🔒 Blue Bell Ice Cream bracket: Vote for your favorite flavors here
For this writer, there’s little better on a warm Texas day than a cool, sweet scoop of Blue Bell ice cream. On that, many Texas ice cream addicts can agree. Much more divisive, though, is this -- Which Blue Bell Ice cream flavor is best?
PHOTOS: What people are eating at the 2022 Houston Rodeo
There are over 60 food vendors at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo this year -- that includes these wild new offerings and the Gold Buckle Foodie Award winners. Put simply, you’ve got plenty of food to choose from. Scroll below to view some of the decadent Houston Rodeo treats you should can track down at NRG Park this year. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
🔒 The ultimate late-night dining survival guide: 46 Houston restaurants that stay open really, really late or simply don’t close at all
After a late night, what you probably want before you head home is an after-midnight snack. Yes, come witching hour, pickings are slim, but you need not settle for a floppy dollar slice of gas station pizza, a regrettable combo from a fast food drive-thru or worse yet, a frozen TV dinner. Whether you have a hankering for pho, burgers, tacos or doughnuts, you have options.
🔒 Slurp-worthy selections: The best ramen destinations in Houston, according to local noodle fanatics
Cool winter days call for steamy, intensely comforting bowls of first-rate ramen. Luckily, Houston is home to some seriously slurp-worthy ramen shops where you can find classic ramen as well inspired adaptations like stir-fry, curry and barbecue ramen. The biggest problem, if we can even it call it that, is the sheer number of ramen noodle denizens in our great city. Which ramen restaurants serve the best of the best? We asked locals where they go to get incredible ramen in the Houston-area, and they delivered.
Cancel diet culture with intuitive eating
No meat, no carbs, no dairy, no gluten. Did you know that it may be damaging to your health if you deprive your body of foods? A new way of honoring your body and fueling it without guilt is rising in popularity. It’s called intuitive eating. But what is this new anti-diet and does it work?
What the heck is bûche de Noël? And, more importantly, where to get the yuletide treat in Houston
In the late 19th century, a new holiday cake emerged in France (It’s unclear exactly which brilliant Parisian pastry chef deserves credit for the creation). The confection paid tribute to – and resembled – the Yule log, burned by ancient Europeans to honor the winter solstice. Now, bûche de Noël, which literally translates as “Christmas log,” is a beloved yuletide treat in many countries, including the good ol’ U.S. of A.
🔒 Sweet treat smackdown: Hundreds of Insiders cast votes for their favorite holiday desserts. This is the last yuletide treat standing.
We put together the ultimate yuletide treat smackdown and asked you, our Insiders, to vote on your festive faves. Hundreds weighed in and over the course of five rounds thousands of votes were cast. What began with 32 delicious candidates slowly dwindled down to two finalists -- Hot chocolate and Christmas sugar cookies. And, finally, a winner -- Christmas Sugar Cookies.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/7NCRIHCCYFDO5FXUJYV2FCLML4.jpg)
For a smoking-good feast, order a Thanksgiving turkey from one of these Houston barbecue joints
Halloween has come and gone. Up next, Thanksgiving. This year, skip the thawing, brining, stuffing and basting and opt for a stress-free Turkey Day feast with a little extra oomph. These Houston barbecue joints are offering smoking-good turkey, briskets, ham and side items worthy of your Thanksgiving table.
🔒 Get your Frito pie fix at one of these longstanding Houston-area eateries
Frito pie goes by many names -- Walking taco, Texas straw hat, Frito boat, jailhouse taco, tostiloco, or as Anthony Bourdain once described it... “warm crap in a bag.” More officially, under Frito-Lay North America, Inc.’s trademarked Fritos Chili Pie® -- which is defined as “packaged meal combinations consisting primarily of chili or snack food dips containing meat or cheese for corn-based snack foods, namely, corn chips”.
