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Tag: Houston

  • Weekend Food Bets: Cheesesteaks and Chilaquiles – Houston Press

    Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    3422 Allen Parkway

    Enjoy a special Black Friday brunch with bloodys, oyster shooters and regional Mexican dishes like Huevos a la Cazuela, Chilaquiles and Chalupas Divorciadas in Flora’s chandelier-studded dining room and lush patio overlooking the bayou. 

    Bas’s Cheesesteaks pop-up at Third Place

    Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until sold out)

    420 East 20th

    Bas’s Cheesesteaks is bringing Philly flavor to the Heights neighborhood with a special pop up at JUN’s Third Place, slinging halal ribeye cheesesteaks on seeded hoagie rolls with melty white cheese, mayo and your choice of grilled onions and peppers. Add fries or a Pudgy’s deli cookie to seal the deal. Follow along @basscheesesteaks for updates and future events.

    Holiday Fireside Experience at Heights & Co.

    Friday–Saturday

    1343 Yale

    The Heights hangout is getting into the holiday spirit with festive cocktails, s’mores and holiday movies each night this season. Sip drinks like the Cookies and Cream Espresso Martini, or Space City Christmas Margarita while sitting fireside on the patio with S’more Boards and movie screenings of The Grinch (Friday) and The Santa Clause (Saturday).

    A Christmas Carol Cocktail Experience at Garage HTX

    Friday–Saturday, 6, 8 and 10 p.m. 

    1201 Oliver

    Step into a darkly festive Victorian London with A Christmas Carol Cocktail Experience, a 90-minute immersive show reimagining Dickens’ classic and pairing four holiday-themed cocktails with key scenes from Scrooge’s ghostly journey. Tickets are 21+ only and can be booked for your preferred time online.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

    Shawn the Food Sheep Burger Collab at PINCHO

    Friday–Sunday

    It’s your last chance to get in on the fiery burger collaboration between food influencer Shawn the Food Sheep and PINCHO Burgers and Kebabs. Available at all Houston locations, the burger features a duo of smashed Angus patties stacked with Tillamook cheddar, jalapeños, grilled poblano peppers, diced shallots, and a generous drizzle of Shawn’s signature super-spicy sauce. 

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Houston Concert Watch 12/26: George Clinton, Erykah Badu and More – Houston Press

    Thanksgiving 1976 was one for the ages in San Francisco.  The 5,000 people lucky enough to score tickets for The Band’s “Last Waltz” concert attended maybe the best rock and roll party ever.

    A full Thanksgiving dinner was served to kick things off, followed by ballroom dancing and readings from Beat poets like Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Michael McClure.  Then came the concert itself, which began with a 12-song set from The Band.  Then it was time for (musical) dessert, as Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Jone Mitchell, Van Morrison, Muddy Waters and others joined The Band to celebrate their shared musical heritage.  In all, over four hours of incredible and historic music making.

    Firing up the Martin Scorsese film which documented the event as part of your Thanksgiving celebration is a fine idea.  The Last Waltz looks great, and the audio is excellent considering the era.  However, don’t be sucked in by the myth that is created by Scorsese and Band guitarist Robbie Robertson.  Each man wanted out of the collaboration.  As a mega music fan Scorsese wanted a path into the world of rock and roll.  Robertson, on the other hand, was looking to get into the movie business. 

    All well and good, but Robertson had unilaterally made the decision to terminate The Band’s performing career, and the other members of the group – particularly drummer / vocalist Levon Helm) were not happy about it.  This accounts for their collective glum demeanor during most of the film’s interview segments, and it also explains Robertson’s desire to cast (with Scorsese’s help) The Band as musicians who had given their all for their art and were simply too depleted – physically and emotionally – to continue any longer.

    In point of fact, The Band had not toured all that much during its existence, certainly not in comparison to bluesmen like Muddy Waters.  Sure, business travel of any kind is taxing and not all the fun that it’s cracked up to be, but don’t buy dramatic (and probably pre-scripted) Robertson quotes like, “16 years on the road. The numbers start to scare you.  I mean, I couldn’t live with 20 years on the road. I don’t think I could even discuss it.”

    As a footnote, check out Scorsese during the interview segments.  Remind you of anybody?  If you said, “Marty DiBergi from Spinal Tap!” go to the head of the class.  But – to quote the esteemed Mr. DiBergi – enough of my yakkin’. Whaddaya say? Let’s boogie!

    Ticket Alert

    San Angelo’s purveyors of Texican rock and roll, Los Lonely Boys, kind of wandered in the desert (maybe literally, considering their location) for several years after hitting it big with the single “Heaven.”  After taking a lengthy break, the Garza brothers checked the balance in their bank accounts, got back together and released a new album (Resurrection) last year.  Tickets are on sale now for their concert at the House of Blues on Saturday, February 14. 

    Also performing on Valentine’s Day is Houston’s own Kat Edmonson, whose “Only the Bare Essentials” tour promises intimate evenings in which “[s]ubtlety and nuance will be served up as main courses for this show, and the music, so delicately played, will leave you feeling entirely full.”  Wow, that’s a lot to swallow!  You can get tickets now for Edmonson’s show on Saturday, February 14, at the Heights Theater.

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    Wolfmother will play at the House of Blues on Monday, June 8, marking the 20th anniversary of the band’s debut album, and tickets are on sale now.  Though the band has been hounded (sorry) by accusation of classic rock appropriation, that’s a bit off the mark.  Sure, you can tell that these guys listened to a lot of Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath growing up, but is that such a bad thing?

    After working behind the scenes in the music business as a songwriter and producer for several years, Meghan Trainor’s solo career took off with 2014’s “All About That Bass,” a song that flipped the gender of Sir Mix-a-Lot’s “Baby Got Back” and threw in some body-positivity messages for good measure.  Trainor’s “Get in Girl” tour will stop at Toyota Center on Tuesday, July 28, and tickets are on sale now.

    Much like the Beach Boys and Jimmy Buffett before him, Jack Johnson has made a career by creating a surf-and-sand vibe that is easy to listen to and not terribly demanding.  But hey, he comes by it honestly, having been raised in Hawaii and making a name for himself as a professional surfer during his teenage years.   Johnson will perform on Friday, August 28, at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, so get yourself a pocketful of edibles and get ready.

    Concerts This Week

    YouTube video

    While the following week will be occupied with Thanksgiving-related activities, there are a few options available if you and your cool cousins want to get out of the house for a bit.  On Friday, OG funkster George Clinton will perform at the House of Blues along with Parliament-Funkadelic. George is 84 years old, so you might want to catch his act while you can.  But, as “Flashlight” says, “most of all, most of all” this show represents the opportunity to experience some 100 proof funk as dispensed by the master.

    YouTube video

    The always unpredictable and irrepressible Erykah Badu will play two nights, Friday and Saturday, this week at the 713 Music Hall.  Badu’s “Return of Automatic Slim” tour marks the 25th anniversary of her album Mama’s Gun, and indications are that “reimaginings” of some of the disc’s tracks will be on the set list.  Hope she doesn’t stray too far from the original arrangements – they were classics.

    YouTube video

    Think you might need some honky-tonk after all that turkey and dressing?  Then Shoeshine Charley’s Big Top Lounge is your spot on Friday, when Dale Watson and His Lonestars will be tending the flame of traditional country music.  How rootsy is Watson?  He opened a recording studio in Memphis with the original board from Sun Studio, where Elvis, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lewis produced all of their early hits.  Now that’s hardcore.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Tom Richards

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  • ABC13’s Melanie Lawson shares personal news

    HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — I first walked through the doors of ABC13 in 1978 as an intern. My first time on the air was a mistake. I had gone out and shadowed a reporter and asked if I could ask some questions and get some information.

    He said, “Sure,” and I came back and wrote up the story, got it edited, and handed it in. The producer put it on TV without anyone asking much of anything.

    The news director was screaming down the hall at me when he saw my reporting on the air. He wasn’t happy, but he said the story wasn’t too bad, and he let me stick around.

    I took a detour to law school and enjoyed a short stint practicing law, but the spark I felt each day at KTRK couldn’t be replicated. The light I felt wasn’t in a law office, it was telling stories – stories about the things that mattered to you and your families.

    And now, a few short years later, that light still shines bright for the important work we do here each and every day.

    It’s time to share that light in a different way, as I focus on my family and my next chapter. I’ll step away from the anchor desk and my time here at the end of January.

    Being here at ABC13 is a path I have not walked alone. My wonderful partner in life, John, has been a rock for whom I am eternally grateful. He’s been through my ups and downs – spoke his mind the whole time – but been there nonetheless.

    My father and mother, whose incredible love story is to be admired and cherished is an inspiration to love and perseverance.

