ReportWire

Tag: restaurant

  • Arlington-area ‘Christmas wonderland’ restaurant coming to an end

    [ad_1]

    DALWORTHINGTON GARDENS

    This is the farewell Christmas season for Campo Verde Mexican Bar & Grill, and it’s time.

    A series of ill-advised changes drained much of the holiday spirit from a restaurant that has been an Arlington and North Texas tradition since 1983. So it’s time to say goodbye before it changes to a different restaurant Dec. 24.

    The sprawling restaurant at 2918 W. Pioneer Parkway is still covered in Christmas lights and elaborate decorations across seven rooms. It remains an attraction, an entire restaurant devoted to drawing up to 300,000 customers for its holiday decorations.

    The rooms and halls are lined with LED lights, gift wrap and holiday displays, although some of the old-fashioned lights were updated in recent years. The toy train click-clacks around the ceiling, if only occasionally.

    It’s still an impressive sight, although the new white interior paint covered over some of the 1980s warmth. Campo Verde now looks as much Chip-and-Joanna than candy-canes-and-Santa Claus.

    The dining room at Campo Verde Mexican Bar & Grill is still heavily decorated for Christmas, as seen Nov. 20, 2025.
    The dining room at Campo Verde Mexican Bar & Grill is still heavily decorated for Christmas, as seen Nov. 20, 2025. Bud Kennedy bud@star-telegram.com

    Much has been written about the changes, often in scathing online reviews. Longtime customers sometimes ignore that the restaurant was already in sharp decline the last three years since it was sold by the late founder, James “Smiley” Williams.

    When it comes to the food, the same advice applies as in the last couple of years:

    Keep it simple.

    The cheeseburger and the grilled chicken sandwich are chargrilled and just as reliable as ever. With fries, they’re less than $20 each and suitable choices for lunch or dinner.

    There’s a basic cheeseburger with fries on the kids’ menu for $12, along with a queso dog or a cheese quesadilla.

    Chicken tortilla soup ($8) was dark and rich, spiced with hearty chiles. It’s actually one of the better restaurant versions.

    The menu also offers flashy desserts such as a RumChata liqueur cheesecake or Biscoff tres leches.

    If you detour into the Tex-Mex, you’re on your own.

    A chicken enchilada dinner at Campo Verde Mexican Bar & Grill with chicken tortilla soup, right, as seen Nov. 20, 2025.
    A chicken enchilada dinner at Campo Verde Mexican Bar & Grill with chicken tortilla soup, right, as seen Nov. 20, 2025. Bud Kennedy bud@star-telegram.com

    Tacos seem like a safe choice. Chicken enchiladas, on the other hand, came with a good stewed chicken, but the green sauce had an unexpected flavor. as if it were more cilantro than tomatillo or poblano.

    This is not new.

    It’s been three years since we were able to enjoy the original Campo Verde menu of basic Tex-Mex dishes and game specialties. That’s what Williams created when he opened Campo Verde restaurants after managing Fort Worth-based Dos Gringos, a forerunner of Mercado Juarez Cafe.

    Campo Verde is still a good Christmas adventure for kids.

    It’s just not as good as it used to be. So, next year it’ll be something else.

    Campo Verde is open for lunch and dinner daily except Mondays through Dec. 24; thecampoverde.com.

    Bud Kennedy’s Eats Beat

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Bud Kennedy is celebrating his 40th year writing about restaurants in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He has written the “Eats Beat” dining column in print since 1985 and online since 1992 — that’s more than 3,000 columns about Texas cafes, barbecue, burgers and where to eat.
    Support my work with a digital subscription

    [ad_2]

    Bud Kennedy

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Greek – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Overview:

    We choose this year’s winner of the Best Greek.

    Best Greek: Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen

    The Pappas family brings its big, bold Greek flavor back to Houston with this lively new spot inspired by the family’s beloved matriarch, Yiayia Mary. Come for meze-style plates like dolmades stuffed with beef, lamb and pistachios, sizzling saganaki with pear and date preserves, wood-grilled ribeye souvlaki with pickled fennel and tzatziki, harissa-kissed grilled octopus and house-baked Kalamata olive bread that’s pure heaven; and toast to good times ouzo and cocktails like the Frozen Athenian Spritz or Yiayia’s Tonic.

