by Warner Roberts
Heating
Up
Gaynell Drexler by Gittings
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Laurette M. Veres
MANAGING EDITOR
Karen Balla
DESIGN
Nicholas Nguyen
EDITORIAL
Laurette M. Veres
Zenah Al-Naimi
Karen Balla
Marisa Byers
Diego Correa
Warner Roberts
Sonia Soto
2024-2025
@InsideHouston
SUMMER IN HOUSTON HITS DIFFERENT. The city heats up—and so does the scene. From rooftop brunches to poolside soirées, this is the season to be seen, sip something cold, and stay out way too late.
In this issue, we’re spotlighting the moments that make Houston sizzle: the faces, the parties, the places you’ll wish you never left. We’ve got exclusive coverage of the city’s hottest events, plus a sneak peek at who’s making waves on the social circuit.
Whether you’re headed to a gallery opening in Montrose or chasing sunsets in Galveston, Inside Houston is your summer wingman. So grab your shades, turn the page, and let the good times roll.
See you out there,
Laurette Editor-in-Chief
Spots to Dine
PHOTO BY IVAN GARCIA STUDIO IMAGE
HOUSTON SWEETHEARTS
The 14th annual Houston Sweethearts Tea at Saks Fifth Avenue celebrated service, love, and appreciation for the community. The event honored The Mission of Yahweh, which aids homeless women and children by providing food, clothing and shelter and helps rehabilitate women to become self sufficient and productive members of society. —Karen Balla
This page, top to bottom, left to right: Ann Ayre, Kirk Kveton, and Co-Chair Alicia Smith; 2025 Houston Sweethearts Lesha Elsenbrook, Marilu Garza, Elizabeth Stein, Tena Faust, Tama Lundquist, and Heidi Turney; Betty Hrncir and Saula Valente; Co-Chairs Kim Moody, Alicia Smith, Deborah Duncan, Warner Roberts, Anne Carl and Sylvia Forsythe
This page, top to bottom, left to right: Sydney Faust, Co-Chair Warner Roberts, Elsie Eckert and Marge Lundquist; Heidi Rockecharlie and Alice Mao Brams; Jacob Stein, Sweetheart Elizabeth Stein, Alan Stein, and Laura Stein; Cheryl Byington and Bruce Padilla; Sandra Smith Cooper and Laura Murillo; Ann Ayre, Kirk Kveto, and Co-Chair
Alicia Smith; Barry Turney and Sweetheart
Heidi Turney, VP & GM SFA Houston; Tammie Johnson, Cheryl Byington, and Nini Hale
This page, top to bottom, left to right: 2024 Women of Substance Honorees Trini Mendenhall-Royalty, Edna Meyer-Nelson, Heidi Rockecharlie, Jerre Williams,Lara Bell, Leila Perrin, Marian McClendon; Sneha Merchant, Tama Lundquist, Tena Faust, and the honorable Theresa Chang
MYSTERIOUS WORLDS: UNVEILING
THE WONDERS OF HEALTHY LIVING
The Health Museum’s Annual Gala on November 2, 2024, raised a record-breaking $420,000 to support science education and outreach. Honoring Dr. Peter Hotez, the event featured live auctions, mystery boxes, and a surprise dance floor. Guests enjoyed fine dining, inspiring speeches, and an exciting celebration of health and innovation. —K.B.
Top to bottom, left to right: Dr. Peter Hotez; Walt Zilpprian and Ernie Manouse; Dr. Faith Stone, Dr. Michael and Dr. Anna Mapp; Dr. James Flowers, Shane Hutson, Michael Beard, and Robin French; Sophia Burnette, Duro Dina, and Dr. Peter Hotez; Cynthia and Cral Stutts; Dr. James Flowers, Robin French, Erica Littlejohn Burnette, and John Arcidiacono; Dr. Bonaventure and Edna Ngu; Dr. Kenneth and June Mattox
SPREAD YOUR WINGS
The 14th Annual Rockin’ Resiliency Luncheon raised nearly $300,000 for The Women’s Fund, supporting health education for Houston-area women and girls. Featuring speakers, awards, and fundraising events, the luncheon emphasized empowerment, advocacy, and resilience. Keynote speaker Alexis Loving shared an inspiring message on overcoming struggles and helping others succeed. —K.B.
Top to bottom, left to right: Monica Fulton,LindaRhodes,Lauren Summerville, and Amy Pierce; Dena Rafte, Lili Kirchner, Christine Kirchner, and Sonja Bruzauskas; Donae Cangelosi Chramosta, Rachel Regan and Beth Muecke; Magen Pastor and Roz Pactor; Donae and Bella Chramosta; Addie Dutt, Aliza Dutt, Cherise Esparza Gutierrez, Isabella Gutierrez, and Monica Fulton
SYNERGY MEDSPA: WHERE BEAUTY MEETS HEALTH
Story and photos by Diego Correa
At Synergy MedSpa, beauty is more than skin deep; it is a reflection of overall health. With an array of cutting-edge services, including facials, Botox, fillers, laser hair removal, and medical weight loss, Synergy MedSpa is redefining wellness. Continue reading to find out more about how their new implemented smart gym brings revolutionary fitness technology to their clients.
THE FUTURE OF FITNESS: SMART GYM AT SYNERGY
This February, Synergy MedSpa launched their smart gym, featuring one-on-one training
and plans for group classes. The highlight of this gym is the EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) body suit, a technology from Germany that transforms traditional workouts. While a typical workout activates about 45% of muscles, the EMS suit stimulates 85%, compressing three to four hours of exercise into just 20 minutes. The suit extends stimulation down to the calves, simulating a full-body workout you can achieve with less effort than going to the gym.
For optimal results, clients warm up on a Peloton treadmill before
using the suit. The next step involves strength training with the advanced Tonal machine. With suits available in a variety of sizes (XS to XL), Synergy MedSpa ensures a tailored experience for every client.
THE EXPERTS BEHIND SYNERGY
Michael Holloway, the medical director and founder, has over 20 years of experience in the medical field, with a background in surgery and a passion for fitness. His journey began in 2004 in Florida, working in a clinic focused on weight loss. A former Olympic pole vaulter and graduate of Duke University and the University of Florida, Michael brings a unique blend of medical expertise and athletic insight to Synergy MedSpa. His father, a microscopic ear surgeon, influenced his path
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“The idea first came to me about 10 years ago,” said Shane. “It was a simple concept with the silly name Oh Gnome!” The game underwent several changes, from the name to the gameplay itself, until eventually with the suggestion of his wife Carla, it evolved into Yard of the Month. Shane continued, “In addition to naming the game, Carla assisted me with fine-tuning the rules. She has been my muse since day one and has encouraged me to not give up, though I wanted to many times.” He also went on to say that an inspiration for the game would be his dislike for gnomes and his obsession with smashing them. “At one point in my life, there were certain things I hated: Smart Cars, Edward Furlong, and gnomes”, jokingly following with, “People would give me gnomes and I would smash them! I figured you know what, lets make a profit off my hatred.”
Shane released the first edition of Yard of the Month in 2018 via the crowdfunding platform, Kickstarter. By pitching the idea to strangers online and those in his community he was able to fund the game. Though the game was published, there were things about the campaign and the game itself that he felt could have been done differently. Applying his experience as a graphic designer, Shane created the art and did the design himself. Not completely satisfied with the outcome, he revisited the project in 2022 and has been working on it since with new art from his daughter Shelby. With a new look and updated rules, a revised edition is well on its way to once again hit a crowdfunding campaign. “If all goes right, the new edition should launch Summer 2025,” said Shane.
GET INTO THE GAME
“I spent a lot of time on this game and put my heart and soul into it,” said Shane. “I can’t say this card game is 100% original me. It’s me and my family. It’s me and my friends. It’s me and the people who helped me.”
Yard of the Month is what you make of it. You can hinder your friends and sabotage their yard to make yours look better, or you can be a good neighbor and help them grow their garden. Shane may have planted the seeds, but with all the people around him putting a gnome here, a birdhouse there, he has something that is larger than just two people at a table. Yard of The Month is his family, his friends, and you. Get familiar with the first edition today or purchase Yard of the Month second edition this summer, and gnome your friends… smashing not required.
You can follow along with the progress of the game online by visiting yardofthemonthgame.com
Eazy Peazy Events
INDULGING IN A UNIQUE, REFRESHING SPA EXPERIENCE
by Marisa Byers
Barnsley Resort is situated in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains. The property encompasses 3,000 acres full of exploration and wonder that were completed in 1848.
Sadly, the estate, the formal gardens, and historic buildings fell into ruin and it sat untouched for almost 40 years. In 1988, a Bavarian prince purchased the estate and began a massive restoration and rebirth of the historic gardens, focusing on maintaining the natural flora from its early days. The Barnsley Gardens and museum opened to the public in 1991. Finally, in 1999, the magnificent Barnsley Resort opened, offering an “English inspired village” nestled inside the phenomenal gardens. The Resort provides massage therapy, facials, and body treatments “utilizing the latest products from Eminence Organic Skincare.”
INSIDE HOUSTON RECOMMENDS: ANCIENT JAPANESE ART OF FOREST BATHING
Yes, forest bathing. This alternative therapeutic approach increases mental well-being and decreases stress and anxiety. A trained guide provides you with all the tools necessary to maximize your forest bathing encounter. One of the first tasks is walking through the gardens collecting leaves, flowers, bulbs, sticks, moss etc. Guides educate you on the native species of plants and flowers all along the grounds. You can meditate under the arms of a huge oak tree taking deep breaths and really listen to the whispers of the gardens around you. Then, use the treasures you collected during your walkabout to journal. You’ll leave inspired and enchanted by the natural and beautiful experience.
Beautiful Houstonians 10 Most
by Warner Roberts
It never gets easier to produce this article! However, because it is my joy to spotlight those in our community who do so much to benefit others, I present this one: my 19-year edition with Laurette Veres and my third year with Scott Evans of socialbook.com.
As I have collected favorite sayings for many years, I share a few of them here as we present Ten Beautiful Houstonians, philanthropists, volunteers, community servants, who give of their heart for others.
“Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”—John Wesley
“Wherever a man turns he can find someone who needs him.”—Albert Schweitzer
“Charity isn’t about pity, it is about love.”
—Mother Theresa
“No one has ever become poor by giving.”
—Anne Frank
“A man’s true wealth hereafter is the good he has done to his fellowmen.”—Mahatma Gandhi
“True charity is the desire to be useful to others with no thought of recompense.”
—Emanuel Swedenberg
“The miracle is this — the more you give, the more you have.”—Leonard Nimoy
“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”—Aesop
REMINDER: I define beauty as the ability to spread joy, lift spirits, encourage and inspire, and we measure it by service to mankind. With that definition in mind, we present 10 Most beautiful Houstonians who are not only physically captivating; they make our city more beautiful.
FARIDA ABJANI
FARIDA ABJANI is the CEO and co-founder of Aging Gracefully, a home health agency that provides personal care and companionship, wellness calls and pediatrics in the comfort of one’s own home. Prior to owning her own business, Farida served as a critical care nurse at the Texas Orthopedic Hospital and the Brookwood Medical Center. Totally committed to serving the community, currently Farida serves on the advisory board for the Department of Aging and Disability, the governing board of Houston Symphony, the governing board of UNICEF Southwest Region, the board of The Alliance, the governing board of KNOWAutism and the Houston Symphony League. Also, she serves/served on the boards of Development in Literacy (DIL), Ek Disha, Texas Executive Women and Fort Bend Women’s Center. Farida also volunteers for Asian American Family Services and the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services. She has chaired or co-chaired galas for Daya, Ek Disha, Development in Literacy, The Alliance gala, World Chamber of Commerce and the Houston Symphony Icon luncheon.
WENDY DAWSON
WENDY DAWSON is an awardwinning leader in educational technology, serving as the Founder and Managing Director of Incuentro LLC. This includes overseeing the Spectrum Linx division, an online platform dedicated to supporting families navigating autism and special needs. Under her leadership, Incuentro specializes in developing practical tools, trainings and consulting services in the neurodiversity and disability sectors. In 2010, she founded Social Motion, a non-profit offering social skills and vocational training to youth and young adults on the autism spectrum. Wendy serves as Founder and Executive Director of this impactful Houstonbased nonprofit. Wendy actively contributes her expertise as a speaker and consultant on topics such as autism, special needs, non-profit management, and strategic planning. Currently she is serving as a member of the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Texas Executive Women, Crime Stoppers NEEDS project, and is an alum of The Women President’s Organization. Wendy has also served as President of the Houston Bar Association Auxiliary and as an advisor to UT Health’s Children’s Learning Institute.
