Food + Beverage

If You Eat One Thing

Chef Michael Lara's seven-layer torta setteveli is a must-try at Tavola. Article by Gabi De la Rosa | Photography by Brian Kennedy Chef Michael Lara leads the kitchen at Tavola, the upscale Italian spot in Post Oak. As the chef de cuisine, he works with Salvatore Martone, The Bastion Collection's Michelin-Starred Corporate Chef, and a Joël Robuchon protégé to create a menu that celebrates the diverse flavors of Italy. Lara continues the restaurant's commitment to high-quality ingredients...

Life + Culture

It’s a Date

Redefine romance with Houston’s one-of-kind date night experiences. Article by Gabi De la Rosa Santé Lounge Santé Lounge, a cocktail spot in Houston’s Upper Kirby area, is the perfect location for a night out on the town. The lounge offers a curated food program featuring oysters, caviar, artisanal meat and cheese boards, and flatbreads like The Frida with chorizo and avocado-poblano drizzle. Their cocktails are also inspired by famous artworks, such as The Three Graces, an elegant twist on...

Style + Beauty

The Perfect Fit

Christy Lynn Lee marks a milestone year with new collections and strategic pop-up boutique. Article by Gabi De la Rosa | Photography by Lauren Holub Photography Houston-based fashion designer Christy Lynn Lee is marking five years of her eponymous brand with a pop-up boutique in River Oaks District. The pop-up, running through the end of the month, will feature selections from her Fall/Winter 2024 line and the first release of her Spring 2025 collection in February.   "I wasn't initially...

Travel

Caribbean Calling

Grace Bay Resorts in Turks and Caicos makes it easy to experience a fantastic island getaway. Article by Gabi De la Rosa | Photography by Photos courtesy of Grace Bay Resorts With over 7,000 islands in the Caribbean, picking the ideal winter escape can be challenging. But Turks and Caicos, with its pristine white beaches and clear blue waters, is a perfect option for those looking to swap chilly weather for a sunny retreat.    This archipelago, 575 miles southeast of Florida, consists of 40...

Home + Design

In the Mix

Designer Shundra Harris adds function to homes and offices. Article by Diane Cowen | Photography by Gracie Henley Shundra Harris was working as an aerospace engineer when she remodeled her own home. When friends saw how gorgeous it turned out, they asked for her help and her second career was born. She’s now the principal at Shundra Harris Interiors, handling a mix of commercial and residential projects. In February, Shundra will be inducted into the Houston Design District’s Leaders In...

Life + Culture

25 ways to make the most of 2025 in Houston

With health, wellness and relaxation at the forefront, here are the best ways to enjoy the year ahead in Houston. Article by Gabi De la Rosa 25 ways to make the most of 2025 in Houston    With health, wellness, and relaxation at the forefront, we've curated a list of the best ways to enjoy the year ahead in Houston.   RELAX Memorial Park  After a century, Memorial Park is still one of Houston's most sought-after green spaces for relaxing or outdoor activities.    Bayou Bend...

Home + Design

Curtis & Windham, classical & traditional style

Architects’ work is found all over the city, especially River Oaks. Article by Diane Cowen When Bill Curtis and Russell Windham each moved to Houston in the early 1990s, the oil bust and recession of the 1980s was mostly in the rear view mirror and a large home commissioned by a wealthy Houston businessman had signaled to others that it was time to spend money again. Bill was a native of Longview and graduate of the University of Texas who had worked in San Antonio and Washington D.C., and...

Health + Wellness

2025 Health & Wellness Guide: Tips from Houston's Experts

Navigate your 2025 wellness journey with tips from Houston’s leading health and fitness experts. Article by Ally Straczek Dr. Avani Shridharani, Dentist & Owner Bellaire Dental Suite Why did you start working in the health and wellness space? I am committed to educating on the importance of oral health because I come from a background where it wasn’t prioritized unless there was pain or discomfort. Since our mouth is the gateway to the rest of our body, keeping it free from disease...

Life + Culture

Hitting the High Notes

Led by Brittany Hebert Franklin, Sky High for Kids works tirelessly to support children undergoing cancer treatment and other life-threatening conditions. Article by Gabi De la Rosa | Photography by Photography courtesy of Sky High for Kids What started as a challenge to raise $10,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during Brittany Hebert Franklin’s college years has turned into a 510(c)(3) that raised $8.85 million to support children’s cancer research in 2024. Franklin pivoted...

Fitness

Excellence in Motion

Bowman Physical Therapy uses education, technology, and customized care to restore quality of life. Article by Ally Straczek | Photography by Photography courtesy of Bowman Physical Therapy Royce Bowman has designed individual physical therapy plans for Houston-area patients for more than 25 years. Now, as the founder and owner of Bowman Physical Therapy, in partnership with OakBend Medical Center, he continues to bring cutting-edge technology, education, and personal care to healing. While...