED BY THE LUBBOCK MAGAZINE EDITORIAL STAFF. THE MAGAZINE DOES NOT ACCEPT ADVERTISING OR OTHER COMPENSATION IN EXCHANGE FOR A LISTING. THE GUIDE IS UPDATED REGULARLY. TO CORRECT A LISTING OR RECOMMEND A RESTAURANT FOR CONSIDERATION, CONTACT THE EDITOR AT MMCAFFREY@LUBBOCKONLINE.COM.

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RESTAURANT GUIDE ABUELO’S Time-tested Abuelo’s has plenty of options to please the entire family. Relax in the hacienda-style dining room with a refreshing margarita.

4401 82nd St., 794.1762, abuelos.com $$ AMIGOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT Stand-outs at this small, casual eatery are the allyou-can-eat menudo and barbacoa burritos.

5001 34th St., 795.9552 $ ARANDAS TAQUERIA Specializing in Jalisco-style Mexican food, Arandas serves breakfast, lunch and dinner from an ample menu. Use the convenient drive-thru for tasty food on the go. 4001 34th St., 687.1939 $ ASPEN CREEK GRILL One of only nine locations nationwide, Aspen Creek’s Amarillo restaurant offers its signature made-from-scratch food in a family-friendly atmosphere. 3012 W. Loop 289, 553.7930, aspencreekgrill.com $$ ATOMIC LOUNGE & PIZZA KITCHEN Atomic specializes in fire roasted pizzas. Feast on favorites like The Roni, extra-large slices of pepperoni atop melted mozzarella and smoky tomato sauce. Atomic’s ovens cook a pizza in 2 ½ minutes so your hunger pangs are quickly satisfied. 2420 Broadway Ave. Suite A, 407.3221 $$ BAKED BLISS Baked Bliss offers a full lunch menu with salads, hot and cold sandwiches, daily specials, burgers and can’t miss dessert specials. 4005 34th St., 784.2004, lubbockbakedbliss.weebly.com $ BANGKOK THAI RESTAURANT This tiny hole-in-the-wall serves fresh Thai entrees and soup bowls. Customer favorites are the beef noodle soup, spicy chicken, and tom kha gai.

4624 34th St., 791.7787 $ BIERHAUS LUBBOCK This patio bar on Broadway specializes in beer and pub grub. With plentiful outdoor seating on its pet-friendly patio it’s a casual place to enjoy good weather with man’s best friend.

2009 Broadway St., 368.8324, bierhauslubbock.com $ BIGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE Open for 40 years, Bigham’s serves its West Texasstyle barbecue from two small, straightforward locations. 3312 82nd St., 797.9241/4302 19th St., 793.6880, bighamsbbq.net $ BLUE SKY TEXAS Blue Sky’s burgers and homemade fries are the

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perfect companions to a Lone Star Beer or an Oreo shake. Be prepared to share the one-size-feeds-a-lot cheese fries. 4416 98th St., 368.7591/ 3216 Fourth St., 368.0750, blueskytexas.com $ BONUS BURGERS This cash-only eatery’s claim to fame is its classic soda fountain shop-style greasy burgers and fries.

Save room for a thick and creamy shake.

2312 50th St., 795.7400 $ BURKLEE HILL BISTRO & TASTING ROOM Open for lunch and dinner service, the Burklee Hill Bistro serves as the Burklee Hill Vineyards’ Lubbock tasting room while also offering a food menu and event room. Enjoy shareable small plates, hot panini sandwiches, salads, and 10-inch pizzettes. 1109 Broadway St., 993.1195, burkleehillvineyards.com/Lubbock $$ CAFE J Enjoy elegant ambience surrounded by original artwork. Menus change with the seasons and each entree is carefully prepared with a wine pairing in mind. 2605 19th St., 743.5400, cafejlubbock.com $$$ CAGLE STEAKS Step into a true West Texas experience at Cagle Steaks. After walking around the ranch, feast on hand-cut steaks with all the fixings. Save room for fresh cobbler topped with ice cream.

8732 Fourth St., 795.3879, caglesteaks.com $$ CANCUN RESTAURANT & BAR This Lubbock mainstay has stood the test of time because of its reasonable prices, generous portions, customer service, and Happy Hour bargains. 7905 University Ave., 687.9048, cancunlubbock.com $-$$ CAPITAL PIZZA Don’t let Capitol’s nondescript storefront fool you.

