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City Cast Houston

City Cast Houston Staff

Have you seen some unusual looking muddy blobs that look like little volcanoes in your neighborhood? Our pal Lisa Gray has answers.


“They're crawfish chimneys, entrances to the little swamp creatures' burrows, which can extend as deep as three feet below ground. If you see them in your yard, be grateful: They're aerating your soil and improving your drainage,” writes Gray. 

What the heck is a crawfish chimney? (Lisa Gray)

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

 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!

More Michelin guide recs

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

Which Bib Gourmand Restaurants to Visit in Houston?

Michelin Guide Restaurants to Visit That Won't Break Your Budget

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

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?

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 

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"

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

Houston Arts & Culture Guide for October 2025

Have you seen some unusual looking muddy blobs that look like little volcanoes in your neighborhood?

Urban Almanac

Urban Almanac: Crawfish Chimneys

City Cast Houston Staff

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