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 must look far. From daring bites to buzzy bars to uniquely Houston pastimes, there’s at all times one thing value exploring. That’s the place Houstonia is available in. On this weekly collection, our editors share their favourite locations to eat, drink, and “Hou”—so you’ll be able to 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 Glad Meal: Jethro’s Cocktail Lounge
Montrose
Happiness is nice meals at an important worth, 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 isn’t any odd burger—it’s a wealthy mix of brisket, brief rib, and chuck, stacked with pickles, onions, and a tangy particular sauce. One chunk and also you’ll know why it’s an grownup Glad Meal—simply be prepared for just a little chin-drip motion.
Mensho at all times brings its A-game.
For one of the best 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’ll be able to spot cooks hand-crafting springy noodles and portioning them into neat bundles for service. Every bowl is a masterclass in stability—creamy chicken-based broth, smoky proteins, completely chewy noodles, and textural surprises like fried burdock root. The Toripaitan 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 push.
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 might 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 Pageant
Varied areas
Now in its eighth yr, the Jaipur Literature Pageant returns to Houston Friday by Sunday with a wealthy mixture of writer talks, poetry readings, and energetic debates. Occasions happen at Asia Society Texas, MFAH, Rothko Chapel, and the Everlasting Gandhi Museum, bringing international 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 concerning the competition 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 neighborhood. Hosted by native nonprofit Houston Music Classifieds, the competition brings collectively greater than 40 Houston acts throughout two phases, plus a bustling market of native artists and distributors. All of it kicks off Friday, and runs by Saturday with units that stretch late into the evening. Tickets are $20 for a single day or $35 for the complete weekend.
