Coffeeshop Fave Expands

Need some caffeine to propel you through some holiday shopping? Slowpokes opens its fourth location, this one in West U, on Monday.

Owner Mazen Baltagi selected a 2,000-square-foot space (6725 Stella Link Rd.) for the latest iteration of the popular coffee shop, which is known for its community-centric vibe and all-day offerings from cappuccinos to local brews and wines. Seasonal faves include the Snickerdoodle Latte and caramel-apple cider — and holiday treats like the Campfire Latte are on their way.

Sandwiches for breakfast — try the ham and brie croissant — and lunch are filling and delicious, and a $15 charcuterie board is a fine way to ring in happy hour.

This outpost joins Slowpokes' others at 2925 Richmond Ave. across from Levy Park; 8147 Long Point Rd. in Spring Branch; and the original at 1203 W. 34th St.

Coming Soon: Boutique Wine Shop

The Heights space previously home to Obsidian Theatre will soon be a boutique wine shop and tasting room, from wine distributor William Farley. Padre's Wine will be a tribute to his late father, Mike Farley, with whom he quite enjoyed sipping vino.

A release details that Padre's will carry a number of "vibrant and under-appreciated South American wines," sourced from small producers and served in an environment that might bring to mind Marfa. The bottle shop will tout around 500 wines, and customers can consume any of them at the indoor bar or on the patio; there will also be a rotating selection of around 20 by-the-glass options. Expect light bites like paninis, cheese boards and more.

Padre's Wine is slated to open early next year at 3522 White Oak.

Shop Local at Rice Village Fave 

All year long, Local Foods Market is a go-to for curated and artisan foods and wines — great for gifting or simply enjoying. A pop-up on Saturday from 10:30am-2pm will showcase some of the best small businesses vying for Houston's support this holiday season.

The event will include complimentary bubbly; wine and beer tastings (more than 50 in total!); and locally made food and gifts from Madame Zero Champagne, Goulue Chocolatier, Blood Bros BBQ, Katz Coffee and more.

Taco Bout Delicious!

Seasonal snacks at Tacodeli include chile en nogada and the festive Spiked Horchata — available for dine-in or to-go in 16-ounce or 64-ounce containers beginning Dec. 6.

The favorite Mexican dish has picadillo-stuffed poblano peppers smothered in a creamy walnut sauce.

Celeb Chefs Unite at Brennan's

To celebrate its landmark 55th anniversary, Brennan’s is hosting special dining events during its Home & Away series. On Nov. 29 and Nov. 30, the Texas-Creole house welcomes star-studded chefs Chris Shepherd and Sarah Grueneberg back to the kitchen to collaborate on a four-course wine dinner. The event will also celebrate the release of alumnus Grueneberg’s first cookbook, Listen to Your Vegetables and each guest will receive a copy. A portion of the proceeds from each ticket sold will benefit Shepherd’s Southern Smoke Foundation. Read more here.