DISTRICT Fall '23

DISTRICT FALL 2023

district-magazine.com

IN THE ISSUE

IN T R ODUCING E A S T R I V ER

T HE DAT ING G A ME

WOR K L IF E B A L A NCE

This new development

You matched!

How to make the most of work

is Houston’s next big thing.

Now, where to meet?

and play across the Districts.

CONTENTS FALL 2023

F E AT URE S

EDITORIAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Shannon Bedinger SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

New Across the Districts 6

Check out our new elevated brands and businesses.

Introducing East River 8

Houston’s latest development includes a golf course, office, retail, and residential spaces.

10

12

Work Remotely but Not Alone

Get the balance between work and home right.

From Meeting Hour to Happy Hour

Check out these District hotspots that can accommodate both work and happy hour.

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8

Averegine Sanchez

The Dating Game 16

So you matched online. Now where to go for the first date?

Our experts weigh in.

Your Next District Destination 24 Take this quiz to figure out where to head to next.

EDITORIAL TEAM

Shelby Sekaly Amanda Barron Audrey West Jessica Myers Christie Le Madi Poland Jessica Pontier ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

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Please contact: marketing@midway.team

DAILY GATHER

EAST RIVER

THE GENERAL PUBLIC

FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF

EDITORIAL PROJECT MANAGER

Scott Ray DESIGNER

Randi Reding CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marianne Dougherty Kate Hull Suzanne Stavinoha CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Cassandra Klepac CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER

Harrison Albrecht PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Aaron Chamberlain SALES SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, BROADCAST & CUSTOM PUBLISHING SALES, TEX AS MONTHLY & TEX AS COUNTRY REPORTER

Frank Librio CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Jalaane Levi-Garza FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CUSTOM CONTENT & PUBLISHING, PLEASE CONTACT:

flibrio@texasmonthly.com

From left: Midway Creative Group’s Christie Le, Madi Poland, Shannon Bedinger, Averegine Sanchez, Shelby Sekaly, Amanda Barron, and Jessica Myers. Photographed by Michael Starghill.

@COPYRIGHT 2023 MIDWAY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PRINTED IN THE USA .

Dear Reader, The world moves fast lately, and there’s been a lot of change— in the way we work and the way we live our daily lives. There’s not one way to be a professional anymore, and there’s not one kind of office. As new generations enter the workforce they adjust to new expectations, but they also bring new ways of doing things and new ways of seeing the world. It’s a beautiful thing when we can all learn from each other. That’s what this issue is all about. How do we move through the world in the best way—in our professional lives, in our personal lives, with those we work with and those we love? We’re happy to dive into this topic and to help you find that balance between your working life and just living your best life in general. All across the Districts, find new spots to entertain yourself, take care of yourself, treat yourself, and to enjoy time with coworkers, friends, and family. All that lies ahead in this issue of District

by Midway.

Join us as we explore tips for the day-to-day, for balancing working from home and going to the office, for strategies on how to network, and for how to unwind after working hours. Join us for wellness tips, a recipe or two, and some retail therapy.

In this issue of District by Midway, we’ll share what’s new and exciting across the Districts, and we’ll give you some ideas of where the best outings, meals, and shopping spots are. New fashion, new entertainment, and the hottest cuisine—you’ll find it here.

Let’s make this a new era at the Districts.

Cheers!

Midway Creative Group

For more on District By Midway, visit:

CA LEN DA R OF EV EN TS

F A L L // W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

MON T HLY

W EEK LY

For more information or to confirm details of these events, visit

Live Music

Fridays & Saturdays Year-round from 6–9 PM, CITYCENTRE

Enjoy a wide range of sounds, from smooth jazz to pop, and classic rock to country.

Sunday Night Live

Year-round from 3–6 PM, CITYCENTRE

Enjoy live music each Sunday with a line-up of inspirational artists.

CITYCENTRE Run Club Mondays beginning at 6 PM, CITYCENTRE

Meet in front of lululemon for a 3.5 mile run, followed by a social hour.

Trivia on The Green Thursdays from 7–9 PM, Century Square

Answer questions to compete and win prizes with friends.

lululemon Run Club at Century Square

Live Music on The Front Porch

Fridays & Saturdays from 7–10 PM Sundays from 6–8 PM, Century Square

A live music series with a tribute to Robert Earl Keen and Lyle Lovett, two Aggies finding their voice on their old front porch in College Station, TX.

lululemon Run Club

the below websites

Full Moon Ceremony with Yogi Jaz Porter and lululemon

provided for hours, fees, and more before heading out.

September 28th from 6:45–8:30 PM, CITYCENTRE

Intimate community ceremony hosted by lululemon Ambassador Yogi Jaz Porter. Join us for an energetically electric time for ritual and community as we navigate the cosmos together! luluemon giveaways, reflective journal prompts, yoga flow instruction, and more.

Tuesdays at 6 PM, Century Square

Free Stroller Strides

Live Music on the Lawn

Get fit while hanging out with the kids and have a delicious lunch.

Come out on the last Wednesday of every month for Stroller Strides with Fit4Mom Bryan-College Station.

Join a 3.5-mile community run ending with a happy hour at PORTERS.

Thursdays from 5:30–8 PM, September–November GreenStreet

Every 4th Wednesday of the month from 9:30–10:30 AM, Century Square

Enjoy happy hours specials from local restaurants and live music on The Lawn every Thursday.

Century Square century-square.com/events CIT YCENTRE citycentrehouston.com/events East River eastriverhtx.com/happenings/ events Finn Hall finnhallhou.com/events GreenStreet greenstreetdowntown.com/ calendar facebook.com/greenstreethou Memorial Green facebook.com/memorialgreen

Live Music on the Lawn at GreenStreet

Live Music at Century Square

ON THE COVER We’re exploring the Districts this issue, through entertainment, dining, shopping and more. What’s the best way to spend an evening? Where’s the best spot for a first date? Where should you meet up with friends after work? We’ve got suggestions for any occasion inside.

Full Moon Ceremony at CITYCENTRE

CHECK OUT THE DISTRICTS! For more information and to view the portfolio of Midway places in Houston, College Station, and beyond, scan this QR code or visit midway.team.

Photography & Production: Red Riding Hood Productions Models: Drake Malone, Austyn Brown, Elisa Noemí, and Taylor Buckley Shot on location at CITYCENTRE and GreenStreet in Houston, Texas. Special thanks to Daily Gather, 810 Billiards and Bowling, and Life Time Work with kind assistance from their staff.