    2410 Richmond 

    2810297-8061

    yiayiasgreekkitchen.com

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • This hidden Mediterranean restaurant brings European style to Sunny Isles Beach

    [ad_1]

    The new dining room at Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach.

    The new dining room at Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach.

    Rose Cafe & Restaurant

    Owner and philanthropist Alexandra Milton knows that the Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach is more than a little off the beaten path. The Mediterranean and Italian-inspired spot is tucked away in Milton Tower, an office building on Collins Avenue just south of 826, and you might never know it was there unless someone told you.

    But Milton also believes that her restaurant, which just underwent a big transformation, is worthy of attention.

    “Letting people know we’re here has been a challenge,” she admits. “It requires a lot of effort. I know that I have a very good product, a very nice place, and we’re thrilled to give people very nice hospitality. But the situation puts you in a position where you have just to be patient and work very hard with your team.”

    A collaboration between Milton and her business partner Sebastian Garaviz, the restaurant began as Rose Cafe, an unpretentious breakfast and lunch spot that focused on nutritious offerings and a small grab-and-go bakery with croissants, homemade pastries and gelato.

    Alexandra Milton of Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach.
    Alexandra Milton of Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach. Rose Cafe & Restaurant

    Milton, who’s married to real estate developer Joseph Milton, wanted to recreate a version of the European cafes she visited on travels with her husband.

    “I saw a lot of cafes, beautiful cafes, very romantic with flowers, beautiful desserts and healthy food,” she says. “And I said, ‘You know what, I want to have a place like that.‘ ”

    But eventually, Milton had a grander vision for the space. At the end of October, Rose Cafe blossomed into Rose Cafe & Restaurant with more space, dinner service and a full bar serving terrific craft cocktails, aiming to create a full-service dining destination. Designed by Heather Ashton, the cafe that once seated 40 now seats 110 with an outdoor terrace and new dining room.

    The menu, which steers clear of refined oils and processed sugar, includes antipasti and salads as well as Mediterranean dips and dishes like slow-steamed octopus on hummus with fried polenta. Pastas include Paccheri pasta with tomato sauce, basil and burrata and tagliatelle Bolognese. One of the most popular dinner items is gnocchetti (small gnocchi) with clams, mussels, shrimp, octopus and cherry tomatoes.

    One of the banquettes at the newly renovated Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach.
    One of the banquettes at the newly renovated Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach. Rose Cafe & Restaurant

    Diners can also order Dover sole for two, grilled langostinos or braised lamb shank with polenta.

    The most curious item on the menu is a tasty chicken curry, which at first glance seems an anomaly on the Mediterranean menu. But Milton explains that the dish, which she created, is one of the most popular items from the restaurant’s days as a lunch spot. It contains no dairy products and instead uses coconut milk for its creamy consistency.

    “People always ask, ‘You have chicken curry?’ ” she says. “That’s a normal question. But the reality is when we opened, we were creating our own recipes without a chef. So that was on the menu, and you cannot take it away from our best customers. People really love it.”

    She can’t get rid of the guacamole, either, another lunchtime favorite: “I call it Mediterranean guacamole now,” she jokes.

    The interior of Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach.
    The interior of Rose Cafe & Restaurant in Sunny Isles Beach. Rose Cafe & Restaurant

    Milton has found ways to incorporate her philanthropy into the restaurant as well. Her involvement with the Agape Foundation, a rehabilitation program for women survivors of abuse and substance dependency led her to the Seeds of Faith initiative, which teaches women to cultivate gardens. Some of the products find their way to Rose Cafe & Restaurant’s kitchen: parsley, oregano, cilantro and other herbs among them. She’s also inviting a group of women from the foundation to the restaurant for dinner this week.

    Philanthropy, she believes, has helped her be a better person — and a better restaurateur.

    “People say that when you love your job, you don’t feel that you’re working. And I feel the same,” she says. “Having a restaurant, it comes with a lot of challenges. So we try to do our best every day. I think that being a philanthropist has helped me to embrace every situation. I’ve been learning to be grateful. I’ve been learning to be patient, and those things you can see in my restaurant.

    “I embrace my customers in the same way that I embrace people in the foundations. And it’s nice because I also can share everything that I do here with the people that I am helping. You take the tools that you have in your bag, and you use them for the benefit of other people.”

    Rose Cafe & Restaurant

    Where: Milton Tower, first floor, 16690 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach

    Parking: Free valet available

    Hours: Breakfast 7:30-11:30 a.m.; lunch 11:30-5 p.m.; dinner 5-10 p.m. daily.