Quality ingredients, creative specialty pizzas, and hundreds of craft beers certainly impressed us.

2705 26th St., 368.3603/8211 Slide Road, 701.4062, capitalpizzalubbock.com $$ THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY The national chain made its Lubbock debut in late 2018. The bountiful menu is full of a variety of starters, entrees, and sides, but we’re always up for an enormous slice of decadent cheesecake. Why not start with dessert instead? 6014 Slide Road, 785.8636, thecheesecakefactory.com $$ CHIMY’S CERVECERIA If a margarita is in order, this is the spot. Plenty of Tex-Mex staples and margarita flavors and a lively outdoor patio make this a great place to spend an evening. 2417 Broadway St., 763.7369 $

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CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL What began as a small gourmet burrito shop in Denver in 1993 has grown into a chain with more than 500 locations. We’re crazy about the bowls – chock full of rice, black beans, corn, and your choice of meat – it’s a fast, filling and delicious lunch or dinner option. 2411 Glenna Goodacre Blvd., 744.4503/2912 W. Loop 289, 784.0083/ 8201 Quaker Ave., Suite 102, 783.0211, chipotle.com $ CHOOCHAI THAI CUISINE The small, unassuming building hides a treasure trove of authentic Thai offerings. Try the labb nau or pad see ew. “Spicy” means spicy here, so be warned. 2330 19th St., 747.1767, choochai.com $ CHOPPED & SLICED BBQ Chopped & Sliced has all the bases covered: premium barbecue and all the fixings, friendly service, delicious cobbler, catering and a food truck. We’re big fans. 3501 50th St., Suite 110, 317.1920, choppedandsliced.com $$ CHRISTAKIS BURGERS When you’re craving a burger, this is your spot.

A favorite among in-the-know locals, Christakis serves jumbo-sized and regular burgers with a variety of topping combinations. Try the namesake burger with pastrami and cheese for messy but delicious meal. 1111 34th St., 744.6833 $ COCINA DE LA SIRENA Located in the historic Cactus Alley courtyard, La Sirena serves modern Latin American food in a cozy dining room. The menu changes regularly to accommodate local produce, but it’s a delight no matter the season. 2610 Salem Ave., 368.7960, lasirenacocina.com $$$ COOK’S GARAGE Tuck in to Texas-style comfort food surrounded by classic cars and memorabilia. You can’t miss with the wings, burgers or nachos. 11002 Highway 87, 893.2491, cooksgarage.com $$ COPPER CABOOSE RESTAURANT BAR Part entertainment venue, part Tex-Mex restaurant, Copper Caboose is the place to take a group ready for a party. Daily food specials let you save your money for the arcade. 5609 Villa Drive, 744.0183, cabooseonline.com $$ COTTON PATCH CAFE The Cotton Patch is in the home-style comfort food business. Served with southern hospitality, entrees like chicken and dumplings, chicken-fried steak with gravy, and steakhouse burgers make it easy to eat your fill – and then some. 6810 Slide Road, 771.4521, cottonpatch.com $$

CRAWDADDY’S SPORTS GRILL & BAR Cajun favorites, seafood, burgers, and fries round out the menu at Crawdaddy’s. Enjoy a drink from the bar while you dine. 5725 82nd St., 771.4455 $$ DOUBLEDAVE’S PIZZAWORKS Feast on the buffet or order a whole pie at DoubleDave’s. Customers love the stromboli and generous portions. 6023 82nd St., Suite 4, 763.3283, doubledaves.com $$ EAST MOON ASIAN BISTRO East Moon specializes in Pan-Asian food, with a focus on Thai dishes, sushi, noodles and curries.

Regulars love the affordable lunch specials and quick delivery service. 5028 50th St., 712.8888, lubbockeastmoon.com $ EL CHARRO Open early for breakfast, El Charro serves traditional Tex-Mex favorites like burritos, tacos and enchiladas. Use the drive-thru for a hot breakfast to go. 5011 I-27, 747.5790, elcharrotexas.com $ EL PHOENIX TAQUERIA El Phoenix specializes in Oaxacan-style cuisine and “Mexican comfort food.” Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, El Phoenix also offers daily specials and Happy Hour. 10007 Slide Road, 993.5011 $

style fries, and ice cream. 5727 82nd St., 698.0900, heffsburgers.net $ HILL BARBECUE Hill Barbecue originally opened its doors as Embers Barbecue in Levelland. After a move to downtown Lubbock’s Art District, Hill Barbecue serves its craft-smoked meats every Thursday and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to sellout. Expect a line for this beloved barbecue joint, but it’s worth the wait.