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CA LEN DA R OF EV EN TS

F A L L // W I N T E R 2 0 2 3

Biergarten at Century Square

Photos with Santa at Memorial Green

Holiday in the Plaza at CITYCENTRE

MON T HLY

OC TOBER

NOV E MBER

Live Music on the Patio

CITYCENTRE Biergarten

Century Square Biergarten

Grab a pint, sit back, and watch football on the big screen in the plaza.

Join us this fall for the Century Square Biergarten, the ultimate venue for people to celebrate with drinks, food, live music, community, and some electric fall football!

Every third Thursday from 5–8 PM, Memorial Green

Enjoy live music on the patio at Memorial Green every third Thursday of the month. With dinner and drinks within arms reach from Jonathan’s The Rub and Dish Society, this is an evening that won’t disappoint.

Cars, Coffee, & Cookies Every Third Sunday 11–2 PM, Century Square

Sundays in October from 10 AM–11 PM, CITYCENTRE

Century Square Biergarten October Weekends, Century Square

Join us this fall for the Century Square Biergarten, the ultimate venue for people to celebrate with drinks, food, live music, community, and some electric fall football!

November Weekends, Century Square

Holiday in the Plaza

November 25 from 12–5 PM, CITYCENTRE

Take pictures with Santa and his reindeer while you enjoy a classic holiday music performance.

Parachute Play Time,

October 20 from 9 AM–11 PM, CITYCENTRE

DISTRICT by Midway

December 4 from 1–4 PM, Century Square

Come out for free photos with Santa, Christmas music, special booths and activities from the Century Square tenants, a hot chocolate station, and holiday performances!

Holiday Artisan Market, December 18 from 12–4 PM, Century Square

Snagging last-minute stocking stuffers has never been easier or more fun!

Support local artisans and find creative gifts from fragrant handmade soap to distinctive ornaments and more.

Celebrate the end of the year with a concert from DJ Bubbles, face painters, photo booth, caricature artists, and more!

October 29 from 4–7 PM, Century Square

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Jingle on The Green,

December 31 from 11 AM–1 PM, CITYCENTRE

Halloween Trick or Treat

Cars, Coffee, & Cookies at Century Square

DECE MBER

Noon Year’s Eve,

Join the British International School of Houston on the third Friday of every month from March to October with fun craft activities and games— don’t miss out on the big parachute!

Prowl the district for tasty treasures during a district-wide trick-or-treat.

The evening will end with a Monster Mash where kids can play and dance on The Green.

Halloween Trick or Treat at Century Square

New Year’s Eve Concert

December 31 from 9:30 PM–12:30 AM, CITYCENTRE Holiday in the Plaza at CITYCENTRE

Ring in the New Year surrounded by friends and family with a lively concert and countdown to midnight!

Give Me a (Stretch) Break!

Here’s what the experts say can keep you feeling good through the work day.

By Kate Hull

Y

ou know the drill: Stretching is important. Before a run, after a big workout, or to get ready for a gym session. But stretching is not just meant to accompany exercise and physical activity. Our bodies need multiple mid-day tune ups to ensure proper posture, prevent injuries, and support joint flexibility, particularly after sitting in that office chair or slouching in that work-from-home couch.

Those long hours at your desk and computer can take its toll. But not anymore.

Noel Thomas, a licensed physical therapist from Sugar Land and owner of private outpatient clinic, FYZICAL Therapy & Balance

Centers West Sugar Land alongside his wife Jayne, knows the value of regular, consistent stretching. He frequently consults patients with neck and back injuries from prolonged desk sitting.

Opting for a simple, quick stretch routine multiple times a day can ward off injury and keep desk pains at bay.

“Stretching at least three times a day is important to maintain proper posture and prevent muscle fatigue, especially for those who have a desk job,” Thomas says. “Stretching also helps to avoid overloading of muscles and tendons, keep the joint range of motion, prevent adaptive muscle shortening, improve body posture and biomechanics, and prevent falls in the elderly population.”

GO-TO STRETCH ROUTINE SPINAL ROTATION STRETCH

SEATED BACK STRETCH

Thomas cued up his top-five stretches to add to your workday routine that can be done in five minutes while at your desk. For the full routine, perform each movement and repeat five times.

Place one arm on the back of your chair and the other across your legs. Use that arm to push your torso towards the back of the chair. Hold the position for 5 seconds, and repeat it on the other side.

With a seated posture, keep your hands on the lower back and lean back over your hands for 5 seconds.

OVERHEAD SHOULDER/ARM STRETCH

CALF AND HAMSTRING STRETCH

NECK STRETCH

Extend your arms above your head and with shoulders back and down and interlace your fingers. Hold the position for 5 seconds.

Move toward the edge of the chair then extend one knee and point the toes toward you and hold it for 5 seconds.

Repeat on the other side.

Tilt your head toward the left side using the left arm. Gently push your right shoulder down until you feel a mild stretch for 5 seconds.

IT’S ALL ABOUT ERGONOMICS You’re stretching daily, you have your routine down. Now we are going that extra mile during the workday: desk ergonomics.

While stretching is a key component to maintaining muscle health, Thomas also says that your workspace needs to be designed with proper body positioning in mind. No slouching, hunching over, or staring up at a computer screen.

“Sit in an upright posture with your back fully against the chair and make sure your hip and knee joints are held at 90 degrees,” he says. “The top of your computer should also be at eye level or slightly below.”

Keep your computer at an arm’s length away and your elbow at 90 degrees, with your forearm supported on the table or lay tray.

And while you may tend to cross your legs, practice keeping your feet directly underneath your knees or slightly in front.

If you have an adjustable standing desk, change between sitting and standing after forty-five minutes to give your body a new position. If you don’t, ensure you are taking breaks to stand and move around. Thomas also likes to remind patients to take the work inward with breathing exercises.

“Take five to six deep breathes every one to two hours,” he says. Use the 4-7-8 method: Breath in for four seconds, hold for seven seconds, and excel for eight seconds. “This helps alleviate physical and emotional stress, prevents the overuse of neck muscles, and maintain proper rib cage expansion.”

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NEW Across the Districts The Districts continue to add new spots to work and play.

W

e’re always looking to ensure we’re offering the greatest retail, dining, and lifestyle experience at all of our many fun-filled locales. Now, there are more District locations than ever, from the newly opened East River, to Finn Hall, to CITYCENTRE, GreenStreet, Memorial Green, and Century Square.

There are always new experiences right around the corner, so be sure to check out these new tenants when you’re shopping in the Districts.

