austin

Austin

chicago

Chicago

denver

Denver

lasvegas

Las Vegas

madison

Madison

nashville

Nashville

philly

Philly

pittsburgh

Pittsburgh

portland

Portland

saltlake

Salt Lake

seattle

Seattle

twincities

Twin Cities

We make podcasts and newsletters that connect people with the cities they love.

City Cast Houston

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

From tasty tacos to DIY ramen, Houston’s restaurant scene just got even 

exciting. Houstonians can now enjoy a popular taco institution’s new location in Richmond, or head over to Asiatown to make their own mouth-watering ramen bowl. Also, if you’ve been dreaming of East Coast-style seafood or cheesesteak but don’t want to travel far, some new restaurants have opened just in time to satisfy those cravings.

For 40 years, taco lovers have devoured their favorite dishes from Soliz Tacos de Casa & Café . Now, customers can 

enjoy the same tasty breakfast and lunch tacos at a brand-new location

 in Richmond. Did you know some of the restaurant’s most popular tacos are named after their customers? I want to try the Hughie, made with grilled chicken, sauteed onions, bacon, refried beans, and cheese. Yum yum!

A California-based fast-casual restaurant is 

 — its first in the Houston area! Enjoy burritos, quesadillas, salads, and bowls with protein options like grilled chicken, pork carnitas, and brisket birria. You can also add guac or queso free to any meal 😋 Don’t live out in the burbs? Don’t worry, the Qdoba franchise is set to open up to 13 other locations across the Houston area soon.

 | 13232 Northwest Fwy | Northwest Houston

It’s National Seafood Month, so it’s the perfect time to 

try this new seafood spot with East Coast classics

. Enjoy everything from a seafood boil with shrimp to sushi rolls Pretend like you’re on vacation in an East Coast beach town thanks to the restaurant’s beautiful interior. Don’t forget to order a spiced old-fashioned or cranberry mule cocktail to go with your meal 🍸

A one-of-a-kind ramen restaurant where you can 

build your own ramen bowl has made its way to Asiatown

, place your creation in the induction oven, and then after four minutes you can devour your delicious bowl. Eating on a budget? A ramen bowl with three toppings will cost you less than $9 😉

Devour a gooey and delicious cheesesteak this fall at 

Texadelphia’s newest location in Garden Oaks

. Their menu is packed with signature cheesesteaks including their Texican, a beef or chicken cheesesteak made with onions, mozzarella, jalapeños, and queso. Not in the mood for cheesesteak? Order some wings, nachos, or fried pickles from the menu.

Pretend you're in Paris at this new French luxury wine bar tucked inside the Heights. Book an exclusive wine tasting for $120, or a more relaxed one-hour experience for $20. They update their selection of red and white wines every week, plus pastries and charcuterie boards. Bon appetit!

A new pasta fusion restaurant has made its way to Asiatown! If you love Italian, seafood, AND Japanese cuisine, you don’t have to choose between any of them here. Whether you want grilled calamari salad, spaghetti and meatballs, or a lobster roll. Cutting Board Houston will have a grand opening special this month, where you can get a free lobster cocktail with every $50 spent.

Let’s be honest. No one does fusion better than H-town, and now we have a new spot for Thai and Japanese?Krua Thai & Sushi offers up classics like pad thai, miso soup, and edamame. Want to be more adventurous? Try their cold sushi dishes like their chilli hamachi yuzu, which features Japanese yellowtail sashimi with spicy red yuzu pepper, serrano, chili oil and ponzu.

have opened up a new tiki bar inside the Toasted Coconut

. This fun bar, open Thursday through Saturday evenings, focuses on tiki classics and tropical flavors. One standout drink is Kava Sutra Clarity, a coffee-flavored cocktail made with Cagnus cognac. Although you can’t order food from this new bar, you can still indulge in classic dishes from Toasted Coconut – you’re right inside!

A new food hall has made its way to the ‘burbs! Kilani Food Hall 

 featuring bold flavors and a diverse selection of dishes. Grab a hot chicken sandwich from Burnin Chick, tacos from Taco Nova, seafood dishes at A&M Fry Shack, or a burger from Cheeky Buns. Seems like whatever you’re craving, your tastebuds will be satisfied!

 is back! Houston chef Jose Hernandez, a restaurant veteran known for his French cuisine, is reviving the restaurant right off Heights Boulevard. Guests can expect the restaurant's beloved Mediterranean-style cuisine, including house-made pastas and pizzas. Yum yum!

