May 2024

Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Chef Juan Rojas On the Line

Come experience the pure joy of a great meal with Chef Juan Rojas, at Kritikos Grill located on 4809 Seawall Blvd, a traditional Greek restaurant with a fine Galveston island twist. Chef Juan invites you to take a tour of Greece with authentic greek flavors, from buttery and sizzling steaks to tzatziki lamb shank recipes. A native of Galveston, Chef Juan has worked in some fine establishments known for their flavorful food near popular tourist places.

Chef Spotlight

At Kritikos, he works with recipes that have been passed down for generations such as the tzatziki (a Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce), hummus, chicken soup, gyro (lamb and beef combination), and pastitsio (a Greek layer lasagna of pasta, ground beef, cheese, and béchamel layers). Chef Juan and the cooks at Kritikos, have also included meals such as burgers, gulf shrimp alfredo, pizza, gyro tacos, and Greek nachos on the happy hour menu. You can indulge in these happy hour specials Monday - Friday from 3 P.M. - 7 PM.

Chef Juan has also worked to create an exquisite vegetarian menu for the patrons that prefer it without taking away from the amazing experience. When you visit, be sure to save room for dessert! Tasting the desserts, you will surely leave a lot more satisfied than when you came in. The bread pudding prepared in-house has more than a few compliments along with the baklava which is a traditional pastry known for its sweet, rich flavor, and flaky texture. Last but not least, my personal favorite is the perfectly sweet and moist decadent chocolate cake. If you’re ever looking for something new, something familiar, or even a mix of both, then come on in. Here at Kritikos the staff can offer you just that, with the amazing hospitality that has made Galveston a well known tourist spot.

Things to do on the Island

The Historic Strand District best known as “The Strand” is the heart of Galveston. Located downtown offering many shopping areas, dining, entertainment, and nightlife. Take a stroll with a cold one!

A victorian-style house also known as “The Castle” is located on 1402 Brodway. Book tickets or a tour of one of Galveston’s beautiful architectural landmarks to view the site and hear ghost stories.

Come join the fun with a visit to the Aquarium for wildlife exhibits, the Rainforest for tropical gardens, and the 3D theater with a giant screen! Enjoy Palm Beach in the summer with its lazy river and wave pool. Want more? Try the Moody Garden zip line that will glide over palm beach!

This is a great place for train enthusiasts! With serveral train cars on display outside it allows you to walk through and climb aboard. Enjoy history? Then this is one museum you don’t want to miss out when you visit.

Make memories at our waterfront amusement park. Enjoy a walk on the pier, family oriented attractions, games, food and shopping. Great atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Take a ride on the ferris wheel while sunset!

One of the Island’s most popular fishing piers and picnic sites. Be sure to check out the Naval Museum!

Galveston Island is known for year-round fishing, with more than 100 different types of fish to catch. Depending on what side of the island you travel to, will depend on the type of fish you will snag. The piers on the west end and further you can count on catching Croakers, Speckled Trout, Sheepshead, Sand Trout, and Bull Reds. If you take a ride to Seawolf Park located on Pelican Island, this is a great spot for Black Drum and Redfish. This is one of the island’s most popular fishing places that provides great picnic sites, a playground, restrooms and even cleaning stations for your catch of the day!

Don’t want to fish on a pier, you can try kayak fishing, fish with a charter, or surf fish. Galveston has so many great options. Enjoy a day in the open water sailing the Gulf of Mexico with one of many of these charters such as Out Cast Charters located at 1721 61st Street, Keeping it Reel Fishing Charter located 715 N Holiday Dr., 3gFishing Charters located at 9301 Broadway St., or Wave Dancer Charters located at 715 N Holiday Drive. Fishing is like dating; it’s all catch and release until you find a keeper. Enjoy the island!

Q

: What are the most common fish you are likely to hook bayside/inshore?

A: Red Fish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, Flounder, Sheephead and Spanish Mackerel.

Q: What are the most common fish you are likely to hook in the Gulf?

A: The further you go in, you will likely catch Red Snapper, Mahi-Mahi, Tuna and Kingfish.

Q

: Are sharks found in Galveston?

A: Yes, they are found both inland and further out into the Gulf.

Flounder

Speckeled Trout

Yellowfin Tuna

WHAT A CATCH

A little night fishing out at the pier.

Enjoying the sunset and catching fish!

Redfish, Redfish, Redfish!

Scotty caught himself a Black Drum also known as a “BIG UGLY!”

Largemouth Bass caught at a local pond.

Realtor of the MONTH

Nicole Richardson

Real Estate done differently

Meet Nicole Richardson a Galveston native with Red & Co. Realty. She has been an agent since 2022, her ability to connect with clients and understand their needs is impecable. Her focus and attention to detail is beneficial when it comes to finding the perfect home for her clients. Give her a call today!

Q:

What advice would you give a first time home buyer?

A: To always speak to a lender to see where you stand financially. There are options for first time home buyers. If you don’t know where to begin with finding a lender, your Real Estate Agent can give you information for multiple people to talk to. If you are on the fence, focus on helping your credit score.

Q: What is required to become a first time home buyer in the State of Texas?

A: You have to have a minimum of 620 for your credit score. The average down payment is 6% of the price of the home. If you’re looking to buy a home for $300,00 you will want to put down $18,000. There are definitely situations where you don’t have to put as much down, your realtor and lender can help you figure that out. It’s not as scary and hard as it sounds!

Q: Can I back out of my contract?

A: It depends. There are a few clauses and reasons why a buyer can back out of a

contract at different times in the process. A typical example would be during a termination option period. For a nominal amount ranging from $200-250 for 7 to 10 days, the buyer has the right to terminate the contract for any reason, but we usually use this time to conduct inspections of the home. Failure to secure financing or if the home doesn’t meet appraisal value are other reasons.

Q:

If you could help any celebrity buy or sell a home, who would it be and why?

A: Willie Nelson! My husband and I just watched his documentary series and I fell in love with him even more. He helps with so many organizations, once he got to know the people on this Island he would bring in a lot of love to help our community. I was born and raised on the Island, I could tell him all the fun stories and fun spots! He would be a lot of fun to show our homes, too. We are so rich in culture and have such an amazing history, I think he would totally love it!

Welcome to

In the chronicles of Texas history, few cities glitter with the same defiant spirit as Galveston. Located along the Texas Gulf coast, Galveston’s distinguished past is as rich and diverse as the people who have come to call Galveston their home at one point or another. Embark with us on a journey through time, where the echoes of Galveston’s golden era

resound with tales of daring pirates, visionary pioneers, and a city that became the place to be.

As the mists of time part, we find ourselves transported to a time ago, where Galveston emerged as a beacon of progress and prosperity in the Lone Star State. It was a time when the city’s streets echoed with the clatter of horse-drawn carriages and the laughter of enterprising merchants. From its humble beginnings as a Karankawa Native American settlement to its rise as the “Queen City” of Texas, Galveston’s trajectory was nothing short of astonishing .

One cannot speak of Galveston’s golden era without first mentioning the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants. Fueled by a pioneering zeal and an insatiable thirst for innovation, Galvestonians blazed trails where others feared to tread. It was on the shores of Galveston that the legendary pirate Jean Lafitte sought refuge, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s history. From Lafitte’s clandestine exploits to the bustling commerce of the Moody, Sealy, and Kempner families, Galveston’s streets were lined with the footprints of innovators.

But what truly set Galveston apart during its golden era were its countless firsts. The city was a prime mover in more ways than one, boasting a litany of state firsts that left a lasting imprint on the tapestry of Texas history. From the Galveston Pavilion, the first building in Texas to be illuminated by electric lights, to the progressive spirit of its citizens,

Photo Courtsey of Vadim Troshin

to Galveston Island HIstory

who ushered in an era of civic reform and cultural resurgence, Galveston was a city ahead of its time.

Yet, amidst the glitz and glamor, Galveston was not without its trials and tribulations. The devastating Galveston hurricane of 1900 stands as a reminder of the city’s resilience in the face of adversity. In the aftermath of the storm, Galveston rose from the ashes like a phoenix, its spirit unbroken and its resolve unwavering.

Today, as we gaze upon the majestic Victorian buildings that line Galveston’s streets and marvel at the city’s rich architectural heritage, we are reminded of a time when Galveston truly shone as the brightest star in the Texas sky. From its early days as a pirate’s haven to it emergence as a cultural and economic powerhouse, Galveston’s golden era will forever be etched in the story of Texas.

As the sun sets on another day in Galveston, we are left to think about the legacy of a city that defied the odds and forged its own destiny. Though the sands of time may shift and the winds of change may blow, one thing remains constant: the persistent spirit of Galveston, a city that will forever stand as a testament to the power of perseverance, transformation, and the pursuit of greatness.

Photo Courtsey of Brad Sims

CREATIVE

Meet David Richardson The British Cowboy

Born and raised in England, David has been playing music in Galveston and the surrounding areas since he moved here to Texas. Playing classic country music such as Willie, Merle and Cash along with some original music. You can anticipate an album of original music to be available later this year.

Q: Who or what inspired you to get into music?

A: When I was younger I spent some time living in Spain and frequent it’s Irish bars and loved the live bands. It was Garth Brooks that turned me on to country music but love for the legends like Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard inspired me to write. However it was meeting local artists like Geoff Fish and Chris Bergeron who encouraged me at open mic night that gave the courage and inspiration to start taking it more seriously.

Q: What is your creative process when writing new music?

A: When I write a new song it normally comes from a story I heard or something someone said which sounds like it could be a line from a song. I then created my own story around that. Sometimes it’s true stories and sometimes it’s made up.

Q: What advice would you give to an upcoming muscian/artist?

MINDS

A:

If I could offer anyone advice I would say drink responsibly. It’s easy to get carried away with alcohol when you are performing and having fun. People want to buy you drinks and that’s a great perk to the job but it can also be bad for your health and get you into trouble with the law, which believe me is no fun. But I did get some good songs out of it. I would also tell them you are only as good as your audience, so be nice and respectful to people that you meet.