    And of course, my entire family who have been along for this wild ride that we call television news.

    I’ve been fortunate enough to have a front-row seat to history in ways I never could have imagined. That bright-eyed, eager, curious intern never knew she would get to interview presidents and politicians and people who had more influence and sway than I sometimes realized.

    I’ve had the privilege of telling your stories, the tragedies and triumphs, the stories that have shaped the very fabric of who we are here in Houston. The light that shines from me – to tell your stories, right the wrongs, and hold people accountable shines on here at ABC13.

    There’s so much in our future, my friends, as Houston grows and we thrive together. I hope that I’ve been able to inspire you, as my friends, and I hope I’ve been able to inspire a young generation of journalists and storytellers that the world is not quite as big as it may seem. That sometimes, you do the work, you hand it in, and they just might put it on TV.

    The bad news – you’re stuck with me a little longer here, so don’t call dibs on my desk just yet.

    A note from ABC13:
    Please join us in celebrating Melanie as we look back at her unmatched career. After the holidays, we’re calling January “The Month of Mel” with special surprises for her each day.

    Copyright © 2025 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.

    Melanie Lawson

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  • Tornado hits Houston area, damaging over 100 homes, no injuries reported


    More than 100 homes have been damaged after a tornado touched down in a residential area outside Houston, authorities in Texas said Monday.

    No injuries were reported.

    Photos and drone video posted on Facebook by the Harris County Precinct 3 constable showed roofs with shingles ripped off. Some debris blocked roads.

    The damage affected the Memorial Northwest neighborhood, according to the office of Mark Herman, the constable.

    The Houston Fire Department dispatched five members of its saw team to cut up and remove toppled trees, spokesperson Rustin Rawlings said.

    The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for southeastern Texas, including Houston, until 1 a.m. Tuesday. It also issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of southeastern Texas.

    While the National Weather Service will have to survey the area to officially assign a rating for the strength of the Harris County tornado, atmospheric parameters were certainly in place for a tornadic setup. 

    The Houston and Harris County area was dealing with unusually warm and humid conditions for this time of year, with temperatures in the upper 70s and lower 80s for much of the afternoon, and dew points as high as the low 70s, meaning it was very muggy.

    Those are two of the primary ingredients needed to produce severe weather, and the other is a lifting mechanism, which came in the form of both a warm front and a cold front moving through the state. All things combined prompted a tornado watch for the afternoon and into the overnight hours for Southeast Texas, which led to several tornado warnings and severe thunderstorm warnings throughout the day.

    Conditions are expected to improve over the next few days, followed by the return of rain and storms this weekend.

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  • Childish Gambino reveals he had a stroke last year, which forced him to cancel tour

    Donald Glover is opening up about a recent health scare that forced him to cancel his tour last year. At the time, he described it as an “ailment,” but Glover said Saturday night at a performance that a doctor told him he’d had a stroke.

    Glover, who performs under the moniker Childish Gambino, shared the information on stage at Tyler, the Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw festival in Los Angeles. His remarks were shared widely on social media.

    “You guys voted for a ‘where have I been monologue,’” Glover, 42, said. “I had a really bad pain in my head in Louisiana and I did the show anyway. I couldn’t really see well, so when we went to Houston, I went to the hospital and the doctor was like, ‘You had a stroke.’”

    Glover said he felt like he was letting everyone down, lamenting that he still hasn’t been to Ireland. He also revealed that “they found a hole” in his heart and he had to have two surgeries.

    “They say everybody has two lives and the second life starts when you realize you have one,” Glover said. “You got one life, guys, and I gotta be honest, the life I’ve lived with you guys has been such a blessing.”

    CBS News has reached out to Glover’s representatives for additional comment.

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  • Buddhist monks resume 2,300-mile walk for peace after accident near Houston

    HOUSTON (AP) — A group of Buddhist monks in the middle of a 2,300-mile (3,700-kilometer) walk across the U.S. to promote peace planned to resume their journey after two of them were injured during a traffic accident near Houston, a spokesperson for the group said Thursday.

    The collection of about two dozen monks began their walk on Oct. 26 from Fort Worth, Texas, to “raise awareness of peace, loving kindness, and compassion across America and the world,” according to the group, Walk for Peace. The monks planned to travel through 10 states before reaching Washington, D.C.

    So far, the monks have visited various Texas cities on their trek, including Austin and Houston, often walking along roads and highways while being escorted by law enforcement or by a vehicle trailing behind them, said Long Si Dong, a spokesperson for the group. The monks are being accompanied on their journey by their dog Aloka.

    At around 6:13 p.m. Wednesday, the monks were walking along the side of U.S. Highway 90 near Dayton, Texas, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) northeast of Houston, when their escort vehicle, which had its hazard lights on, was hit by a truck, said Dayton Interim Police Chief Shane Burleigh.

    The truck “didn’t notice how slow the vehicle was going, tried to make an evasive maneuver to drive around the vehicle, and didn’t do it in time,” Burleigh said. “It struck the escort vehicle in the rear left, pushed the escort into two of the monks.”

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    One of the monks has “substantial leg injuries” and was flown by helicopter to a hospital in Houston, Burleigh said. The other monk with less serious injuries was taken by ambulance to another hospital in suburban Houston.

    In a video posted on Walk for Peace’s Facebook page, an unidentified spokeswoman for the group said the most seriously injured monk was expected to have a series of surgeries to heal a broken bone, but his prognosis for recovery was good. The group said the monk’s surgery on Thursday went well.

    “He’s in good spirits. He’s giving us thumbs-up,” the spokeswoman said. The condition of the other monk was not immediately known.

    The monks, who camped overnight near Dayton, planned to resume their walk “with steadfast determination,” Walk for Peace said.

    “We kindly ask everyone to continue keeping the monks in your thoughts and prayers as healing begins and the journey toward peace continues,” the group said in a post on Facebook.

    After the accident, the monks do not plan to change how they conduct their walk, which takes place along highways but also through open fields, Dong said. Walk for Peace plans to continue working with local law enforcement in the areas they travel through to ensure the safety of the monks, he said.

    “Right now, everything is still as planned,” Dong said.

    The driver of the truck that hit the monk’s escort vehicle is cooperating with the investigation, which is still ongoing, Burleigh said.

    “Right now, we’re looking at this as driver inattention,” said Burleigh, who added that police will determine at the end of the investigation if any charges will be filed.

    ___

    Follow Juan A. Lozano: https://x.com/juanlozano70

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  • Playboi Carti Guides a Creative Wave Through Houston – Houston Press

    The Toyota Center stopped rocking and began to go silent as plumes of smoke dropped from the ceiling and rolled over the audience. White strobe lights flashed across the arena while the crowd on the floor moved in loose circles, shifting as individuals and as one body. A few people wiped sweat from their faces and raised a wide banner above the mosh pit that read “Open This Bitch Up.” The floor opened and closed again, expanding and collapsing like a living cloud.

    On the edge of the chaos, two men stood on the roof of a pickup truck. The smoke rising from the truck bed made them appear and disappear in quick bursts of light. They stretched their arms toward the crowd, holding their thumbs, index fingers, and ring fingers in the air. Thousands of hands returned the gesture.

    Slowly, the energy shifted toward the front of the arena, where a group of men holding bright lights and long metal poles stood on an elevated platform set between two eighteen wheelers. At the center of the stage stood Playboi Carti.

    The Atlanta MC wore all white with a thick fur wrapped across his body. He leaned against the railing as the sharp cry of an organ cut through the stadium and drowned out every other sound. When “Fiend” exploded through the speakers, a wall of fire rose behind him and the audience roared, trying to match the volume of the music.

    The Antagonist Tour had arrived in Houston.

    The Antagonist Tour presents Carti as the center of a growing creative universe shaped by his sound and the artists he lifts through his Opium label. He is not treated as a lone performer. He stands as an architect who builds a complete world that blends music, fashion, and personal mythology into a single experience. The production leans into a dark futurist style that turns each show into a cultural moment.

    At the same time, Carti continues to rise within the industry itself. His most recent release moves to the top of major charts, his streaming numbers climb month after month, and he remains one of the most influential artists of his generation. His circle of collaborators expands across the year as he appears on new music from Travis Scott, Kanye West, Lil Uzi Vert, and several others who seek his distinct presence to shape their own projects.

    The artists from his label shape the energy inside the arena long before Carti appears. Destroy Lonely sets the tone with a slow and textured presence that builds tension and gives the crowd a first look at the Opium aesthetic in motion. His set establishes a mood that feels cinematic and deliberate. After him, Ken Carson steps forward as the final opener and raises the temperature of the room. His sharp and restless force sends the arena into a steady surge that carries straight into Carti’s entrance. Together they show how Opium functions as a unified creative engine. Each artist adds a different color to the same world, creating a sense of continuity that stretches from the openers to the final moment of Carti’s set. Opium stands as more than a label. It operates as a cultural imprint built on shared vision, bold style, and a commitment to shifting the sound of modern rap forward.