    Reservations: Resy

    More information: @rosecafeandrestaurant or 786-653-3891

    Connie Ogle loves wine, books and the Miami Heat. Please don’t make her eat a mango.

    [ad_2]

    Connie Ogle

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Brunch – Montrose – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Overview:

    We choose this year’s winner of the Best Montrose Brunch.

    Best Brunch – Montrose: Októ

    Another hit from Sof Hospitality (the team behind Doris Metropolitan and Hamsa), Októ has brought its playful, modern Mediterranean flair to the brunch scene earlier this spring. The menu moves from Lox & Latkes with Osetra caviar and Green Shakshuka with spinach and feta, to Octopus Carpaccio and Frena French Toast with blueberry clove compote. Cocktails and luxe snacks like mini caviar-tinis keep the energy high, even when it’s not patio weather.

    888 Westheimer

    713-485-0841

    oktorestaurant.com

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Fancy Burger – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Best Fancy Burger: Chardon

    Melty raclette. Velvety onion fondue. Crispy watercress. And earthy black truffle. That’s what you’re in for when you order the signature Black Truffle Wagyu Steak Burger at The Thompson Hotel’s sophisticated French spot. With a sidecar of golden duck fat fries and a bright, simple salad, it’s best washed down with a bold red or opulent olive brine martini (whether or not you add the caviar bump is up to you).

    1711 Allen Parkway 

    346-560-4180

    chardonhouston.com

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Teahouse – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Best Teahouse: Emma Jane

    Set in a charming house with neutral tones, floral accents, and a lush 6,000-square-foot back patio, his new Harlow District offers a relaxed and elegant English-style tea experience with brunch, afternoon tea, bubbly and cocktails. Guests can sip a curated selection of teas — from smoky blacks to floral honeysuckle fig — while enjoying chef-driven tea towers with globally inspired tea sandwiches, sweet and savory scones with housemade clotted cream, and pastries like curd- and crèmeux-stuffed cones. Brunch highlights include French omelets with caviar, short stacks with Earl Grey maple syrup, and classic niçoise salad.

    1226 West Clay 

    346-571-6961

    emmajanehtx.com

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • How tariffs could impact your holiday wine

    [ad_1]

    President Trump is rolling back tariffs on *** wide range of agricultural products, many of which are not widely made in the United States. Here’s what he told reporters last night. The president’s executive order released on Friday lifts so-called reciprocal tariffs on dozens of imported goods, including coffee, tea, spices, tropical fruits like bananas and beef. Labor Department data shows some of those products have seen big price increases in the last year. Take coffee up nearly 19% since last September, President. Trump says his new order will help bring prices down, but continued to insist that the cost of tariffs has been largely borne by other countries. Some Democrats though had *** different take, with one congressman writing quote, President Trump is finally admitting what we always knew. His tariffs are raising prices for the American people. The debate follows recent Democratic wins in elections largely. Focused on the issue of affordability and as both parties look ahead to high stakes midterms next year, President Trump said Friday he does not think it’ll be necessary to reverse other tariffs moving forward. His administration most recently has been touting trade frameworks with 4 Latin American countries and Switzerland as evidence in their view that these tariffs are working. Reporting in Washington, I’m Jackie DeFusco.

