River Oaks, TX May 2021

M AY 2 02 1

The Women's Issue

S T Y LE + B E AUT Y K EN D R A S C O T T LI F E + C U LTU R E WO M EN O F H O US T O N FOOD + DRINK T H E U LT I M AT E M AR G ARI TA

Call (713) 804-DRIP for Appointments & Pricing www. au reaivspa.com

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

Kamilla Batchelor | kamilla.batchelor@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Hey Ladies!

THIS MONTH’S ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO HOUSTON WOMEN! We recognize a few women making a difference in our community with their unique skill sets – we

Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

hope you take the time to read about each of them. If you’re interested in someone’s story, try reaching out on social media to learn even more! You never know what new opportunities and partnerships could come from it.

We are also so pleased to feature Kendra Scott, a leader in the style and fashion world since the inception of her now billion-dollar business. No matter how busy she gets, Kendra keeps what matters to her at the top of her priority list – never losing sight of who or what should receive her time. Her philanthropic efforts and her presence as a mom of three boys exemplify what it means to be a mom on the go.

The Women’s issue wouldn’t be complete without good Houston flavors. Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, we’ve got a recipe for The Ultimate Margarita from Monica Richards, Beverage Manager and Chief Marketing Officer at Arnaldo Richard’s Picos. We’ve also done the hard work of rounding up delicious barbeque so you can celebrate National BBQ Month all month long.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

There is so much to celebrate this month - spoil yourself and enjoy the festivities.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Stay safe and healthy, Houston!

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Gabi De la Rosa, Editor

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Kendra Scott PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KENDRA SCOTT 4

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

Proverbs 3:5-6 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River Oaks area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 14 Women of Houston Recognizing women making a difference in our community.

22 The Genuine Article Kendra Scott shares her thoughts on women in leadership, family, and philanthropy.

28 Authentic Flavors May is National Barbeque Month, so we brought the best to you in a BBQ tour of Houston.

34 The Ultimate Margarita Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, Monica Richards of Arnaldo Richards’

22 14

Picos Restaurant shares her recipe for the ultimate Margarita.

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DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

14

Local Limelight

28 Hot Spot 30 Open House 32 Travel Destination 34 Culinary Creations

GOOD TIMES

Original Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit coming to Houston Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit – the original, blockbuster digital art experience that has received rave reviews from critics worldwide is coming to Houston this summer. Designed by Creative Director and Italian film producer Massimiliano Siccardi, with music by Italian multimedia composer Luca Longobardi, the production harnesses 60,600 frames of captivating video totaling 90,000,000 pixels and 500,000+ cubic feet of projections to create a spectacularly breathtaking creative encounter like no other. Official tickets are available at HoustonVanGogh.com. Photo Credit Michael Brosilow.

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River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

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AROUND TOWN Shops are stocked daily with unique plant-based meals made in-house, step-by-step juice cleanses, and tonics aimed to enhance vitality. To JuiceLand, nourishment comes in the form of good foods, a healthy environment, and a vibrant community. The company practices gratitude for all by sourcing our ingredients sustainably, using only compostable and recyclable packaging, and cultivating a fun, inviting vibe in every shop that is inspiring and welcoming to all.

CHRIS SHEPHARD TO OPEN REGENT SQUARE RESTAURANT FOCUSED ON LIVE FIRE COOKING Acclaimed

Houston-based

Underbelly

Hospitality is growing its hometown footprint moments from where the city was first born and just steps from Buffalo Bayou Park. The restaurant group, led by James Beard Award-Winning Chef/ Owner Chris Shepherd, has signed a lease for a 5,000-square-foot standalone space with rooftop terrace at Regent Square, a game-changing urban infill development reimagining the in-demand Allen Parkway corridor, which abuts Montrose and bridges downtown and River Oaks.

HOUSTON JUST GOT A LITTLE BRIGHTER: DIAMONDS DIRECT ANNOUNCES NEW LOCATION Diamonds Direct, worldwide leader in diamond sourcing and consumer education, is opening their first Houston location at 3115 West Loop South in March. Diamonds Direct, founded in 1995, is part of a generations-old tradition of eliminating the middlemen and sourcing direct from the world’s best mines and most reputable diamond cutters.

By maintaining involvement in the entire lifecycle of a diamond, Diamonds Direct ensures quality diamonds are handpicked for their retail locations across the United States at the very best prices.

Diamonds Direct’s signature approach is designed to provide tremendous value for the consumer.

JUICELAND HOUSTON

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MOONSHOT COMPOST SELECTED FOR THE ION’S SMART AND RESILIENT CITIES ACCELERATOR

Fueled by fun and the belief that fresh foods can

Moonshot Compost, a Houston-based food

be life changing, award-winning juice bar, JuiceLand,

waste diversion startup, has been selected as one

creates raw cold-pressed juices and superfood

of five members of Cohort 3 of The Ion’s Smart and

smoothies from the most interesting and delicious

Resilient Cities Accelerator, (ISRCA) with program-

fruits, vegetables, and ingredients around.

ming set to start immediately. ISRCA addresses

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

the needs of Houston and its citizens by deploying technology into existing civic infrastructure and by helping startups positively impact the quality of life for Houstonians with practical, sustainable and resilient actions.

Moonshot is a member of the U.S. Composting Council, which advances compost manufacturing, compost utilization and organics recycling to benefit its members, society and the environment.

CAFE LEONELLI DEBUTS AT MFAH’S KINDER BUILDING The magic of Michelin Star Chef Jonathan Benno is behind this new café at The Museum of Fine Arts Kinder Building. An offshoot of Leonelli Bakery in New York, the menu features house-made focaccia with a variety of toppings, sandwiches, soups, salads, baked pastas, meat and seafood dishes. Their innovative desserts are showstoppers too, including homemade ice cream, signature popsicles, ice cream sandwiches and milkshakes, all of which are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Pair these indulgences with coffee roasted by La Colombe, teas, espresso and Italian sodas for a memorable experience.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle. com/RiverOaks using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

11

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UNIVERSITY PLACE – MEMORIAL HERMANN’S SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS OF INDEPENDENT LIVING—ALL FROM ONE OF HOUSTON’S MOST TRUSTED HEALTH SYSTEMS Retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter. At University Place, we foster a culture of community that allows you to thrive in retirement and maintain your independence.

With perks such as restaurant-style dining, various amenities, and complimentary health and wellness memberships, you can enjoy active senior living with the freedom to focus on doing more of what you love.

Here’s what our residents have to say:

“It was convenient to move here and not have to worry about a house. I enjoy the freedom.”

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“What I enjoy most is the people. It’s delightful living here.”

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meeting our needs before we even ask.”

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If you’re considering independent living as for you:

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Indulge in the perks of residential life without having to deal with housekeeping and ongoing maintenance. Set aside hassles and chores. With maintenance of the things you enjoy. And, because Houston’s weather can be unpredictable, take comfort in knowing that University Place benefits from the same safety features and resources as Memorial Hermann Health System.

Enjoy restaurant-style dining, weekly linen service, and complimentary health and wellness memberships. You can be as active as you choose with activities that a variety of opportunities for recreation that can help you cultivate your interests.

3. Engage in an Active Social Life

We make it easy to have an active social life. Whether you meet a new partner or expand your circle of friends, at University Place you can to get to know other residents, pursue new hobbies, learn new skills and meet new friends.

4. Take Advantage of Our Convenient Location

University Place is within walking distance of Houston Baptist University and Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. trusted Memorial Hermann facility, while enjoying its proximity to restaurants, shopping and more.

5. Take Comfort in Continuity of Care

Understanding that the level of care you need may change, University Place is continue to live in the same caring environment. When you choose us for independent living, you can take comfort in knowing that Personal Assistance Services and home health services are available to you should the need arise in the future – all from the convenience of your University Place apartment.