At these iconic Houston diners, breakfast is served with a heaping side of nostalgia
Searching for someplace simple where you can score a stack of syrup-soaked buttermilk pancakes and a piping-hot cup of black coffee -- No frills, no fusions and no swarms of Insta-obsessed influencers? Slip into a booth or slide behind the counter at one of Houston’s longstanding diners.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/ZS5JXXMB5VBEPGQLKNPFQIW6WM.png)
Lobster corn dogs and fried shrimp grits: 25 wild new concoctions debuting at the State Fair of Texas this year
The calorie-dense newbies run the gamut, from frozen ranch water to country fried shrimp grits. Essentially, if it could be deep-fried and dusted in powdered sugar, there’s a pretty good chance you can find it at the State Fair this year.
Timeless burgers: 10 of Houston’s oldest burger joints you have to try
Listed chronologically by opening date, here’s a look at the longstanding Houston eateries that have been dishing out burgers and fries for decades. Note that several of the burger joints listed below have been in business longer than half a century.
Texans dish on their favorite H‑E‑B brand products
Texans’ cultish love for H‑E‑B is an unparalleled romance for the ages. Time after time, whether it be its response to a statewide disaster or merely the release of a quirky new Texas-inspired product, the Lone Star State’s beloved grocery chain has upheld it’s snappy slogan, ”No Store Does More.” For many, the grocery chain can do no wrong -- especially when it comes to its many in-house products.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/6HYRPBXZ6VAHPHGWLUTLUZVRKA.jpg)
Introducing Adventurefuls, the Girl Scout’s new chocolatey, caramel cookie flavor
Nursing some serious Girl Scout cookie withdrawal symptoms? Unfortunately, the Girl Scout’s 2022 Cookie Season is still months away. But, during this dark, Girl Scout cookie dry spell, we’ve got a spark of good news for you -- Come 2022, the Girl Scouts will introduce a new cookie.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/ZU2YSAKKWND4LIFQAIKXEI75E4.jpg)
This Texas hotel’s exquisite eatery was named one of the nation’s best hotel restaurants
A Texas hotel’s exquisite eatery was named one of the country’s best hotel restaurants.This information comes courtesy of Fodor’s Travel, a longstanding travel publisher well-known for its informative guidebooks and lists. The publisher recently released its selection for the best hotel restaurants in the country.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/WUUSTKIOD5D5DBAEE3EO6BB5BY.jpg)
Angling for a fresh new look? Whataburger, Academy release line of orange-and-white fishing apparel
Texans’ cultish obsession with Whataburger is an unparalleled romance for the ages. The chain is a true Texas icon. Its orange-and-white-stripe A-frames are just about everywhere in Texas, as are its fans. We double-patty dare you to find a Texan who’s not gaga for Whataburger’s honey butter chicken biscuits, spicy ketchup and Texas-sized burgers.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/E5F5NUDI4ZBMLJODIO35N3CH7I.jpg)
Texans, brace yourselves: There’s a nationwide Topo Chico shortage
Texans, a distressing drink shortage is plaguing our great state, well, the nation actually. Topo Chico, a beverage many here in the Lone Star State hold near and dear to our hearts is being swept off shelves faster than the company can restock it. Stated bluntly, we’re experiencing a nationwide Topo Chico shortage , and, we might add, in the middle of a scorching summer.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/TH4OIQQIAFFAZEXOL2Q7LW622M.jpg)
Smells like Texas spirit: Beloved Texas grocer selling butter tortilla-scented candles
Texans’ cultish love for H-E-B is an unparalleled romance for the ages. Time after time, whether it be its response to a statewide disaster or merely the release of a quirky new Texas-inspired product, the Lone Star State’s beloved grocery chain has upheld it’s snappy slogan,”No Store Does More.” Now, H-E-B’s upped its game once again, unveiling a wacky product we never knew we needed but now can’t conceive of living without: A butter tortilla-scented candle.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65):fill(FFF)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/SSTZC2AOW5CQTMKIBYX2GCX5FE.jpg)
5 of Houston’s oldest bakeries, dessert destinations
In Houston’s food scene, high value is often placed on innovation, novelty and aesthetics -on the most Insta-worthy menu items, the most unique dining experience or the latest foodie fad. It is no wonder, then, that so many of the city’s oldest bakeries and dessert shops have disappeared.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/4FPWAWNLVJAOZIZBZOHDTG4YXY.png)
Get your COVID-19 vaccine? Krispy Kreme will give you a free glazed doughnut every day this year
As if receiving a COVID-19 vaccine weren’t rewarding enough in and of itself, Krispy Kreme is sweetening the deal, offering free doughnuts to anyone who has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and has the vaccination card to prove it.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/VYHRSEF4YBFA5LYQ7MPNZ4ZRCI.jpg)
Get your coolers ready: Topo Chico Hard Seltzer coming to Texas later this month
Popular beverage Topo Chico will soon be available in Texas with a boozy upgrade. Molson Coors Beverage Company will begin distributing Topo Chico Hard Seltzer in Texas on March 29. The new beverage combines purified spiked sparkling water and natural flavors with minerals. Topo Chico Hard Seltzer will be available in four flavors including: Tangy Lemon Lime, Exotic Pineapple, Strawberry Guava and Tropical Mango. “Topo Chico Hard Seltzer is a modern take on refreshment that brings entirely new character to the red-hot seltzer category.”
