Cheers to the weekend.
Deciding the place to go and what to do can really feel overwhelming, however in a metropolis like Houston, you don’t need to look far. From daring bites to buzzy bars to uniquely Houston pastimes, there’s at all times one thing price exploring. That’s the place Houstonia is available in. On this weekly sequence, our editors share their favourite locations to eat, drink, and “Hou”—so you may spend much less time planning and extra time having fun with town.
eat
Nice smashburger at a fair higher deal.
For the epitome of a Joyful Meal: Jethro’s Cocktail Lounge
Montrose
Happiness is sweet meals at an awesome value, and Jethro’s Cocktail Lounge delivers with its smashburger particular. Head to the Montrose spot earlier than 7pm to snag a signature burger and fries for simply $7. This patty is not any bizarre burger—it’s a wealthy mix of brisket, quick rib, and chuck, stacked with pickles, onions, and a tangy particular sauce. One chunk and also you’ll know why it’s an grownup Joyful Meal—simply be prepared for a bit of chin-drip motion.
Mensho at all times brings its A sport.
For the perfect bowl of ramen: Mensho
Bellaire
Three Houstonia staffers made the pilgrimage to Mensho this week, and all got here again considering the identical factor: This might very properly be Houston’s greatest ramen. Even earlier than opening, you may spot cooks hand-crafting springy noodles and portioning them into neat bundles for service. Every bowl is a masterclass in steadiness—creamy chicken-based broth, smoky proteins, completely chewy noodles, and textural surprises like fried burdock root. The tori paitan sings, the garlic bowl packs a punch, and the inexperienced tea duck ramen is a standout. With solely about 30 seats, strains construct quick—arrive early for lunch or dinner to beat the frenzy.
drink
For cocktails in a neon dream: Haii Keii
Higher Kirby
Haii Keii seems like stepping right into a film set someplace between Kill Invoice and Blade Runner. Neon lights, surreal video projections, and even an upside-down bonsai tree set the stage for sushi and cocktails which can be simply as dramatic. Highlights embody a $50 gold-topped sushi roll served with a flaming crab butter candle, a velvety ube espresso martini, and playful plant-based nigiri that tastes uncannily actual. For a extra non-public expertise, ask for one of many cozy two-person cubicles with red-roped dividers or one of many upstairs tables with a window that overlooks the downstairs eating room.
HOU
For a feast of concepts: Jaipur Literature Competition
Varied places
Now in its eighth yr, the Jaipur Literature Competition returns to Houston Friday by means of Sunday with a wealthy mixture of writer talks, poetry readings, and vigorous debates. Occasions happen at Asia Society Texas, MFAH, Rothko Chapel, and the Everlasting Gandhi Museum, bringing world voices along with native expertise. Highlights embody filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, novelist Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, and panels exploring identification, local weather, and creativity. With meals distributors and family-friendly workshops rounding out the schedule, it’s a weekend designed for curious minds. Learn extra in regards to the pageant from senior tradition editor Meredith Nudo.
For a weekend that rocks: Photo voltaic Flare at Axelrad
Midtown
Again for its second yr, Photo voltaic Flare lights up Axelrad Beer Backyard with two days of nonstop music and group. Hosted by native nonprofit Houston Music Classifieds, the pageant brings collectively greater than 40 Houston acts throughout two levels, plus a bustling market of native artists and distributors. All of it kicks off Friday, and runs by means of Saturday with units that stretch late into the night time. Tickets are $20 for a single day or $35 for the complete weekend.
