Alto started driving in Houston in late 2020, and it has quickly become a favorite way to get around. The experience is unparalleled. Think luxury SUVs with leather captain chairs, thoughtful amenities like complimentary water and umbrellas, and even curated playlists to choose from in the Alto app. Those who have ridden know that Alto is more than a ride from point A to B, but a journey to be enjoyed — because the recap of every dish on the ride home should be just as good as the dinner.
Community is at the heart of Alto. Rather than hiring independent contractors, Alto has hired W-2 employee drivers who are trained and supported by a local Houston team. The service also offers a Membership that unlocks Alto benefits as well as unique offers from Houston partners. Those who join Alto’s exclusive Membership gain full access to the Alto fleet during the busiest "Members Only" hours, savings on every ride, and Alto’s prescheduling feature for booking rides in advance (Pro tip: Lock in your ride when you lock in your dinner reservation!). Join a community of adventurous, in-the-know Houstonians, at only $12.95 a month.
Alto shared the top pick-up and drop-offs that make up their Members most recommended spots — and also happen to be celebrating Houston Restaurant Week! — so you can plan the perfect night out.
Trattoria Sofia A top drop-off among Alto Members, we recommend Trattoria Sofia for authentic Italian with the perfect atmosphere.
The Annie Cafe Another frequent destination, The Annie Cafe and Bar serves classics, totally reimagined.
MAD Houston A spot as innovative as your Alto. Book a ride to MAD for a night of tapas with a twist that are sure to be a new adventure.
Ouzo Bay The Alto team’s go-to modern Mediterranean spot for a perfect night out.
B&B Butchers and Restaurant This upscale steakhouse and traditional butcher shop is a classic Alto favorite.
FLORA A must try this month — FLORA is a culinary journey through the small towns of Mexico with a Texas touch.
Michelle and Jonathan Zadok (photo by Jacob Power)
“The lavish celebration united over 400 generous supporters, community advocates, elected officials, and law enforcement from across the state for a lively Texas-themed party which kicked off with an energetic happy hour, offering guests opportunities to support the night’s exciting silent auction and raffle,” noted a rep for the nonprofit of the elaborate celebration at The Revaire that raised more than $2 million.
The band Nobody’s Fool was terrific playing all the best country covers, and even providing a soundtrack for a rowdy silent auction that found auctioneer Johnny Bravo jumping on tables!
Chairs for the evening were Elizabeth McIngvale-Mackey and Matt Mackey and jewelers Michelle and Jonathan Zadok. Stirring remarks were made by notables including Mayor John Whitmire, UH President Renu Khator, Jim ‘Mattress Mack’ McIngvale and Vanessa Ames and Jordan Seff, generous donors credited with helping set organization’s strategy and inspiring others to give. The steak dinner was provided by Ben Berg of B&B Butchers and other top restaurants.
VIP guests included a slew of dignitaries and officials such as U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, District Attorney Kim Ogg, County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, City Council Member Willie Davis, Police Chief Noe Diaz and Constable Alan Rosen. Private citizens from the society set were also on hand, including Brigitte Kalai, Alicia Smith, Susan Boggio, Sheridan and John Eddie Williams, Hallie Vanderhider, Bobby Dees and many members of the fame Zadok family of jewelers.
Fady Armanious, Brigitte Kalai AND Alicia Smit (photo by Priscilla Dickson)
Marge Lundquist, Tama Lundquist (photo by Priscilla Dickson)
Renu Khator (photo by Jacob Power)
John Eddie and Sheridan Williams (photo by Jacob Power)
Ben Berg and Morgan Skiba (photo by Priscilla Dickson)
Auctioneer Johnny Bravo (photo by Jacob Power)
Eric Elder (photo by Priscilla Dickson)
Seven Shamir Francis (photo by Jacob Power)
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Breanna Blankenship, Nicholas Stuart, Zsavon Butler, Outspoken Bean
A meaningful moment was when former Houston Poet Laureate Outspoken Bean honored longtime chef and food-writer Adán Medrano with a spoken-word performance. Works by other beloved local artists, like Jamal Cyrus and Vincent Valdez, adorned the walls, and music was provided by Breanna Blankenship and DJ Flash Gordon Parks.
The 350 guests also enjoyed a runway show featuring fall looks by Chloe Dao, modeled by icons like Lauren Anderson, and a spread prepared by Jackson & Company along with H-E-B. A nod to the global theme, the menu included Korean-style short ribs and Greek kourabiedes — washed down with French and Italian wine, of course. Cheers!
Ross Smith, Leigh Smith, Caroline Smith, Alecia Harris, Whitmire Vo, Owen Duffy
Casey Valverde, Tammy Dowe, Marco Martinez
David James, Judge Lina Hidalgo, Honoree Adan Medrano & Richard Jimenez
Rita Garcia, Sergio Selvera
George Farah & Michele Leal Farah, Nicholas & Zsavon Butler, Lauren Anderson & Chris Stanaway, John Abodeely & Edward Kachinske
Chloe Dao with her models
Michele Leal Farah
Lisa and Saul Valentin
Leigh Smith, John Abodeely, Lauren Anderson
Aerialist from J&D Entertainment
Joel Rottier, Council Member Mario Castillo, Rep. Christina Morales, Michele Leal Farah
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