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/HI3MX3HUANCF5HAL6RSMRXS7YM.jpg)
Ramen shop opening in new Heights development
A new ramen shop will open in Houston’s M-K-T in early April. Rakkan Ramen will offer authentic Japanese cuisine. “Houston has a great food scene and is incredibly diverse,” said Rakkan Ramen franchise owner Chris Lav, on what attracted the brand to Houston. Rakkan Ramen currently operates six locations across the United States, including three locations in Tokyo, Japan. The restaurant is scheduled to open early in April and in Building 5 of M-K-T, located at 600 N Shepherd Dr, Houston TX 77007.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/YAHH6LYABFGX5A6I6JQXSXVZGU.jpg)
New Chick-Fil-A location opening Monday in Houston’s Sharpstown area
HOUSTON – Chick-fil-A will open a new location in Houston’s Sharpstown area next week. Located off of the US-59 freeway feeder near Houston Baptist University’s campus at 7539 SW Freeway, the new location will open at 6 a.m. on Monday, March 8. The restaurant will operate 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Initially, the new location, which will employ some 120 people, will open for drive-thru service only. For more information about the new Chick-fil-A location, click here.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/5OTMGOTOBBG6JBFHVJXZ2P6PPI.jpg)
The Halal Guys opens new downtown Houston outpost
Halal Guys will hold a grand opening for its new downtown Houston location on Tuesday, March 2. The new location at 609 Main Street will occupy 3,400 square feet and offer seating for up to 38 diners. Founded in 1990, The Halal Guys began as a hot dog cart in New York City and has since grown into fast-casual Halal food restaurant franchise with locations worldwide, including six Houston locations at 609 Main Street, 3821 Farnham Street, 6609 Main Street, 3008 Ella Boulevard, 11700 Westheimer Road and 10111 Louetta Road. “We love Houston and are thrilled to be opening our sixth location here,” said Masroor Fatany, local franchise owner for The Halal Guys, in a recent release. We’re looking forward to being able to provide our delicious halal food and unparalleled customer service to even more fans in Houston.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/CJS6FU2ONNCDDLUP35FM3XF4SM.jpg)
Local Foods unveils expanded, grocer-restaurant concept in Rice Village
Local Foods Market opened in Rice Village earlier this month. The new grocer-restaurant concept offers counter service and grab-and-go meals along with a grocery marketplace. “We are thrilled to continue the pop-up success with the conversion of benjy’s into a larger Local Foods Market,” said Benjy Levit, Local Foods Owner in a release. The grocery section of the concept offers “artisanal foodie staples” including specialty spices and sauces, local eggs and milk, Texas beef in retail packs and Houston Dairymaids cheeses. Local Foods Market operates daily 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Would you eat brisket for breakfast? Now you can, thanks to a new item from Einstein Bros. Bagels
HOUSTON – If you’re craving for some slow-cooked brisket for breakfast, Einstein Bros. Bagels has your back with a new egg sandwich hitting participating locations nationwide starting Thursday. Try our NEW Texas Brisket Egg Sandwich on a fresh-baked Jalapeño Bacon Gourmet Bagel. #Brisket4Breakfast pic.twitter.com/wzVj2QzqEa — Einstein Bros. (@EinsteinBros) February 25, 2021Also making its debut is the Jalapeno Bacon Gourmet Bagel, which can be paired with the new egg sandwich. The new Texas Brisket Egg Sandwich is now available at all Houston-area Einstein Bros. Bagels for a limited time only for $6.79. Will you eat brisket for breakfast from Einstein Bros. Bagels?
