Just in Time for Spring, Patio-Happy Hamsa Debuts Sunday Brunch

Shane Dante
Just in Time for Spring, Patio-Happy Hamsa Debuts Sunday Brunch

Brunch at Hamsa

ON A PRETTY spring Sunday, the retractable wall of windows by Hamsa’s bar open onto its patio, filled with cool people, fab food and immaculate vibes. The Rice Village Israeli resto just debuted its inventive new brunch menu, and people are already raving. Recently nominated for the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur, owners Itai Ben Eli and Itamar Levy continue to retool their modern Israeli cooking for the discerning Houston foodie.


On the menu, expect Mediterranean classics like Shakshuka — or opt for one of the new creations like the Green Omelette served with Feta and Kasserie cheeses, sourdough and Labane (a traditional middle eastern yogurt).

The schnitzel sandwich is shareable — and not to be missed. It’s a large chicken schnitzel loaded with thick slices of seasoned eggplant served on a large puffy roll. And even the hummus has gotten a brunch-approved upgrade: The mushroom version is topped with a mountain of ’em, plus a soft-boiled egg.

Try one — or all! — of the flavorful mimosa offerings including strawberry ginger or pomegranate mint. For the true Israeli experience, try the Raspberry Fizz with Arak. Arak is 100 percent alcohol that’s said to have healing properties, including aiding with digestion.


Raspberry Fizz

Mushroom Hummus

Tahini Brandy Milk Punch

Schnitzel Sandwich

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

Palmaïa The House of AïA

THIS SUMMER, 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.

Keep Reading Show less
Wellness+Giving Back

Alejandra and Edgar Rincon. Patty and Karl Schmidt

ONE OF THE most feel-good fetes of the year, the 2025 Make-A-Wish Gala once again broke records, raising a whopping $1.8 million for the Gulf Coast and Louisiana chapter of the organization.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties

SUPPORTERS OF THE Houston organization BRASS (Baylor Research Advocates for Student Scientists) celebrated the group’s 30th anniversary at a beautiful River Oaks home. BRASS president Elsie Eckert and a former BRASS scholar Sharon Bright were among those who welcomed everyone to the event.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties