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Pomegranate guacamole at new Sumomaya in River Oaks District.
Pomegranate guacamole at new Sumomaya in River Oaks District.

Uptown Park’s Hotel Granduca debuts al fresco dining concept Il Giardino, tucked into the property’s lush gardens. In addition to a menu boasting light, Italian fare, guests can indulge in craft beer imported from Italy. 1080 Uptown Park Blvd., 713.418.1000

Crepe Ratatouille by Mauricio HernandezCrepe Ratatouille at Brasserie du Parc

Brasserie du Parc launches its Parisian-inspired Sunday brunch menu. Guests are invited to dine in the enclosed terrace with views of Discovery Green and nosh on pain perdu with syrup and fresh berries, traditional beignets, and the vegetarian ratatouille crepe, all nicely washed down with handcrafted cocktails like the Sunny Side of the Parc made with house-made limoncello and Champagne. 1440 Lamar St., 832.879.2802

Just in time for the dog days of summer, ramen bar and Montrose newcomer

Ramen Tatsu-Ya introduces a spicy chilled ramen to the menu. Served brothless, the refreshing dish is made with pirikara ground pork, cucumber, ajitama (seasoned soft-boiled egg), karashi mustard and chili oil, and a citrus soy dressing. 1722 California St.

Now open in Rice Village: The fourth location of husband-and-wife team Faysal and Maria Haddad’s Island Grill, in the space formerly occupied by Little Liberty. Like its other locations in Uptown, Bellaire and West Houston, the fast-casual cafe offers counter-service and a menu of fresh Mediterranean-American eats for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus smoothies and juices. New on the menu: shrimp étouffée with mini biscuits! 2365 Rice Blvd., 713.527.8070

Uptown’s Willie G’s Seafood & Steaks will relocate to owner Tilman Fertitta’s new The Post Oak this fall. With mod indoor-outdoor seating and an oyster bar, the reimagined concept will join luxury retail, office space and the first Texas location of Mastro’s Steakhouse.

Michael Caplan, co-owner of Siphon Coffee, has opened Cavo Coffee on the ground floor of the 11-story Regions Financial Center at Greenway Plaza. Along with espresso and coffee drinks, guests can expect craft beer and wine and a menu of comfort-food items like avocado toast frisée in a cozy dining space. 3773 Richmond Ave., Ste. 1F, 346.320.4195

SumoMaya Mexican Asian KitchenPomegranate guacamole at new Sumomaya in River Oaks District.

SumoMaya Mexican Asian Kitchen is set to debut in River Oaks District with a robust menu fusing the flavors of the Far East with traditional tapas-style items. Along with a full sushi program, the trendy spot will serve craft cocktails and chef-driven cuisine ranging from tacos and noodles to prime steaks. In River Oaks District

Farm-to-table café and neighborhood gem Dish Society will open its first inner-Loop location in the Heights Central Station mixed-use development in 2018. The hip new outpost will stay true to its role as a family-friendly hangout with an expansive dog-friendly patio and communal games like darts, shuffleboard and foosball — but also aims to place a heavy focus on a new bar program with beer, wine and craft cocktails. 1050 Yale St.

New Orleans hot dog hangout Dat Dog announces plans to expand to Texas with a number of locations set to open across the city in 2018. With a specialty menu featuring Guinness sausage wieners and over 30 toppings that include bacon, sour cream, grilled onions and housemade sauces, the gourmet fast-food joint has garnered a loyal following for its craft dogs.

After a much lauded four-year stint, Tony’s first female chef de cuisine Kate McLean has parted ways with the high-end dining destination, making way for former sous chef Austin Waiter to take the reins in the kitchen. 3755 Richmond Ave., 713.622.6778

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Leadership in Action: ‘Family, Community and Spiritual Connection’ Drives Success for Henry Richardson

Al Torres
Leadership in Action: ‘Family, Community and Spiritual Connection’ Drives Success for Henry Richardson

How did you get to where you are today? The present moment is a combined history of my family, my time as an athlete, my passion for learning, and my desire to see the world be better. I grew up as a successful springboard and platform diver, however, an injury caused me to seek alternative treatments to heal my body. In that process, I discovered the power of yoga, exercise, meditation, mindset, and nutrition. This holistic approach eventually led me to open a Pilates and cycling studio called DEFINE body & mind. I opened studios around the nation, and after selling most of my business between 2017-2019, I was ready to explore how I could make an even greater impact on the wellbeing of our community. In 2023, I started actively working on a brand new multi-family/apartment concept called, Define Living. The idea focused on offering health and wellness services within a beautiful apartment setting to increase the wellbeing of our residents. Having a strong sense of community is the number one factor in living a happy life, so why not build a community where daily fitness, cooking classes, and social connection are the norm? We opened Define Living in March of 2024, and we couldn’t be happier with how things are being received. We are already looking at building more concepts like this in the Houston area and beyond.

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Leadership in Action: CEO Theresa Roemer Credits Mother, Mentors and Mindset for Accomplishments

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

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Leadership in Action: Clothiers Murry and Karen Penner Celebrate Family Business’ 50-Year Anny

Al Torres

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

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