Get excited! Fans of Yia Yia Mary’s Mediterranean Kitchen 

can now visit an upscale spin on the restaurant

 located inside Pappadeaux’s former location on Richmond Avenue. The menu now boasts more high-brow seafood items and a full wine list with Greek selections. Miss your favorites from the old restaurant that closed in 2020? Their signature beef and chicken souvlaki is still on the menu, but now made with higher-quality proteins, blistered tomatoes, pickled fennel, and tzatziki.

Looking to escape the summer heat? Visit this new oasis tucked behind Goode Co.’s Kitchen & Cantina and serving up tequila and other agave spirits. Their menu has some Mexican classics (hello, guacamole!) and more adventurous fare, like the crispy brussels sprouts taco. I’m eyeing the frozen mezcal margarita and carnitas flautas.

 | 811 Buffalo Pk. Dr. Suite 130 | Buffalo Bayou

Luis Robledo Richards, the pastry chef behind Mexico City’s Tout Chocolat, is 

bringing an exciting new Mexican restaurant to Autry Park

. You can indulge in various delicious dishes with bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and heirloom corn imported directly from Mexico. Some dishes making my mouth water include the filet mignon with mole negro and the sea bass with potatoes and salsa Veracruzana. Don’t miss their brunch menu with chilaquiles and eggs benedict topped with salsa roja hollandaise. Yum yum!

Pretend like you’re vacationing in Tulum at this breathtaking new restaurant inspired by the popular resort town in the Riviera Maya. Grab a cocktail and lounge at their patio that has oceanside vibes. Enjoy a plate from their coastal dining menu with dishes like the adobo chicken, featuring grilled chicken marinated in pineapple and adobo and served with pineapple pico de gallo, black bean purée, and an adobo masa cake. I’m already eying the dulce de leche bread pudding for dessert!

For me, there’s nothing better in the thick of summer than a refreshing cocktail! Enjoy light bites and specialty cocktails at Diversión Cocktails’ new intimate space in Montrose. The Texan Artisan Board has charcuterie created by all Texas producers. It’s already calling my name! On the cocktail side, I can’t wait to try “Hana Hou-ston” made with rum, aperol, papaya, lime, sesame, and shoyu.

Check out this new Hawaiian shaved ice spot that has been blowing up my Tik Tok feed! Grab some shaved ice with the kiddos, or treat yourself with a frozen cocktail. I can’t wait to cool down with their frozen piña colada. The Happy Rainbow shaved ice looks like a perfect treat to share on a hot summer day. 🌈

If you venture to Latuli this month, get excited to enjoy Gulf Coast-inspired cuisine with global flair. Their menu features fresh ingredients from local farmers. Items that made my mouth water: rock shrimp tacos, double-cut pork chop, smoked redfish dip with pimento cheese. The restaurant also has a separate bar that’s apparently described as an “adults-only retreat.”

a new Southern cocktail lounge and restaurant

, is already at the top of my list for June! The name 

pays homage to “everyone’s favorite eccentric aunt,”

 and you’ll find a range of cocktails and a one-of-a-kind menu that draws from many cultures, including the American South, Caribbean, Mexican, and Vietnamese. Two items that stand out: the pho-spiced pork chops and The Houstonian cocktail, which plays off a gin and tonic with cinnamon, star anise, juniper, and thyme. Yum yum!

is already getting tons of buzz! Guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat brunch and mimosas. Lunch and dinner is also served any time of the day. Don’t miss their full bar to sip on signature cocktails like 

 | 2240 Navigation Blvd., Suite 800 | East End

What are the best new restaurants and bars you should check out in Houston during October?

Houston's Best New Restaurants and Bars in October 2025

Houston's Best New Restaurants and Bars 

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

Fall is here! I suggest celebrating the new season the best way we know how in Houston: eat and eat and eat! Whether you want a bowl of delicious gumbo, a cozy pasta dish, or a slice of pie to ring in the season, there are plenty of options across the city. Keep reading to see where you need to make a reservation 🍽️

The weather is breezy, which means it’s time to book a table on 

. While you’re there, order their caramelized onion soup with rich oxtail bouillon. There’s something about soup and fall that go together so effortlessly! Want to add something else delicious to your plate? Order the Rohan Duck Montmorency, which comes with pickled sweet cherries and duck confit croquettes. Yum!