1106 Fifth St., 632.3313, realtexasgrit.com $$

mango lassi. Be prepared to wait, but the food is worth every minute. 3021 34th St., Suite A, 799.6772 $ IT’S GREEK TO ME You’re in for a unique experience at this Greek and American food restaurant. You can’t go wrong with the falafel, gyro and sweet baklava. 7006 University Ave., 792.1949, itisgreektomelubbocktexas.com $ JAZZ, A LOUISIANA KITCHEN A national chain, Jazz serves New Orleans-style classics and features nightly live music.

3703 19th St., 799.2124, jazzkitchen.com $$

HUB CITY WINGS Offering more than just wings, Hub City also cooks up burgers, hot dogs, chicken strips and more. 1902 34th St., 687.3332, hubcitywingslubbock.com $ IKE’S WOODFIRE GRILLE Ike’s offers handcrafted steaks, seafood, woodfired pizzas, calzones, burgers and more. Save with Ike’s daily specials and enjoy daily Happy Hour Monday through Friday. 4414 82nd St., Suite 218, 368.8036, ikesgrill.com $$ INDIA PALACE RESTAURANT A little aging gem, you’ll find cooked-to-order Indian standbys like naan, samosas, masala and

JIMENEZ BAKERY & RESTAURANT Jimenez has offered traditional Mexican baked goods to the Lubbock area since 1969. Breakfast items lean toward Texas-style comfort food, while lunch and dinner focus on more traditional items.

Don’t leave without trying something from the bakery. 1217 Crickets Ave., 744.2685 $ JOSIE’S AUTHENTIC MEXICAN KITCHEN Josie’s three Lubbock locations serve a variety of fresh, handmade burritos for walk-up, dine-in and

THE FUNKY DOOR BISTRO & WINE ROOM With everything from mac ‘n cheese to fondue, lobster to steak, and more than 800 wine labels, The Funky Door is a divine place to linger. 6801 Milwaukee Ave., 687.0505, thefunkydoor.com $$-$$$ GILBERT’S BAR & GRILL With its Tech-themed dining room and generous patio, Gilbert’s is the perfect place to hang out and enjoy a home-style meal. Enjoy familystyle Chinese food on Saturday nights and brunch on Sundays. 2608 Salem Ave., 795.8791, gilbertslubbock.com $$ HARRIGAN’S PRIME GRILL Remember Harrigan’s? Well, the beloved chain is back as Harrigan’s Prime Grill, and locals are thrilled. Open for lunch and dinner, the menu includes plenty of steaks to satisfy beef lovers, along with plenty of options for the entire family.

Don’t’ leave without indulging in a Black Magic Cake. 11814 Indiana Ave., 368.8008, harrigans.com $$-$$$ HEFF’S BURGERS A winner in the Best Burger category of Best of Lubbock since 2010, Heff’s serves nine different fresh, half-pound burgers, and sandwiches, homeUPDATE

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drive-thru service. Breakfast burritos are the most popular, but the Big Mama is a sure bet any time of day. 3312 Avenue Q, 744.8075/5101 Aberdeen Ave., 793.7752/6606 19th St., 793.1921 $ KIN KOREAN BBQ & SUSHI LOUNGE Traditional Korean BBQ is designed for sharing. At Kin, choose your meat and cook it yourself at the table. Or choose sushi from Kin’s “Sushi Conveyor Revolution,” which features fresh-made sushi.

6810 Milwaukee Ave., 368.3830 $$ KING STREET PUB Nestled in a strip mall on Indiana, King Street Pub’s stark exterior holds a surprisingly charming Victorian English tea room meets traditional pub-themed restaurant. Inventive cuisine and a cozy atmosphere will keep you going back for more. 8004 Indiana Ave., Suite B18, 993.1010, kingstreetpub.com $$ LA DIOSA CELLARS From the funky decor to the perfectly prepared tapas to the extensive wine list, La Diosa promises a top-notch experience. 901 17th St., 744.3600, ladiosacellars.com $$ LISA WEST’S DOUBLE NICKEL STEAK HOUSE Voted one of the top 10 best steak houses in Texas, the Double Nickel specializes in traditional steakhouse fare. While beef rules the menu, you’ll find plenty of chicken, seafood and salads to delight the pickiest eater. 5405 Slide Road, 792.0055, doublenickelsteakhouse.com $$$ LITE BITE MEDITERRANEAN CAFE This simple Mediterranean diner also has a specialty market and deli on site. Customer favorites include the fresh gyros, baklava, and hummus. Order online for quick pickup or delivery. 3624 50th St., 788.0215, litebitemediterraneancafe.com $ LONE STAR OYSTER BAR A Lubbock staple for more than 30 years, Lone Star serves shrimp and oysters, and burgers and bar food. Listen to live music on the patio or watch the game on the big screens inside the restaurant.