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/7OIVJTYDAFGS5KS6EFOPVBMJUI.jpg)
‘We are still in complete shock’: Katy restaurant Midway BBQ sustains extensive damage in weekend blaze
‘We are still in complete shock’: Katy restaurant Midway BBQ destroyed in weekend blazeKATY, Texas – Flames ripped through Katy restaurant Midway BBQ over the weekend. The fire was reported at approximately 2:52 a.m. Saturday at Midway BBQ, located at 6025 Hwy Blvd in Katy. “Midway BBQ had an epic fire inside our building this morning,” wrote Jason Carlisle of MeyerFoods LLC on the restaurant’s Facebook page. The Meyer Family would like to thank the Katy Fire... Posted by Midway BBQ on Saturday, February 20, 2021The restaurant remains standing though images show it’s interior suffered severe damage in the blaze. We will be back.”Owner Herman Meyer opened the Katy restaurant in the 1990s.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/NTYKE5Q3SRD4BN6UIM4NAQ7WZQ.jpg)
Kroger reduces store hours ahead of major winter storm
Kroger announced plans to reduce operating hours at store locations across Texas as a major winter storm rolls toward the state. All 109 Kroger store locations in the Greater Houston Area and SW Louisiana will operate with amended hours:Sunday, February 14: All stores closing at 8pmMonday, February 15: All stores opening at 9amSan Antonio-based grocery chain H-E-B also reduced its hours in anticipation of severe winter weather. AdThe storm is bringing freezing rain and cold temperatures to many parts of Texas over the next several days. The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings or watches for most Texas counties. The Houston area was forecast to have its coldest temperatures in 30 years.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/F5DOQJTB6ND47OCKMF2F5MPV3U.png)
H-E-B named one of the top 10 best places to work in 2021
Beloved Texas grocer H-E-B was recently named Grocer of the Year by industry publication Grocery Dive and in another recent report it was ranked the nation’s second-best grocer. The San Antonio-based supermarket chain is No.10 on online job-search company Glassdoor’s 2021 list of the 100 Best Places to Work. AdGlassdoor’s 100 best places to work list features employers across a range of industries, including technology, health care, biotech and pharmaceuticals, retail, travel and tourism, consulting and finance. Several other Texas companies claimed spots on Glassdoor’s 100 Best Places to Work list, including Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (No. “A mission-driven culture, transparent leadership, and career opportunities are always hallmarks of Best Places to Work winners.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/XRSDWTGHNRCO5HXUFCRTBIITAI.png)
Cluck it like it’s hot: New, hot chicken truck Clutch City Cluckers rolls into H-Town
Clutch City Cluckers, a new hot chicken food truck, will open in Houston in February. The food truck, located at 5550 Val Verde St., will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The menu will feature Halal hot chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, loaded fries and more. While attending school as a full time student, Kilani began working at Abu Omar Halal, Houston’s first Halal Food Truck. Ad“Kilani is now using his experience and knowledge of the food industry to bring Nashville’s Hot Chicken to Houston with Clutch City Cluckers,” a recent release stated.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/KSAF7WZDYZHBRIUVDJEL2QAPDM.jpg)
Here’s where to dine out and get takeout in Houston this Valentine’s Day
Here are some Valentine’s Day weekend dine out and takeout date night dinner ideas for your consideration. Artisans will serve a Valentine’s Day dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. Orders must be placed by Tuesday, Feb. 9 for pick-up on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. Orders must be placed by Tuesday, Feb. 9 for pick-up on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. AdThe Houston log cabin restaurant will offer a Valentine’s Day Dinner in-house as well.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/KBEESJ6YV5ETBJO3Z57HIUHFTU.jpg)
Grab your gal pals: Here’s where to Celebrate Galentine’s Day in Houston
