Can This New CityCentre Restaurant Succeed, Where So Many Others Have Failed? Spoiler Alert: Definitely.

Can This New CityCentre Restaurant Succeed, Where So Many Others Have Failed? Spoiler Alert: Definitely.

Photo by Kimberly Park

A SEEMINGLY PRIME corner of real estate in CityCentre, situated just behind the open green space and between longtime staples Bellagreen and Yardhouse, has housed a number of different restaurants over the years, the latest being International Smoke. But the newest concept to open its doors here will almost assuredly thrive.


A seasoned restauranteur, Aaron Lyons, and celebrated chef, Brandi Key, have opened Daily Gather under the Five 12 Restaurant Concepts brand, which also has Dish Society. The gravitas and name-recognition will take Daily Gather far, as will the approachable menu and laid-back but stylish vibe. It’s arguably the first restaurant to understand the area’s appeal for date nights and family outings alike, and a nicely outfitted patio overlooking the play area will serve both clienteles well.

Shareable starters and well rounded entrees — all utilizing ingredients from local and regional purveyors like 44 Farms and Ives Creek Organics — make up the hefty but not overwhelming lunch and dinner menus. Brunch brings giant crowd-pleasers — literally, as in the Ultimate Brunch Board, featuring scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast bites, fruit and more to serve a group. Key, who first became known for her pastas under the Clark Cooper umbrella, delivers in that department, too.

Gin Design Group was responsible for revamping the design of the space, which had taken on several personalities over the years. Daily Gather’s inspo is the “dawn-till-dusk” spots like Soho House and The Hoxton, evidenced in the shapely plush banquettes and sultry color palette. There’s a private dining area as well.

Keep an eye out for special events utilizing the refurbished Argentine food truck, which currently proffers cold-brew and pastries in the morning and cocktails and snacks for passers-by in the evenings.

Crunchy noodle salad / photo by Sabrina Miskelly

Brisket French dip / photo by Kimberly Park

Spicy margarita / photo by Sabrina Miskelly

Rotisserie chicken / photo by Sabrina Miskelly

photo by Kimberly Park

Food
As Escape Spa Expands in 2025, Owner Has Advice on Personal Growth: ‘Focus on Intention Setting’

CHANGE IS A good thing, and with the start of a new year, I always like to reflect on how far I've come and start fresh by setting self-care goals for the coming months. Personal growth is a passion for me, and also something I enjoy. Guiding a business through growth and change is also one of my passions, so I am very pleased to announce that Escape Spa is going to be expanding in 2025! We’re honored that we’ve built such a loyal following since opening in Cypress in July of 2022, and we’re thrilled to be in a position to grow our wellness and recovery sanctuary just outside of Houston.

Keep ReadingShow less

Concert of Arias finalists on the Wortham stage, including first place and audience choice winner Geonho Lee of South Korea, third from left. (Photo by Michael Bishop)

LONG ONE OF the HGO’s most exciting evenings on the calendar — Artistic and Music Director Patrick Summers called it the best night of the year — the 37th Annual Concert of Arias and gala dinner afterward dazzled and inspired opera fans.

Keep ReadingShow less
Art + Entertainment

JUN is hosting a special Lunar New Year dinner (photo by Luke Chang)

THE CHILLY WINTER months aren’t slowing Houston chefs down from hosting hot events. Grab some friends, your appetite and a calendar and plan on attending one of these fetes for foodies.

Keep ReadingShow less
Food