THE HOUSTON SYMPHONY ushered in Hollywood’s Golden Age at its annual black-tie gala, this year chaired by Brigitte Kalai, Farida Abjani, Cheryl Boblitt and Bill King.
The 400-plus guests arrived via a red carpet, dotted with 1920s-era photographers and reporters giving paparazzi vibes. Once inside the Post Oak Hotel, attendees mingled with Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe — courtesy of J&D entertainment — with wine in hand. (The Rydman family of Spec’s fame selected the evening’s pairings.)
Chef Jean-Luc Royere prepared mouthwatering, inventive hors d’oeurves — risotto lollipops, pan-seared crab cakes — and an excellent dinner of herb-roasted tenderloin and shrimp with a black-truffle-potato purée.
Another red carpet led from dinner tables to the black-and-white dance floor, above which Justin and the Swing Beats played from a bandstand. The night brought in $1.1 mil for the Symphony’s community and educational programming.
Tammie and Andy Johnson
Anne and Albert Chao
J&D Entertainment
Bill King, Cheryl Boblitt, Brigitte Kalai, Fardia Abjani and John Mangum
Miya Shay and Roslyn Bazelle
Margaret Alkek Williams and Hallie Vanderhider
Eric and Lisa Lindsey
Sparkling dessert
Gretchen and Jay Watkins
Leslie Siller and Cynthia Wolff
Laurie and Tracy Krohn
Korrine and James Whipkey
Barbara Burger and Ian Mayton
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SAINT VALENTINE HAS come to the rescue with sweet last-minute ideas including wining, casual dining — think heart shaped pizzas — and indulgent treats. On this day of love, follow your whims!
Cacao & Cardamom
Cacoa & Cardamom
The artisan chocolate shop’s new Meant to Be collection combines classic flavors we love that go together like peanut butter and jelly. Choose from Champagne & Strawberries (Laurent-Perrier Champagne Caramel, finished with Champagne Cognac wrapped in a strawberry chocolate shell), Peanut Butter & Jelly, and Popcorn & Butter.
Hugo's
Chef Hugo Ortega’s four-course Valentine’s menu and its Corazon strawberry dessert — with coconut cream, Champagne gel and crystalized rose petals — is a real heart thumper. Hit the patio or full bar with award-winning wine list and inventive cocktails. Feliz de San Valenin!
Montrose Collective Sip & Stroll
Explore Montrose Collective and stop by participating retailers for complimentary sips and light bites on Feb. 16 from 5-7:30pm. Featuring live music in the paseo, guests can also partake in candle pouring and bouquet making stations. Fun! RSVPs required, so book your spot here.
Montrose Cheese & Wine
Flowers at Montrose Cheese & Wine
Here’s a one-stop shop for all things lovely to pick-up like global cheeses, small-batch wines and even fresh flowers! Enjoy a glass of wine (we suggest June’s rosé by June Rodil) along with a nosh like melon and bianca fresco, lemon-almond hazelnuts, or one of many cheese boards. Its passionfruit meringue tart is a no-brainer for the occasion.
Nice Winery
Nice Winery
Nice Winery in west Houston has an indulgent Wine & Chocolate class perfect for wine geeks Feb. 14 and Feb. 22 from 6-8pm. Taste through six delectable wines paired with six decadent chocolates. Winemaker Ryan will lead the discussion and guide you through the mouth-watering combinations.
North Italia
Roasted salmon at North Italia
On Valentine’s Day, North Italia is speaking every foodie’s love language with a three-course prix fixe menu ideal for dinner out or a cozy night at home. Starters include wild shrimp scampi, seasonal salad or a Chef’s Board. Follow with mains like roasted porchetta, squid ink tonnarelli, or roasted salmon. Its Strati Di Torta dessert is guaranteed to be as sweet as your date.
NoPo Café, Market & Bar
Valentine's sweets at NoPo
Grab a quick lunch or dinner and to pick up some pretty house-made love day treats — think sweetheart sugar cookies and festively decorated petite cakes for two.
Rosie Cannonball
Rosie Cannonball
Staying home this year? Perfect for a party of two with minimal prep time, Rosie’s Bella Notte kit includes heart shaped pepperoni pizza, spaghetti and meatballs, blistered bean salad, and molten chocolate cake. Also, a kitschy red plaid tablecloth and taper candle/holder to set the mood. Pick up available Feb. 14.
Sixty Vines, The Woodlands
Sixty Vines
Wine and dine your Valentine with an impromptu stop at this chic new outpost in The Woodlands. Every plate and pour is designed to inspire adventure and curiosity for wine. Tuck into bright seasonal salads, hand-tossed pizzas and pastas.
The Original Ninfa's, Navigation and Uptown
The Original Ninfa's (photo by Becca Wright)
On Feb. 14, anticipate a special Acenar con Amor menu with Valentine’s-themed cocktails and a three-course menu. Dig into roasted oysters, a petite filet mignon and chocolate mousse for two.
Vinny's
Vinny’s in EaDo has a great way to eat your heart out: giant heart-shaped New York style pizzas! Special Valentine’s Day cocktails will also be on tap along with “appeteasers” and affordable bowls of delightful pasta.
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