    Carti moves through the industry with the confidence of someone who understands the scale of his influence and the shape of the world he continues to build. The Antagonist Tour strengthens that identity by placing his vision, his label, and his collaborators at the center of a movement that reaches far beyond any single arena. Opium grows in reach with every release, every partnership, and every new artist who joins its orbit. Carti’s sound continues to shift the culture, and his presence remains one of the most powerful forces in modern rap. The night in Houston becomes another reminder that his creative universe is still expanding and that the artists who stand with him are helping define what the next era of music will look like.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    DeVaughn Douglas

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  • Weekend Food Bets: Traveler’s Cart Serving It All – Houston Press

    Sandoitchi Pop-Up at Norigami

    Friday–Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until sold out)

    2715 Bissonnet

    As viral sando slinger Sandoitchi wraps up its final week of Norigami pop-ups, it’s serving up fresh menu additions. Grab the decadent Lobster Roll with poached lobster, brown butter, herbs, and shiso kewpie mayo, or the Wagyu Tartare Sando with Wagyu strip loin, labneh, herbs, and truffle kewpie mayo. Favorites from the regular menu are also available, but hurry—these specials sell out. Walk-ins only; cashless. 

    Saturday, all day
    1517 Alabama

    Teaming up with School of Rock Houston, Axelrad will debut Radfest, an all-day, three-stage music festival and artist showcase that doubles as a fundraiser for Houston Food Bank. Expect a killer lineup featuring Daikaiju, Los Skarnales and a stacked list of local acts, plus cocktails, mocktails, beer and wine flowing all night. Guests can fuel up with eats from Homies (tacos, fried chicken, and mac and cheese), Luigi’s Pizzeria, and Tita’s Tamales while you catch sets from Houston bands, DJs and School of Rock students and instructors. Tickets are $20 in advance ($25 at the door), with $40 VIP passes that include drink specials, a Radfest tee and reserved seating.

    Tapas Giving

    Saturday, noon to 2:30 p.m.

    2203 Preston

    Chef Jamal Collier of Everything Irie Cuisine returns with Tapas Giving, a laid-back but elevated gathering at ShareSpace on Preston in EaDo. Expect chef-crafted tapas, mellow tunes, and signature cocktails from Perfect Pour Bartending (with Suntory Global spirits). Tickets are $105 and include food, drink, and private parking.

    Friendsgiving for Freedom at Tikila’s

    Saturday, 3 p.m. 

    2708 North Shepherd

    Gather with friends for a community-minded feast at Tikila’s in the Heights, featuring chef Martin Weaver’s award-winning brisket and ribs cooked on the legendary pit that won his father the 1985 Houston Rodeo championship. The event celebrates gratitude and community, helping to  raise funds for the Freedom for Danny campaign, a legal defense fund for Vietnamese American father Danny Quach, a childhood friend of Tikila’s owner Sammy Saket, who is facing deportation.

    All weekend long

    1401 Montrose

    Earlier this week, Montrose favorite Traveler’s Cart transitioned from counter-service to full-service all-day as owners Thy and Matthew Mitchell evolve the concept to put an even greater emphasis on service and hospitality. The change comes several new offerings, including Thai Chili Queso, Baja Shrimp Tacos, Chicken Lo Mein, Salmon Donburi, Chicken Parmesan, Vietnamese Cha Ca and Steak Frites. New cocktails include a Mexican Espresso Martini and a Pandan Sticky Rice Old Fashioned.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Brooke Viggiano

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  • This Week in Food Events: Brunch Tacos and Fancy Wine – Houston Press

    All week long

    Wild Game Specials at Ouisie’s Table

    Ouisie’s Table, 3939 San Felipe, is serving up a weekly series of imaginative game dinners now through November 26. This week features Braised Wild North American Elk Osso Buco.

    Monday–Thursday

    Sips of the Season Week of Giving at The Spot

    The Spot, 2003 Emancipation, hosts its Sips of the Season Week of Giving from Monday, November 17 through Thursday, November 20, offering free meals daily from noon to 1 p.m. Each meal comes with a complimentary beverage and a freshly prepared dish from rotating food truck partners including The Tamale Shakk, Lust for Crust, Kozy Kitchen & Moore and Wings Boyzz. The long-running community lounge continues its nearly 20-year tradition of giving back with this early holiday effort, open to anyone in need. 

    Tuesday, November 18

    Nugsgiving at Cheba Hut 

    From 4:20 to 10 p.m., fans can visit any participating Cheba Hut nationwide to grab a free 4” Nug sub or an order of Pretzel Nugs with honey mustard. No app or purchase is required. 

    Turkey Bowl Fundraiser at Main Event Stafford

    Chef Don Bowie’s nonprofit, Big Chef Bowie Cares, returns with its annual Turkey Bowl fundraiser at Main Event in Stafford, supporting City Wide Club of Houston’s Super Feast. From 7 to 10 p.m., guests can hit the lanes, enjoy bites and drinks, and give back to Houston families in need this holiday season.

    Wednesday, November 19

    Scribe Winery at The Marigold Club

    The Marigold Club, 2531 Kuester, is hosting an intimate wine dinner with California’s acclaimed Scribe Winery at 6:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy rare, limited-production pours and new releases paired with dishes like Hokkaido scallop crudo, duck Wellington, and classic tarte tatin, all while hearing stories from Scribe’s owner Andrew Mariani. Bubbles are poured at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $295 per person via OpenTable.

    Caymus Wine Dinner at Zanti Cucina Italiana

    Zanti Cucina Italiana, 1958 West Gray, hosts an exclusive five-course wine dinner in partnership with Caymus Vineyards at 7 p.m. Guests can enjoy pairings alongside dishes like cured Carabinero shrimp, lobster ravioli, venison risotto, slow-roasted lamb rib with fig sauce, and goat cheese gelato with truffle and dark chocolate — plus a taste of a not-yet-released Bonanza Chardonnay. Reservations are available via OpenTable.

    Thursday, November 20

    Austin Hope Wine Dinner at Marvino’s Italian Steakhouse

    Marvino’s, 24002 Northwest Freeway, hosts a four-course Austin Hope Wine Dinner at 7 p.m. The $99-per-person experience (plus tax and gratuity) features dishes like wild mushroom risotto, lobster ravioli in lemon butter sage sauce, boneless ribeye with Bordelaise and au gratin potatoes, and a dark chocolate hazelnut tart with vanilla bean gelato — each paired with wines from Paso Robles, including Quest Cabernet Franc and Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon. Seating is limited and reservations are encouraged.

    Friendsgiving at Sol 7

    Thompson Hotel, 1717 Allen Parkway, invites guests to celebrate the season of gratitude with an unforgettable rooftop Friendsgiving at Sol 7. The evening kicks off with a festive cocktail before guests enjoy a lavish buffet of seasonal fare and an exclusive wine tasting, all set against the glittering Houston skyline.

    Iron Sommelier at The Post Oak Hotel

    The Periwinkle Foundation hosts Houston’s premier wine tasting and sommelier competition, Iron Sommelier, benefiting pediatric cancer programs at Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Center. Guests can sip exceptional wines as top sommeliers present their best selections, with judging based on presentation, creativity, and knowledge. The evening features tasting rooms, People’s Choice voting, an awards ceremony and a live auction. 6pm to 10pm. Tickets are $250.

    Saturday, November 22

    Tamale-Making Class at Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen

    Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen, 1140 Eldridge, kicks off its holiday festivities with the first hands-on tamale-making class of the season from 1 to 4 p.m. For $75 per person, guests learn the ancient art of making tamales — and get to enjoy the fruits of their labor afterward. Additional classes and a special public Tamalada are set for December, and private tamaladas can be arranged at either location. 

    Radfest at Axelrad Beer Garden

    Axelrad, 1517 Alabama, is teaming up with School of Rock Houston for Radfest, an all-day, three-stage music festival and artist showcase that doubles as a fundraiser for Houston Food Bank. Expect a killer lineup featuring Daikaiju, Los Skarnales and a stacked list of local acts, plus cocktails, mocktails, beer and wine flowing all day. Fuel up with eats from Homies (tacos, fried chicken, and mac and cheese), Luigi’s Pizzeria, and Tita’s Tamales while you catch sets from Houston bands, DJs and School of Rock students and instructors. Tickets are $20 in advance ($25 at the door), with $40 VIP passes that include drink specials, a Radfest tee and reserved seating.