Q

: Describe your favorite and least favorite part about being a musician.

A: My favorite thing is seeing people laugh at jokes, dance and sing along with songs. When they are your own songs that’s an added bonus. I hate changing strings and folding cables. If I could get to a level where I can pay someone to do that for me, I’d be more than content.

Q: If you could open a show for any artist who would it be?

A: If I could open a show for anyone it would be Alan Jackson. I’ve always admired his style and his song writing. He has a passion for preserving traditional country music and the instruments such as steel guitar and fiddle which modern country have been known to bypass.

LET’S EAT WITH NOPALITOS

MIGAS A LA MEXICANA

CHICKEN

ENCHILADAS SURPRISE BURRITO

You won’t regret visiting this nice little restaurant tucked away from the inner Island located at 614 42nd St, Galveston, TX 77550. If you are craving vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, look no further. It has the best prices in town, more so if you’re on a family vacation with alot of loved ones, believe me they have a HUGE burrito that can be split in half for two! For only about $5.50 you can get a surprise burrito made with an authentic homemade tortilla with all your favorites, such as bacon, potato, beans and eggs. You can also do special add-ons like carne guisada to the burrito for an upcharge. Sky’s the limit! If you’re looking for lunch or dinner you can’t go wrong with authentic mexican rice that will remind you of your grandmother’s cooking. The enchiladas come in either beef or shredded chicken. Want neither? It’s ok you can also do a cheese enchilada if you prefer no meat. The seasoning for all their meats is just the right amount of salt and spice to give it that wow factor. The carne asada is full of mexican authentic flavors and grilled veggies such as onions and peppers to compliment the dish.

The homemade salsa verde has the perfect balance of tangy and spicy that will elevate any dish you get! The homemade red salsa is packed with bold and rich flavors but can have a bit of a bitterness that comes from the chilli powder. This sauce will level up any dish!

Yaga’s Cafe and Bar, located at 2314 Strand, is the nighlife spot. Check out their calendar for upcoming bands and DJs.

Love country music, drinks, and dancing? Come check out Buckshot Saloon. Located at 2409 Market St.

1 4 2 5 3 6

Great dive bar and great selection of drinks. Come enjoy a good time! Located at 2411 The Strand B.

Vibrant place to hangout. Free pool, giant jenga and shuffleboard. Located at 2310 Market St.

Largest tequila and mezcal selection on the Island! One place you do not want to miss. Located at 711 25th Street.

Come party at this highenergy club with DJs, dancing and regular drink specials located at 2413 The Strand.

2024 MAY

18 SAT 24 FRI 25 SAT 26 SUN 31 FRI 12 SUN

Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at the 1880 Garten Verein

2704 Avenue O Galveston, TX 77550 - 10am - 12pm

Held in the gorgeous 1880 Garten Verein, this festive brunch features individual seating for you and your group, a special gift for mothers, live music, and more.

10th Annual Crawfish Bash

Mainland City Centre, Right Move Storage, 10000 Emmett F Lowry Expy, Texas City, TX

77591 - 11am - 11pm

Best of the Gulf Coast Cook Off.

Paint Pour Workshop hosted by Clay Cup Studios

2219 Post Office St, Galveston, TX 77550 6pm-8pm

Range $15 - $20 plus $15 RSVP & studio fee. Feel free to bring any snacks the night of. We have several types of beer, wine and ciders here at the studio for in studio purchase. Outside alcohol into the studio is not allowed.

CHRIS YOUNG

Lago Mar Lagoon, Texas City, TX - Concert 6pm

The “Young Love and Saturday Nights” tour kicks off the start of summer.

SUNDAY FUNDAY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND BLOCKPARTY

McGuire-Dent Recreation Center at Menard Park, 2222 28th Street, Galveston, TX 4pm - 8pm

Come spend the day at the park! Bring your family, tent, chairs, animals, etc.

Island Vybz Reggae Fest

2102 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

This festival is a celebration of Caribbean culture, music, and community spirit. It will be a 2 day event. Friday, May 31st and Saturday, June 1st.

Hidden Gem

As I walked in, the modern ambience and the smell of fresh brewed coffee hit me. I was kindly greeted by one of the baristas, then I ordered a caramel pecan iced latte. The vibes I recieved were the perfect amount of sweetness with a slight hint of pecan to compliment the perfectly crafted drink. Take a stroll outside and enjoy the patio, where you can find cornhole and yard size connect four. Sugar Bean is a great spot for studying, family time or to catch up on work. Come experience Sugar Bean Coffee & Cream located in the Evia Community located at 11 Evia Main, Galveston, TX 77554.

The best mouthwatering BBQ on the Island! It will not disappoint.

Come grab a plate. Lou Lou is on fire making sure we don’t sell out before 3!

“A Wave From It All” where you can get that much needed rest and relax. What’s that one thing we all look for in a hotel, condo, or vacation rental? Excellent customer service is what we can provide to you and your family. Where we aim to please and know you’ll have the time of your life! Feel free to send a message with any and all questions so we can reach back out to fulfill that escape!

Registration number - GVR-05405

www.IslandVibeMagazine.com