Welcome Home

With competitive monthly rates and movein specials available, you can enjoy a worryfree lifestyle with no deposit required.

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

RECOGNIZING WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY.

DR. SONIA KRISH CO-FOUNDER OF WELLNESS SPACE JOINWELLNESSSPACE.COM WHY WAS IT IMPORTONT FOR YOU TO OPEN WELLNESS SPACE? As a physician who was starting in private practice a few years ago, I knew nothing about renting office space. My husband Sunny Somaiya, who works in real estate, and I searched for months only to realize that finding a space I could afford and be proud of bringing my patients to was impossible. It dawned on us that there must be other practitioners in this same

WOMEN OF HOUSTON

predicament and that there needs to be an easier way for practitioners to start a practice. This is how WellnessSpace was born.

We facilitate practices that are interested in being lean. WellnessSpace provides practitioners of all types with private, furnished treatment suites for rent by the hour or longer. There is no upfront investment and no long-term leases. We take care of the office management responsibilities, so our practitioners can focus on what they do best - taking care of patients.

HOW CAN WOMEN EASILY INCORPORATE WELLNESS INTO THEIR DAILY LIVES? The best way for women to incorporate and maintain a daily wellness practice is to establish a “why” they cannot ignore. Having to play many roles in life - navigating the home and workplace landscape - can be challenging, and success starts from taking care of oneself.

Wellness for me means practicing meditation and mindfulness daily. These practices help me cope with the demands and stress of being a full-time working mother of two energetic young children.

Photo Credit Rocketbait Photo Tours

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River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

Photo Courtesy of Heidi Vaughan

H E I D I VA U G H A N OWNER, HEIDI VAUGHAN FINE ART HEIDIVAUGHANFINEART.COM WHAT IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT COLLECTING ART? Without a doubt, the most prominent misconception people have about collecting art is that they can’t afford it. Our clients are often surprised to find out that they can own the work of museum-level artists at a price far lower than they expected. At Heidi Vaughan Fine Art, we regularly work with clients who have never bought art before, and we help them understand what collecting is about and what contributes to art value. Art pricing is not random, and there is a reason it costs what it does. A dealer should be able to tell you what those reasons are for a particular work of art.

HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS BECOME MORE CONFIDENT WHEN THEY PURCHASE ART? We love helping our clients become confident about their art purchases, and building this confidence takes time. New collectors should be wary of anyone who pressures them to make a purchase.

I often say making a significant art purchase is like getting a dog; you should be confident you like it because you will likely live with it for a long time.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO YOU TO REPRESENT LOCAL ARTISTS? I am interested in supporting locals in general, whether it is a restaurant or a business, or a person. With regards to art, local art can be especially personally meaningful. Artists make art about what they know, just like writers generally write about subjects and events that have affected their lives.

Art produced in Texas tells the story of the Texas experience from an array of perspectives. Houston art is even more specific. Because I live here, collecting local art gives me a deep sense of personal connection to the art.

CONTINUED >

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

RANIA MANKARIOUS, MA, JD CEO CRIME STOPPERS OF HOUSTON CRIME-STOPPERS.ORG

WHAT WAS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND YOU JOINING CRIME STOPPERS? I had a unique background, and all of it led me to the nonprofit sector. I grew up in Boston, MA, went to a Jesuit College (Boston College) where the concept of “giving back” was heavily ingrained. I went to law school and I also completed a master’s degree in Marriage & Family therapy.

I became very intrigued by the role of public safety in our lives, and as times changed and problems changed, these issues only became more important to me. Joining Crime Stoppers in 2006 gave me the tools to focus on my interests and contribute to the community in a meaningful way.