Looking to have a luxurious date night or a fun hangout with friends? Book private bungalow seating at 

 which is available for lunch or dinner Tuesday through Saturday. The bungalow seating comes with your own Bluetooth speaker, so you can set the mood music for your gathering! There’s also a fan and heater on the patio (because we know anything can happen on a Houston fall day). Order the truffle chicken pot pie for peak fall vibes.

For me, fall hasn’t really started until I have pasta and a glass of wine at 

. When you visit, you can easily see why this popular Italian restaurant has been a mainstay in Montrose for over 25 years. From their mouthwatering pizzas to their homemade pastas, you really can choose anything on the menu and leave satisfied. My vote: Order the Italian family salad, the bucatini Amatriciana pasta, and their signature raspberry sandwich cookies for dessert. The portions are huge, so you can share a plate with someone or go home with leftovers 😉

, a classic Creole restaurant in Midtown. Why is that? Gumbo, of course! Order their Haute Creole Seafood Gumbo made with Jazzmen Rice, or their Snapping Turtle Soup to warm up on a cooler day. Dreaming about dessert? It’s pie season, so add a slice of their Mississippi Mud Pie or Robin's Lemon Meringue Pie to your order.

Looking for a cozy meal out in the burbs? 

 tucked away in Sugar Land Town Square is a great option! Want a dish that screams fall? If I were you, I would order their garlic knots, lobster bisque soup, or their 20-layer lasagna. They also have a killer weekday lunch special, where you can choose two courses for $22.

The best fall dishes at Houston restaurants. 

The Best Fall 2025 Dishes in Houston

When I make it to the dog days of summer, I usually find myself in a food rut. Between spending money on summer trips, eating out, and expensive grocery runs, I’m looking for ways to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. If you’re tired of eating the same meal every night, then I’m here to spice up your summer food routine with budget friendly ideas. Let’s dig in!

, then what are you waiting for?! Seriously, 

, don’t walk to this Montrose happy hour, which happens every day from 3 to 6 p.m and includes $5 pasta plates, $6 wine, and $2 oyster shells. Earlier this summer, I tried the happy hour for the first time and devoured the rigatoni alla vodka while delicately sipping a glass of prosecco. As someone who enjoys Marmo during non-happy hours, I felt like I was getting away with something because in what world can you indulge in tasty pasta and drinks for under 20 bucks?!

brand new Southern cocktail restaurant and lounge

 on Washington Avenue has a killer menu that you can enjoy on a budget. I’m still thinking about the $14 Smashburger in Paradise, a one-of-a-kind burger that they topped with a colorful mini umbrella. You could also try one of their po’boys made with shrimp, braised beef, or blackened redfish for $14. They also have a stellar happy hour from Tuesdays to Friday between 4 and 7 p.m. with menu items like the smashburger for a cheaper price.

It can be hard to find tacos that stand out from the pack in a taco city like Houston. Not only do 

 stand out from the competition, but you can enjoy multiple ones and keep your bill under $25 at either their Heights or Spring Branch location. For example, order three birria street tacos in double corn tortillas for only $13. Take it a step further and get their enchiladas rojas, which includes three Mexican enchiladas rojas topped with grilled potatoes, sour cream, and queso fresco for $13.

Besides their tasty burgers, another major plus about 

 is their menu is actually affordable! Order the OG Burger combo, which includes a delicious burger, fries, and a drink for a little over $15. Do you have little ones with you? Try the Lil G’ Trill Meal and they can enjoy their own smaller burger and fries alongside you for around $10.

Where are the best places to have an affordable meal this summer in Houston?

The Best Summer Meals Under $25 in Houston

The Best Summer Meals Under $25

Everyone’s favorite thing to explore in Montrose? The food! Whatever kind of cuisine you’re craving, you can find something delicious in Montrose. The only problem: there’s so many great options! So, what are the best places for coffee, a classic dish, or something adventurous? We’ve got you covered.

 has been a staple for Italian food in Montrose since 1998. You can’t go wrong with any dish at this family restaurant. Whether you’re craving delicious pasta, pizza, or an Italian hoagie, you’re going to leave satisfied. My go-to order: the Italian family salad, a classic Italian pasta dish bucatini amatriciana, and the eleni pizza, aka with pepperoni. Pro tip: The portions are huge at Paulie’s, so you’ll always have leftovers!