With the arrival of Tom’s Watch Bar, sports fans rejoice all across Houston. You’ve never watched the game like this before. Tom’s Watch Bar is the ultimate gameday headquarters with a giant stadium sized screen surrounded by literally hundreds of other screens, creating a 360 degree sports-watching experience. If that wasn’t enough, Tom’s has a full menu including craft cocktails and a huge selection of draft beers. Come down to GreenStreet and enjoy the game.

With all the exciting changes underway in the Fifth Ward, East River is proud to announce that the offices of Port Houston will be joining the new development along Buffalo Bayou. Port Houston has deep routes in the Fifth Ward, and this new move will keep their employees near the Houston ship channel, while also situating them at the epicenter of East River.

TEAL has teamed up with East River to provide a system for chilled water to a part of the East River District as well as a heated water system to the 360unit multi-family building at East River, The Laura.

Additionally, East River would like to welcome TEAL as they move their corporate headquarters to East River.

The focus at TEAL is sustainably driven innovation, a value East River has also embraced.

East River also welcomed Impact Networking to its new home at the first phase of the East River development. In addition to officing at East River, the Illinois based company with a focus on IT solutions will be partnering with East River to use Impact Networking as their IT service provider.

Another exciting development is the arrival of Method Architecture to the development at East River. This is a great match, since both the project and Method are dedicated to dynamic, daring, and innovative thinking in development and design.

American Threads joins the already impressive portfolio of fashion retail spots across the District with its new location at CITYCENTRE. Shop the latest styles in dresses, rompers, and more.

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DISTRICT by Midway

Explore Your City Like a Tourist No PTO? No problem. Your next greatest adventure can be in your hometown.

By Suzanne Stavinoha

H

ow many times have you faced this dilemma: It’s been a long, hard week of work, but it’s coming to an end and the weekend is in sight.

You and your crew don’t have any solid plans, but you’d like to avoid resorting to the same-old-same-old. How do you come up with something new?

Think like a tourist! For example, Houston is a city with an estimated 22 million visitors annually. What do those people do?

Luckily, Houston has about a thousand answers to that question. Your task is to narrow the list down to the half-dozen

or so that sound fun to you. Then round up your friends and head out! We did the work of narrowing down this list to the highlights so all you have to do is have fun.

Let’s start in the heart of downtown with a bite to eat. Since not everyone will agree on what those eats should be, best to look for variety. The Jones on Main is home to Finn Hall, an eclectic food court with eleven different restaurant concepts to choose from, including burgers, BBQ, and tacos as well as pizza pies and vegan smoothies.

With appetites satiated, it’s time to walk off some of those calories. It so

happens you’re just a stairwell away from one of Houston’s most distinctive attractions: The Tunnels. Built underground to give downtown denizens an air-conditioned way to get around, this six-mile labyrinth of shops and eateries links 95 city blocks. There’s a two-hour Tunnel Tour that lets you experience the cool convenience of it all.

Another great downtown venue to explore is GreenStreet, a unique mash-up of entertainment, food, offices, and green space. There’s billiards and bowling, a hotel, and blues music and margaritas, all arranged around landscaped courtyards. Just a short walk away is another “green” attraction, Discovery Green. This urban park features free fitness classes and concerts, plus a plethora of various events year-round.

Just east of downtown, you’ll find the hip haven of EaDo (EAst DOwntown) and 8th Wonder Brewery with its giant statue of The Beatles and a life-size, Instagram-worthy “We (heart) Houston” sign. Only a few blocks north of there is Minute Maid Park, home of the World Champion Houston Astros. Tourists and locals alike take the Ballpark Tour for a behind-the-bases look.

A little further on is East River, an innovative new development going up on the banks of Buffalo Bayou. Open now is Riverhouse Houston restaurant and East River 9, a nine-hole golf course in the center of the city complete with pickleball courts. Just outside of downtown, this destination offers a breath of fresh air and the best view of the Houston skyline.

Live like a local and explore like a tourist with these tips and tricks: Explore #HoustonDestinations or #ThingstodoinHouston on TikTok. Google “Visiting (your city name)” or “hidden gems of (your city name).”

Check out the Happenings pages at your favorite destinations.

Above from Top: The whole family can enjoy the new nine-hole course at East River 9; After your golf game, enjoy the tasty fare of Riverhouse at East River.

Left: Finn Hall is home to eleven exciting food vendors.

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I N T RODUCI NG

E AST R I V ER

8

DISTRICT by Midway

East Houston is buzzing with exciting growth and development, and the team at Midway is leading the charge.

T

he new East River development is the largest project happening in Houston right now. North of East Downtown and along the southern edge of the Fifth Ward, this mixed-use project is an equivalent of 60 downtown blocks. Apartments, restaurants, offices, retail, medical buildings, and entertainment are all a part of 1 million feet of new construction. East River 9, an exciting new golf course and the restaurant Riverhouse are open now.

At East River, urban meets nature, harmonizing the beautiful natural gifts of Houston with all the amenities of a modern, sophisticated city. It is intended to be highly walkable, bikable, and livable, channeling the city’s energy and spirit into a mixed-use space just minutes from downtown. The project reconnects the urban setting of the East End with over 6,000 feet of water frontage along the Buffalo Bayou.

Anna Deans, an Investment Manager at Midway, explains that the idea for East River began with a desire to create a large-scale destination within the Fifth Ward, with close proximity to downtown near the Buffalo Bayou.

“We wanted to create a pedestrian oriented environment for all to enjoy that represented everyone in our city,” Deans says.

This project has been in the works for years now and saw its fair share of challenges in the beginning. A project this large takes a lot of coordination and a lot of planning.

“It’s basically one-fifth the size of Downtown,” Dean says.

One of the largest projects in Houston is always a large undertaking, but some pre-leasing and building took place during COVID, making this job all that much larger.

“It was an interesting challenge,” Dean says, “but now we’re well on our way to finishing the first phase.”

The first phase includes 360 multifamily units, two office buildings, a parking garage, and retail buildings on the waterfront.

“We wanted to create a pedestrian oriented environment for all to enjoy that represented everyone in our city.”

–Anna Deans

Deans says her and her colleagues looked to the industrial history of the area to find inspiration for design. “What drove the design of early industrial buildings was really the function within the building,” Deans says. In much of the design, Midway sought to embrace that spirit of functionality in the design. That means you’ll see a lot of exposed materials like steel and concrete.

The design also sought to pair the area’s industrial roots with its history as a spot where artists and creators spent time. “The East End already has such a great kind of funky, cool, eclectic, artistic vibe,” Deans says. This legacy is reflected in space for murals, community art, and unique signage.

Deans says her team is excited to bring a new experience to Houstonians, who may not always think of the town as a place where people spend leisure time on the waterfront.