5116 58th St., Suite C, 797.3773/3040 34th St., 796.0101 $$ LUBBOCK’S BREAKFAST HOUSE & GRILL Serving breakfast daily from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Breakfast House also serves lunch, and dinner until 10 p.m. A huge menu means you can go back again and again to discover a new taste treat. 7006 University Ave., Suite 17, 687.8912/ 3515 50th St., 308.0010/2422 19th St., 701.5351, lubbockbreakfasthouse.com $

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MAMA JOSIE’S KITCHEN A staggering amount of burritos for breakfast or lunch means making a decision will be difficult.

Multiple locations help satisfy those pesky cravings for Tex-Mex. 5719 66th St., 741.0588/ 212 University Ave., 747.8546/ 318 N. University Ave., 744.6268 $ MAR Y TIERRA This cozy Tex-Mex restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Expect fresh-made food and plenty of choices as the menu is lengthy.

2531 82nd St.,784.2008/5702 19th St., 407.5009, marytierralubbock.com $ MONTELONGO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT Dine in, takeout, or catering – Montelongo’s has you covered. Locals love the enchiladas and carne asada. 3021 Clovis Road, 762.3068, montelongosrestaurant.com $ ONE GUY FROM ITALY Fresh, hot, cheesy calzones are the star at One Guy, but the pizza, pasta, and garlic bread are also noteworthy. You’ll find traditional Sicilian recipes and great conversation when you dine in.

4320 50th St., 791.1210, oneguyfromitaly.com/ 1101 University Ave., 747.1226 $ PICANTES Known for its family atmosphere and fast, affordable Mexican food, Picantes has been serving its straightforward food to hungry locals for years.

You can’t go wrong with one of the daily specials.

3814 34th St., 793.8304 $$ PICOSO’S MEXICAN KITCHEN This much-anticipated restaurant was founded by members of the Leal’s family. The eatery serves rustic modern Mexican food with a focus on streetstyle tacos and classics like enchiladas, chile relleno, tacos and quesadillas.

7611 Milwaukee Ave., 445.9560, picososmexicankitchen.com $$ QUEEN OF TARTS BAKERY & CHEESE SHOP Handmade artisan baked goods are perfectly paired with a selection of gourmet cheeses. Put together a picnic basket-style takeaway for a romantic evening in. 8004 Indiana Ave., Suite B18, 993.1009, queenoftartslubbock.com $$ RAIDER BURRITO Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Raider Burrito caters to those pesky Tex-Mex cravings. Locals love the street-style tacos and breakfast burritos.

2102 19th St., 771.1178 $ ROSA’S CAFÉ & TORTILLA FACTORY Perfect for take-out or a quick, satisfying meal, Rosa’s offers Tex-Mex favorites and a fun, upbeat atmosphere. You can’t beat the homemade

Lubbock Magazine • thelubbockmagazine.com • DECEMBER 2020

tortillas, made fresh every day. 5103 82nd St., 794.2285/4407 Fourth St., 785.5334/5020 Milwaukee Ave., 792.0015/3115 50th St., 784.0100/13011 Indiana Ave., 451.5132, rosascafe.com $ RIVER SMITH’S CHICKEN & CATFISH A Lubbock mainstay, Rive Smith’s serves fried catfish and chicken battered to perfection.

Chargrilled options, and oysters, shrimp and crab round out the menu. 406 Avenue Q, 765.8164, riversmiths.com $$ SANCTUARY BAR & CAFE Sanctuary offers specialty cocktails like its nitrogeninfused “NitroMargarita,” and classic bar food like burgers, dip and chips, and chicken wings.