    Saturday–Sunday

    Breakfast Tacos at Craft Pita

    Craft Pita, 5172 Buffalo Speedway, 1920 Fountain View,  has added breakfast tacos to its weekend brunch menu, offering two options: a Beef Bacon Breakfast Taco plate with three tacos filled with beef bacon, hash browns, Lebanese cheese blend, sautéed onions and hot sauce; and a Feta Potato Taco plate with three tacos featuring hash browns, Lebanese cheese blend, sautéed onions and hot sauce. Brunch is served at both Craft Pita locations on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

    Texas Renaissance Festival

    Texas’ largest Renaissance-themed festival continues with the Barbarian Invasion weekend. Step into a world of fantasy, food and revelry, with turkey legs, mead and themed entertainment ranging from costume contests to live performances. Tickets start at $25 for adults and $10 for kids ages 5–12; children 4 and under get in free.

    Sunday, November 23

    Saber & Sip Brunch at The Annie Cafe

    Berg Hospitality and Madame Zéro Champagne are teaming up to toast Houston’s fall patio season with a Saber & Sip Brunch at The Annie Café, 1800 Post Oak, on Sunday, 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Enjoy live sabering, tastings and champagne cocktails like the Madame Zéro French 75 and Blanc de Blancs Aperol Spritz, plus the chance to try sabering yourself with bottle purchase.

    All month long

    Thanksgiving Turkey Shawarma at Craft Pita

    Craft Pita, 5172 Buffalo Speedway, 1920 Fountain View, is offering a Thanksgiving special all through November. Choose a Turkey Shawarma Bowl with Lebanese rice, tabbouleh, cabbage, turnips, garlic aioli and cranberry sauce, or a Turkey Shawarma Pita with garlic aioli, lettuce, tomato, red cabbage and pickles. 

    New and ongoing specials

    Thanksgiving Catering

    Those looking to kip the kitchen chaos this Thanksgiving can check out our 2025 Thanksgiving To-Go Guide, featuring an extensive list of Houston restaurants offering takeout and catering, from whole turkey dinners and roasts to sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, tamales and seasonal desserts.

    New Holiday Beer at Karbach Brewing

    Karbach’s getting into the holiday spirit with Yuletide Confessions, the latest in its F.U.N. Series of small-batch brews. The 7.2 percent winter warmer is malty and rich, with notes of toffee, biscuit and a little rye spice — grab it at the brewery or Texas retailers while it lasts. 

    Sprinkles Holiday Boutique 

    Sprinkles’ Houston bakeries are spreading festive cheer with limited-edition holiday cupcakes and treats, available for pickup and local delivery. Now through November 27, enjoy the new Spiced Cranberry Vanilla cupcake ($5.50) and the Gratitude Dozen ($65) or Mini Dozen ($26). Starting November 28 through December 25, the lineup expands to include the Joy Dozen ($64), Chocolate Peppermint Layer Cake (from $14), The Grinch Red Velvet cupcake ($5.25, pre-order only), and seasonal favorites like Chocolate Peppermint, Christmas Cookie, and Gingerbread. All treats come with festive gift wrap options.

    Guerrero Tasting Menu at Caracol

    Chef Hugo Ortega continues his tasting menu series at Caracol, 2200 Post Oak, bringing the flavors of Guerrero to Houston with a four-course tasting menu available at dinner Monday through Saturday. Highlights include Tiritas de Pescado, Pozole Verde, Pescado a la Talla, and Carlota de Limón, each paired with a mezcal cocktail inspired by the region. The menu is $75 per person, with an optional beverage pairing for $36 extra. 

     

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Weekend Food Bets: Brunch, Beer, and Bourbon – Houston Press

    Bake it Forward: The Great Bake Charity Event at CityCentre

    Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon

    10515 Katy Freeway

    Enjoy a sweet morning of tasting local baker treats, sipping mimosas and grazing charcuterie‑style while supporting the mission of Meals on Wheels at the Bake it Forward: The Great Bake Charity Event. Tasting wristbands are $21.65 and include mimosas and a taste from each bakery station. 

    80’s-Themed Brunch Party at Zanti Cucina Italiana

    Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    1958 West Gray

    Zanti River Oaks is throwing it back with an 80’s-inspired brunch party featuring themed cocktails, retro tunes from a live DJ, and nostalgic flair from neon to sequins. Guests can enjoy new menu items alongside brunch favorites from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reserve via OpenTable.

    Saint Arnold Woodlands Pub Crawl

    Saturday, 2 to 6 p.m.

    Saint A brings its fan-favorite Pub Crawl to The Woodlands Waterway. Grab a punch card and pop into stops like Acqua Restaurant & Lounge, The Goose’s Acre, Hearsay Gastro Lounge and Mahoney’s, sipping Saint Arnold beers as you go. Finish up at Kirby Ice House at 6 p.m. to redeem your full crawl punch card for a commemorative Saint Arnold pint glass.

    Friendsgiving for Freedom at Tikila’s

    Saturday, 3 p.m. 

    2708 North Shepherd

    Gather with friends for a community-minded feast at Tikila’s in the Heights, featuring chef Martin Weaver’s award-winning brisket and ribs cooked on the legendary pit that won his father the 1985 Houston Rodeo championship. The event celebrates gratitude and community, helping to  raise funds for the Freedom for Danny campaign, a legal defense fund for Vietnamese American father Danny Quach, a childhood friend of Tikila’s owner Sammy Saket, who is facing deportation.

    10th Annual Whiskey Social at The Citadel

    Saturday, 4 to 9 p.m.

    12130 Kirby 

    Hit the 10th annual Whiskey Social to explore hundreds of whiskeys and fine spirits from around the world, plus highlights including specialty tastings (including rare vintage and single‑barrel selections), a cigar tent and bites while supplies last. Tickets are $92.41 and up.

    The post Weekend Food Bets: Brunch, Beer, and Bourbon appeared first on Houston Press.

    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announces run for fourth term, touts property tax plan, economy, policies

    Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Sunday evening that he is running for a fourth term as governor of the Lone Star State.

    Earlier in the week, Abbott said he would make a special announcement from Houston on Sunday, outlining his vision for the future of the state.

    Abbott said it was in Houston that he rebuilt his life after the accident that left him paralyzed.

    “I learned that our lives don’t have to be determined or defined by how we’re challenged,” Abbott said. “We get to define our lives by how we respond to those challenges. It is a trademark resilience that we Texans have.”

    “As Texans, we will defend this state with every fiber of our being,” Abbott continued. “We will protect what we built, we will finish what we started. We will lead Texas into its glorious future! And that’s why tonight, I’m here to announce I am running for reelection as your governor for the great state of Texas.”  

    He touted the state’s economy, the 8th largest in the world, and said Texas is “number one” in electricity generation. 

    Abbott also claimed the Texas economy is “growing twice as fast as the United States’ economy.”  

    Abbott unveils property tax reform plan

    As part of his announcement, Abbott also outlined a sweeping property tax reform plan to “rein in skyrocketing appraisals.”

    He said on Sunday that voters should have the power to decide on eliminating school property taxes and that any future property tax hikes should require two-thirds voter approval.

    “It’s time to drive a stake through the heart of local property tax hikes for good,” Abbott said. “We are going to turn the tables on local taxing authorities, put the power with the people, and put an end to out-of-control property taxes in Texas.”

    This comes less than a week after Texas voters approved constitutional amendments to reduce property taxes.  

    He is currently the second-longest serving governor of Texas, behind former Gov. Rick Perry, who served for 14 years.

    Trump endorses Abbott’s run for 4th term

    In a post on Truth Social, President Trump endorsed Abbott’s run for a fourth term as Texas’ governor.

    “Greg Abbott is the strong and highly respected Governor of Texas, a State I love and WON BIG three times, including with 6.4 Million Votes in 2024 (The most Votes in History, BY FAR)! …
    As Governor, Greg is also fighting tirelessly to Champion Texas Values, Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Support our Amazing Farmers and Ranchers, Advance MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy Dominance, Promote School Choice, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Murderers, and other Criminals from illegally entering our Country, Ensure LAW AND ORDER, Protect our Brave Military, Veterans, and Law Enforcement, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.
    Greg Abbott has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election. He is an exceptional Governor and man — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”  

    Gov. Abbott’s time in office

    Abbott was first elected as governor of Texas in 2014, sworn into office on Jan. 20, 2015. Prior to that, he served as the state’s Attorney General from 2002 to 2015.

    During the 2015 Legislative session, Abbott signed the “campus carry” and “open carry” bills into law, allowing licensed individuals to carry concealed handguns on public college campuses and openly in public areas, respectively.

    In May 2021, he signed the Texas Heartbeat Act (SB 8), which bans most abortions after cardiac activity is detected, about six weeks.

    He also launched Operation Lone Star in 2021, a multi-agency collaboration between the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Military Department, including the deployment of state troopers, National Guard personnel, and other resources for border security.