“It’s a very unique environment, waterfront patios and bike trails and beautiful park spaces along what really feels like a river in this part of the city,” Deans says. “It’s gonna be exciting when people can ride their bike along the trail and pull up to a restaurant and let their kids run around in the park with a great view of downtown in the background.”

eastriverhtx.com

Opposite Top Left: East River reconnects the urban setting of the East End with over 6,000 feet of water frontage along the Buffalo Bayou.

Opposite Bottom: The area will be highly walkable, bikable,and livable.

Top Right: East River is well on its way to completing the first phase of the project.

Bottom Right: In addition to being a destination in its own right, East River offers a lovely view of downtown Houston.

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How to Work Remotely, But Not Alone Getting the balance between work and home right.

By Suzanne Stavinoha

T

he pandemic changed the lives of everyone, but there were shifts to the way we work that aren’t all negative. People recalibrated their sense of how to make time for themselves. We all feel a renewed gratitude for gathering together with friends and loved ones, and certainly don’t take that for granted. Many folks are still working from home, which has many advantages. Still, sometimes it can be hard to keep a work/life balance in this new WFH reality.

For example, a recent article from Indeed.com listed some Pros and Cons of WFH.

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DISTRICT by Midway

Pro: More independence. Con: Increased isolation.

Pro: Increased productivity. Con: Risk of overworking.

P ro: Increased flexibility. Con: Less “face time” with coworkers.

If you’re lucky enough to work from home and enjoy it, that’s great! But as the above list shows, you need to be conscious of ways to maintain connection and relationships with the other people who work with you. It makes your work easier and more collaborative and, importantly, keeps you top-of-mind when it comes to more responsibilities within the company.

So, what are some ways you can nurture those office relationships without going into the office?

PLAN TO MEET UP WITH CO-WORKERS FOR SOME RECREATIONAL ACTIVITY Downtown Houston, for example, arrange to meet at Life Time at CITYCENTRE or GreenStreet for an exercise class. Or tee up at the new East River 9 golf course, part of Midway’s newest mixed-use development just east of downtown. Plan a Happy Hour get-together to test your skills at 810 Billiards & Bowling at GreenStreet. In West Houston, you could practice teamwork and exercise your mind at The Escape Game at CITYCENTRE.

ORGANIZE A LUNCH ONCE A WEEK WITH OTHER WFH COWORKERS WHO LIVE NEAR YOU Find a private room or a big table at your local eatery.

Talk about work, or not. Just spending time with folks who you have something in common with—i.e. an employer—will help you feel more connected. In College Station, for instance, try Juanita’s Tex Mex Cantina at Century Square. In Houston, the Daily Gather at CITYCENTRE is great for groups as the menu features shareable platters.

WFH, BUT DON’T FORGET THE TLC The U.S. Surgeon General recently came out with a study noting how loneliness can contribute to mental health issues. So, whether it’s lunch with co-workers, moving to a hybrid work schedule or sourcing some camaraderie in a co-working space, if you’re going to work from home, find a way to build an active, engaged professional community for yourself outside of home. You, your coworkers, and your company will be glad you did.

GO FROM REMOTE TO HYBRID While working from home has its advantages, there are also benefits to being in the office, even if only a couple of days a week. SWAA (Survey of Working Arrangements and Attitudes) from WFHresearch.com shows returning to the office benefits workers looking to move up the ladder. They found that mixing “proximity bias” with the ability to personally engage—whether professionally or socially—led to better chances for a promotion. So, maybe consider switching to a hybrid schedule.

Spend MWF working from home but hit the office on Tuesday and Thursday. Bank on the value of face-to-face communication (No, Teams calls don’t count!) Sit in on meetings, ask others for their opinion, volunteer to help with a senior team member’s project. On the social side, attend birthday or retirement parties, or seek out and get to know the newest staff member. And don’t forget the lure of a couple of boxes of donuts. Bring those in one morning and hang around to mingle with the inevitable crowd that will form in the kitchen.

ESTABLISH A “LOCAL OFFICE” AT A CO-WORKING SPACE If you just don’t want the commute—but would love some company and collaboration—consider a co-working space that’s close to home. A growing number of remote workers are availing themselves of these offices, getting all the amenities of a corporate HDQ—snacks and coffee, an array of office machines, audio-and video-enabled conference rooms, and strong, reliable Internet—without the long, traffic-heavy drive.

“We believe in the local community model so much we use the hashtag #WorkLocal in our marketing materials,” said John Herring, President of FUSE Workspace, with Texas locations in Houston at CITYCENTRE and Austin. “Our goal is to bring a class A office experience close to home. The great thing about our space is that there are other professionals in the building from a variety of fields. That strengthens our community and helps our members do business better. You just can’t get that at home.”

Perhaps the “Cadillac” of co-working spaces is Life Time Work, with two locations in Houston—Downtown at GreenStreet and on the west side at CITYCENTRE. Combining the best of office amenities and networking events with a luxe fitness club, Life Time has a variety of membership levels, provides 24/7 access and offers 160 locations throughout North America.

As more and more employees are finding creative ways to work remotely and still be engaged with the office, more and more companies are happy to support employees who want to work in a close-by co-working spot.

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From Meeting Hour to Happy Hour Whether working, meeting coworkers, or enjoying after-hours cocktails, these District hotspots are a must.

By Kate Hull

W

e are in the era of the flex jobs.

Whether that means working from home, powering your creativity at a shared workspace, or splitting time between an office and heading to meetings around town; gone are the days of being boxed into one locale.

It’s a brave new world. The hardest decision now might just be where to post up for the morning or where to meet for a brainstorming session.

Effortlessly make meeting schedules a bit more fun with a work session at the café, pub, or bistro at any of the District’s top-tier destinations. When five o’clock comes, stick around with your work besties for happy hour or head to your favorite hotspot for dinner and drinks with friends.

Meetings held over a latte or Americano are a match made in heaven. And while we love a good Starbucks cup of Joe, mix it up with unique spots that are cozy enough for a productive morning, and make the perfect meet-up spot for your post work fun. CITYCENTRE or Century Square’s Sweet Paris Creperie & Café is cozy, decadent, and will transport you to a Parisian café while staying in the Lone Star State. Bring your laptop and tuck away in the corner with a savory or sweet crepe and cappuccino. After, toast to a job well done over a glass of wine.

But we don’t have to limit work to the coffee shop.

What about coffee and gelato? Yes and yes. Fellini Gelato & Caffe in CITYCENTRE serves up coffee, sweet treats, breakfast, and lunch. Treat yourself to a refreshing artisan gelato pop while you chip away at the day’s to-dos.

No more snooze fest salads and dull sandwiches on the go. We are nixing those drab lunch meetings for restaurants with stellar menus and killer vibes to match. At Daily Gather, the name says it all.

Located on the Plaza at CITYCENTRE, just behind The Moran Hotel, patrons are invited to pull up a

Sweet Paris Creperie & Café at CITYCENTRE

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DISTRICT by Midway

VinSanto at Memorial Green

“When five o’clock comes, stick around with your work besties for happy hour or head to your favorite hotspot for dinner and drinks with friends.”

The General Public at CITYCENTRE

PORTERS at Century Square

seat, order delicious cuisine, and stay a while. Order up nostalgic American dishes like deviled eggs or elote cornbread for the table, then enjoy a BLT on sourdough or shrimp and grits. Weekdays from 2pm to 5:30pm the restaurant hosts Social Hour with bar specials meaning you can go from a working lunch to happy hour with coworkers or friends.

Whether on zoom or in person, meetings don’t have to be stuffy. Laid back ambiance with plush leather seats and brick interiors are paired with an impressive menu of Americana fare and cocktails at The General Public. Meet that valued client at a spot where they’ll feel appreciated. Happy hour kicks off at 3pm, the ideal way to end that late-lunch meeting.

The Yard House transitions from meeting hour to happy hour in a snap. Outdoor patio seating is the perfect space to relax and enjoy a gourmet pizza.

When you are looking to quench your thirst, you have plenty to choose from. This pub is known for the world’s largest selection of draft beers. With large TVs and great atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to catch a game with the crew.

Memorial Green’s Dish Society isn’t your grandma’s diner, but the nostalgia is woven into the ambiance.

Sit at the counter and start the day with coffee and avocado toast. Sticking around for a bit? Move to a table for lunch. With brunch all day—try the chicken and biscuits—and fresh, local ingredients all curated in a modern industrial atmosphere, Dish Society is sure to spark creativity.

Happy hour calling? Meet the crew at Jonathan’s The Rub and savor bar bites like bruschetta caprese and flavorful ceviche accompanied by a signature cocktail like Endless Summer. If you’re in the mood for wines, VinSanto’s European-inspired wine bar brings the wines of the world to Memorial Green.

Plus, there’s a hearty selection of beer, ciders, and mock-tails, all paired with an ever-changing selection of small bites and charcuterie.

When the work is done for the day, The District lineup is stacked with incredible eateries and restaurants to move from the workday to a night out.

Log out and head over for specialty cocktail while live music plays at Fireside, seasonal cooking paired with fine wine at Seasons52, or a specialty curated wine dinner at Sal y Pimienta Kitchen. Or hit the links for some networking at East River 9, followed by happy hour at Riverhouse.

Opposite Page from Left: Have a sweet treat at Sweet Paris Creperie & Café; Enjoy a vintage from wines across the world with a thoughtfully curated charcuterie plate at VinSanto.

This Page from Top: Meet with coworkers for a meal after finishing that big project at The General Public; Take a moment to savor the good times and celebrate success with a cocktail and a fine meal at PORTERS.

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The Power of Romanticizing a Morning Routine Start the day doing something special for yourself.

By Kate Hull

I

n the morning your alarm goes off and another day begins. Every day you do the same routines to get ready. Sometimes it can seem like a huge hurdle to have things to do in the morning before you walk out the door. But remember, these routines are for you! Romanticizing the process makes it something you can look forward to. Romanticizing every day tasks and appreciating the little things means making the most of every day. This little recalibration of the way we look at the mundane can have huge effects on our outlook and overall feelings of optimism.

Studies continue to validate that establishing a structured and intentional start to the day can improve your mood—No wrong side of the bed here!—

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increase focus, help regulate emotions, lower anxiety and stress levels, and even help ward off high blood pressure. The key? Anchoring your day with rituals that set you up for success, while making them simple and enjoyable enough to continue day after day. It’s all about romanticizing the little things we’d do anyway.

A study from the peer-reviewed Journal of Happiness that explores advancements in well-being research found that people who participated in continual morning routines felt higher levels of overall happiness. Another study published in the journal Emotion found that a morning routine helped increase well-being, alertness, and energy throughout the day.

We’re not going to be sleeping on this daily secret weapon anymore.

Nike at CITYCENTRE

Positive Affirmations The goal of starting your day off right is simple: to be and feel like your best you. So, start with telling yourself just that! Celebrities from Jonathan Van Ness to Alicia Keys have made news for regularly sharing affirmations with their social media followers. Take a note from their feeds and bring it home. Affirmations can be as simple as looking in the mirror and telling yourself “You are wonderful and worthy of joy!” or “You’ve got this!”

MAKE IT ROUTINE: To help make this a habit, start by grabbing a journal or notepad. Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie at CITYCENTRE have an array of journals with prompts, cool designs, and chic styles to encourage the daily love. Wave off “the Sunday scaries” with a quick five-minute journal session to write your intention for the week. Each day, your daily affirmation can center around each intention. If you’re hoping to nail a presentation, your affirmations can be about your ability to achieve what you’ve set your mind to. If your confidence is at a little less than your norm, remind yourself of your worth. And make it fun!

Use that pen that makes you feel like your writing a letter in a Jane Austen novel, or use that color that reminds you of the water in a beach getaway.

A little romanticizing goes a long way.

Unplug to Plug In But First, Fitness For better or worse, we are pretty glued to our phones. They hold our calendars, social media, emails, and more. And when we wake up with a screentime session, we can kick our brains into overstimulation mode before the day has even started. Scientific American reported that when we dive into screentime, we are forcing our brain to move into an alert state too quickly, which can cause heightened levels of stress. This is about more than not getting sucked into social media, too. Grabbing for your phone typically means you check emails, get notifications, and get dialed into the workday before you’re on the clock. And in most every scenario, that email can wait. Give yourself time to enjoy your morning before work mode takes over.

MAKE IT ROUTINE: To nix the screentime habit, define what your morning looks like. If you wake up at 6am, give yourself one hour of screen-free time each day to drink coffee, go on a walk, or meditate. And make these little rituals an event. Go the extra mile with presentation when you make the coffee in a favorite mug. Celebrate the ability to have a nice wake-up-walk. Light a candle from B Elevated Candle Bar at CITYCENTRE to breathe in fragrances of calm and set the mood for your day.

Whether it’s a brisk walk, a road ride on a nearby trail, or yoga and mobility sessions at The Hack in Memorial Green, hone in on your preferred fitness and make this a consistent part of your morning three to five times a week. Maybe there’s a class that calls your name at Life Time Fitness at GreenStreet or CITYCENTRE. You don’t have to be up before the sunrise to get in a workout.