Grab your gal pals and get ready to channel your inner Leslie Knope -- Feb. 13, a.k.a. Galentine’s Day, is fast upon us. Galentine’s Day reps unusual origins: The celebration of sisterhood was spawned by “Parks and Recreation,” the much-beloved NBC sitcom that chronicled the wild and impassioned antics of over-achiever Leslie Knope. Leslie describes Galentine’s Day as the best day of the year, adding “It’s like Lilith Fair, minus the angst,” she said, “plus frittatas.”AdFrom picnicking in the park to buddy films with your besties, here are a few ways to celebrate Galentine’s Day in Houston we’re sure Leslie Knope would approve of. Visit our Valentine’s Day page.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/4SQXTPOYIBH57EK5HC5652CR6Y.jpg)
Rejoice, sugar fiends! This year, you can order Girl Scout Cookies online and on Grubhub
In select markets, with additional markets added throughout cookie season, consumers can order Girl Scout Cookies for pickup or delivery on Grubhub.com or the Grubhub app. Nursing some serious Girl Scout cookie withdrawal symptoms? In celebration of the collaboration, Grubhub will offer free delivery on Girl Scout Cookie orders $15 or more through Feb. 14. On the site, customers can enter their zip code into the Girl Scout Cookie Finder and order cookies for direct shipment. Beginning February 1, enter your zip code into the Girl Scout Cookie Finder at www.girlscoutcookies.org to purchase from a local Girl Scout troop online for shipment to your door or to donate cookies to first responders and local causes.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/TC2ER7VFVRCGNHF2HYONFDMZZM.jpg)
At this Houston restaurant, you can dine and drink underwater -- no scuba gear required
At Houston’s Downtown Aquarium restaurant, you can dine and drink underwater -- no scuba gear requiredBuilt from the shell of an abandoned downtown fire station, the Downtown Aquarium’s restaurant complex consists of the 400-seat Aquarium Restaurant and The Dive bar and lounge on the second level, banquet facilities on the third floor and a 15,000-square-foot aquarium on the ground level. Houston's Downtown Aquarium Restaurant (Landry's)In the Houston Aquarium restaurant itself, enjoy an intimate dining experience unlike any other. The restaurant offers a varied selection including seafood specialties, steak, chicken, salad, pasta dishes and desserts. Located on the third floor of the Downtown Aquarium, the Nautilus Ballroom offers ample space for a socially-distanced meeting or small get-together. The aquarium restaurant in Houston is one of several such underwater adventure restaurants -- others are located in Kemah, TX, Nashville, TN and Denver, CO.Houston's Downtown Aquarium Restaurant (Landry's)Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is located at 410 Bagby St.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/6PC5ZTEAIND43JWXJLC75WBMDE.jpg)
2 new restaurants led by Michelin-starred chefs opening at MFAH’s Kinder Building this spring
Café Leonelli and Le Jardinier will open in the MFAH’s new Nancy and Rich Kinder Building. Both will be helmed by Michelin-starred chefs -- Jonathan Benno will lead Café Leonelli, and Alain Verzeroli will lead Le Jardinier. Bastion’s second concept opening in the MFAH -- Le Jardinier, the French word for “gardener”-- is led by Michelin Star Chef Alain Verzeroli. The Kinder Building opened in late November 2020. Designed by Steven Holl Architects, the Kinder Building boasts more than 100,000 square feet of exhibition space circling a three-level atrium.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/5NIAR2G55RGKTITJNFXYY4JRHQ.jpg)
Nestlé recalls 762,000 pounds of pepperoni Hot Pockets
MOUNT STERLING, Ky. (AP) – Nestlé Prepared Foods is recalling more than 762,000 pounds of pepperoni Hot Pockets, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service said. The problem was discovered when the company received four consumer complaints of extraneous material in pepperoni Hot Pockets, the department said. The company has received one report of a “minor oral injury” associated with consumption of the product, the USDA said. The recall is for 54-ounce packages containing 12 “Nestlé Hot Pockets Brand Sandwiches: Premium Pepperoni made with pork, chicken and beef pizza garlic buttery crust.” Affected boxes have a “Best before Feb 2022” date and lot codes of 0318544624, 0319544614, 0320544614 and 0321544614, the department said. “Consumers who have purchased this product are urged not to consume it,” the USDA said.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/WWR3AHX7QFESRPRBXF27CVHUZY.jpg)