Looking for a cozy corner of Montrose? Check out 

, which serves up tasty Latin American coffee, empanadas, and tamales. This is a great place to catch up with a friend or get work done on your laptop. I recommend trying their Maya Mocha Latte and Choripan Argentine sandwich. City Cast Houston Executive Producer Laura Isensee also loves their cafe de olla, made with cinnamon and brown sugar.

, a popular West African food stall at POST Houston, opened a new brick-and-mortar location in Montrose last fall. I’m a huge fan of ChòpnBlok, especially their one-of-a-kind West African menu created by James Beard Award nominated Chef Ope Amosu. Once you’re at their Montrose location, you’re not going to want to leave! Artwork and textiles make the atmosphere colorful, and the tiled bar is so inviting. New to West African food? I highly recommend trying the Motherland bowl, made with steamed rice, Motherland curry, yaji vegetables, and sweet plantains.

It’s hard to choose the best patio in Montrose, so I’m going to cheat a little for my answer 😉 Want to gather for drinks with friends on a cool summer evening? Then head to 

sometimes has a DJ, open mic, or movies on their patio! 

, is legendary! It’s even better with a glass of wine on their patio 🍷

More iconic spots to visit in Montrose

The best places to eat in Montrose this summer 2025. 

Best Places to Eat This Summer 2025 in Montrose 

The Best Food in Montrose

Who can get bored in Montrose? This eclectic neighborhood just west of downtown Houston isn’t just full of trendy restaurants, iconic spots, breathtaking art, cool coffee shops, and other fun places to explore. It’s a whole vibe. This month, we’re spotlighting what makes Montrose special. Let’s start with a guide to this one-of-a-kind neighborhood!

For me, there’s something special about walking underneath the large trees by 

. The people-watching — seeing folks gather for picnics, flow in yoga poses or walk their dogs across the lawn— is an excellent escape. Make sure to also go inside the Menil and check out their renowned art collection, where admission is always free. Then, take a moment to reflect inside the 

, a spiritual space that features giant murals by American abstract artist Mark Rothoko. Seriously, you can get lost in those deep blues and purples! Step outside again, and admire the breathtaking 

, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Grab a bite from the absolutely delicious 

, which is sadly closing later this month 🥲

To soak up all the Montrose vibes, you have to explore Westheimer. Go shopping at one of their vintage shops like 

. (Every Friday is 80s night, and some people have been moving to Depeche Mode for years!) Stop for a coffee on 

 delightful patio. For dinner, grab a bite at the appetizing Italian restaurant 

. (I’ll have more food recs in next week’s newsletter 😉)

One thing that really sets Montrose apart from other Houston neighborhoods is the art and music. Enjoy spoken word from talented local poets on the patio at 

 on Wednesday nights. Check out the rainbow-colored crosswalk at Westheimer and Taft, an art installation that honors Montrose’s history as a place for Houston’s LGBTQ community to gather and organize. Grab a beer, play some darts, or laugh out loud during one of the 

, aka the “living room of Montrose.” Look through vinyls or attend a live music event at 

, a longtime destination for music lovers. If you want to admire even more local creativity, check out exhibitions at the 

Other spots to visit in Montrose

Your neighborhood guide to Montrose in Houston. 

Your Guide to Montrose 

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

Houston Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

It’s heating up around Houston, so it’s time to cool off with a refreshing cocktail. Whether you’re craving something affordable, sweet, or one-of-a-kind, I’ve got you covered. Now, let’s go find the best cocktails to enjoy this summer!

Ninfa’s, a mainstay in Houston since 1973, is known for their delicious Tex-Mex plates and refreshing drinks. A margarita from Ninfa’s can make almost any summer day better! Before you try anything else on the menu, you 

Brennan’s just remodeled their courtyard bar

 – and they have new happy hour specials? Feel fancy while sipping on a cocktail for only $10 between 2 and 5 p.m. One of the drinks I’m eyeing on the happy hour menu is the Frozen P&G Cosmo, with vodka, cointreau noir, lime juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup. Also, their Aperol Spritz is calling my name. That cocktail always screams summer to me!