AFTER SO MANY YEARS AT CRIME STOPPERS, WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED? With every presentation, every breaking news story, every community meeting, or lunch discussion, I see the inherent value in providing people a safe place to live, work, and play. I don’t want one more child to be victimized or an animal be tortured; I don’t want one more neighborhood to suffer a home invasion; I don’t want one more school to see violence on its doorstep, and I believe we can do a lot to stop those things preemptively.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU GIVE WOMEN ENTERING THE WORKFORCE? I challenge them to work hard each day; know the material; know the various angles; know their actual limitations and boundaries. I encourage them to be a team player, respect others, while standing up for themselves and for what is right without hesitation. The rest will fall into place.

Photo Credit Crime Stoppers of Houston

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River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

Judy Agee and Jaleh Sallee, Photo Credit Kirsten Gilliam

JUDY AGEE AND JALEH SALLEE OWNERS OF LÉRÁNT SHOPLERANT.COM Those in the know have been shopping at Léránt, an upscale boutique in Houston’s Galleria area for over 25 years. Offering a wide range of items from luxury accessories and tableware to home décor, baby goods, and jewelry, the store has adapted to Houston’s ever-changing retail environment. Owners Judy Agee and Jaleh Sallee are proud their small business has survived the likes of Hurricane Harvey, COVID-19, and Winter Storm Uri, all while keeping their staff fully employed. Léránt boasts an extensive list of luxury brands and an even longer list of devoted Houston clientele.

WHAT SETS HOUSTON APART FROM OTHER CITIES AS FAR AS STYLE AND HOME DECOR? Houston is so different in the sense that we have a ton of international design influence, and we appreciate various cultures from all over the world. The city continues to evolve dynamically. It offers Houstonians the ability to escape to a destination without ever having to leave their home — if they wish.

AFTER BEING IN BUSINESS FOR SO MANY YEARS, WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING? The loyalty of our customers and staff remains our constant motivation. Being in business for a quarter of a century, clients have grown into a family, and we are truly grateful for those relationships today. We take great pride in customer service and cater to our customers’ needs with pleasure.

CONTINUED >

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

MICHAL MICHAELI EXECUTIVE PASTRY CHEF OF SOF HOSPITALITY (DORIS METROPOLITAN, BĀDOLINA, HAMSA) BADOLINABAKERY.COM

Bādolina Bakery & Café, from the owners of highly acclaimed Israeli Steakhouse Doris Metropolitan, will open its doors in Rice Village later this month. The made-to-order bake lab will showcase the creations of executive pastry chef and partner Michal Michaeli, who is known for her famous breads, desserts, and cakes. The bakery evolved after her pastry products at Doris Metropolitan took on a life of their own.

Bādolina features flavor profiles from around the world bringing rich, cultural specialties to life.

The menu will include modern Middle Eastern and Israeli baked goods, sweet and savory pastries, along with specialty sourdoughs, croissants, babkas, and more. Custom roasted beans for Bādolina’s signature blended coffee are in the works as well.

HOW DO YOU STAY INNOVATIVE IN YOUR BAKING? I have a passion for the world of baking and its beautiful raw materials and am always curious when I see or taste something new. Something sparks inside of me, and I have an urge to explore the material. I draw inspiration from so many people, cultures, and techniques and constantly incorporate those elements into my work to see what I come up with and how to make them my own.

WHAT IS ONE INGREDIENT THAT YOU ARE SECRETLY OBSESSED WITH, AND WHY? My favorite ingredients are spices: coriander seeds, cardamom, tonka, and fresh herbs. I think zaatar is a brilliant herb, which you cannot find in Houston, so I grow it myself at home.

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River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

Photo Credit Kirsten Gilliam

EMBRACE YOUR INDEPENDENCE LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE

THRIVE IN RETIREMENT AT UNIVERSITY PLACE, MEMORIAL HERMANN’S SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY Experience the benefits of independent living—all from one of Houston’s most trusted health systems. At University Place, our senior living specialists foster a culture of community that allow you to thrive in retirement and maintain your independence. We offer a variety of spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments that fit your lifestyle. With perks such as restaurant-style dining, complimentary valet services, and membership to the Bradshaw Fitness Center, you have the freedom to focus on doing more of what you love. Plus, you can rest assured that we remain committed to the health and safety of our residents and staff.