The eatery expects to release a full food menu in the coming months. 8209 Slide Road, Suite 900, 368.3867, sanctuarybarandcafe.com $$ SEOUL KOREAN CUISINE You’ll find authentic Korean food at Seoul. The simple menu includes kimchi, bulgogi and more traditional Korean entrees. 4620 50th St., 687.8835 $ THE SILVER BULLET This smoky little dive’s main draw is karaoke and billiards, but there are a few appetizers, burgers, sandwiches and other pub grub offerings on the abbreviated menu. 5145 Aberdeen Ave., 795.4122, silverbulletlubbock.com $ STELLA’S The perfect place to linger over an exquisite meal, Stella’s serves brunch, lunch and dinner in a warm and inviting atmosphere. 6015 82nd St., Suite 1, 831.2832, stellaslubbock.us $$-$$$ UPDATE

STACKED BREAKFAST & LUNCH Open early for breakfast and serving lunch daily, Stacked also caters and offers a convenient driveup window for meals on the go. We’ve got our eye on the pancakes at Stacked, with four tempting flavors: original, chocolate chip, sweet potato, and bacon. 6015 82nd St., Suite 5, 317.1101, stackedlbk.com $ SUSAKI SUSHI STEAKHOUSE One thing is certain: You won’t run out of options at Susaki – although you might settle on a few favorite sushi rolls. If sushi’s not your thing, choose a traditional hibachi entree. 6301 82nd St., 794.8881 $$ TABLE 82 Table 82’s cuisine ranges from hearty Italian entrees to high-end steaks to an abundance of seafood to burgers and pizza. We’re impressed with the variety and outstanding ingredients.

4210 82nd St., Suite 240, 799.3408, table82.com $$-$$$

v TAQUERIA JALISCO A mainstay for authentic Mexican food in Lubbock, Taqueria Jalisco serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in its large dining areas painted to look like a hacienda. Top-notch, friendly service and quality food ensure a return visit.

2211 Avenue Q, 763.7605 $ THAI THAI RESTAURANT Take in-the-know diners’ advice: Don’t request substitutions on menu items at Thai Thai – trust the owner for authentic flavor, even if some of the entrees are unfamiliar. 5018 50th St., 791.0024 $

Stop Identity Theft!

TIKKA SHACK INDIAN GRUB This modern chain caters to Indian food connoisseurs and beginners alike.

The simple, build-your-own menu takes the confusion out of ordering. Create kabobs, wraps and bowls to your liking and try a traditional sweet to end your meal. 6620 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 100, 771.0960/2407 Ninth St., Suite 500, 701.4837, tikkashack.com $ THE TRIPLE J CHOPHOUSE & BREW CO. Owned and operated by the folks that started Bigham’s Bar-B-Q, Triple J serves lunch and dinner in its historic downtown location. Meat lovers will rejoice over the USDA Choice steak options. 1807 Buddy Holly Ave., 771.6555, triplejchophouseandbrewco.com $$ UNCLE CHIEN’S CHINESE & THAI RESTAURANT This tiny drive-thru or dine-in restaurant serves affordable traditional Chinese and Thai food. Expect friendly service and standard fare. 3004 34th St., 795.1148, unclechiens.com $ URBAN BRICKS PIZZA Fast, build-your-own pizzas from counter service enable guests to experiment with everything from the crust, sauce and drizzle to meat, cheese and vegetables. 7610 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 300, 993.7777, urbanbrickspizza.com $ WALK-ON’S BISTREAUX & BAR Walk-On’s serves Louisiana-inspired cuisine like seafood, traditional Cajun favorites and bigger-than-average burgers. The like to call it “Game Day with a Taste of Louisiana.” We call it just plain tasty. 2630 W. Loop 289, 793.1845, walk-ons.com $$ WOODY’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA & GRILL A family-owned and -operated establishment, Woody’s serves Chicagostyle pizza, wings, calzones, burgers and sandwiches. Daily specials, especially at lunch, make this place a great value. 3135 34th St., 368.5263, woodysbrickovenpizzaandgrill.com $$ WORLD OF BEER World of Beer features more than 500 global beers, craft beer on tap, and tavern-style food. Enjoy “Beerunch” on Sundays and lunch on lunch and dinner daily. 2910 W. Loop 289, 785.1386, worldofbeer.com $

www.docshredders.com 6702 Upland Ave. Lubbock, TX

66th St.

6702 UPLAND AVENUE r Ma

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YUYO JAPANESE RESTAURANT Choose from the menu, hibachi-style meals, or fresh sushi from the sushi bar.

5130 80th St., 368.7861, yuyorestaurant.com $$

806-630-0107

PRIMROSE POINTE

Milwaukee Ave.