Even thirty minutes can help boost your energy for the day ahead and improve your focus and cognitive function like nixing that afternoon lethargic crash.

MAKE IT A ROUTINE: To start each week, give yourself twenty minutes over the weekend to look ahead at your schedule and plan what days work best to get in a class, bike ride, gym session, or a walk. Write it in your planner on Sunday. This will eliminate the stress of planning each day and help keep you accountable. It also gives you a little fitness treat to look forward to. Looking to log miles on the bike? CITYCENTREs Epic-Cycles can help you find nearby trails that meet your needs and get you fitted on a pair of two wheels. Or get a class in at OrangeTheory at Century Square.

Replace that screen time with something stimulating. Listen to your favorite podcast or a new book on tape as you get ready for your day. When the weather allows, head outside for a brisk walk while you listen. Get the gear at CITYCENTRE with a new pair of Nike Air Max shoes and a new favorite workout outfit from lululemon like the groove super-high-rise flared pant and an everywhere belt bag to keep it hands-free.

Now Make it Yours!

No matter what your morning routine consists of, the key to establishing a ritual is making it work for your needs. If savoring a cup of coffee is that extra bit of joy your day needs, add intention behind each cup. Pour it in your favorite mug that speaks to your style, sit in a cozy chair, and practice breath work. Anthropologie has a host of colorful ceramic beauties.

If you already feel stressed thinking about your to-dos, choose a moment of meditation or quiet. Or if you feel best after a run, lay out your workout gear the night before to remind yourself of that “runner’s high” to come. Here’s to a good morning, every morning!

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810 Billiards and Bowling at GreenStreet

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You matched. Now, where to meet? We asked the experts for some out-of-the-box suggestions.

By Kate Hull

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you’ve met someone online who seems promising. Now, where to meet for that important first date?

Since we’re talking about a complete stranger here, it’s important to take precautions, which is why meeting at a café for coffee is a nobrainer. Still, that’s not your only option. Matchmaking expert Blaine Anderson (datingbyblaine.com) has a few ideas, all of which involve meeting in a public place and staying on dry land if at all possible.

“Recently a friend told me about a man she met who asked her out on his boat for their first date,” she says. “While it’s a nice flex to share that he has a boat, your mama’s advice never to get in a car with a stranger applies here as well.”

Anderson suggests hitting a public spot with a lot of options like a farmer’s market or a spot with shopping and other options. All the District spots check these boxes for an awesome day date: good food, drinks, local color, and people-watching, all of which stimulate conversation.

“The ability to hold an interesting conversation is the leading predictor of whether a first date will translate to a second date or not,” says Anderson, who suggests asking non-boring questions— What are the top three destinations on your bucket list? What’s something you’ve learned about yourself in the past year?—that keeps the conversation lively and interesting. Matchmaker April Davis, president of LUMA Luxury Matchmaking, cautions against oversharing on a first date, talking about your ex or discussing politics. Instead, ask your date to describe what a typical Saturday looks like for them or tell you what place they’ve visited that they love and why.

“The key is to listen to what the other person is saying and ask follow-up questions before jumping to the next question or focusing on your response,” says Anderson. “If the conversation starts to feel like a job interview, your date won’t feel secure and heard by you.”

Want to knock it out of the park on your first date? “Museums are great for a first date,” says April Davis. “With so many interesting artifacts around, you’ll find plenty to talk about.” Blaine Anderson finds that vintage shopping, thrifting and antiquing can be adventurous and a fun day date, but there are plenty of other options.

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We’ve all heard the expression, “You only get one chance to make a first impression.” So, think carefully about the kind of impression you want to make on your first date because it’s one of the first things you can control, according to April Davis, who advises her male clients to invest in a few staples like well-fitted dark jeans and a plain T-shirt or button down. Fortunately, there are plenty of options at Onward Reserve in College Station. Of course, a girl can never go wrong with a classic LBD (little black dress).

Chances are you’ll find one at Hemline in CITYCENTRE or Apricot Lane Boutique, a specialty shop in Century Square, College Station. If you’re meeting for a walk in the park, Davis cautions against showing up in your 10-year-old soccer shorts and T-shirt.

“Put a little effort into your appearance,” she says. So, for stylish athletic wear, stop by lululemon in CITYCENTRE or Century Square, College Station.

GRAB A COFFEE

Meeting for a cup of joe is April Davis’s idea of a perfect first date. “You can choose any time of day to meet,” she says, “and what’s the worst that can happen? You finish your latte and are on your way.” Check out Harvest Coffee Bar in Century Square, College Station, where they’re passionate about coffee and community or Fellini Gelato Café at CITYCENTRE.

HAVE DESSERT FIRST

It’s less of a commitment than a meal somewhere and you’re free to leave after 30 minutes if the date is not working out. Indulge your sweet tooth at Jeni’s Ice Cream in CITYCENTRE or East River in Houston. Or meet for sweet crepes at Sweet Paris Creperie and Café in Century Square, College Station.

GO BOWLING

Nothing like a little friendly competition to make things interesting. Bowl & Barrel in CITYCENTRE is Houston’s hip new upscale bowling alley where elevated bar fare plus wine, craft beer, and spirits are part of the draw.

GET YOU R GAM E ON

Anderson suggests embracing your inner child and showing off some skills while flirting over old-school arcade games. The newest addition to the entertainment lineup at Houston’s GreenStreet District is 810 Billiards & Bowling where you can bowl a few frames or shoot a game of pool but also enjoy arcade games, bocce, table tennis, darts, shuffleboard, and more. Game on!

CATCH A MOVIE

If conversation isn’t your strong suit, why not catch a movie together? Studio Movie Grill in CITYCENTRE offers a dine-in theater concept that’s perfect for a first date: first-run film releases plus an extensive menu and a full-service bar.

DO HAPPY HOU R

You can learn a lot over a glass of wine and VinSanto at Memorial Green has selections from all over the world. They also have small plates to match perfectly with whatever vintage you and your date pick.

LET’S DO BRU NCH

“It’s less pressure than dinner,” says Davis, “and who doesn’t love brunch?” Mess Waffles, Etc. at Century Square is always a good idea. The

extensive menu includes all kinds of waffles, chicken and waffles, and other comfort food.

Did someone say mimosas? They have three different flavors.

TH E TREN DY PROGRESSIVE DIN N ER

Moving around to different spots make sure the conversation doesn’t drag. Start with drinks at 1791 Whiskey Bar, apps at PORTERS, entrees at Hopdoddy, and a nice dessert at Hey Sugar, all at Century Square.