Move in now to receive two months free rent!

Call 713.541.2900 to schedule a tour and receive a $15 Starbucks gift card. memorialhermann.org/retirenow

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ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

Photo Courtesy of Kendra Scott

THE GE N U I N E A RT IC L E 22

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

KENDRA SCOTT SHARES HER THOUGHTS ON WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP, FAMILY, AND PHILANTHROPY.

KENDRA SCOTT HAS ENJOYED A CAREER MAKING STYLISH ACCESSORIES SINCE STARTING HER JEWELRY BUSINESS IN 2002. Her delicate designs come in a wide array of colorful, semi-precious, and fine materials with feminine names like Elise, Tessa, and Danielle. She built her iconic brand by giving women what they want – fashionable and affordable jewelry that holds its value and style.

After twenty years in the business and over 100 stores nationwide, she is one of only a handful of women in the United States to be the founder of a company valued at one billion dollars.

Scott has spent the last two decades learning lessons about motherhood, philanthropy, and being a woman in a sphere of influence. Although she has seen her share of failures, Scott makes it a point to surround herself with a good team and isn’t afraid to ask for help. She sees strength in knowing when to turn to others, which led her to recently make one of her most significant career changes.

Photo Courtesy of Kendra Scott

CONTINUED >

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THE GENUINE ARTICLE (CONTINUED)

Photo Courtesy of Kendra Scott

“This year, I decided to hand over the role of CEO to my trusted friend and former President, Tom Nolan, which has allowed me to step further into my roles as designer, executive chairwoman, and philanthropist,” she said. “So often we as women want to believe we can do it all, but when we realize that it’s important to lean on others for support so we can put our full passion into making an impact, that is when we truly shine.”

The Austin-based entrepreneur began her business as a young mom and strived to create a “utopia for working moms and for women like me who wanted to do it all.” Now a mom to three boys, Scott believes she has succeeded in her vision of empowering other women to live their best lives. She credits setting boundaries and encouraging her team to “take time for wellness” as examples of what should be common in the workplace.

Fashion and trends go hand in hand, leading many creatives to turn towards trends for their inspiration. Scott, however, turns inward and relies on self-care, traveling, and her family to keep her motivated. During the pandemic, she has spent a lot of time with her family at her mountain retreat. For Scott, the change of scenery, outdoor activity, and family time has been therapeutic and a great source of inspiration.

“For me, spending time with my kids really helps me not only connect with my family and have fun but take a break from the office and tap into the self-care that is so important,” she says. “We love doing active things like bike riding, hiking, and taking our pups, Duke and Gracie, for walks.”

In addition to family and fashion, one of the motivating factors in Scott’s business since its inception has been philanthropy.

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River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

Photo Courtesy of Kendra Scott

Her platform is used to give back to others in a

“My step-father once told me something that has

meaningful way, and she primarily focuses on

shaped how I view life: You’re here on this earth for

causes that support women and children. Her

a short time, and while you’re here, do something

charitable giving adapts to the changing needs of

good,” says Scott. “From the first day I started

the community, and over the past year, the brand’s

Kendra Scott, I decided that if anyone came to me

philanthropy pivoted to COVID-19 relief. This effort

asking for help, I would find a way to give back.”

included donating over 3 million meals to Feeding

This is a transitional year for Scott and her

America through sales from the Everlyne Bracelet,

business. No longer CEO of her massive brand,

providing materials for over 4,500 masks to front-

she may have more time for fun pursuits like her

line workers, and hosting over 1,000 virtual give-

recent stint on Shark Tank and could be vaulted

back events in place of store events to help local

into crossover fame, as so many in the fashion

charities raise funding.

world are. Ever the entrepreneur, however, we will

An unprecedented year also led Scott to put

most likely see Scott working on her next big idea.

her philanthropic efforts toward mental health

“As women, sometimes we put such pressure on

issues, as well. She recently partnered with

ourselves to be perfect, worrying about making

Active Minds, a nonprofit organization dedi-

that just-right step rather than simply taking

cated to raising mental health awareness and

action.” And as Scott has proven time and again,

removing mental health stigma.

when she takes action, good things happen.

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

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HOT SPOT 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe High Country, Photo Credit Chevrolet.

AUTHENTIC FLAVORS MAY IS NATIONAL BARBEQUE MONTH, SO WE BROUGHT THE BEST TO YOU IN A BBQ TOUR OF HOUSTON.

ARTICLE RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

WITH SUMMER TEMPERATURES IN FULL SWING, WE ARE KICKING OFF MAY, ALSO KNOWN AS NATIONAL BBQ MONTH, WITH A BBQ TOUR OF HOUSTON. Houston is a mecca of barbecue restaurants that just keeps on giving, but we brought you three that are worth a visit: Feges BBQ, Goode Company BBQ, and Pinkerton’s Barbeque – all Houston favorites for a reason.

There is no better way to drive around looking for great barbecue than in the new 2021 Chevy Tahoe, which has held the title of best-selling full-size SUV in the U.S. for the last 19 years. Now, this iconic SUV has been fully redesigned to carry its legacy into a new era. Chevrolet has taken what people love most about the Tahoe and made it even better. There is upgraded technology including WiFi, more safety features than ever before, and more interior and cargo room for your barbeque crew.

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River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

Feges BBQ, Photo Credit Julie Soefer

Goode Company Barbeque, Photo Credit Goode Company

Pinkerton's Barbeque, Photo Credit Grant Pinkerton

Feges BBQ is known for its approach to combining traditional flavors with a modern interpretation of the classics. Their menu offers a delicious selection of perfectly smoked meats with non-traditional sides like Moroccan Carrots, Elote Salad, and Spiced Cracklings.

Goode Company BBQ showcases Texas’s flavors in everything from their slow Mesquite smoked meats to their house-made sauce and pecan pie. What sets Goode Company BBQ apart from the others is their rub – a secret blend of herbs and spices. And finally, you have to try Pinkerton’s Barbecue which has gone from a food truck to multiple brick-and-mortar locations. Known for using a variation on his family’s recipes, Pinkerton pit-smokes his meats low and slow until they are pull apart tender and delicious.

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

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OPEN HOUSE

H O M E

3996 Inverness, 77019

CL ASSIC B E AU T Y

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A STORYBOOK RIVER OAKS ESTATE INSPIRED BY CASTLES

River Oaks. Wood beams found throughout the residence were

IN THE ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE IS NOW ON THE MARKET

salvaged from fallen trees on the property after Hurricane Ike. The

FOR $26.5 MILLION, LISTED EXCLUSIVELY BY DOUGLAS

grand gathering foyer was inspired by a dinner party scene in the

ELLIMAN TEXAS BROKER ASSOCIATE JEANINE KAMINSKI-

movie Atonement leading to an 800+ bottle wine cellar designed

DITZEL AND REALTOR ASSOCIATE RICHARD RAY. The 18,000

with triple barrel vault brick ceilings. The pub-style billiard room

square-foot manor offers a true sanctuary, tucked away in privacy

with full bar and built-in aquariums is paired perfectly with a state-

and seclusion on more than two acres at 3996 Inverness Dr. in

of-the-art theatre built for tiered seating of eight.

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

01

THIS ROMANTIC RIVER OAKS ESTATE TRANSPORTS GUESTS FROM CITY TO COUNTRYSIDE WITH THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR LIVING.

02

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Designed by award winning Houston-based designer, Robert Dame, the homeowners wanted the perfect blend of intimate space for family as well as an ideal setting for gatherings and entertaining.

