Cute Former CityBook Model Named Chef of Chris Shepherd’s Revamped Downtown Resto

Evan W. Black

OPENED AT THE beginning of 2021, Underbelly Hospitality’s Georgia James Tavern was a glimmer of hope for the return of Downtown as a social destination post-pandemic. It was first known as an offshoot of Georgia James Steakhouse, but now — with a new menu and a new chef — the eatery is stepping boldly into its own identity.

Can’t-Miss Spring Openings: Return of a Celeb Chef, New Montrose Hot Spot & More!

Robin Barr Sussman

APRIL IS JUST about to wrap, and the culinary hits keep coming! Here’s a rundown of the latest openings.

At Surprise-Filled Gala, JDRF Raises Nearly $2 Million More Than Goal to Fight Type 1 Diabetes

Jeff Gremillion

WHEN JDRF, THE leading global organization focused on researching type 1 diabetes, finally held its slickly produced Promise Ball with its “Day in the Life” theme after a two-year Covid break, it had high expectations. It set a fundraising goal of $2 million — which, it turns out, was all wrong. Instead, with the help of chairs Amber and Clay Bretches, the organization had an eye-popping haul of $3.7 million!

Actor Alan Brincks gets his makeup done for 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.'

BEGINNING AUG. 1 THROUGH Aug. 10, the Houston Shakespeare Festival, the professional arm of the University of Houston’s School of Theater and Dance, takes the stage at Miller Outdoor Theatre for its 50th iteration. The milestone event includes productions of Romeo & Juliet and A Midsummer Night's Dream, plus "Bard talks," all at no cost to viewers.

Keep Reading Show less
Art + Entertainment

Dandelion Cafe owners Sarah Lieberman and J.C. Ricks with Mireya Villarreal of GMA, Chris Shepherd and Lindsey Brown of Southern Smoke Foundation (photo by Shane Dante Photography)

THE SOUTHERN SMOKE Foundation, established by chef Chris Shepherd, has only been around for seven years — but that's long enough to have helped hospitality workers through hurricanes, freezes, a pandemic, and countless other personal situations requiring emergency relief.

Keep Reading Show less
Food