ATTEN D A SPORTING EVENT

Davis suggests going to a game and cheering on your favorite team. Or head to Mo’s Irish Pub, in Century Square in College Station to grab a drink and a bite to eat while catching the game on the big screen.

GET YOU R SWEAT ON

“Fitness is a great way to bond on a first date,” says Anderson, who is a firm believer that couples who work out together stay together. Take a class at Orangetheory Fitness Century Square or book one of the 90+ classes at Life Time Athletic at GreenStreet, Houston. Cycling enthusiasts can head over to Epic-Cycles in CITYCENTER to check out the huge inventory of specialized bicycles as well as helmets, shoes, and apparel before taking a long, leisurely bike ride together. Who knows where that might lead.

CU E TH E M USIC

For a dream night out, visit Fireside, Houston’s goto live-music restaurant in CITYCENTRE. Sip on specialty cocktails beside a crackling fireplace and snack on small plates while enjoying live bands and bottle service Thursday through Saturday. Raise a glass at 1791 Whiskey Bar in Century Square and listen to live music every weekend from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at The George. Or visit Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar, a musical feast for the senses in the GreenStreet District where you’ll be singing along to classic tunes with everybody else.

So, what if the date isn’t going as expected? Maybe the two of you have absolutely no chemistry. Or your date looks nothing like they did in their dating app profile picture. Both of our matchmaking experts suggest that the polite thing to do is see the date through even if it’s clear that your energies are mismatched. Then thank them for taking the time to meet and wrap things up.

Matchmaker Blaine Anderson suggests watching out for these tell-tale signs that your date may not be the right person for you: PAY ATTE NTION how your

date treats the waitstaff because it’s a good indicator of how they will show up as a partner in a relationship once the honeymoon phase is over.

I F TH EY immediately start

talking about how “crazy” or “unhinged” their ex is, they’re probably not over their last relationship and certainly not ready for a new one.

I F TH EY invite you to be their

plus-one at their best friend’s wedding on your first date, they might be a love bomber.

I F TH EY don’t ask questions

about you, you might have a narcissist on your hands.

Opposite Page: Share a bite at Daily Gather the next time you’re meeting someone new.

Left: Don’t play games with our hearts, but playing games at 810 Billiards and Bowling is a fun way to break the ice on a date.

Top: Grab some of Daily Gather’s conversation cards to get to know that new person in your life.

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What to Wear We break down the biz-leisure trend to help you curate a professional looking wardrobe as comfortable and cozy as your favorite pair of sweats.

By Marianne Dougherty

W

ith more of us working remotely, at least part of the time, we’re here to help you navigate the shifting landscape of relaxed dress codes that includes activewear, designer kicks, and cashmere hoodies. We’ve come a long way from the “man in the gray flannel suit” era of the 1950s when men wore suits and ties on their daily commute. Post-pandemic, biz-leisure is emerging as the newest workplace trend for anyone working remotely—from a home office, a shared workspace, or a corner table at your favorite coffee shop.

Slightly more sophisticated than yoga pants and a hoodie, biz-leisure wear takes you from your home office to the office to happy hour for drinks with colleagues. Think of the bizleisure trend as a mashup of business casual and comfortable loungewear. While it’s tricky to pull off—striking the right balance between the two is critical—it works when you do it right. Comfort is key, but you also want to look professional. So, no ripped jeans, vintage concert tees, or baggy sweatpants.

Look for jeans in dark shades of denim like indigo or black. Straight-leg jeans work well with any silhouette from an oversized jacket

to a classic T-shirt, while flared, wide-leg, and bootleg cuts look good with sneakers or kitten heels, allowing you to switch out your shoes for a dinner date or impromptu drinks with colleagues after work. Meanwhile, don’t be afraid to use your imagination, combining pieces that might seem incongruous at first, say, a button-down shirt with a pair of track pants. Look for hoodies in luxe fabrics like cashmere or silk. Choose neutral pieces in beige, white, or cream as well as classic colors like black, navy, and gray, adding a pop of color to boost your spirits as the day wears on. The idea is to build your wardrobe around a few comfortable pieces (a pair of tailored track pants and an essential tee). Then add layers—a pull-over sweater, an oversize jacket, a cashmere hoodie.

For men, the biz-leisure trend includes timeless button-down shirts paired with joggers, chinos instead of khakis (too business casual), simple tees, shirts with mock collars, sporty blazers, boxy cardigans, soft sweaters and slip-on shoes in canvas or leather that pull a look together.

Here are some of the key pieces you’ll want to get to achieve this look, and where to find them across the Districts.

DARK DENIM

TAILORED TRACK PANTS

Looking for jeans with a bit more formality than your Levi’s 501s? Free People in CITYCENTRE carries dark denim jeans in exaggerated silhouettes that really make a statement. While you’re in the neighborhood, check out the trouser-inspired dark jeans from Annina at Hemline. Then head over to Madewell and try on a pair of mid-rise stovepipe jeans to pair with everything from a classic tee to a boxy jacket.

You’ll find everything from low-rise flared styles to high-rise crops that are super comfy in a range of colors at lululemon, CITYCENTRE.

Hemline at Century Square

OVERSIZED BLAZERS Find them at Madewell, CITYCENTRE, or Apricot Lane at Century Square, and pair them with jeans or track pants.

LUXE HOODIES You’ll find a wide range of hoodies at Free People in CITYCENTRE. While you’re there, check out the hoodies at lululemon if you’re looking to add a pop of color to your wardrobe. Or check out the athletic line at Altr’d State for even more options.

ATHLETIC SHOES Consider sneakers your go-to footwear with one caveat: They’ve got to be white without embellishment. You’ll find exactly what you want at Nike, Madewell, and Hemline, all in CITYCENTRE.

MENSWEAR Head to Allen Edmonds in CITYCENTRE where you’ll find a wide range of wardrobe staples like mock turtleneck sweaters, buttondowns, polos, blazers, cashmere crew necks, and dark denim jeans. Check out their ­collection of edgy white sneakers and slip-on styles in leather and suede. At Onward Reserve in Century Square, College Station, you’ll find soft pullovers and hoodies, timeless sports coats in windowpane plaid, classic buttondowns, and city chinos, the staple dress pant you need right now to pair with a sport coat that will take you from office to date night.

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lululemon at CITYCENTRE

Energize your mind and body at this District event.

W

ellfest began at Century Square in 2022 as a collaboration between the Midway Creative Group team and Anna Taggart, a lululemon ambassador.