YELLOW HOUSE COFFEE On weekdays, Yellow House serves breakfast built on toast. Start your weekend with breakfast ingredients on fluffy buttermilk biscuits. And of course, there are plenty of specialty coffees to get that morning energy boost.

3017 34th St., 702.8997, yellowhousecoffee.com $

Secure shredding for your home or business!

DECEMBER 2020 • thelubbockmagazine.com • Lubbock Magazine

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[ SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ]

[

LEARN MORE ABOUT SOME OF THIS YEAR’S WINNERS AND FINALISTS IN THE ANNUAL BEST OF LUBBOCK COMPETITION.

]

ANDRUS BROTHERS ROOFING BEST ROOFING COMPANY

Company history: Andrus Brothers Roofing was founded in 1981,

by Jerry and Steve Andrus in Amarillo, Texas. It expanded to Lubbock eight years later in 1989. Then, in 2005, the newest Andrus Brothers Roofing office was opened in Midland.

Both Jerry and Steve had roots in the roofing industry, having worked summers as kids and on through college roofing in their small hometown of Anson, Texas. They also had years of experience in insurance prior to establishing Andrus Brothers Roofing.

What three things are the key to your daily success? The three keys to Andrus Brothers’ success are planning, prioritization and an upbeat attitude. We take our business and our growth one customer at a time. The philosophy of Andrus Brothers Roofing has not changed since day one. Every customer is our BEST customer, and

every roof is our most important project! When we complete a job, we always want to be able to say, “We proudly approve!”

How do you give back to the community? Our intelligent advertising through social media and our sponsorships within the Lubbock community have grown our company exponentially. We are proud to give back to the area through extensive charitable endeavors and will continue to do so.

What makes you the best? We believe we are the best of Lubbock because we won’t tell you that you need a roof unless you need one – honesty is one of our valued principles. We are committed to providing the very best service to our customers and the very best warranty for the protection of their home. We appreciate every opportunity to serve our customers.

210 E. 98th St. | 798.7663 | andrusbrothers.com 28

BEST OF LUBBOCK • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION • BEST OF LUBBOCK

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COLLISION KING REPAIR CENTER BEST AUTO BODY REPAIR Company history: Since opening its doors in 1998, Collision King How do you use technology to grow your business? It is Repair Center has been locally owned and operated by West imperative in our industry that we stay up to date in the latest Texans for West Texans and outlying regions, including Eastern technological advances, as well as methods and processes. This New Mexico. We are proud to be a longstanding, reputable allows us to deliver the best possible service along with efficient, and qualified auto body restoration facility. Our estimators 100% accurate repairs. From repair equipment, to our paint and technicians are I-CAR GOLD certified, which is the highest booths and software programs, various technologies are used in education and training in our field. We are also the direct repair every facet of our daily business. provider for major insurance companies and provide our own What are your goals for the growth of your business? Restoring written lifetime guarantee. each vehicle to its pre-damaged condition, while providing the What products and services do you offer? Collision King provides best possible customer service. We have a passion to grow full auto body repair services. Whether it is a light fender bender, relationships with customers, vendors, business partnerships and dings and scratches, a major wreck, or hail damage, we will restore our community. We are excited to continue to serve our great your vehicle to its pre-accident condition. Aesthetics, structural region while growing and building on our reputation. integrity and safety are imperative in each and every repair order.

How do you give back to the community? Through hands-on We also have courtesy cars and Enterprise-Rent-A-Car on-site. We volunteerism for various organizations and groups, as well as use state-of-the-art technology and processes on every vehicle sponsorships. We love to serve our community any way we we repair. can. We want our region to grow and be successful in every What three things are the key to your daily success? Excellent way possible. customer service; putting each and every customer at ease and What makes you the best? Hard work. For 22 years, our giving them confidence in the repair process. Accountability; staff, estimators and technicians have proven we provide an we have checks and balances in place so that everyone is outstanding work ethic. Our technicians work around the clock to accountable. Quality control is of the utmost importance. Ensuring provide the best repairs while getting you and your family back on the best repairs through restoring your vehicle’s integrity, safety the road quickly. and aesthetics.

4913 S. Loop 289 • 794.5990 | 7313 Marsha Sharp Frwy • 368.7310 | collisionking.com 30

BEST OF LUBBOCK • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

RESA’S K-9 SALON BEST PET GROOMING

Company history: I opened Resa’s K-9 Salon in August 1997.