PHOTOS BY GITTINGS
GRETCHEN GILLIAM
GRETCHEN GILLIAM’S dream, from a very early age, was to be involved in the fashion industry. Through thirty years in the real estate business and a creative turn for two years in her own traveling Glamour Gypsies fashion truck to markets all over Houston and beyond, a brick-and-mortar shop evolved. With her dream clearly in mind and through losing one lease but finding another, The Hive Showroom Partners was born. Sharing a space on Rice Blvd, twelve small and womenowned businesses are under one roof, offering a variety of boutique clothing, hand-made jewelry, accessories, candles, gifts and home decor. They call themselves “The Bees.” As Gretchen says: “It’s like a beehive, where twelve female entrepreneurs pull together and bring different talents to the table. When you support small businesses, you are supporting a dream.” Next to her passion for fashion, and equally as important, is her love and dedication to the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. She is a 30-plus year volunteer along with being a Director of the “Show.” As she says, “The organization constantly amazes me with the outstanding rodeo, entertainment and livestock events while providing educational support within the community. I have met many of my best friends and mentors from my volunteer work.”
ALAN HELFMAN
ALAN HELFMAN was inspired by his parents to always live a philanthropic life. Therefore, he determined at an early age to give as abundantly as possible. He is president of his family’s group of five Helfman Auto Dealerships in Houston. One of his great passions is championing the brave men and women of the HPD. He has organized over 100 fundraising events for various law enforcement agencies, particularly the Houston Police Officers’ Union. In addition, he has donated to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the FBI, and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Alan partnered with Houston Community College to establish the Public Safety Institute of HCC-Northeast. Alan has contributed to Helfman Playground for All at Meadow Place, American Cancer Society, Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, Helfman Field at Caress Stadium, Houston Baptist University, Houston International Festival, KNOWAutism, Medicine Without Borders, and Jewish Family Services. After Hurricane Harvey, Alan helped raise over $4.7 million for the Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Center. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he donated KN95 masks for HPD and HFD. He has donated 14 vehicles to various agencies. Alan serves on a variety of non-profit boards
ROZ PACTOR
ROZ PACTOR is a fashion marketing consultant and lifestyle blogger with more than three decades of experience in fashion retailing including employment at Bloomingdales NYC, Neiman Marcus and as Vice President/ Fashion Director of Foley’s before starting her own company, The Pactor Group. In recent years she has concentrated on the development of her blog, My Red Glasses, a title that evolved from her years of wearing her personal trademark, red glasses. In addition to providing her unique perspective on fashion, the blog now has expanded to include the fields of beauty, health, dining, home areas, and travel. Roz feels grateful to be able to give back to organizations that are changing lives. Close to her heart is the American Heart Association where she has served as President and founder of the young professional’s organization, Young at Heart, worked on the Heart Ball and the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women and recently planned and executed the first, very successful Shop with Heart Card week-long AHA fundraising campaign. She has served in volunteer leadership positions for the University of Houston Department of Retail, Fashion Group International, Bo’s Place, Recipe for Success, Multiple Sclerosis luncheon, Hermann Park Conservancy Advisory, Passion for Fashion luncheon, Texas Children’s Ambassadors, Boys and Girls Harbor luncheon, and The Diaper Foundation. Roz says, “I believe that it is very important to give back in every way possible.”
EDWARD SANCHEZ
EDWARD SANCHEZ of Arched Beauty Architects, is Houston’s celebrity Makeup Artist, Brow Guru and Hair Expert with clients such as high-profile Houstonians as well as Hollywood celebrities. He feels privileged to have done make-up on five United States presidents over a 25-year period. Celebrity clients Edward has worked on for make-up, hair and brows include Jennifer Aniston, Christine Baranski, Paula Abdul, Betty White, George Clooney, Queen Noor of Jordan, Molly Ringwald and Joan Rivers. He has won praise for his talents from such national magazines as Vogue, that dubbed him the “Brow Whisperer,” Marie Clair, ALLURE, The Knot, Vanity Fair, Glamour and Eyelash. His ultimate goal has always been to help his clients feel and look beautiful in order to feel empowered. Edward Sanchez Cosmetics offers professional makeup, silk 3d lashes and skincare products. Edward feels strongly about serving the community. His philanthropic endeavors started when he co-chaired the Rock the Casbah for Society for Performing Arts. The afterparty that Edward spearheaded was such a success that other organizations asked him to start their young professions programs. Soon after, he volunteered for The Houston Ballet, The Houston Grand Opera, The Houston Symphony and others. Edward served on the boards of the Houston Arts Alliance and The Bayou City Arts Festival. Edward has volunteered for 25 years to The Look Good Feel Better Program, where thousands of volunteers that are licensed cosmetologists are trained and certified by Look Good Feel Better Foundation and the Professional Beauty Association at local, statewide and national workshops. The service is provided free to all cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and other forms of treatment to help patients understand and address appearance changes to their complexion, nail damage, hair loss and body changes. As Edward says, “I have lost so many members of my family, friends and co-workers to cancer; this is the very least that I can do to help.”
ALICIA SMITH
It would be hard to find someone in Houston who is more committed to community service and philanthropy than Alicia Smith . She is President and CEO of Innovative Legal Solutions, which began in 1992 when she created Associated Video Services, Inc. This company was the first female-owned legal video enterprise in Houston and soon expanded into Innovative Legal Solutions in 1997. Alicia serves on the boards of the Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance, Crime Stoppers of Houston, The Houston Ballet, the Southwest Regional Board of International Women’s Forum and the WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council) Forum, and on the Advisory Board of Houston Pet-Set. She previously served on the boards of the March of Dimes and UNICEF. She has chaired or co-chaired the Houston Ballet Nutcracker luncheon, The Ballet Ball, The Children’s Assessment Center Spirit of Spring luncheon and 20th anniversary gala, the March of Dimes Signature Chef dinner, The March of Dimes Best Dressed luncheon, UNICEF Audrey Hepburn gala, the Gr8 Foundation gala, Lutheran South Academy Blessings and Bling gala. Women’s Health Summit, Ronald McDonald House Girls Just Want to Have Fun luncheon, the American Heart Association Go Red for Women Luncheon, Bridge over Troubled Water luncheon, Amschwand Sarcoma Foundation Catwalk for a Cure luncheon, The Mission of Yahweh Mission Incredible gala, Houston Sweetheart Tea, among others. She has served on the Livestock Show and Rodeo Auction Angel committee for many years. In addition, she has served as a Guild member, an Invitation Chair, Auction Chair a Raffle Chair or simply where-ever there is a need.
FUN IN THE FLORIDA SUN
by Laurette M. Veres
Having fun in Fort Lauderdale centers around Las Olas Boulevard. Hotel guests at the Hyatt Centric Las Olas are at the center of the action in this modern hotel in the heart of downtown. The nautical aesthetic is inspired by the waterfront location near the canal system. The property is the perfect launch pad from which to explore the area.
The canals are a few minutes away and the walk is beautiful. Here you can enjoy free shuttle boats, restaurants and bars and you can experience Fort Lauderdale’s yachting lifestyle. The Boathouse at the Riverside offers brunch on the weekends and a full seafood menu for lunch and dinner. Watch as diners exit their yachts for a quick bite. As the sun sets, calm turns to merriment as the revelers come out to play. Bars and restaurants on Las Olas come to life, and vacationers run amuck. Stay out for minutes or hours and enjoy the party side of Florida.
Back at the Hyatt, Harborwood Urban Kitchen and Bar is serving modern American Cuisine inspired by global culinary influences with locally sourced ingredients. Executive Chef Greg McGowan has more 24 years of industry experience and oversees all food and beverage operations at the hotel. His menu features classic American dishes with an international twist.
With doors that open right onto Las Olas Boulevard, the restaurant’s inviting ambiance is perfect for guests to enjoy savory bites and unwind with handcrafted cocktails. The kitchen is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Spend hours on the eighth level of the hotel at Elev8. Enjoy a day out by the pool and soak in the skyline view, savor a menu of small bites, and sip delicious libations at the sky-high mixology bar. The pool deck has firepits and panoramic views of downtown. Other amenities include a hotel room that has been transformed into a speakeasy and a gym.