    Choosing the right wine to pair with your Thanksgiving meal can be as stressful as cooking the turkey. And this year, it’s going to be worse.Video above: Trump rolls back tariffs on dozens of productsShoppers can expect higher prices and possibly slimmer selections at their local wine shops, as importers are facing steep tariffs and shopkeepers are dealing with declining demand.Bottled wine prices have risen nearly 20% over the past 25 years and 8% over the past decade, according to the latest government data. Several reasons are to blame, including climate change, inflation, and rising production costs.Wine prices at McCabes Wine & Spirits shop in Manhattan are between 5% to 12% higher this year because “it’s the reality of the tariffs, shipping, manufacturing, and labor,” said owner Daniel Mesznik.His shop, like others in the United States, are working to strike a delicate balance. They’re dealing with higher upfront costs due to a hodgepodge of tariffs from President Donald Trump’s administration — notably, a 15% tariff on European Union imports — while trying not to pass too many of those costs to their customers”We’re doing our best to keep those increases to a minimum for our guests,” he told CNN. “But, I think folks understand that this is the current reality and they’re receptive to it and they’re understanding of it.”Tariffs are affecting the bottom line even more for importers of wine. Elenteny Imports, a logistics and distribution company that works with 9,000 retailers and restaurants, said wine sales are down 13% year over year.Wine woesWine volume consumed in the United States declined 3% between 2019 and 2024, and it’s expected to fall another 4% from 2024 to 2029, according to IWSR, an alcohol data insights firm.”For casual drinking occasions, wine has often been the choice for drinkers who prefer not to drink beer. But wine can be expensive and only comes in larger bottles,” said Marten Lodewijks, president of IWSR.For the past few years, drinkers have been shifting their preferences to spirits and canned cocktails.”We’ve seen wine volumes consistently decline year after year, while ready-to-drink beverages, which are less expensive, come in convenient sizes and packs, and benefit from continual flavor innovations, are growing rapidly,” he told CNN.2025 is another gloomy year, according to data from Elenteny. Order volumes for imported wines show that year-to-date bookings are down nearly 30%.Demand has sunk following a “post-pandemic frothiness,” Elenteny CEO Alexi Cashen told CNN, but said “absolutely that tariffs are the persecutory issue here.”Domestic wines, which Trump thought the tariffs would help, aren’t selling any better this year, she added.Mesznik’s shop, which recently reopened following a 16-month renovation, has shifted some of its focus from wine to tequila. He added 40% more brands and types and moved them to the front of the shop.Notably, tequila and mezcal are exempt from tariffs since both fall under the 2018 free trade agreement Trump signed with Mexico during his first term.”Tequila are in the most beautiful bottles. It’s the category in my business that everyone gravitates to right now and I want that to be front and center,” Mesznik said.Wine used to be roughly 70% of his annual sales but will drop to 65% this year because of growth in other categories, like agave, he said.Smaller selections?With drastically smaller orders coming in from overseas, including a 50% drop from France and 66% decline from Italy, per Elenteny’s data, shoppers might see that reflected on store shelves.”Many retailers, distributors, and restaurants have streamlined their wine offerings in response to the falling overall demand for alcoholic beverages, including wine,” Mike Veseth, the Wine Economist, told CNN. “Consumers might have to search more than usual to find a particular brand.”Adding to the uncertainty, Veseth said, is the upcoming Supreme Court decision about the legality of tariffs, “which discourages wine business from making investment or taking decisive action on prices.”In particular, Cashen said mid-priced wines between $40 to $50 wines “struggle the most,” while low-end bottles and premium wines are selling well, further underscoring the “K-shaped” economy.Meanwhile, Mesznik said his shop is ordering “smarter” compared to years’ past, buying from fewer wholesalers that offer deals when buying more cases.”For example, we have a Pinot Noir from Argentina this month that’s on sale. Whereas I may only buy normally 1 or 3 cases of that, I’m ordering 5 and 10 cases,” he said.

    Choosing the right wine to pair with your Thanksgiving meal can be as stressful as cooking the turkey. And this year, it’s going to be worse.

    Video above: Trump rolls back tariffs on dozens of products

    Shoppers can expect higher prices and possibly slimmer selections at their local wine shops, as importers are facing steep tariffs and shopkeepers are dealing with declining demand.

    Bottled wine prices have risen nearly 20% over the past 25 years and 8% over the past decade, according to the latest government data. Several reasons are to blame, including climate change, inflation, and rising production costs.

    Wine prices at McCabes Wine & Spirits shop in Manhattan are between 5% to 12% higher this year because “it’s the reality of the tariffs, shipping, manufacturing, and labor,” said owner Daniel Mesznik.

    His shop, like others in the United States, are working to strike a delicate balance. They’re dealing with higher upfront costs due to a hodgepodge of tariffs from President Donald Trump’s administration — notably, a 15% tariff on European Union imports — while trying not to pass too many of those costs to their customers

    “We’re doing our best to keep those increases to a minimum for our guests,” he told CNN. “But, I think folks understand that this is the current reality and they’re receptive to it and they’re understanding of it.”

    Tariffs are affecting the bottom line even more for importers of wine. Elenteny Imports, a logistics and distribution company that works with 9,000 retailers and restaurants, said wine sales are down 13% year over year.

