Asian

Kata Robata Discreetly situated in a retail center, this top-notch sushi bar serves up fresh, innovative Japanese dishes daily under the direction of executive chef Manabu Horiuchi. Try a heaping bowl of spicy soy ramen — or Chef Hori’s inventive new caviar service. 3600 Kirby Dr., 713.526.8858



Mala Sichuan This longtime Chinatown favorite is equally popular inside the Loop, where its corner location in a Montrose shopping strip is reminiscent of a trendy New York resto. Mala’s menu packs a punch with dishes like the dry-pot chicken and three-pepper duck. Multiple locations, 832.767.0911



Nobu At socialite-savvy Nobu, hyperinformed waiters float around, delivering bite-sized delicacies on geometric white plates to tables. Unique takes on sushi include ones with pickled cucumbers, Shiso leaf and Japanese mackerel. In the Galleria, 832.987.2599



Pepper Twins Don’t take the “pepper” in foodie fave Pepper Twins lightly. The dishes at this Szechuan-style restaurant, now open in CityCentre, incorporate serious spices like the fresh nine-leaf peppercorn, helping customers to feel the burn. Try the mung bean smoothie! Multiple locations, 832.649.7175



Uchi It’s hard to beat Uchi for fresh, interesting sushi and sashimi — and the Brussels sprouts are can’t-miss. The sake social hour seating, which offers heavily discounted plates and wine from 5 to 6:30pm, is one of the most sought-after in the city. Prepare to wait in line. Equally delicious: An eight-course dinner to-go, with wine, for less than $100. 904 Westheimer Rd., 713.522.4808



Street to Kitchen Chef-owner Benchawan Painter finally has a permanent home for her Street to Kitchen pop-up concept. The East End restaurant spotlights self-proclaimed “unapologetically, authentically Thai” food, elevating items that are traditional street foods in Painter’s native Thailand to chef-driven dishes made with local and organic ingredients. 6501 Harrisburg Blvd., 713.428.1975



Himalaya Hidden in a retail plaza in Little India, this ultra-casual cafe is BYOB and serves up spicy Indo-Pak classics like chicken tikka masala and lamb biryani. If you’ve been-there-eaten-that, try the smoked-brisket masala or top-secret fried chicken. 6652 Southwest Fwy., 713.532.2837
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Fall Philanthropy Report: March of Dimes’ ‘Signature Chefs’ Event Coming in November

Fall Philanthropy Report: March of Dimes’ ‘Signature Chefs’ Event Coming in November

What year was your organization launched? 1938

What is your mission? March of Dimes was founded in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, to combat polio. The name “March of Dimes” was suggested by entertainer Eddie Cantor as a way to encourage people to donate even a small amount, like a dime, to help fight polio.

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Fried Chicken, Fancy Bubbles, and a Side of Glamour: Sundays at The Marigold Club Just Got Fun

Chef-owner Austin Waiter of The Marigold Club, now serving fried chicken and Champagne on Sunday nights.


IF YOUR SUNDAY nights could use a little sparkle—and a lot of fried chicken—The Marigold Club has just the thing. Starting May 25 at 5pm, the Montrose hotspot known for its playful mix of Southern charm and London polish is rolling out a new weekly tradition: Fried Chicken & Champagne Sundays.

This isn’t your average comfort food situation. We're talking a shareable fried chicken dinner for two, made with farm-raised birds from Deeply Rooted Ranch, and served alongside buttery whipped potatoes, minted peas, aged cheddar scones, and some over-the-top sauces — including a foie gras sauce supreme that’s as extra as it sounds.

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Food
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Spa-tacular Getaway Opportunity: Retreat to Mexico this Fall with a Houston Wellness Expert

Palmaïa The House of AïA

THIS FALL, LEBRINA Jackson, owner of Escape Spa in Cypress, is taking her wisdom and joie de wellness to the jungle. Far beyond the walls of her beautiful spa, she’s aiming to create a quiet space for people to work on their personal growth in a community-centric atmosphere. She shares what participants will get out of the trip and why it’s important to take time for self-care in 2025.

Why is it important for people to “retreat”? Life can feel like a non-stop marathon, and sometimes we forget to just... breathe. Retreating offers a chance to step off the treadmill for a bit and hit the reset button. It's about giving your body and mind some much-needed TLC, allowing for genuine relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond the personal perks, retreats often create a cool sense of community, connecting you with others on a similar path. By carving out space for self-reflection, you can recharge and return to your daily life with a clearer head and a bit more pep in your step.

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Wellness+Giving Back