Visit hyatt.com/hyatt-centric/fllct-hyatt-centric-lasolas-fort-lauderdale for more information.
on the house-made guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips. Dinner was the highlight every day. Each evening, the chef showcased his creativity with a rotating menu inspired by Baja’s bountiful ingredients at two different restaurants: Botánica and Kahal. You do not want to miss the sunset at Kahal. It is an Instagram moment.
The Olas Spa was exactly what I needed after the Houston hustle. The 25,000 foot spa has a serene courtyard surrounded by desert plants where you can lounge before or after your treatments. The spa menu features a variety of treatments inspired by local traditions. I opted for the “Baja Bliss” massage - a heavenly 90-minute escape that used herbal oils sourced from the region. I
might have fallen asleep. They also offer facials, body scrubs, and yoga and Pilate sessions, all designed to help you reconnect with yourself.
There are other activities including fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, golf, surfing and walking through the artist community and galleries close by the resort.
Kimpton Mas Olas exceeded every expectation. This adultsonly resort is more than a destination – it is an experience that lingers and impacts you after you leave. Whether you are looking to decompress, celebrate a special occasion or simply bask in the beauty of Baja, pack your bags and head to Kimpton Mas Olas. Paradise is just a short flight away.
visitors can kayak, swim, or simply marvel at the surrounding beauty. Kayaking offers an intimate way to explore the lagoon, as you navigate its narrow entrance and enjoy the concealed corners of this captivating spot. This well-known attraction draws crowds, so it is highly recommended to arrive early in the day.
BIG LAGOON
Nestled within the heart of El Nido’s breathtaking Bacuit Bay, the Big Lagoon is one of the most iconic destinations in the Philippines. Famous for its emerald waters, soaring limestone cliffs, and serene ambiance, this natural wonder is a must-see for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. It stands out for its vast, cathedral-like surroundings, where crystal-clear waters are encased by dramatic limestone formations.
These ancient cliffs, millions of years old, were formed from ancient coral reefs that have risen over the course of millennia.
WHERE TO STAY
The LIHIM at El Nido, Palawan Resort seems to rise out of the mountainside as you arrive by boat. Incredible views give way to the welcoming staff, exuding Filipino hospitality, as they greet you with a refreshing fruity drink. Gaze upward to see the various villas cascading down the mountain, seamlessly intertwining with nature. Breakfast and coffee are served by the pool and depending upon the tide, you can also enjoy the property’s secluded beach.
Visitors will enjoy a Premium Villa featuring a King bed, minifridge, remote control window coverings, and luxurious separate tub and shower.
These private sanctuaries are sheltered by thatched roofs. Each
villa is intended to be cocooned in nature with privacy in mind. At LIHIM, you’ll enjoy the sound of waves crashing, birds singing, and picturesque views of Bacuit Bay.
Don’t skip the Panari Spa! The open space sanctuary, enveloped by nature, offers a collection of treatments including aromatherapy, hot stone massage, and deep tissue massage. Panari in the Cuyunon dialect means rest which is essential on this luxurious getaway.
The restaurant on the property is worth the flight around the world. The three-level building sits higher up on the hill than the hotel, providing stunning views, especially at sunset. The thoughtfully curated menu at Henri’s boasts expertly crafted dishes sourcing local farms and Palawan’s top-quality fish. Since opening in 2023, Henri’s has become the epitome of thoughtfully crafted dining.
HEAD INTO TOWN
When heading downtown, be sure to visit the Artcafe. It’s a great spot to visit anytime of the day to grab a bite, enjoy a coffee, sip a fruit shake, cocktail or have a meal. In the evening, the place comes alive with vibrant lighting and live music offering delicious international specialties with a diverse selection of salads made from fresh produce grown on their own organic farm.