    Wine woes

    Wine volume consumed in the United States declined 3% between 2019 and 2024, and it’s expected to fall another 4% from 2024 to 2029, according to IWSR, an alcohol data insights firm.

    “For casual drinking occasions, wine has often been the choice for drinkers who prefer not to drink beer. But wine can be expensive and only comes in larger bottles,” said Marten Lodewijks, president of IWSR.

    For the past few years, drinkers have been shifting their preferences to spirits and canned cocktails.

    “We’ve seen wine volumes consistently decline year after year, while ready-to-drink beverages, which are less expensive, come in convenient sizes and packs, and benefit from continual flavor innovations, are growing rapidly,” he told CNN.

    2025 is another gloomy year, according to data from Elenteny. Order volumes for imported wines show that year-to-date bookings are down nearly 30%.

    Demand has sunk following a “post-pandemic frothiness,” Elenteny CEO Alexi Cashen told CNN, but said “absolutely that tariffs are the persecutory issue here.”

    Domestic wines, which Trump thought the tariffs would help, aren’t selling any better this year, she added.

    Mesznik’s shop, which recently reopened following a 16-month renovation, has shifted some of its focus from wine to tequila. He added 40% more brands and types and moved them to the front of the shop.

    Notably, tequila and mezcal are exempt from tariffs since both fall under the 2018 free trade agreement Trump signed with Mexico during his first term.

    “Tequila are in the most beautiful bottles. It’s the category in my business that everyone gravitates to right now and I want that to be front and center,” Mesznik said.

    Wine used to be roughly 70% of his annual sales but will drop to 65% this year because of growth in other categories, like agave, he said.

    Smaller selections?

    With drastically smaller orders coming in from overseas, including a 50% drop from France and 66% decline from Italy, per Elenteny’s data, shoppers might see that reflected on store shelves.

    “Many retailers, distributors, and restaurants have streamlined their wine offerings in response to the falling overall demand for alcoholic beverages, including wine,” Mike Veseth, the Wine Economist, told CNN. “Consumers might have to search more than usual to find a particular brand.”

    Adding to the uncertainty, Veseth said, is the upcoming Supreme Court decision about the legality of tariffs, “which discourages wine business from making investment or taking decisive action on prices.”

    In particular, Cashen said mid-priced wines between $40 to $50 wines “struggle the most,” while low-end bottles and premium wines are selling well, further underscoring the “K-shaped” economy.

    Meanwhile, Mesznik said his shop is ordering “smarter” compared to years’ past, buying from fewer wholesalers that offer deals when buying more cases.

    “For example, we have a Pinot Noir from Argentina this month that’s on sale. Whereas I may only buy normally 1 or 3 cases of that, I’m ordering 5 and 10 cases,” he said.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Vibe Dining – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Best Vibe Dining: Toca Madera

    Now in its second year at The Pavilion at The Allen, Houston’s hottest dining destination serves up fiery Mexican flavors with fire dancers, roaming guitarists and a vibe that’s equal parts luxe and sexy. Think dark and moody interiors with natural accents, an inviting lush patio, two bars, a new private speakeasy, and tableside flaming Tomahawks. Go for truffle quesadilla, crispy wonton tacos stuffed with tun and A5 Wagyu, Mayan prawns dripping in chipotle butter, aromatic cocktails hit with hibiscus, agave, serrano and smoke, and a full-sensory experience you’ll be thinking about long after you leave.

    1120 Dennis 

    281-888-5926 

    tagohtx.com

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

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

    [ad_1]

    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.

    [ad_2]

    Brooke Viggiano

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Hotel Dining – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Best Hotel Dining: Perseid

    You don’t need a room key to see why Perseid, anchoring Bunkhouse Hotels’ gorgeous new Hotel Saint Augustine in Montrose, is something special. Chef Aaron Bludorn and crew have turned the hotel eatery into a full-on culinary escape, offering Gulf Coast–inspired bistro fare that walks the line between approachable and adventurous. Pop by for caviar service and foie gras with biscuits and jam, squash blossoms with shrimp jambalaya and Creole aioli, and a house burger gone fancy with pickled veg and duck liver mousse. And don’t miss the perfect Bloody Mary, shrimp and grits, and citrus butter pancakes at brunch.

