Top Web Stories of ’19

In case you missed ’em, these were the three most widely read stories of the year at CityBook online!

LL5-811x1024
LL5-811x1024

As the year — and the decade! — comes to a close, it’s time to revisit a few of 2019’s most widely read stories on HoustonCityBook.com.


The most clicked-on story of the year? Our second annual Leaders & Legends portrait series, which also appeared in print. This year’s feature included then-newly-elected congressman Dan Crenshaw, Grammy-winning gospel great Yolanda Adams, and other local luminaries.

Chris Becker’s preview of the MFAH’s landmark Van Gogh exhibit in the spring — which included an interview with longtime curator David Bomford, one of his last he gave before retiring in March — ranked second, and also ran in our March issue.

Vincent Van Gogh’s self-portrait, 1887, one of dozens by the artistVincent Van Gogh’s self-portrait, 1887, one of dozens by the artist

Rounding out the top three was a fun and flavor-packed list of must-try dishes during August’s Houston Restaurant Weeks extravaganza, put together by celebrated local chef and food writer Kate McLean.

Fried chicken at La Lucha, featured on our round-up of the best Houston Restaurant Week dealsFried chicken at La Lucha, featured on our round-up of the best Houston Restaurant Week deals

The new year will surely bring more delicious news and fascinating features, both in print and online. Stay tuned!

AT TOP: Lucinda Loya from the second annual Leaders & Legends Portrait series

Dispatches
Spa-tacular Getaway Opportunity: Retreat to Mexico this Fall 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

Heather Almond and Zinat Ahmed

NEARLY 1,700 GUESTS headed to Cotton Ranch in Katy for Cotton Holdings’ 13th annual CrawFest — a Texas-sized evening of food and music. The event raised a record-breaking $768,000 for the Cotton Foundation, which supports families facing disaster, illness and hardship.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties

Maddy and Patrick Moffitt and Christina and David McAllen

A DERBY WATCH party was so much more than the fastest two minutes in sports! The Post Oak Hotel hosted the Hats, Hearts & Horseshoes event benefiting Bo's Place, and the most fashionable and philanthropic Houstonians turned out.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties