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City Cast Houston

City Cast Houston Staff

This week, I have recs on Tex Mex, dance parties, and the best places to watch the Astros in the playoffs. Enjoy! 

, a Tex-Mex favorite in Houston, is also 

known for its Thursday night dance parties

. The dance parties, which have been ongoing since the 1980s, are starting to bring a younger crowd as word spreads around Houston. [Houston Chronicle 🔒]

check out their new concept Lightnin’s Good Times

 for cheap drinks, pinball machines, pool tables, and a dance floor. While you’re there, grab a slice of pizza to-go from Vinny’s next door. [Houston Chronicle 🔒]

Are you looking to watch the Astros and cheer them on as they make their way through the playoffs? Several Houston 

, including the ‘Stros Smash Burger at Heights & Co, happy hour prices all day at J-Bar-M Barbecue, and $20 Orbit buckets of beer or drinks at Christian’s Tailgate. [Culture Map Houston]

City Cast Houston staff

City Cast Houston and Hey Houston have suspended operations. Our last podcast episode and newsletter were published on Oct. 24, 2025.

You’ve given us support at every turn, but (news flash!) media is a hard business, and local media is even harder. We haven’t been able to bring in as many listeners, readers, advertisers, and members as we need. Ultimately, our bosses decided to close up shop here for now, with the hope that City Cast will be able to return to Houston in the future. For now, City Cast will continue operating in 13 other cities across the U.S., including our two newest shows in Seattle and the Twin Cities.

We’ve loved the conversation we’ve been having with you for the past four years — the funny, messy, boisterous conversation about this city we all love. From covering Hurricane Beryl to the HISD takeover, highlighting our amazing food scene, and debating why exactly we say feeder roads in Houston — it’s never been a dull moment.

Thanks for trusting us with your stories, Houston.

Goodbye from City Cast Houston and Hey Houston

News and updates about the City Cast Houston podcast and Hey Houston newsletter.

City Cast Houston Announcements

Announcements

What isn't there to love about Houston? Whether we're admiring our beautiful diversity, eating at another delicious restaurant, jamming to new music from a Houston artist, exploring our wonderful parks, there is SO much to love about this city.  

So, that's why in honor of our legendary 713 phone number, we (the City Cast Houston team, our podcast guests, readers, and listeners) have compiled a list of 713 things we love about Houston. We hope this list makes you smile, helps you remember the memories you've made in Houston, and inspires you to try something new. 

Seeing the Be Someone graffiti as you drive into downtown

Trail riders going along Allen Parkway and downtown

When your power comes back on after a storm

All of our tire shops and that flats get fixed ASAP

Brays Bayou (as long as it doesn't overflow)

Going to Bun B's Takeover at the Houston Rodeo

The summer rain shower that breaks the heat

Picking up Houston Chronicle’s Sunday paper	

Hearing Houston Public Media in your Uber

Snapping a photo on POST Houston's rooftop

You can wear summer clothes in the winter

The way we band together after disasters		

40 and under night at Houston Grand Opera

Bringing a cocktail into the theater while you watch a show at Hobby Center

Adult skate night at Dairy Ashford Roller Rink

Escaping Houston and getting to the Seawall in Galveston

Movies on the roof at Rooftop Cinema Club

When all the Houston sports team are winning

Walking through downtown when it's decorated for Christmas	

Drinking glass of wine at Postino's patio in The Heights	

Getting Trill Burgers at the Houston Rodeo

Sunset in Buffalo Bayou Park with Downtown Houston as backdrop

Spring day on a patio denying the summer heat that will roll in soon enough

Collecting shells along the beach in Galveston

713 Things We Love About Houston

Find the best of everything that Houston has to offer.

Houston’s Best

Houston's Best

 kick off a new season tonight against the Oklahoma City Thunder

! Since 1971, Houstonians have been cheering on our beloved basketball team. So, how did the Rockets get started? Here’s more history on our favorite team 🏀

You might think the Houston Rockets got their name because of the city’s proximity to NASA. However, 

 in 1967. Basketball fans chose the name the Rockets for the San Diego team because of the city’s space-age industries. The team’s owner, Robert Breitbard, began searching for a new home for the team after fan attendance slowed down. In August 1971, Texas Sports Investments paid $5.6 million to bring the team to Houston, which was 

the most ever paid for a Houston sports franchise

. The team kept their name and kicked off their inaugural season the same year.