    In May 2025, Abbott signed the $1 billion controversial school choice bill into law, allowing for taxpayer money to be used to help qualifying students pay for private school tuition, which he promoted during his speech in Houston on Sunday.

    In his speech on Sunday, he also promoted signing Senate Bill 8, the so-called “bathroom bill,” into law. The law requires people in government buildings and schools to use certain facilities based on the sex they were assigned at birth.

    Andrew White, of Houston, and State Rep. Gina Hinojosa are among the Democratic candidates running against Abbott in 2026. 

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  • Houston Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving 2025 – Houston Press

    This Thanksgiving — coming up on Thursday, November 28 — skip the stress of cooking and let Houston’s top restaurants treat you to a festive feast. From family-friendly affairs featuring classic roast turkey and all the fixin’s to prix fixe menus featuring bubbles, oysters and TK, here is where to celebrate the season of gratitude with a tasty meal in Houston this year.

    The Audrey, 9595 Six Pines 

    Celebrate Thanksgiving November 27 from 2 to 9 p.m. with a three-course prix fixe featuring roasted parsnip bisque, herb-roasted turkey or chateaubriand and pumpkin pie. Cost is $55–$65 for adults and $18–25 for kids. 

    Bar Bludorn, 9061 Gaylord

    The neighborhood taver is offering a three-course pre-fixe Thanksgiving menu ($75 per person), with a two-course children’s menu for $55. Guests can enjoy holiday classics like roast turkey, squash soup, and stuffing, alongside Bar Bludorn specialties including country ham beignets, steak tartare, steak frites and mushroom ravioli. 

    Bludorn, 807 Taft

    Enjoy a special three-course Thanksgiving dinner of traditional favorites like roast turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie, alongside Bludorn signatures such as steak tartare, hanger steak and Oysters Everyway. The three-course menu is $105 per person, with a two-course children’s menu available for $55.

    Brennan’s, 3300 Smith
    Enjoy a three-course prix fixe feast of Creole and holiday classics in a cozy, festive atmosphere, open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; reservations required. Cost is $87 per person plus tax and tip. Call 713-522-9711.

    Duck N Bao, multiple locations

    Create your own Chinese-inspired Thanksgiving with crispy-skinned Peking duck, soup dumplings, specialty rice, noodles, seafood and vegetable plates. Open regular hours; walk-ins welcome.

    Etoile Cuisine et Bar, 1101-11 Uptown Park

    Étoile will be open for Thanksgiving with a special three-course menu ($78 per adult, $28 per child, plus tax and gratuity) — expect seasonal hors d’oeuvres like butternut squash soup with orange zest, Scottish smoked salmon with dill cream, or chilled shrimp with tarragon cocktail sauce; main courses including free-range roasted turkey with all the classics, braised Akaushi beef, Iberico pork skirt steak, seared salmon, or a fall vegetable risotto with white truffle oil; and vanilla bourbon pecan pie or warm pear and brioche pudding with chocolate sorbet.

    Hongdae 33, 9889 Bellaire
    Break from tradition with all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue in a vibrant, high-energy space. $33 per person for 90 minutes of unlimited food; a la carte drinks available. Walk-ins welcome; no reservations needed.

    Leo’s River Oaks, 2009 West Gray 

    Guests can dine in style a three-course prix fixe from 2 to 9pm with — choose herb-roasted turkey ($75) or filet mignon ($85) with refined sides and pumpkin pie. Kids’ menu available. 

    Navy Blue, 2445 Times 

    The modern American seafood restaurant is hosting a festive three-course Thanksgiving dinner. Guests can choose from signature dishes like crab cakes, seafood gumbo, and seared scallops, as well as seasonal specials including roasted turkey roulade with puff pastry and sweet potato, and hanger steak with kale, bone marrow butter, and sauce bordelaise. The three-course menu is $85 per person, with a two-course children’s menu available for $55.

    Rainbow Lodge, 2011 Ella

    Celebrate Thanksgiving in lodge-style comfort with a three-course menu ($85 per adult, $45 child, plus beverages, tax and gratuity). Highlights include smoked duck gumbo, wild game tasting, Southern-style roast turkey with cornbread dressing and indulgent desserts like warm croissant bread pudding. Late-night snack packs with turkey, dressing, and gravy are also available to-go. 

    Remi, 1080 Uptown Park

    Hotel Granduca’s Remi is offering a pre-fixe Thanksgiving menu with oven-roasted heritage turkey, truffled mac and cheese, spiced pumpkin tarts and artisanal apple Dutch pies in an elegant setting. Seating runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for $105/adult and $54/children 10+. Reservations required via OpenTable or at 713-418-1000.

    Roma, 2347 University

    Enjoy a three-course Thanksgiving meal with Italian twists ($55 adults, $25 kids, $35 optional wine pairing), with options from butternut squash soup and hand-carved turkey breast to pecan pie or pumpkin pie.

    Tipping Point Restaurant and Terrace, 9787 Katy Freeway

    Tipping Point will be open on Thanksgiving with a special a la carte or three-course menu for $75. Highlights include raspberry brie en croute, lamb duo with apple chutney, slow-roasted turkey with green beans, cornbread stuffing, rosemary mashed potatoes and a yeast roll, roasted rack of lamb and pecan pie.

    Winsome Prime, 5888 Westheimer

    Winsome Prime will be open on Thanksgiving Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a select menu of customer favorites and holiday specials.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Newsom appears onstage at Texas rally to celebrate Prop. 50 victory, take swipes at Trump

    Gov. Gavin Newsom strode onstage in Houston on Saturday to a cheering crowd of Texas Democrats, saying Proposition 50’s victory in California on election day was a win for the nation and a firm repudiation of President Trump.

    Newsom possessed the air of a politician running for president at the boisterous rally, a possibility the California governor says he is considering — and the location he chose was not happenstance.

    Newsom accused Trump of pressuring Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to rejigger the state’s congressional districts with the goal of sending more Republicans to Congress, an action that triggered California’s Proposition 50. Newsom successfully pushed for a special election on the ballot measure to counter the efforts in Texas, which the governor said wasan attempt by Trump and the Republicans to “rig” the 2026 midterm election.

    Cheers erupted from the friendly, union-hall crowd when Newsom belittled Trump as an “invasive species” and a “historically unpopular president.”

    “On every issue, on the economy, on terrorists, on immigration, on healthcare, [he’s a] historically unpopular president, and he knows it, and he knows it,” Newsom said. “Why else did he make that call to your governor? Why else did he feel the need to rig the election before even one vote was cast? That’s just weakness, weakness masquerading as strength. That’s Donald Trump, and he had a very bad night on Tuesday.”

    Newsom was the main political force behind Proposition 50, which California voters overwhelmingly approved in Tuesday’s special election. The statewide ballot measure was an attempt to counter Trump’s push to get Republican-led states, most notably Texas, to redraw their electoral maps to keep Democrats from gaining control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterms and upending his agenda. Newsom and California Democrats hope the change will net an additional five Democrats in California’s congressional delegation, canceling out any gains in Texas.

    Newsom thanked Texas Democrats for putting up a fight against the redistricting effort in their state, saying it inspired an uprising.

    “It’s dawning on people, all across the United States of America, what’s at stake,” Newsom told the crowd. “And you put a stake in the ground. People are showing up. I don’t believe in crowns, thrones. No kings.”

    Newsom’s trip to Texas comes as the former San Francisco mayor has been openly flirting with a 2028 run for president. In a recent interview with “CBS News Sunday Morning,” Newsom was asked whether he would give “serious thought” after the 2026 midterms to a White House bid.

    “Yeah, I’d be lying otherwise,” Newsom replied. “I’d just be lying. And I’m not — I can’t do that.”

    In July, Newsom flew to South Carolina, a state that traditionally hosts the South’s first presidential primary. He said he wanted to help his party win back the U.S. House of Representatives in 2026. But South Carolina is a solidly conservative state and did not appear to have a single competitive race.

    During that trip, South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, the highest-ranking Black member of Congress and renowned Democratic kingmaker, told The Times that Newsom would be “a hell of a candidate.” Newsom received similar praise — and encouragement — when he was introduced at the “Take It Back” rally in Houston.

    Newsom now heads to Belém, Brazil, where representatives from 200 nations are gathering to kick off the annual United Nations climate policy summit. For Newsom, it’s a golden opportunity to appear on a world stage and sell himself and California as the antidote to Trump and his attacks on climate change policy.

    The Trump administration this year canceled funding for major clean energy projects such as California’s hydrogen hub and moved to revoke the state’s long-held authority to set stricter vehicle emissions standards than the federal government.

    Phil Willon

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  • What to know if your travel plans are impacted by the FAA’s flight cancellations

    If you have upcoming travel plans anytime soon, you might notice fewer options on the airport’s departure board.

    Airlines are scaling back flights at dozens of major U.S. airports to ease the pressure on air traffic controllers, who have been working unpaid and under intense strain during the ongoing government shutdown.

    The Federal Aviation Administration says the decision is necessary to keep travelers safe. Many controllers have been putting in long hours and mandatory overtime while lawmakers are at a standstill over how to reopen the government.

    Major hubs like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago are among those affected, and the ripple effects could mean more cancellations, longer delays and fuller flights for travelers across the country. The cutbacks will impact hundreds if not thousands of flights daily.

    Here’s what to know about the FAA’s order — and what you can do if your plans are disrupted:

    Is my airport on the list?

    There’s a good chance it is. The list spans more than two dozen states.

    It includes the country’s busiest airport — Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia — and the main airports in Boston, Denver, Honolulu, Las Vegas, Miami, San Francisco and Salt Lake City.

    Multiple airports will be impacted in some metropolitan hubs, including New York, Houston, Chicago and Washington.

    How long will this go on?

    It’s hard to say. Even if the shutdown ends soon, the FAA has said it would not lift the flight restrictions until staffing at airport towers and regional air traffic centers makes it safe to do so.

    “It’s going to take time to work through this,” said Michael Johnson, president of Ensemble Travel, an association of travel agencies in the U.S. and Canada.

    That’s why, he said, it’s important to plan ahead — whether you’ve already booked flights or you’re just starting to make holiday travel plans.

    Know before you go

    Airlines say they will let their customers know if their flight is called off.

    Still, it doesn’t hurt to check your airline’s app or a flight-tracking site for updates before you leave for the airport. It’s better to be stuck at home or in a hotel than stranded in a terminal.

    My flight was canceled. Now what?

    “Take a deep breath. Don’t panic,” Johnson said. “There are options available. They may not be ideal, and they may be inconvenient, but you have options.”

    If you’re already at the airport, it’s time to get in line to speak to a customer service representative. While you’re waiting, you can call or go online to connect to the airline’s reservations staff. It can also help to reach out on the social platform X because airlines might respond quickly there.

    Now might also be the time to consider if it makes sense to travel by train, car or bus instead.

    Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, said the shutdown is different from when a single airline is having problems and travelers can just pick another carrier.

    “The longer the shutdown drags on, it’s unlikely that there will be one airline running on time if the rest of the them are failing,” Potter said.

    Can I get a refund or compensation?

    The airlines will be required to issue full refunds, according to the FAA. However, they aren’t required to cover extra costs like meals or hotel stays — unless the delay or cancellation was within their control, according to the Department of Transportation.

    You can also check the DOT website to see what your airline promises for refunds or other costs if your flight is disrupted.

    Should I just stay home for the holidays?

    Not necessarily. You might just need a little more planning and flexibility than usual.

    A travel adviser can help take some stress off your plate, and travel insurance may give you an extra safety net.

    Johnson also warned that flights could sell out fast once the shutdown ends.

    “There will be a flurry of booking activity,” he said. “So try to get ahead of it and make sure that you’re protected.”

    Booking an early flight can also help, says Tyler Hosford, security director at risk mitigation company International SOS. If it gets canceled, you still “have the whole day” to sort things out.

    Other tips

    Travel light. Limiting baggage to a carry-on means one less airport line to deal with, and if your plans change unexpectedly, you’ll already have everything with you.

    Give yourself extra time at the airport, especially if you’re an anxious flyer or traveling with young children or anyone who needs extra help getting around.

    And be nice. Airline agents are likely helping other frustrated travelers, too, and yelling won’t make them more willing to help. Remember, the cancellations aren’t their fault.

    “An extra ounce of kindness to yourself and to others at this time of year, with all of the disruptions, will go a long way,” Johnson said.

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  • Grading The Week: Broncos’ passing woes wouldn’t be saved by Jaylen Waddle at NFL trade deadline

    Jaylen Waddle can’t throw the ball to himself.

    It’s kind of been the worst “best” week for the Broncos that anybody on the Grading The Week (GTW) crew can remember.

    After all, the orange and blue went 2-0 over the last seven days to extend Denver’s lead atop the AFC West with an 8-2 record. The Broncos set up a showdown with the Chiefs (5-4) at Empower Field on Nov. 16 that could officially end the Mahomes-Reid stranglehold on the division.

    It’s how they got there. A victory over the Texans (18-15) was due to a brilliant defense and a very timely injury to Houston quarterback C.J. Stroud. A win over the Raiders (10-7) on Thursday night was an exercise in sheer agony. Brilliant defense again, but mostly agony.

    In between the games, Sean Payton was grouchier than usual. And on Tuesday, despite being on track for a No. 1 or No. 2 seed in the AFC playoffs, the Broncos elected to stand pat as the trade deadline came and went. Marcedes Lewis, the 41-year-old “blocking” tight end, was Broncos Country’s midseason acquisition of note. Everybody dance!

    Broncos at the NFL trade deadline — D

    Payton insisted midweek that he had everything he needed inside Broncos Park Powered by CommonSpirit. Against Vegas, his offense showed him otherwise.

    Several reports over the last few weeks had the Broncos sniffing around at offensive additions, primarily at wide receiver. Denver was allegedly a suitor for New Orleans wideout Rashid Shaheed, only to be pipped by the Seahawks.

    NFL reporter Jordan Schultz then claimed the Broncos reached out to the Dolphins to inquire about Shaheed clone Jaylen Waddle, only to find the reported asking price — a first-round draft pick, at the least — to be too steep.

    Considering the Colts (7-2) coughed up two first-round picks to free star cornerback Sauce Gardner from the Jets, it puzzled the kids in the GTW offices why the Broncos wouldn’t consider a corresponding move in kind. Nix will only be on a rookie contract for so long, and the Broncos’ cap situation improves significantly in 2026.

    Waddle would be an upgrade over Troy Franklin. But we’re not sure he’d be a significant improvement over Marvin Mims Jr., assuming the latter is good to go. And it would be a waste of a first-rounder to land a guy that Sean Payton would likely just be asking to block on screens anyway.

    DePodesta is a Rockie! — C

    The GTW gang is torn on this one. We’re mildly and pleasantly surprised that Rockies CEO Dick Monfort hired a director of baseball operations from a) outside the organization; and b) outside his genetic family tree. Baby steps, after all, are still steps.

    Sean Keeler

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  • Weekend Food Bets: From Philly to Mexico City – Houston Press

    Bas’s Cheesesteaks pop-up at Tenfold Coffee

    Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    101 Aurora

    Bas’s Cheesesteaks is bringing Philly flavor to the Heights neighborhood with a special pop up at Tenfold Coffee from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until sold out), slinging halal ribeye cheesesteaks on seeded hoagie rolls with melty white cheese, mayo and your choice of grilled onions and peppers. Add fries or a Pudgy’s deli cookie to seal the deal. Follow along @basscheesesteaks for updates and future events.

    Bites & Beyond Festival at Discovery Green

    Saturday, 1 to 10 p.m.

    1500 McKinney

    Discovery Green hosts the Bites & Beyond Festival, featuring local chefs, food trucks, drinks, live music across four stages, art installations and cultural activations all day long. Tickets start at $30.48, with VIP and Party on Stage passes available.

    Saturday, 6 p.m. to close

    113 6th

    San Leon favorite Pier 6 is marking five years with a blowout bash. Executive chef Joe Cervantez will serve an exclusive anniversary menu paired with caviar and Champagne tastings, plus a few surprises to toast the milestone.  Reservations are recommended.

    Saturday, 5 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 a.m. (or until sell out) 

    5600 Richmond

    Houston’s newest halal Mexican concept is hitting the streets with a two-day grand opening bash, kicking of Saturday at 5 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting and live mariachi from Elegancia de Mexico, plus free beef birria combos for the first 150 guests, 50 percent off the menu, giveaways and a taco-eating contest. Sunday brings another full day of half-off eats like birria and barbacoa tacos, Trippin’ Tamales, Drip-Drip Ramen and the over-the-top Churro-Berry Gasm.

    Sunday, 1 to 3 p.m.

    2000 Lyons

    Saint Arnold Brewing Co., 2000 Lyons Ave, teams up with Houston Dairymaids for a Beer & Cheese Pairing, offering a curated tasting of five artisanal cheeses matched with five of Saint Arnold’s signature brews. Guests can also enjoy soft pretzels with mustard and receive a token for an extra beer at the Beer Garden & Restaurant. The event runs from 1 to 3 p.m., and tickets are $50.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Brooke Viggiano

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  • Celebrating 10 Years of Khruangbin at Heights Theater

    Abbie Kamin, the council member for District C, smiled as the cheers began to fade. Flanking her left and right were Laura Lee and Mark Speer, their guitars humming beneath the lights, while behind them Donald Johnson Jr. kept time to the steady pulse of August 10.

    “Through their dedication to artistry, authenticity, and community, they continue to inspire musicians and fans worldwide while enhancing our city’s reputation as a global center for creativity and cultural exchange,” said the councilwoman, raising her voice above the murmurs of the packed crowd inside the Heights Theater. As her tone lifted, the band swelled with her, their rhythm pulsing in sync with her words.

    Kamin’s speech built toward the moment everyone had been waiting for. Introducing herself and John Whitmire, she was met with a quick wave of boos at the mention of the Mayor before the crowd returned its focus. Then came the words that flipped the room from protest to pure celebration.

    “We hereby proclaim November 6, 2025, as Khruangbin Day!”

    The band played for a sold-out crowd at the heights theater Credit: Jennifer Lake

    The cheers erupted as Houston’s own Khruangbin, the band that has carried the city’s sound across the world, did what they’ve always done best: play.

    It’s been ten years since Khruangbin released The Universe Smiles Upon You, the debut album that introduced their airy mix of soul, funk, and global influences to the world. What began as quiet jam sessions inside a barn in Burton, Texas has evolved into one of the most distinct sounds in modern music.

    The trio, made up of bassist Laura Lee, guitarist Mark Speer, and drummer Donald “DJ” Johnson Jr., built their identity on texture and restraint. There are no flashy solos or sudden climaxes, only rhythm, space, and the kind of patience that lets a groove tell its own story. Their early work pulled from Thai funk and surf rock, but over time their palette expanded. Con Todo El Mundo brought in Middle Eastern melodies, Mordechai added vocals and color, and their most recent album A La Sala feels like a homecoming, blending everything they have learned into something simple and sincere.

    No matter how far their tours have taken them, whether to Glastonbury, Red Rocks, or Japan, Houston remains stitched into the fabric of what they do. The way the bass and drums lock in feels like a slow Southern heartbeat, and the way Speer’s guitar floats on top feels like humid air over the Gulf. Their music moves like this city does, easy but full of purpose.

    It was no different Thursday night as the Heights Theater welcomed the band to celebrate the ten-year anniversary of their debut album. Performing singles like Two Fish and an Elephant, White Gloves, and People Everywhere (Still Alive) gave longtime fans a reminder of what first drew them in. But the trio also made sure to reach across their catalog, playing songs such as Maria También, August 12, and Balls and Pins that highlight how much their sound has evolved while keeping its signature warmth.

    Credit: Jennifer Lake

    “The butterflies are still jumping,” laughed Mark Speer as he looked out at the crowd. “It’s a very electric feeling in here tonight. I want to thank y’all for sticking with us the past ten years and helping us ring in this special occasion.”

    The celebration of ten years of Khruangbin felt less like a concert and more like a homecoming. Every song carried a sense of ease, the kind that comes from a band fully comfortable in its own skin. The audience responded in kind, swaying, nodding, and cheering through each groove as if the music were something shared rather than performed.

    Between songs, Lee flashed quiet smiles toward the front rows while Johnson held the rhythm steady, his subtle drum patterns gluing everything together. Speer’s guitar tone, warm and deliberate, filled the room like conversation. It was the sound of three people who trust each other completely, still finding joy in the simplicity of playing together.

    For Houston, Khruangbin Day is more than a symbolic honor. It’s a reminder that the city’s creativity doesn’t always come wrapped in bright lights or loud noise. Sometimes it sounds like a quiet groove played with intention. Over the past decade, Khruangbin has carried Houston’s rhythm across the world, showing that its pulse can move through any genre or border. Ten years later, that rhythm still feels like home.

    Setlist

    Two Fish and an Elephant

    August 12

    Evan Finds the Third Room

    August 10

    Balls and Pins

    Más y Más (“Josito y Maria” jam)

    Morricone Interlude (The Good, The Bad and The Ugly theme)

    People Everywhere (Still Alive)

    White Gloves

    Dern Kala

    Mr. White

    Maria También

    A Tribute to Yellow Magic Orchestra (Firecracker / Rydeen medley)

    People Everywhere (Still Alive) – Reprise

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    DeVaughn Douglas

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  • Sydney Sweeney Steps Into the Ring

    Christy Martin is a name etched in boxing history — a pioneer whose fists broke barriers long before women’s combat sports became mainstream. For those of us who have followed the sweet science, her name was impossible to miss. Even if you didn’t watch her fights, you knew of her. Christy Martin wasn’t just a boxer; she was a force of nature. Before there was a Ronda Rousey, there was Christy Martin — the “Coal Miner’s Daughter” who brought women’s boxing out of the shadows and into the spotlight.

    Now, her story hits the big screen with Christy, starring Sydney Sweeney as the trailblazing fighter and Ben Foster as her trainer and husband, Jim Martin. Directed with grit and compassion, the film doesn’t just chronicle a career — it charts survival. Sweeney, who’s had a stellar run over the last few years (including a standout turn in Ron Howard’s Eden earlier this year), transforms completely in Christy. Her portrayal of Martin is visceral, capturing not only the fighter’s physical tenacity but her unimaginable resilience outside the ring.

    When I spoke with Christy Salters (now going by her maiden name) herself, she reflected on the experience of seeing her life retold through cinema. “God has blessed me,” she said. “I made a deal with God from my hospital bed — if you’ll let me live through this attack, I’ll help at least one person before I die. And then, being the boxer that I am, the arrogant me kicked in and said, no, I want to help one person every day. And that’s what this movie’s going to do.”

    That spirit of survival is exactly what drives the film. Christy’s story isn’t just about the punches she threw — it’s about the ones she took and came back from. She was a closeted gay woman in a hyper-masculine sport, trapped in an abusive marriage with her trainer, who eventually attempted to murder her. It’s a story that could easily veer into melodrama, but here it’s handled with honesty and empathy, anchored by Sweeney’s astonishing performance.

    “Christy has inspired me since day one,” Sweeney told me. “I’ve taken a little bit of Christy’s strength with me — I’m Christy Strong now. I’ve learned to stand up for myself more, and I want to have her by my side forever. She’s incredible.” That connection between the two women bleeds through every frame. Salters joked that she now feels like Sweeney’s protective coach, texting her advice and “fighting a few fights” on her behalf. “You just don’t know,” Salters laughed. “I send her text messages like, ‘No, no, no, this doesn’t work.’”

    Inside the ring, Sweeney doesn’t act like a fighter — she is one. The physicality is authentic and full contact. “We actually fought,” Sweeney said. “All of those scenes you see in the movie — we’re connecting. There were bloody noses, I got a concussion, I was icing my face every day. We went full force at each other.”

    Ben Foster, meanwhile, gives a chilling, understated performance as Jim Martin, whose control and quiet cruelty permeate the story. “You just try to be in service of the complications of a twenty-year relationship,” Foster told me. “Christy’s a comet — and you have to go through the fire to be a comet. Those silences, that tension, those are the kinds of relationships that happen every day all over the world.” His presence is terrifying not because he explodes, but because he simmers.

    Sweeney’s devotion to authenticity extends far beyond mimicry. She told me Salters was on set often, guiding the process and lending truth to every scene. “I loved having her around,” Sweeney said. “I didn’t want to Hollywood-ize her life in any way. We wanted it to be as truthful and grounded as possible.” That choice pays off — nothing here feels exaggerated. Every bruise, every scar, every hesitation feels earned.

    Sweeney’s star power has been undeniable for years, but here, she strips away every trace of glamour. She channels the boxer’s grit, her pain, and her faith in survival with unflinching honesty. “Christy said that she hopes this movie saves lives,” Sweeney told me. “And I really think that it will. I hope it opens the door for others who might be in similar situations to see they have the strength to get out.”

    Christy follows the familiar rhythm of the biopic — the rise, the fall, and the redemption — but in this case, that’s exactly what makes it work. The structure doesn’t feel like formula; it feels like faith. You want to see the story unfold as it really happened: the ascent from obscurity to national stardom, the spiral into darkness, and the painful, hard-won climb toward peace. The beats may be recognizable, but the emotion is not manufactured. Every victory feels earned because every loss feels real.

    What separates Christy from so many sports dramas is its refusal to treat pain as spectacle. The film doesn’t glamorize violence or linger on trauma; it reframes them as catalysts for empathy. Every bruise, every scar, every silent stare becomes part of a larger portrait — not of a victim, but of a survivor. You don’t leave the theater feeling broken by what you’ve seen; you leave reminded of how strong the human spirit can be when it has no choice but to fight.