What is the best advice you received when you began your career? Barry Ballinger, my banker at Plains Capital, gave me advice about the location of Resa’s. The location for my new business was crucial because Lubbock was growing to the south.

What products and services do you offer? I offer grooming for all breeds, custom pet clothes, Science Diet dog food, dog beds, leads, collars and Tech dog apparel. We also have several types of shampoos to fit the needs of your pet’s skin conditions. ASAP service is available if needed. And we give lots of love to your fur baby and you.

What three things are the key to your daily success? We strive to ensure our customers are satisfied with their pet’s haircut, make our customers feel comfortable leaving their pets in our care, and answer all of their questions.

How do you use technology to grow your business? I had a jingle composed along with commercials 18 years ago that was a major help to brand my business. Of course, Google and Facebook have started to improve different options for Resa’s K-9 Salon.

What are your goals for the growth of your business? To continue the effort to satisfy my customers with a full staff of experienced groomers, great customer service, and affordable pricing for all services.

How do you give back to the community? Resa’s offers various coupons for old and new customers. We also help re-home pets to great families as needed.

What makes you the best? My devoted staff! My groomers go out of their way to make sure customers are satisfied. Our motto says it all: “We love dogs!”

8004 Indiana Ave. | 793.9191 | resask-9salon.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION • BEST OF LUBBOCK

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JUX-TA-POSH

BEST HOME DECOR STORE What is the best advice you received when you began your career? Constantly evolve. The point is to stay true to my vision but be open to new ideas, styles and ways to grow.

What products and services do you offer? Jux-ta-posh is the combination of salvage and style. It is giving new life to older made-by-hand, furniture and salvaged architecture from all over the world. Our extensive luxe bedding and home accessories complement the old pieces beautifully. Our services extend beyond the shop doors. We offer house calls for home design, chalk painting services and deliveries. We pride ourselves in having something for everyone – an extensive collection of comfortable and stylish clothing, baby and toddler gifts, men’s bowties and beard oils; the list goes on and on! We even have a warehouse for true junkers that love to dig.

What three things are the key to your daily success? A genuine appreciation for my customers, a genuine smile greeting everyone that walks through the front door, and a genuine love for helping others love their home. I truly cannot express how thankful I am for everyone that goes off the beaten path to support local, support downtown revitalization and support us!

How do you use technology to grow your business? Social media has been a wonderful platform for getting the word out about Jux-ta-posh. Being able to show what you are doing on a daily basis in the shop is so helpful and tracks our ever-changing progress and inventory.

What are your goals for the growth of your business? We have endured some wonderful growing pains this year. The overwhelming response of clients inviting us into their homes has filled my heart with excitement for the future. So stay tuned; the best is yet to come!

How do you give back to the community? My husband and I are dedicated to doing what we can to take old buildings and give them new life for the future of Lubbock. Let’s make The Depot and downtown Lubbock beautiful again!

What makes you the best? Customer service and variety. The building was originally a wholesale variety store. Variety is what Jux-ta-posh is all about and I want to preserve that! So from old to young, men to women, uber modern to comfortable farmhouse, you will find it at Jux-ta-posh. We have a smile ready to greet you!

1701 Buddy Holly Ave. | 407.4122 | juxtaposhlbk.com 32

BEST OF LUBBOCK • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MIJO’S CATERING: MIJO’S TEX-MEX BBQ FINALIST: FOOD TRUCK Company history: Mijo’s was established in July 2019, but had been a dream for six years.

What is the best advice you received when you began your career? The first year of business will be the hardest; do not give up.

What products and services do you offer? Our food is Mexican and brisket barbecue fusion. Our top-selling products are Raider Nachos, Street Tacos and Brolote (brisket with Spanish corn in a cup).

What three things are the key to your daily success? Making our food fresh daily. If we ever have leftovers, we donate to our friends and family. Great customer service and making sure everyone has a great experience during their visit is important to us. The last key to success is to stay positive no matter the situation, whether we feed one or 100, as long as our customers are enjoying our food.

How do you use technology to grow your business? We rely on social media to share our location to our followers, and also utilize Square to send our customers messages.

What are your goals for the growth of your business? To continue our growth by investing in a second food truck or opening up a brick-and-mortar location.

How do you give back to the community? We give back by blessing our first responders with free meals or anyone in need.

What makes you the best? Treating all customers like family and creating a unique menu to satisfy a plethora of palates.

We pour our heart and soul into cooking and the business.