During their first season in Houston, the Rockets did not have a permanent stadium, so they used different venues within the city and other cities such as Waco, San Antonio, and even San Diego. Finally, in 1975, the team began playing all of their home games 

 which had just opened and now is home to Lakewood Church. In 1981, the Rockets went to their first NBA finals against the Boston Celtics, but lost. However, their luck would turn around.  In 1984, they signed the 7-foot powerhouse Hakeem Olujawon. Olujawon, who was originally born in Nigeria, 

led the Rockets to back-to-back championships

 in 1994 and 1995. The Rockets would later sign Yao Ming in 2002, who is 

considered one of the franchise’s greatest players

The Houston Rockets had a killer season last year, 

winning more than 50 games during the regular season

. This season, many are psyched to see star player Kevin Durant, 

who just signed a $90 million contract extension

, take the basketball court. The Rockets acquired the NBA star earlier this summer. So, could Durant joining the team 

lead the Rockets to snagging another NBA Championship

Since 1971, Houstonians have been cheering on the Houston Rockets. So, how did our beloved basketball team get started?

How The Rockets Came To Houston 

People, places, and scenes from Houston's past.

Houston History

Hillcroft Street, located west of the Galleria and running through Gulfton and Bellaire, is one of the most diverse stretches of Houston. Many of the city’s newest immigrants live in this 

thriving community full of delicious restaurants and shops.

 Sharan Gahunia with Raja Sweets, City Cast Houston Host Raheel Ramzanali, and former Executive Producer Laura Isensee have spent lots of time up and down Hillcroft and share some of their favorite spots below.

Almost no matter what you’re craving, you can find it on Hillcroft! If you want something sweet, head to one of Raheel’s favorites: 

! He loves devouring the rasmalai, a milky dessert. When Laura was dating her now-husband, she discovered a new love for pupusas at different spots like 

 If you want to switch up your lunch routine, then stop by 

 a family-owned Mediterranean bakery, deli, and general store with products from Lebanon, Egypt, and Syria. Sharan of Raja Sweets, who was born in London, loves visiting 

, an Indian restaurant influenced by British colonialism and African spices.

You can’t make a trip to Hillcroft without stopping by 

, known for its variety of shops, good deals, and one-of-a-kind finds. 

, also near Hillcroft and formerly known as Sharpstown Mall, has rebranded itself, becoming a 

 is a fantastic place to find accessories that are trending, but easy on your wallet. While you’re there, stroll through the market at Fiesta, where you can snack on elote and get fresh, hand-made tortillas.

More Hillcroft food recs

Where should you eat and shop on Hillcroft in Houston? 

Where to Eat and Shop on Hillcroft 

Everything to know about Houston neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Houston Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

As we dive deeper into the fall season, there’s nothing better than watching a cozy movie inside with a big tub of popcorn. So, which movie theater should you put at the top of your list this fall? And which movie theater may not be worth the hype? I’ve got you covered ⬇️

Before you visit any other movie theater in Houston, you have to go to this one! River Oaks Theatre, which opened originally in 1939, is a one-of-a-kind theater in Houston. Whenever I visit, I feel like I’m getting a glimpse at Old Hollywood glamour because of the beautiful interior design. River Oaks Theatre also 

, where they updated their sound, lighting, seating, and added a brand new kitchen and two bars. Make sure to add a 

midnight showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Worth Visiting: IPIC Houston At Least Once

 every weekend, but if you’re looking to escape into a night of luxury then this is worth visiting at least once. Enjoy reclining seats, cozy blankets, and food from their chef-driven theater menu. Want to take your extravagant night out up a notch? Check out 

 inside the movie theater, where you can enjoy a range of delicious items, including their short rib grilled cheese, tuck street tacos, and their lobster mac and cheese. You’re hungry now, right?!