Looking to splurge a bit? City Cast Houston Producer Carlignon Jones recommends grabbing a cocktail from 

, a fine-dining restaurant in west Houston. She 

their “Sexy Fish” cocktail, made with tequila and raspberry, served in a fish glass.

It’s hard to pick just one cocktail from 

, a classy bar on Washington Avenue and winner of the national 

 from the James Beard Awards, aka the Oscars of the food world. I suggest selecting one of their classics: the Cherry Bounce Sour, made with corn whiskey, cherry bounce, turbinado, lemon, angostura bitters, and egg white. Of course, you can’t go wrong with their Mint Julep, which has bourbon, old forester, turbinado, and mint.

Refresh at Josephine's Gulf Coast Tradition

City Cast Houston Executive Producer Laura Isensee says the cocktails at 

 have made it one of her new favorite haunts in Midtown. She enjoys the Cafe Du Lu, made with vodka, chicory coffee and a mini beignet on top, which she says transports you right to New Orleans. Make sure to check out their happy hour to snag $8 cocktails and their very well priced, very delicious oysters. Yum yum!

the best places for ice cream and cold treats

Where can you get the best cocktails for summer? 

The Best Cocktails for Summer 2025 in Houston

The Best Cocktails for Summer

more than 65 local breweries call Houston home

? It’s the perfect time to sit on an outdoor patio, bask in Houston’s rare cool breeze, and sip on a cold one. So, which breweries should you visit this spring, and what are the must-try brews? Keep reading for tips from your trusted newsletter editor, Brooke Lewis, and Lennie Ambrose of Saint Arnold Brewing Company.

If you’re a rookie to the craft beer scene, Lennie suggests trying Saint Arnold Brewing’s best-selling, crisp, and refreshing 

 and try their easy-to-drink Pilsner beer.

, which has a salty taste and is spiced with coriander.

Some of Lennie’s favorites near his Oak Forest neighborhood include 

Near Rice University, check out the brew pub 

, the longtime pub for Rice graduate students

Houston’s downtown has almost endless options for beer. You could even create your own brewery crawl by visiting: 

refreshing ideas broken down by neighborhood

In honor of the Art Car parade, grab a pack of Saint Arnold’s crowd favorite 

 from Karbach Brewing. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Astros Foundation!

, a New England-style IPA from SpindleTap Brewery.

more hotspots to check out if you live near Oak Forest

More Houston brewery + beer tips

Craving some hops and good brews? Check out some of our favorite Houston breweries.

The Best Breweries in Houston 

Have you ventured to Garden Oaks or Oak Forest? These two communities northwest of the Heights — nicknamed “the GOOF” — attract a lot of families who enjoy the quiet and calm of the suburbs, but also want to be near delicious restaurants and parks to make you feel like you’re in the thick of bustling city life. Let’s go exploring!

You can’t go wrong with a delicious plate of brisket and sweet potatoes from award-winning 

 For my fellow wine aficionados, grab a glass at 

, a neighborhood wine bar with a dog-friendly patio. Also, stop by 

, a cafe known for delicious daytime eats like the Cubano sandwich or cinnamon sugar waffles. At 5 p.m., the cafe transforms into 

These two communities northwest of the Heights, nicknamed the GOOF, attract a lot of families who enjoy the quiet and calm of the suburbs, but also want to be near delicious restaurants and parks to make you feel like you’re in the thick of bustling city life

bars

713 Things We Love About Houston

Houston's Best New Restaurants and Bars

The Best Fall 2025 Dishes in Houston

Latest articles

713 Things We Love About Houston

Houston's Best New Restaurants and Bars

The Best Fall 2025 Dishes in Houston

The Best Summer Meals Under $25

The Best Food in Montrose

Your Guide to Montrose

The Best Cocktails for Summer

Latest articles

The Best Summer Meals Under $25

The Best Food in Montrose

Your Guide to Montrose

The Best Cocktails for Summer

The Best Breweries in Houston

The Best Places To Explore In Garden Oaks/Oak Forest

Where to Find the Best Mocktails in Houston