Doggie desserts: Ben & Jerry’s enters the pet food business
This photo provided by Ben & Jerry’s shows Ben & Jerry’s dog treats. (Ben & Jerry’s via AP)Ben & Jerry’s isn’t just for people anymore. Doggie Desserts, sold in 4-ounce cups, go on sale in U.S. groceries and pet stores later this month. The treats are made with a base of sunflower butter, the same same ingredient Ben & Jerry’s uses in its non-dairy human desserts. Ben & Jerry’s is the latest food company to pivot to pets, joining Smucker’s and General Mills.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/XX5HHO4QWJHIRMYJ6IS5F67YAU.jpg)
This is the Houston restaurant America can’t afford to lose, according to Esquire
Esquire magazine has included a Houston restaurant on its list of places it deems too essential to lose to the COVID-19 pandemic. Huynh, the family-run Vietnamese eatery in Houston’s East Downtown Management District (a.k.a EaDO) was cited in the Dec. 29 article, which includes old and new, famous and obscure eateries nationwide. Because if we lose them, we lose who we are,” wrote Esquire editor Jeff Gordinier. The family-run Vietnamese eatery in operation for over a decade has received high praise for its home-made Vietnamese food, regularly landing on “best of” lists. “Visiting Houston without eating Vietnamese food would be like going to Bologna and neglecting the pasta,” wrote Gordinier.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/75O7TXXIMNCOZD6HPLO76KJMIE.png)
Cowabunga, dude! Beachy new tiki joint brings burgers, brews and good vibes to Pearland
Beachy new tiki bar and burger joint surfs into PearlandGood Vibes Burgers & Brews -- Pearland’s newest purveyor of burgers, brews and beachy vibes -- is slated to open Saturday, Jan. 9 at 1329 E. Broadway St. Good Vibes will offer diners the “feeling of being on a relaxing beach vacation where they can leave their worries at the door,” according to a release. “With our tiki-forward burger concept and being so close to the water, we wanted to create that same freeing feeling of being on vacation paired with a fresh, sustainable concept,” said Eric Nelson, executive chef and owner of Good Vibes Burgers & Brews. The menu will feature made-to-order burgers with specialty options such as The Good Vibes Signature, a half-pound RC Ranch burger topped with smoked gouda, pepper bacon, Vibin’ sauce, lettuce, tomato and pickle on a cheesy garlic bun. The restaurant opens for lunch and dinner daily beginning at 11 a.m.View the full menu at goodvibesburgers.com.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/NVK3ZK74VJGX3DPNHQJYMCZ7HU.jpg)
31 Houston-area eateries that have stood the test of time
In Houston’s restaurant scene, high value is often placed on innovation, novelty and newness -on the trendiest restaurant, the most unique dining experience or the latest foodie fad. His children own and operate the only Christie’s restaurant location still operating. Texas barbecue legend John Davis and his wife Leila opened the historic Houston restaurant in 1935 as Shepherd Drive Bar-B-Q. The eatery still operated out of its original location, situated at 7006 I-45 South at Woodridge. Following the success of its original location, several additional locations followed and a local fried chicken empire was born.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/SGBS5NGAJVAT3M3OBZ4WEYLGTI.png)
Houston-based Mexican-Asian fusion food truck Coreanos to open new location in Spring
Houston’s Mexican-Asian fusion food truck Coreanos to open new location in SpringCoreanos -- Houston’s favorite purveyors of Mexican-Asian fusion food -- will open a new food truck in Spring in January. The new food truck, located at 6880 Louetta Road in Spring, will operate daily Monday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to midnight. The Houston based food truck offers Mexican-Asian Fusion food, which earned the truck national recognition on Food Network’s “Unique Eats & Food Paradise.” Korean barbecue burritos, tacos, rice bowls and kimcheese fries and quesadillas anchor the menu. The truck at 6880 Louetta Road will hold its grand opening on Jan. 9 from 2 p.m. to midnight. In honor of their grand opening, Coreanos will offer patrons 50% off their entire order.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/TJB5GW73PJDYLAQPJSYIHGXYBE.jpg)