    4110 Loretto 

    832-915-2600

    bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-saint-augustine/eat-drink/perseid

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • One of Fort Worth’s oldest Tex-Mex restaurants is empty, for sale

    [ad_1]

    FORT WORTH

    Mexican Inn Cafe No. 2, built in 1949 in the gambling-and-honky-tonk heyday of the Jacksboro Highway but closed for five years, is for sale.

    The location, 612 N. Henderson St. next to the “Wind Roundabout” sculpture, is the oldest remaining building for a company started in 1936 by gambler Tiffin Hall.

    The No. 2 location is now at a major gateway to retail development on Westside Drive. It was completely remodeled in 2021, but never reopened after road construction and the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Chris Carroll, owner of nine Mexican Inn locations and also Spring Creek Barbeque, originally remodeled the restaurant to serve growing development on Panther Island and in near west Fort Worth.

    The Mexican Inn No. 2 property on North Henderson Street, built in 1949, as seen as Nov. 15, 2025.
    The Mexican Inn No. 2 property on North Henderson Street, built in 1949, as seen as Nov. 15, 2025. Bud Kennedy bud@star-telegram.com

    But new plans for the $1.7 billion Westside Village development just west have made the property more attractive.

    “Things are hot over there,” Carroll said.

    The first Mexican Inn was opened in 1936 by gambler Tiffin Hall at 115 E. Fifth St. It eventually expanded into the corner space location downtown at 516 Commerce St. and closed after a 1987 fire.

    It is known nationally as the first restaurant on record to serve arroz con pollo Mexicano, a dish with pulled chicken and queso over rice, It also advertised chicken in mole sauce, unusual at a time when Tex-Mex restaurants were featuring enchilada and taco plates.

    The first Mexican Inn Cafe location opened in 1936 at 516 Commerce St. It was followed in 1949 by Mexican Inn No. 2, 612 N. Henderson St. The No. 1 location was destroyed by fire in 1987.
    The first Mexican Inn Cafe location opened in 1936 at 516 Commerce St. It was followed in 1949 by Mexican Inn No. 2, 612 N. Henderson St. The No. 1 location was destroyed by fire in 1987. Jill Johnson Star-Telegram archives

    Locally, it’s known for its Fritos-style chips.

    The Mexican Inn Cafes are the fourth oldest Tex-Mex restaurant company in North Texas, trailing El Fenix (1918), The Original Mexican Eats Cafe (1930, although the restaurant claims 1926) and Joe T. Garcia’s Mexican Dishes (1935).

    The Henderson Street location is decorated with the company’s signature azure blue tile work and trim.

    It’s described in the “Handbook of Texas” as the beginning of “Thunder Road,” a 4-mile stretch of Jacksboro Highway known in the 1950s for gambling halls, seven flashy dance nightclubs, six liquor stores and a legacy of high-roller gaming, late-night carousing and organized crime.

    The Mexican Inn No. 2 location was built in 1949 and upgraded with even more elaborate tile work, as seen Nov. 15, 2025.
    The Mexican Inn No. 2 location was built in 1949 and upgraded with even more elaborate tile work, as seen Nov. 15, 2025. Bud Kennedy bud@star-telegram.com

    Rock, country and blues musicians made the Mexican Inn a regular stop on the way to or from the Stockyards. Country singer Ernest Tubb (”Waltz Across Texas,” “Walking the Floor Over You”) had his tour bus detour to the restaurant every time the band was anyplace near North Texas.

    Coincidentally, the building is not the Mexican Inn company’s oldest. The location at 1625 Eighth Ave. was built in 1948 for a different Tex-Mex restaurant.

    Mexican Inn Cafes’ distinctive chips are like homemade Fritos. The restaurants opened in 1936, not long after Fritos originated in San Antonio in 1932.
    Mexican Inn Cafes’ distinctive chips are like homemade Fritos. The restaurants opened in 1936, not long after Fritos originated in San Antonio in 1932. Bud Kennedy bud@star-telegram.com

    Related Stories from Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Bud Kennedy’s Eats Beat

    Fort Worth Star-Telegram

    Bud Kennedy is celebrating his 40th year writing about restaurants in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He has written the “Eats Beat” dining column in print since 1985 and online since 1992 — that’s more than 3,000 columns about Texas cafes, barbecue, burgers and where to eat.
    Support my work with a digital subscription

    [ad_2]

    Bud Kennedy

    Source link

  • A flooded restaurant in Thailand brings delight with swimming fish among diners

    [ad_1]

    NAKHON PATHOM, Thailand (AP) — A restaurant in central Thailand was bursting with a stream of customers coming for a unique dining experience: Enjoying a meal while sitting in flood waters, surrounded by live fish they bring into the establishment.