ESSENTIALS lihim.com
DISCOVER THE BEST OF HOUSTON: TOP DINING EXPERIENCES IN CLUTCH CITY
by Zenah Al-Naimi
Photos by Diego Correa
Houston, the largest city in the south and the fourth largest city in the nation, is a vibrant city brimming with diverse culture, rich history and endless possibilities for adventure. Known for its booming oil industry and warm welcoming people, Houston is also known by its locals for its hidden gems in attractions, culinary delights, shopping and unique experiences. From its museums and lush green spaces to delicious food scene and dynamic nightlife, the Bayou City has something to offer everyone of all ages. If you are not from the city, it may be hard to pinpoint exactly what you are looking for or where in the city you can find your niche activity. Here are a few of our top picks.
HOUSTON’S MUST-TRY RESTAURANTS
You can’t talk about the south without mentioning barbecue and Houston has some of the best of it. Over the years, Houston has developed its own twist and flavor to BBQ which has made Clutch City’s smokehouses unique and better than ever. Place’s like Killen’s and Gatlin’s BBQ are some of the cities favorites when it comes to that traditional flavor, but here are some places that pack a punch of unique flavors and have their own twist to that smokehouse BBQ flavor.
If you ask around in the Montrose area, you will probably be pointed straight to the Pit Room. The Pit Room was created by a Houston local from Kingwood, Michael Sambrook whom is also a Baylor University alumni and University of Houston graduate who co-owns the restaurant with family members. This family-owned smokehouse can be found on Richmond Avenue and is open from 7:00am to 10:30am and then reopens at 11:00am to 9:00pm.
A Spot of
Tea
How to enjoy an English Tea Party
ENTERTAINING
by Karen Balla
photography by Karen Balla and Diego Correa
The timeless tradition of afternoon tea, which dates back to the 19th century, brings an air of sophistication to any gathering. A tea party offers a charming and elegant way to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy time with friends and family, or simply embrace the opportunity to dress up and indulge.
Hosting a tea party at your home can create a charming and personal touch. Start by setting the scene with an enchanting atmosphere, beginning with the table presentation. To create the perfect ambience, drape the table with a delicate tablecloth, adorn the table with flowers, and arrange beautiful teacups and saucers for each guest. A three-tiered cake stand is traditional to arrange the delightful menu you have planned, featuring a selection of teas paired with light bites. Popular choices include dainty finger sandwiches with classic fillings like sliced cucumber, egg salad, and smoked salmon. No tea party is complete without freshly baked scones served with jam and cream, as well as an assortment of sweet treats such as cupcakes, cookies, pastries, and fresh fruit.
Table etiquette is a set of social customs and manners recommended when attending a tea party. Teach your guests how to follow a few of the timehonored traditions. For example, stir your tea gently without clinking the spoon against the teacup. Hold the teacup by the handle and take small quiet sips. Contrary to popular belief it is not acceptable to hold your pinky up while drinking. Never pick up the saucer when drinking if you are sitting down, this is only suggested when standing. Encourage your guests to engage in polite conversation.
Keep the energy fun and light by playing a few games. Test the guest’s knowledge about tea related trivia with questions like “Which country consumes the most tea?”, or “What is the difference between green and black tea?” Have guests create or wear their most outrageous tea party hats and vote on categories like “Most Elegant,” “Most Creative”, or “Silliest.”
Create a tea party that will be cherished by your guests for years to come. It is a memorable gathering that provides everyone a moment to relax, celebrate and have a little fun.
Scone Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
4 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp white sugar
1/2 tsp salt
6 tbsp cold butter
2/3 cup milk
1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl sift flour, baking powder salt and sugar, add cold butter and use your fingertips to cut it into the mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. Don’t overdo it.
3. In a measuring cup add milk and egg. Whisk until combined. Reserve 2 tbsp to brush on the scones later then add the dry ingredients.
4. With a spatula fold everything together until a dough begins to form.
5. Place dough onto a well-floured surface. Flour your hands well and gently form a smooth ball. Do not knead.
6. Pat down on the dough until the surface is even and it is about 1 1/2 inches thick.
7. Dip your scone cutter into flour and cut into the dough in one swift motion.
8. Place onto the baking sheet. They should remove from the cutter easily if floured properly.
9. Brush the reserved egg/milk mixture on top of each scone with a pastry brush.
10. Sprinkle the top with white sugar and place in the oven to bake for 15 mins or until golden brown.