Master Chefs

One of the most star-studded events in the food world rightfully came to H-Town. The James Beard Foundation broadcast its 2019 nominees during a ceremony in Houston, and on the eve of the announcement, the city’s top chefs hosted a Friends of James Beard benefit dinner at Hugo Ortega’s Caracol. Each of the several courses — plus the cocktails! — was crafted by a Beard-nominated or -winning chef, including Ortega, Robert Del Grande, Chris Shepherd, Justin Yu, Bobby Heugel and many others.

Paula Murphy and Quy Tran
Justin Yu, Chris Shepherd, Robert Del Grande and Hugo Ortega

Justin Yu, Chris Shepherd, Robert Del Grande and Hugo Ortega


Carrie Wirsing and Jeanette Jenkins

Party People
Ancient French Wellness Cures Reimagined at Houston’s Escape Spa: The Power of Vichy

Serial entrepreneur and spa visionary LeBrina Jackson

NESTLED IN THE heart of France, the town of Vichy holds a rich history in the world of wellness and hydrotherapy. Acquiring fame for their alkaline springs in the 17th century, the Romans were among the first to recognize the therapeutic benefits of the springs. They established a French spa known as “Vichy,” which still exists today and continues to attract spa-goers from around the world to experience the transformative effects of hydrotherapy.

Keep Reading Show less

LeBrina Jackson

AS WE GET into the holiday season, we’re reminded of what we have, what we want and what might be lacking. As Sheryl Crow says in her song, Soak up the Sun, “It’s not having what you want, it’s wanting what you've got.” We caught up with LeBrina Jackson, owner of Escape Spa in Cypress, Texas, and learned how she tackles the holiday season with hope, love and most importantly, gratitude.

Keep Reading Show less

Paella Valenciana at Mi Luna

THOUGH IT'S BEEN in Houston less than a decade, Sof Hospitality has made major inroads with foodies and critics alike. Its concepts include Doris Metropolitan, Hamsa and Badolina Bakery, all of which deliver the rich flavors of Israeli cuisine in complex, photogenic and delicious dishes. Its newest, Októ, opened earlier this year, one of several energetic restaurants to bow in the Montrose Collective, just in time for the holidays.

Keep Reading Show less
Food