    Since an adjacent river breached its banks 11 days ago, the flooded riverside restaurant has become an internet sensation, drawing customers keen to pose in the lapping brown water or toss fish food to photograph the feeding frenzy.

    Families enjoyed lunch at Pa Jit restaurant in Nakhon Pathom province, about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Bangkok, with enthralled toddlers gawping at the river fish flapping around their thighs. Wait staff in waders gingerly carried bowls of fish soup or chicken noodles from table to table.

    Pa Jit has been a riverside fixture for more than 30 years, said owner Pornkamol Prangprempree. When the restaurant was flooded the first time around four years ago, her heart sank.

    “I thought there would be no customer for sure,” she said. “But then there was a customer who posted online showing that there were fish. Then a lot of people flocked here to eat.”

    She said floods have boosted her business, with her profits doubling from around 10,000 baht ($309) to around 20,000 baht ($618) per day.

    Chomphunuth Khantaniti, a 29-year-old who lives in the same province, was there with her husband and son. She said when she heard, she couldn’t resist.

    “I think it’s good, because we can bring the children here. When the children see the fish, they become less fussy,” she said. “I think in Thailand, there’s only this place where you can see fish coming up like this.”

    Bella Windy, 63, came to the restaurant because she wanted to feel the fish nibbling on her feet.

    “Normally, if the water is very high, the fish will come here. The nature experience here is the highlight of this restaurant and it attracts people.”

    Pa Jit can expect another few weeks of inundation, as high tides and the tail-end of the monsoon season keep water levels up.

    Though the flooding has brought an unusual boon to Pa Jit, it has devastated many other areas of Thailand. Since late July, 12 people were killed and two went missing due to flooding, according to data from the Department of Disaster Prevention and mitigation.

    On Friday, it reported that more than 480,000 people in 13 provinces, particularly in the north and the central, were affected by floods.

    [ad_2]

    Source link

  • No retirement plans for ‘Terry,’ a 90-year-old waitress

    [ad_1]

    HAVERHILL — Ninety years young and still calling the shots, shuffling menus, and asking patrons if they need a refill.

    [ad_2]

    By Jonah Frangiosa | Staff Writer

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Restaurant – Memorial – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Overview:

    We choose this year’s winner of the Best Restaurant in Memorial.

    Best Restaurant – Memorial: Bar Bludorn

    With a year under its belt, Bar Bludorn has settled right into Memorial like it was always meant to be there. From chef Aaron Bludorn (yep, that Bludorn), this neighborhood tavern nails the sweet spot between easy-going and luxe. Come for Sunday Brunch or Martini Happy Hour, stay for the crave-worthy dry-aged Tavern Burger and Country Ham Beignets that disappear way too fast. The hits keep coming with Lamb Ragu Pappardelle, Ora King Salmon in green curry and an Ice Cream Sandwich stacked with churro, cajeta and pecans.

    9061 Gaylord

    832-271-8264

    barbludorn.com

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Dessert Service – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Best Dessert Service: Camaraderie

    Camaraderie proves chef Shawn Gawle didn’t leave his sweet tooth at March, where he was executive pastry chef. The buzzy Heights newcomer splits its personality between a tasting-menu dining room and a laid-back lounge and patio, but both end with show-stopping, whimsical desserts that are almost too pretty to eat (we said almost). Think froyo with stone fruit, granola and olive oil, “Milk & Honey” with beeswax gelato and candied almonds, a miso-butterscotch bombe with toasted buckwheat gelato, and a peachy melba pavlova. Come for dinner, stay for dessert — or skip straight to the sweets with a fancy cocktail in hand.

    608 West 11th 

    camaraderiehtx.com

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best West African – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Best West African: ChòpnBlọk

    ChòpnBlọk is Houston at its most flavorful. Founded by Ope Amosu, a Houston-born James Beard semifinalist, the West African pop-up and food hall hit turned into a vibrant Montrose destination last fall. Bites show off bold West African flavors – think Buka Blọk (red stew with tender short rib, rice and beans), Smokey Jollof Jambalaya, Polo Club Suya skewers and the decadent Dodo Old Fashioned cocktail starring sweet plantain and bourbon.