Okay, I know I’m probably going to get some hate for this pick. Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy a trip every now and then to 

Regal Edwards Greenway Grand Palace Theater

. It reminds me of the movie theaters I grew up going to as a kid. However, movie ticket prices for adults are over $20, and you have to pay for parking. For that price, you might as well spend a little bit more at one of Houston’s more upscale theaters. Plus, their 

Who wouldn’t want to see the breathtaking Houston skyline while watching their favorite movie? This is why I love 

! Whether you want to enjoy a popular film like Michael B. Jordan’s "Sinners," they show new flicks every night. This movie theater is also perfect for a date night because you can cozy up in a love seat for two with a bag of popcorn. Check out their 

, which includes a glass of wine with your movie ticket.

What’s your favorite movie theater in Houston?!

Which Houston movie theaters should you visit or skip this summer? 

Houston Movie Theaters to Visit This Summer

 Should You Visit or Skip These Movie Theaters?

Happy October! It’s time to enjoy the spooky season with arts and cultural happenings across Greater Houston. Whether you want to go on an educational architecture walk in the Museum District, celebrate the rich history of Diwali, or join a new book club in Third Ward, there’s plenty of fun to embrace this month.

Shadowlawn and Waverly Court Architecture Walk

Explore the two earliest enclaves of Houston’s prestigious Museum District with Preservation Houston. Embrace the cooler weather while learning about the history and architecture of the neighborhood.

Anjali Performing Arts Diwali Celebration Performances

 at The Woodlands Children’s Museum | October 18 | 10:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Celebrate Diwali this month with colorful, vibrant performances! More than a billion people around the world participate in Diwali, a Hindu holiday that started in India and celebrates the victory of light over darkness.

Film talk: Addie Tsai, author of "Straight White Men Can't Dance"

 at Basket Books & Art | October 23 | 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Basket Books is offering a unique film talk and discussion with Houston author Addie Tsai, who gives us a closer look at the media research behind their work. This unique talk explores how a dance trope about white men actually serves as a smokescreen for deeper issues of white supremacy.

 at Houston History Research Center| October 23 | 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.

This showcase at the Julia Ideson Building downtown will feature architectural drawings of Houston’s theaters and performance halls. Get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most renowned and beautiful theater buildings across the city.

 at Kindred Stories | October 28 | 7:00 pm

This month, Kindred Stories’ book club is reading 

by Kylie Lee Baker —- a proper horror novel for the season! Gather with your community and welcome the spooky season together.

Book Launch | “Sea of Ink, Forest of Pens: The Art of the Qurʾan in the Hossein Afshar Collection”

 at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston | October 30 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The cozy season is the perfect time to curl up with a book. Join the MFAH for David J. Roxburgh’s book launch in the Hirsch Library’s intimate Reading Room. You’ll get a chance to hear from the museum’s paper conservationist, Tina Tan, about how she preserves centuries-old works from our collection.

The best arts and culture events in Houston for October 2025. 

Houston Arts & Culture Guide for October 2025

Some of you did awesome last week on the practice STAAR exam! The rest of you might want to brush up on your science and math skills 😉 This week, we’re back to our regular news quiz. Have you been keeping up with all of the Houston happenings, from bayou deaths to light rail system delays? Test yourself with our news quiz!

Did you follow the big news stories this week? 

Did You Keep Up With Houston's Top Stories This Week?

What Houstonians have been wondering. We break down why things in Houston are the way they are and how they work.

Houston, Explained

October is one of the best months in Houston! Why is that? The temperatures are 

starting to cool down and the month is packed with festivities to celebrate the start of fall. Whether you want to dance the night away to Tejano music, sip craft beer at Oktoberfest, or play Monster Mini-Golf (yes, this is a thing!), you will not be disappointed with fun happenings around H-Town.

Don’t Let These Fun Events Slip Under Your Radar

Did you know a former vice president is coming to town?! Kamala Harris is making a stop at Hobby Center to 

 which covers her unprecedented run for president last year.