ARTICLE RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY JULIE SOEFER 02

Built with over $1 million in stonework, the refined residence features superbly proportioned interiors, five stately carved fireplaces and masonry stone arches assembled of limestone and flooring imported from Cottswald, England.

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

31

TRAVEL DESTINATION

M OUNTAIN

SHADOWS

A BOUTIQUE ESCAPE IN PARADISE (VALLEY) ARTICLE KRISTIN HEGGLI PHOTOGRAPHY MOUNTAIN SHADOWS RESORT SCOTTSDALE + DAVE SANSOM PHOTOGRAPHY

MOUNTAIN SHADOWS SET THE BENCHMARK

FOR

DESERT

LUXURY

AND

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN WHEN IT FIRST OPENED IN 1959. Reopened in 2017, this boutique retreat has been completely re-envisioned from the ground up.

Set in the shadow of Camelback Mountain in the town of Paradise Valley, the resort sits just ten minutes from Old Town Scottsdale’s renowned dining, shopping, nightlife, and art galleries. Contemporary design is infused with a dash of 1950s modernism and abundant natural light. Choose from chic resort guestrooms and two-story lofts in the luxuriPhotography Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale 32

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

ous wing of residences.

Dave Sansom Photography

When it comes to planning your Paradise Valley escape,

Treat yourself to a true boutique experience at

keep an eye out for the resort’s annual summer sale, taking

Mountain Shadows that’s relaxing yet invigorating. The

place May 14 to 20 and offering the best rates of summer.

resort’s iconic views and Paradise Valley location cre-

Celebrating something special? Make it memorable by

ate a true sense of retreat, while the best of the Valley

reserving the Sip, Saber & Savor Experience, an immersive

is still easily accessible, from horseback riding to local

culinary experience for two with private events including

dining. This sleek getaway is an ideal resting stop for the

a Champagne sabering, Spirited Sipping Seminar, and

design-forward, modern traveler.

Food for Thought class.

MountainShadows.com

Photography Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

33

JUST IN TIME FOR CINCO DE MAYO, MONICA RICHARDS OF ARNALDO RICHARDS’ PICOS RESTAURANT SHARES HER RECIPE FOR THE ULTIMATE MARGARITA.

CULINARY CREATIONS

TH E U LTI M ATE M A RGA R ITA WHEN CELEBRATING CINCO DE MAYO, THERE ARE A FEW DRINKS THAT AUTOMATICALLY COME TO MIND, AND AT THE TOP OF THAT LIST IS THE MARGARITA. There is something about the combination of tequila, lime juice, and a salted rim that makes every celebration better.

Arnaldo Richards’ Picos, located in the city’s Upper Kirby District, has served up traditional Mexican food and drinks for nearly 40 years. The restaurant’s robust cocktail menu, comprised of over 20 margaritas including several served from their exclusive barrel collection, has established Picos as the go-to for those craving traditional Mexican food and a delicious margarita. “Picos has withstood the test of time in Houston because of our staff, the consistency in everything that is offered from our culinary team, and a feeling of family when you walk through our doors,” says Monica Richards, Beverage Manager and Chief Marketing Officer for the restaurant.

Richards, a fourth-generation restauranteur, shares Picos’ recipe for their Top Shelf Margarita just in time for your Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Photo Credit Nick De La Torre

INGREDIENTS ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

+ 1 1/4 juice from a fresh lime

34

Monica Richards, Photo Credit Christine Sheeren

+ 1/2 oz agave nectar + 1.5 oz El Jimador Reposado Tequila + 1 oz Cointreau Orange Liqueur

DIRECTIONS Mix and shake all the ingredients together. Pour over ice or straight up.

River Oaks Lifestyle | May 2021

Photo Credit Nick De La Torre

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3221 FONDREN RD. (second floor) HOUSTON, TX 77063 MON - SAT 10 AM - 6 PM • CALL US (713) 266-7772 • www.davidorientalrugs.com