    401 Franklin

    281-631-5009

    chopnblok.co

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • Developer plans to add a hotel and hundreds of residences to L.A. Live

    [ad_1]

    The owners of Crypto.com Arena and L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles have filed plans with the city to potentially add another tower to their multibillion-dollar sports and entertainment complex.

    AEG last week proposed a 49-story high-rise that would hold a hotel, residences, bars and restaurants.

    The tower would rise across Olympic Boulevard from L.A. Live on a corner lot on Georgia Street now used by AEG for parking.

    Many planned residential and other commercial projects in Los Angeles have stalled prior to construction in recent years as developers face economic headwinds, including unfavorable interest rates and rising costs of materials and labor.

    AEG, too, will not be breaking ground on this project in the near future, a company representative said.

    The company’s recent land-use application, which outlined the plans, is just a “first step for a potential development” on the company’s property at 917 W. Olympic Blvd., spokesman Michael Roth said. “AEG remains optimistic about downtown’s long-term prospects and is positioning the site for future development when conditions improve.”

    The application calls for a large-scale development with 364 dwelling units and 334 hotel rooms.

    The 783,427-square-foot building would also include bars and restaurants on levels 1, 5 and 6, along with a restaurant/nightclub on the eighth floor.

    Residents and hotel guests would share an amenity deck with a restaurant, bar, pool, spa, club room, fitness area and a dining terrace. The complex would have 666 parking spaces.

    In September, the City Council approved a $2.6-billion expansion of the Convention Center despite warnings from its advisors that the project would draw taxpayer funds away from essential city services for decades to come. Mayor Karen Bass and a majority of the council believe that the project will create thousands of jobs and boost tourism and business activity, making the city more competitive on the national stage.

    The new construction will connect the two existing south and west exhibit halls by adding 190,000 square feet of space to create one contiguous hall with more than 750,000 square feet, and will add 39,000 square feet of meeting room space and 95,000 square feet of multipurpose space.

    AEG is a co-developer of the Convention Center project with Plenary Americas.

    Los Angeles-based AEG is one of the world’s biggest venue and event companies, with more than 20,000 employees. The company was founded in 1995 when Denver billionaire investor Philip Anschutz bought the Los Angeles Kings, and in 1999 it opened the downtown arena then known as the Staples Center, now Crypto.com Arena.

    Among AEG’s recent developments is the IG Arena in the outer citadel of Nagoya Castle in Nagoya, Japan, where sports and entertainment events, including sumo wrestling, are held.

    [ad_2]

    Roger Vincent

    Source link

  • Best Of Houston® 2025: Best Breakfast – Downtown – Houston Press

    [ad_1]

    Overview:

    We choose this year’s winner of Houston’s Best Downtown Breakfast.

    Best Breakfast – Downtown: Press Waffle Co.

    Downtown’s Lyric Market has a breakfast star in Press Waffle Co., where golden Liége waffles come loaded with both sweet and savory hits. Go indulgent with the Chicken & Waffles, piled high with crispy tenders, bacon crumble and a generous maple syrup drizzle, or the American, topped with cheddar, bacon and an oozing fried egg. Sweet tooths can’t miss The Elvis with banana, peanut butter, honey and some bacon for good measure.

    411 Smith

    713-405-1407 

    presswaffleco.com

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

    [ad_2]

    Houston Press

    Source link

  • ‘Recipe Philly’ is an upcoming restaurant and docuseries with dishes designed by the community

    [ad_1]

    PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — Hundreds lined up outside the Pennsylvania Convention Center for a chance to have their food shared on a wide scale.

    It’s part of “Recipe Philly,” an upcoming restaurant and docuseries featuring dishes designed by the community.

    A select few will be chosen to have their recipes featured on the menu of the restaurant.

    “People that just wanted to get their recipes out there. We are going to take those recipes and produce them commercially in the kitchen. We’re going to open up the restaurant in May. We have no idea what we’re going to serve yet,” said Founder & Creator of Recipe Philly, Ed Baumstein.

    “One of the things I wanted to do is celebrate Philadelphia. It’s a great city. It’s built with great neighborhoods, great diversity. The restaurant’s going to represent all of those things,” he continued.

    They will be accepting new applicants until December 2025 at this link.

    For more information, check out the video above.

    Copyright © 2025 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.

    [ad_2]

    Nick Iadonisi

    Source link