Just in Time for Spring, Patio-Happy Hamsa Debuts Sunday Brunch

Shane Dante
Just in Time for Spring, Patio-Happy Hamsa Debuts Sunday Brunch

Brunch at Hamsa

ON A PRETTY spring Sunday, the retractable wall of windows by Hamsa’s bar open onto its patio, filled with cool people, fab food and immaculate vibes. The Rice Village Israeli resto just debuted its inventive new brunch menu, and people are already raving. Recently nominated for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur, owners Itai Ben Eli and Itamar Levy continue to retool their modern Israeli cooking for the discerning Houston foodie.


On the menu, expect Mediterranean classics like Shakshuka — or opt for one of the new creations like the Green Omelette served with Feta and Kasserie cheeses, sourdough and Labane (a traditional middle eastern yogurt).

The schnitzel sandwich is shareable — and not to be missed. It’s a large chicken schnitzel loaded with thick slices of seasoned eggplant served on a large puffy roll. And even the hummus has gotten a brunch-approved upgrade: The mushroom version is topped with a mountain of ’em, plus a soft-boiled egg.

Try one — or all! — of the flavorful mimosa offerings including strawberry ginger or pomegranate mint. For the true Israeli experience, try the Raspberry Fizz with Arak. Arak is 100 percent alcohol that’s said to have healing properties, including aiding with digestion.


Raspberry Fizz

Mushroom Hummus

Tahini Brandy Milk Punch

Schnitzel Sandwich

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

JUST IN TIME for the Lunar New Year on Wednesday, Jinya Ramen is opening its 70th (!) location in Pearland. Known for its thick, rich broth and flavorful noodles — thanks to the specialized water used to prepare its broth and the aging process its noodles undergo — Jinya also touts a wide array of authentic toppings, from tender pork chashu to shrimp wonton.

Keep ReadingShow less