The idea began as a day to share workout classes and wellness instruction with the community to reach folks of all fitness experience levels.

Wellfest has only grown from there. Now, every year at Century Square and CITYCENTRE, we take a day in the spring to promote wellness and approachable exercise, bringing the community together supporting a positive goal.

These events are open to anyone on any fitness journey. In addition to demonstrations of workouts with some of the best fitness instructors in College Station and Houston, there are wellness events, sustainable shopping, and curated specials at restaurants to promote healthy eating. After working out, peruse a Fitness and Wellness vendor market in addition to boutique shopping. Vendors offer juice and smoothie samples, massage therapist offer their services, and there are programs for kids to enjoy as well.

We’re so pleased the community has turned out to support this event to promote folks getting outdoors and moving. We look forward to the continued success of Wellfest in the future. Make sure you keep it on your calendar for next year!

Clockwise from Top: The top instructors come out for group workouts; Wellfest seeks to get the community outdoors and moving; Enjoy the many vendors, restaurants, and shops after treating your body to a workout.

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Let’s Get Cookin’ I

s there anything better than a delicious meal? Maybe sharing a delicious meal with others. Or even better, preparing that delicious meal yourself. When you need quality cookware, cutlery, and kitchen gadgets, Sur la Table is the place to go, but they also offer cooking classes for all ages to make anyone comfortable in the kitchen, whether a date night for couples, or a series to get kids and teens cooking. The following recipe is an example of the tasty offerings you can learn to serve up when you take a cooking class at Sur La Table.

Right: Sur la Table offers a variety of different cooking classes.

Below: Cider-braised Chicken with Bacon and Apples is just the dish for a tasty night in.

Ciderbraised Chicken with Bacon & Apples

by Sur la Table Yield: 4 servings

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INGREDIENTS

METHOD

2 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed 3 tart green apples such as Granny Smith, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch thick wedges 3 ounces (about 5 slices) thick-cut bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices 1 yellow onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice 1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 cup apple brandy 2 cups apple cider 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

To prepare the chicken: To a large Dutch oven set over medium-high heat, add oil. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. When oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the pan, working in batches if necessary, and cook until well browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate.

DISTRICT by Midway

To prepare the apples: Add apples to the pan and sauté, stirring frequently, until just softened and caramelized, about 5 minutes. Transfer apples to a bowl and reserve.

the onion is tender, and the bacon fat has rendered, but the bacon is not crisp, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add brandy and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, until it has reduced by half. Pour in the apple cider and stir with a wooden spoon to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil and continue to cook until the liquid has reduced by half.

Add the chicken back into the pan, cover, and simmer until chicken is cooked through, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the mustard, cream, sautéed apples, and sage. Simmer, uncovered, until sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

To prepare the bacon and onions: Add bacon and onion to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until

To serve: Divide the braised chicken with apples among 4 warmed dinner plates and serve immediately.

Cocktail Hour W

hen you visit Daily Gather, you’ll feel a comfortable familiarity, like you’ve been invited to a get together with old friends. Think about the times you’ve enjoyed around the dinner table at home, the laughs and memories you’ve shared. That’s the kind of place it is. At Daily Gather, you’ll find food that’s new, but that feels like the classics you’ve loved all your life, whether your roots are in Texas or elsewhere across the country.

It’s a reflection of the beautiful diversity of Houston’s food culture.

And what’s food without great drinks?

At Daily Gather, the cocktails are based on classics, but with a Daily Gather perspective.

We asked the team at Daily Gather to share the recipe of one featured mocktail and one featured cocktail so we could practice out our mixology skills.

Next time you’re in the neighborhood make sure to pull up a seat at Daily Gather and see what’s on the menu. You’re always invited.

Cucumber Refresher INGREDIENTS 3/4 oz vanilla syrup 3/4 oz lime juice 1/2 oz orange juice 2 cucumber wheels 1 large or 2-3 small basil leaves

METHOD Combine all ingredients in a shaker over ice & shake well. Double strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with a fresh cucumber wheel & fresh basil leaves.

DG&T INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 oz Empress Gin 1/4 oz Monin lavender syrup 1/4 oz lime juice A splash of Fever Tree tonic water

METHOD Combine all ingredients in a shaker.

Shake & strain over ice into a snifter.

Top with Fever Tree tonic water.

Garnish with a dehydrated or fresh lime wheel, fresh rosemary sprig, and five juniper berries. distric t- magazine.com

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What District Destination Will You be Enjoying Next?

Are you going on a romantic rendezvous, having a friends’ night out, or taking out the whole family?

ROMANTIC RENDEZVOUS

Are we trying to party all night or just catch up?

Is this a first date or are you doing something special with that special someone?

It’s been a while since the gang has been together, we want to catch up.

First Date

How does your crew like to connect?

The crew that plays together stays together.

Whether you’re looking to gossip with your pals or get to know a first date, a cocktail always sparks conversation.

Try an intimate location like Fireside at The Moran or 1791 Whiskey Bar. For something a little more casual, you might check out Mo’s Irish Pub or Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar.

Are we just taking some time as a family or are we making big family memories?

Let’s party!

Just a little family time.

Special Someone

COCKTAIL HOUR

FAMILY OUTING

AN OUTING WITH FRIENDS

Sometimes we like to check out the latest goodies to be had at District stores.

INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT There are all kinds of ways to have fun with a group across the Districts.

Have dinner and a movie at Star Cinema Grill or Studio Movie Grill.

Or perhaps your crew likes fun and games? Bowl and more at Bowl and Barrel or 810 Billiards and Bowling.

Are y’all interested in working together to solve interactive puzzles? Book one of the rooms at The Escape Game.

Let’s make some memories we’ll remember forever!

Are we thinking drinks or something more hands on?

I’ve already got my drink order!

Por que no los dos?

RETAIL THERAPY

LET’S HAVE DINNER

The Districts have enough shops to keep you occupied for days. From clothing boutiques like Brahmin, Free People, Hemline and more, you can find all the latest fashions. Check out directories online to see even more clothing shopping spots.

Maybe you want to do a little decorating? Check out Z Gallerie, West Elm, or LoveSac.

Whether you’re looking for a nice, dimly lit spot with incredible fare to gaze into each other’s eyes or you need a spot to enjoy with your significant other and the kids, there are restaurants across the Districts for every occasion. If you’re looking for a romantic dinner, perhaps try PORTERS, Daily Gather, The Palm, or M&S Seafood. For a spot for everyone, try Juanita’s Tex Mex Cantina, Yardhouse, or Dish Society.