New York City-based Van Leeuwen Ice Cream to open first Texas shop in Houston’s Rice Village
New York City-based Van Leeuwen Ice Cream will open its first Texas shop in Houston’s Rice Village next year. The cult-favorite ice cream brand will open its doors at 2565 Amherst St, in Rice Village, sometime in spring 2021. Van Leeuwen offers over 30 dairy and vegan ice cream flavors “made with only quality ingredients using only simple recipes,” according to a release. The Rice Village location is set to open with a new flavor created to celebrate Van Leeuwen’s expansion to Texas. With its established ties, walkability, and bustling community, we knew Rice Village was perfect for our first venture into the Lone Star state,” said CEO and co-founder, Ben Van Leeuwen.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/d1vhqlrjc8h82r.cloudfront.net/12-16-2020/t_3e5dd729a1ce4b6f807026c4fdefc18c_name_Chick_Fil_A_1527602523860.jpg)
Man eats Chick-fil-A every day for 130 days -- except on Sundays
Can you imagine eating the same thing every day? Well, Matt Stoudt has been eating Chick-fil-A every day for over 130 days -- except, of course, on Sundays and on Thanksgiving Day. Back in July, the Nazareth, Pennsylvania resident set a challenge for himself -- to break the “unofficial” record for consecutive days eating at Chick-fil-A after learning of a California man who had eaten at the popular chain for 114 days straight. Stoudt said things got rough around day 100 but he didn’t chicken out. Now he’s asking other Chick-fil-A fanatics not to beat him, because he doesn’t want to do it all over again.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/R2EOKFPSWJG5LCTOB5Y2JRNJCU.jpg)
Don’t want to cook a big holiday meal yourself? Here are 8 Houston eateries offering meal packages for pickup
Don’t want to cook a big holiday meal yourself? This year, giving yourself the gift of an effortless holiday meal is easier than ever as countless area restaurants and caterers offer holiday fare. Dec.21 is the last day customers can order holiday packages. If your answer was an unequivocal yes, we have some stellar news for you: Houston’s famed restaurant family rolled out a new holiday meal package this year. The Merry Goode Meal ($200): The meal package includes smoked beef tenderloin, horseradish sauce, au gratin potatoes, creamed spinach and a dozen dinner rolls.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/AGQBFNZ6WRFUTCESXACALWBNOE.jpeg)
Three Brothers Bakery co-founder Sigmund Jucker dead at 98
Sigmund Jucker, one of the original founders of Three Brothers Bakery, died Friday. Located on Holman Street across from Temple Beth Israel, the siblings renamed it Three Brothers Bakery, according to Jucker’s obituary. Around the year 2000, Jucker passed the business on to his eldest son, Robert Jucker, according to the bakery’s website. Sigmund was preceded in death by his parents, Morris Jucker and Bertha Siegel Jucker; his sister, Janie Rudy and his brothers, Solomon and Max Jucker. He is survived by ex-wife Edith Jucker, his sister-in-law Estelle Jucker, children Robert Jucker, Susan Goldberg and Michelle Jucker, five grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/7PFDORDHNNEINHGHMU44EEGAKU.jpg)
KPRC 2′s ultimate Houston Thanksgiving Day guide
Turkey day is upon us! Luckily, many area grocery stores will remain open on Thanksgiving Day. Looking for a little help with that Thanksgiving turkey of yours? Take note: A number of Houston-area Thanksgiving Day festivities and events have been curtailed this year due to the coronavirus. Those events and organizations that are forging ahead with Thanksgiving Day events and programs are instituting pandemic policies, which include social distancing and face mask requirements.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/75P6VT6Y4VG7ZBNU5SSO4KE3FA.jpg)
Popular Houston food truck Twisted Grilled Cheese opens new brick-and-mortar shop on Washington Avenue