    At its core, this is a film about endurance, identity, and the will to live. It’s about reclaiming your own story before someone else writes it for you. Sweeney gives the performance of her career, shedding every trace of celebrity and embodying a woman who refused to stay down. Her transformation is total — physical, emotional, and spiritual. And beside her, the real Christy (Martin) Salters stands as living proof of what it means to survive the unimaginable and still find purpose. Together, they have turned tragedy into triumph.

    This film isn’t just a contender — it’s a champion. It lands punches not through force, but through truth. Expect Christy to become a centerpiece of awards-season conversation and a fixture on end-of-year best-of lists. Both Sweeney and Salters should be profoundly proud — individually and collectively — for bringing to the screen a story that reminds us that survival itself is the greatest victory of all.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Brad Gilmore

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  • Democrat-backed candidates flip 3 Texas school board seats

    Progressive-backed candidates flipped three school board seats in a district near Houston, Texas, as Democrats flipped seats across the country Tuesday night.

    Mike Doyle, chair of the Harris County Democrats, told Newsweek in a phone interview that the wins in a red-leaning, suburban area are a testament to “a lot of hard work” by candidates and their supporters.

    Newsweek reached out to the Harris County GOP for comment via email.

    Why It Matters

    Tuesday’s elections were a key bellwether for the electorate’s mood ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, when Democrats are hoping to stage a comeback following losses in the 2024 elections. The results fueled Democratic optimism after a year of uncertainty about the party’s future, with Democrats outperforming expectations in key races.

    Those victories extended to suburban Texas. The Lone Star State has been viewed as a reliably conservative state. Democrats did make some gains in the first Trump administration, but it shifted back toward Republicans last November. Still, Democrats are hoping to make the state’s Senate race competitive next November.

    Public education has remained a divisive issue in Texas as some state legislators have supported bills that would infuse religion into schools, including by requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in classrooms across the state.

    What to Know

    Three candidates who have identified as being more progressive flipped seats on the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD school board, reported local news outlet Houston Press. Lesley Guilmart, Cleveland Lane Jr. and Kendra Camarena all defeated Republican-aligned candidates in the race, the news outlet reported.

    That is the third-largest school district in the state

    Technically, the board is nonpartisan, but Guilmart, Lane and Camarena have all voted in Democratic primaries, while their opponents were viewed as more conservative. They have said they would keep their personal politics off of the school board due to its nonpartisan nature, the news outlet reported.

    Conservatives previously held a 6-1 majority on the school board, but will now be in a 4-3 minority, reported Houston Public Media. They have implemented policies including book-banning practices and adding a Bible-focus elective course for students, according to the report.

    The races became competitive as voters saw “Republican ideologues fully revealed themselves,” Doyle told Newsweek. The race, despite the nonpartisan nature of the board, had become partisan, he said.

    “They were focused on banning books and running off good teachers and cutting school budgets, and pretty much ripping into the fabric of the school system out there,” he said.

    Their defeat comes amid a broader debate about religion in schools, of which Texas has found itself the center after lawmakers passed a bill that required schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms. In August, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, issued a statement directing schools to abide by the order.

    “The woke radicals seeking to erase our nation’s history will be defeated. I will not back down from defending the virtues and values that built this country,” he said in a statement at the time.

    What People Are Saying

    School Board Trustee-elect Lesley Guilmart wrote in a Facebook post: “’Im so proud of us, and I am deeply grateful. We came together across lines of difference, from across the political spectrum to do right by our children. Every student and staff member deserves to thrive in our district, and Cleveland4CFISD, Kendra 4 CFISD, and I will fight for just that.”

    Zeph Capo, president of Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT) wrote in a statement: “While there’s more work to do to make this board representative of the community and responsive to its needs, this victory turns the page on a dark chapter in this district’s history. The trustees defeated last night routinely pushed the school board into a hard right turn to the extremist fringe, and voters said enough.”

    What Happens Next

    Republicans will continue to grapple with losses during Tuesday night’s elections. Democrats performed well across the country, including in high-profile contests like the New Jersey and Virginia gubernatorial races. Victories also extended into states like Georgia and Mississippi.

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  • This Week in Food Events: Oysters, Brews & Blues – Houston Press

    All week long

    Grand Opening of Kolache Shoppe Memorial

    Kolache Shoppe, 10321 Katy Freeway, is now open in Memorial, and it’s celebrating with a full week of pastry-packed festivities. Each day brings something new — free kolaches, coffee, gift cards and bonus loyalty points. Highlights include a Houston Food Bank benefit day on Wednesday, buy-one-get-one pastries on Thursday and complimentary coffee drinks on Friday (with a chance to win free weekly coffee for a year). 

    Wild Game Specials at Ouisie’s Table

    Ouisie’s Table, 3939 San Felipe, is serving up a weekly series of imaginative game dinners now through November 26. This week features seared five spice duck breast with orange glaze, roasted spaghetti squash and almandine green beans.

    Tuesday–Friday

    $10 Daily Meal Specials + Kids Eat Free at Comfort Foodies

    As families and workers feel the impact of the ongoing government shutdown and rising economic challenges, Comfort Foodies, 8128 North Sam Houston Parkway West, is offering $10 daily meal specials featuring hearty southern soul and Latin-Caribbean dishes — think smothered pork chops, Dominican brown stew chicken, fried wings, and fried catfish baskets, all served with a choice of sides. Kids eat free all day with the purchase of an adult meal (child must be present). The restaurant is also offering a pay-it-forward option for meals at half price to support those in need. Specials are available for dine-in customers Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

    Thursday, November 6

    Oysters, Blues & Brews at Goode Co. Armadillo Palace

    Goode Co. Armadillo Palace, 5015 Kirby Dr, hosts its annual Oysters, Blues & Brews, celebrating Gulf Coast flavors and live Texas blues while benefiting the Coastal Conservation Association’s Building Conservation Trust. Guests can dig into mesquite-fired coastal dishes like smoked boudin links, Gulf redfish, and Christmas Bay gumbo, plus Gulf shrimp taquitos, Yellowfin tuna tostadas, and a seafood bar stacked with Campechana, boiled shrimp, and freshly shucked mariculture oysters. The Mighty Orq keeps the night rocking from 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets start at $100, ages 21 and up.

    Saturday–Sunday

    Texas Renaissance Festival

    Texas’ largest Renaissance-themed festival continues with the Pirate’s Adventure weekend. Step into a world of fantasy, food and revelry, with turkey legs, mead and themed entertainment ranging from costume contests to live performances. Tickets start at $25 for adults and $10 for kids ages 5–12; children 4 and under get in free.

    Saturday, November 8

    Piano Brunch at Brennan’s

    Brennan’s, 3300 Smith, kicks off its brunch series featuring live piano tunes and half-priced rosé from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

    Bites & Beyond Festival at Discovery Green

    Discovery Green, 1500 McKinney, hosts the Bites & Beyond Festival from 1 to 10 p.m., with local chefs, food trucks, drinks, live music across four stages, art installations, and cultural activations. Tickets start at $30.48, with VIP and Party on Stage passes available.

    Five-Year Anniversary Bash at Pier 6

    San Leon favorite Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, 113 6th, is marking five years with a blowout bash. Executive chef Joe Cervantez will serve an exclusive anniversary menu paired with caviar and Champagne tastings, plus a few surprises to toast the milestone. 

    Brighter Futures BBQ Fundraiser at The Pit Room Memorial City

    Communities In Schools of Houston teams up with The Pit Room for the Brighter Futures BBQ Fundraiser from 6 to 10 p.m. at The Pit Room Memorial City, 10301 Katy Freeway. Guests can enjoy top-notch barbecue, drinks, live music, and a silent auction supporting CIS programs for local students. The Montrose location will also donate all food and drink sales that day to CIS. Tickets start at $300 per person, with table options available.

    Sunday, November 9

    Beer & Cheese Pairing at Saint Arnold

    Saint Arnold Brewing Co., 2000 Lyons Ave, teams up with Houston Dairymaids for a Beer & Cheese Pairing, offering a curated tasting of five artisanal cheeses matched with five of Saint Arnold’s signature brews. Guests can also enjoy soft pretzels with mustard and receive a token for an extra beer at the Beer Garden & Restaurant. The event runs from 1 to 3 p.m., and tickets are $50.

    New and ongoing specials

    Fall + Winter Menu at North Italia

    North Italia’s new Fall + Winter Menu just dropped, featuring highlights from Sunday Night Lasagna with Italian sausage and braised short rib, Prime New York Steak Tagliata, Salted Caramel Budino and a Morning Market Board (CityCentre and The Woodlands only) for brunch, with caramelized onion frittata, shaved asparagus salad, burrata, heirloom tomato and hearth bread.

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

    Brooke Viggiano

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