Craving one more night on Miller Outdoor Theatre’s beautiful lawn before the season ends? Spend this weekend dancing and singing along to Tejano and mariachi music at the 

Basketball season is also back! Cheer on the Houston Rockets and new star player Kevin Durant 

The weather is crisp(ish), so it’s time to get outside and enjoy one of Houston’s festivals!

Want to ooh and ahh over beautiful artwork? Stop by the 

 at Memorial Park, which will feature hundreds of artists from all over the world.

Embrace our city’s dynamic diversity at the 

, one of the largest cultural events held at Discovery Green. This year, it will feature K-Pop headliners Hohyun & Withus.

Nothing feels more like fall than an Oktoberfest celebration! Head to 

at Saint Arnold Brewing Co, where you can celebrate with a German-themed food menu, live music, and special beer tappings.

, where they can decorate pumpkins, show off their costumes, and go on an adventure on the trick-or-treat nature trail.

 with hands-on crafts and the movie “Coco.”

Dance the night away, sing karaoke, and win best costume at the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s one-of-a-kind 

Mixers & Elixirs: Spirits and Skeletons party.

 Or, put on your best costume and groove with your crew at 

, where you can win a cash prize for your costume. Looking for more low-key options? Grab your beau or your crew 

for a scary movie at Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown

 at this glow-in-the-dark course in Katy.

The best ways to ring in fall across Houston. 

Your October Guide 2025 in Houston

Houston's Best Ways to Celebrate Fall in October 2025

Dance The Night Away At Armandos 

Dance The Night Away At This Tex-Mex Spot

The latest on the hottest places to eat, drink, socialize, and talk about in Houston.

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Houston. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Houston Food & Drink

Food & Drink

 Before the big day, have you been able to try restaurants that made the Michelin guide last year yet?! Although the guide often recognizes more luxurious and fine-dining establishments, some more affordable Houston restaurants received what’s known as the 

. This award recognizes restaurants that offer the customer the best value for their money. So, which Bib Gourmand restaurants in Houston should you add to your list?

Have you been to this delicious Vietnamese restaurant in Spring Branch? 

The Michelin Guide recommends a variety of their dishes

, including their steamed rice cakes, pork and shrimp crystal cakes, and their banh khoai, a crispy rice pancake topped with beansprouts, shrimp and fresh herbs. Still have room for more? Try their grilled flank steak served with vermicelli, known as Vietnamese noodles.

The Michelin Guide celebrates how Blood Brothers BBQ 

honors Houston’s diversity by melding together Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean flavors 

with good old Texas barbecue. There are so many dishes to try, including their watermelon salad, brisket fried rice, and their smoked char siu banh mi. But my mouth is drooling at this dish: fried bao soaked with honey, which includes pork belly topped with hot mustard and water spinach.

As a pasta girl at heart, I was thrilled that the Michelin Guide highlighted one of my favorite restaurants in Houston. This beloved Montrose restaurant serves up a variety of tasty plates. My favorites are the nonno’s pasta, made with tagliatelle, bolognese, and parmesan, and their olive oil cake. The Michelin Guide 

recommends their dilly milk bread and their fried quail

 stuffed with German potato salad. Nobie’s also bakes pies daily, and apparently their banana bread pie with whipped honey mousse is to die for.

The City Cast Houston team can vouch for this Michelin Guide pick because we thoroughly enjoyed our lunch there last year. After our trip, I went back for another visit with my parents on the Fourth of July, where we devoured their brisket, mac and cheese, and tater tot casserole. The Michelin Guide also 

highlighted their smoked pork ribs, house-made sausages, and corn pudding

If you’re a pasta and pizza fan, then you should also 

add this Michelin Guide pick to your list

. The guide highlighted their spectacular wine list, focaccia di recco filled with robiola cheese and mortadella, and, of course, their pasta and pizza dishes. My favorites: the cacio e pepe pizza or their cavatelli alla bolognese. For dessert, the Michelin Guide recommends their honey cake with crème fraîche gelato. Yum yum!

A guide to the Bib Gourmand restaurants in Houston, selected because they offer customers the best value for their money. 

Food & Drink

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