Twisted Grilled Cheese, a popular Houston food truck devoted to the gooey grilled sandwich, recently opened its first brick-and-mortar location on Washington Avenue. Twisted Grilled Cheese at 5555 Washington Avenue operates Sunday through Thursday, 11a.m.-9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 13 gourmet sandwiches anchor the offerings: Signature sandwiches include The 5 Cheese Pepperoni, The Smokehouse Brisket, The Buffalo Chicken, The Halal Philly Grilled Cheesesteak, The Halal Philly Grilled Chicken, and The Twisted Burger. The food truck will continue operating. It will circulate through several locations, including the Power Center Food Truck Park, the Galleria Food Truck Park, and the Foodie Trucks Park in Katy.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/VOMCO6HUR5CNZHBEVAZOBKUVRA.jpg)
For rookie Thanksgiving cooks, expert tips to avoid disaster
NEW YORK – After Christopher Hughey tweeted that he’s tackling his first Thanksgiving turkey this year, the advice started rolling in. As for the meal itself, experts say to get started well before the big day. Contrary to the advice many offered to Hughey, experts aren’t fans of the pop-up thermometers that come stuck in some birds. Molina, who works at a screen printing firm in Portland, Oregon, knows how badly first attempts can go; years ago, her aunt ended up burning the Thanksgiving bird. She’s cooked turkey breasts in her slow cooker before, but hasn’t yet figured out what she’ll do for Thanksgiving.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/OMTDFXAI6JDLNIFTFE3DA3UTME.jpg)
Flying Saucer Pie Company’s crazy Thanksgiving pie line will look different amid the pandemic. Here’s what to expect this year.
Flying Saucer Pie Company, the beloved bakery in Houston’s Independence Heights neighborhood has proved its staying power. The pre-Thanksgiving lines are notoriously long at Flying Saucer Pie Company. A quick primer for Houston newcomers: Flying Saucer Pie Company does not take call ahead pie or cake orders the week of Thanksgiving or Christmas. This year, Flying Saucer Pie Company asks that customers in line maintain a six-foot social distance from those who are not in their party. Flying Saucer Pie Company is located at 436 W Crosstimbers St. in Houston; (713) 694-1141, flyingsaucerpieshop.com.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/G5RH4VUFFNHEPLNMLUWPSW6RNI.jpg)
Rice Village food hall Politan Row shutters permanently after 1 year in business
Rice Village food hall Politan Row has closed permanently, the dining concept announced in a statement on its Instagram page. The luxe food hall opened in November 2019 at 2445 Times Blvd, featuring a diverse collection of food concepts. The food hall announced its permanent closure Friday. “Politan Row Houston opened one year ago, giving us just 4 short months to serve Rice Village before mandatory shut downs,” the food hall said. Many from Politan Row are already developing new businesses designed for the pandemic and beyond.
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/BQFQLD3IN5H4JCA7SDCGWKVMHA.jpg)
New Sprouts Farmers Market now open near NRG Park
HOUSTON, Texas – Sprouts Farmers Market recently opened a new Houston store at 1212 Old Spanish Trail, near NRG Park. The new store is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. The new location brings approximately 110 full- and part-time jobs to the area, according to a release. The Arizona-based grocery chain said it is closely following Centers for Disease Control guidelines related to COVID-19. “Stores are also implementing steps to promote social distancing and have installed plexiglass barriers at registers to add protection for team members and customers.”
:strip_exif(true):strip_icc(true):no_upscale(true):quality(65)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/6TGGGO2SDJCB5HZYN3BOKRMHSA.webp)
What-a-Christmas: Whataburger releases its 2020 holiday sweater
Whataburger is a true Texas icon. We double-patty dare you to find a Texan who’s not gaga for its honey butter chicken biscuits, spicy ketchup and Texas-sized burgers. And now, with the release of its 2020 holiday sweater, the chain’s most fervent fans can take their undying devotion to the max this Christmas season. The orange Christmas sweater, priced at $42.99, comes complete with a row of winged Whataburger “W” signs alongside the more traditional wreaths, holiday lights and Christmas trees. Complete the ensemble with a pair of matching Whataburger holiday socks.