3410 Avenue U | 786.7876

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION • BEST OF LUBBOCK

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NINETEENTH STREET PARLOR BEST BARBER SHOP

Company history: Nineteenth Street Parlor opened showcase our barbers’ skill and sell merchandise.

February 2019.

What are your goals for the growth of your business? I would What is the best advice you received when you began your like to watch Nineteenth Street Parlor grow by improving the career? My father-in-law told me I could do anything I set my quality of productivity and service, investing in talent, building mind to and not to let anyone tell me otherwise. He helped me our social media platform and increasing web traffic. believe in myself and in dreaming bigger and fighting for it.

How do you give back to the community? We have donated What products and services do you offer? We offer Johnny to youth travel teams, given away backpacks, school supplies, B, Suavecito, Kenra, and Wild Man Beard Supply, which was shoes, and donated gift certificates to students, local churches founded in Lubbock. We provide cuts, hot shaves, facials, colors, and organizations. wax, and braids.

What makes you the best? My barbers’ character and skill. We What three things are the key to your daily success? Staying offer our clients a personal experience. We know your family consistent, working hard, and staying humble. Our success is and what’s going on in your life. The shop is a home away from due to the whole team, not one person. home, a place to relax and get a great cut. The atmosphere is How do you use technology to grow your business? A big one of a kind. We like to small talk, joke around, and have a part of our business is word of mouth. We use social media to serious conversation. We are here to offer life lessons; we want keep up to date with clients, new trends and styles, marketing to be your place of contentment. campaigns, build a larger walk-in base, set appointments, 1903 19th St. | 317.1112 34

BEST OF LUBBOCK • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DON AND SALLY ABBE, OWNERS OF GRAND CENTRAL, AND KRISTA LYON, MANAGER

GRAND CENTRAL STATION ANTIQUES BEST ANTIQUE STORE Company history: Grand Central Antiques has been in the historic Lubbock Bowl building on Avenue Q since 1999. After being Grand Central vendors since 2011, Don and Sally Abbe purchased the business in July 2019.

What is the best advice you received when you began your career? Like anyone in retail, a good antique vendor needs to be an honest and reasonable person, knowledgeable about their products, aboveboard about the condition of their merchandise, and ask a reasonable price for those items.

What products and services do you offer? Grand Central Antiques has more than 35 vendors offering contemporary, vintage and antique items. Booths range from display cases to “The Nest Egg,” a wonderful home furnishings store. The range of treasures in the mall is ever-changing. Shoppers may find anything from vintage toys and books to vintage jewelry and old souvenirs.

What three things are the key to your daily success? Having knowledgeable and helpful staff on hand for our customers is our primary goal. Maintaining a clean and inviting atmosphere makes for a pleasant shopping environment. We work hard to develop our brand through social media and other advertising.

How do you use technology to grow your business? Technology is integral to our daily operation. We use social media to promote the mall. We research prices on the internet, knowing that we are competing with sellers from around the world.

What are your goals for the growth of your business? We want to be at the top of the list when both local and traveling “junkers” plan their shopping excursions. Offering a wide variety of products, from quality antique furniture to contemporary decor, from vintage signs and sports memorabilia to rustic items for outdoor decor, and everything in between is key to our success as a shopping destination.

How do you give back to the community? Our annual community project is a Tree of Warmth, which we host in December to accept donations of socks, scarves and hats for Lubbock Impact.

What makes you the best? We are the best because we have great vendors and wonderful customers! We are the only mall in Lubbock where the vendors work in the mall, providing our shoppers with friendly and knowledgeable assistance. Many of our customers come weekly to see our constantly changing inventory and develop personal relationships with our vendors and staff.

4020 Avenue Q | 747.6206 | grandcentralstationantiques.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION • BEST OF LUBBOCK

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CHRISTMAS PAGEANT PARADE

C

hristmas Pageant Parades have been a holiday mainstay across Texas and all over the United States, with crowds gathering for marching bands, floats and all the tinsel and tradition of the season. Downtown Lubbock hosted Christmas parades for years, including this one from 1931.

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Lubbock Magazine • thelubbockmagazine.com • DECEMBER 2020

The parade route that year appears to have snaked through the intersection of Broadway and Avenue J, as hundreds of onlookers enjoy a sunny December day. (It may have been warm. Look closely and you’ll even see a few men with rolled-up shirtsleeves.) L

COURTESY OF TEXAS TECH’S SOUTHWEST COLLECTION/SPECIAL COLLECTION LIBRARY

Yesteryear