The newly minted Almquists savor a romantic and intimate “last dance” amid the chandeliers at the end of their reception.
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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.
Editor Jeff Gremillion describes the Duos concept: “This is our version of the ‘Power Couples’ stories that were so common in city magazines in the ’80s and ’90s,” he says. “I always loved the idea, but, for CityBook, we wanted to make it a bit more inclusive and contemporary. So our Duos includes couples, yes, and also siblings and business partners and parent-child combos. This year we have two sets of identical twins!”
The Caltons, repped in Houston by Neal Hamil Agency, were photographed by Jhane Hoang, who also shot several other “power pairs” for the issue. Her subjects include Armando Palacios and Cinda Murphy of Armando’s restaurant fame, who are expanding their empire in Houston and the Hill Country — and beloved twin-sister philanthropists Tama Lundquist and Tena Lundquist Faust, founders of Houston PetSet.
TV co-hosts Courtney Zavala and Derrick Shore make an appearance, along with the mother-son artists known as Donkeeboy; sibling lifestyle-brand purveyors Mario Tort and Vanessa Tort Pagel; and the beautiful betrothed couple of Olympic medalist Nichelle Prince and rising-star band front man Adrian Michael.
“It’s a great group,” adds Gremillion, “of folks who know well the power of two.”
“Creating memorable experiences for our guests is at the heart of what we do, and we believe that the rooftop and its outstanding views of the downtown Houston skyline will only elevate their experience at Georgia James,” says G.M. Raul Lorenzana.
The Vibe
Light-filled with wall-to-wall windows, the sprawling two-story, 11,000-square-foot space boasts a first-floor dining room appointed with curved camel tweed banquettes and round, marble-topped tables, each conducive to a cozy respite. White-tablecloth-draped dining tables are punctuated by plush, high-back, mustard-seed-colored velvet chairs. Near the entrance, a custom light fixture with amber-hued, hand-blown glass offers the illusion of smoke rising from a fire pit. Up on the rooftop, find two terraces with couches, cocktail tables and fire pits. But the best part is sweeping skyline views.
The Food
Shrimp and grits (photo by Michael Anthony)
Executive chef Greg Peters, an alum of Underbelly Hospitality, has designed a special menu for rooftop guests. Marinated crab fingers and mirliton slaw; pork rillette served with mustard, toasted focaccia and house pickles; shrimp and grits with country ham, and an addictive chicken liver pâté with preserves will get the party started alfresco style! In addition, the rooftop menu features Houston-centric Georgia James fan favorites including the smoked red-fish dip with fried saltines, and the juicy 44 Farms strip steak.
Down in the dining room, expect a full roster of decadent steakhouse riches starring Peters’ menu of beef cuts ranging from the 100-day wet aged 44 Farms hanger steak to the porterhouse and the prized 44 Farms dry aged long bone rib-eye and Wagyu Zabuton from Snake River Farms. Sticking to the original recipe, cast iron steaks are seared and then butter-basted in garlic and thyme. Cornbread stuffed whole lobster, fried Holmes chicken and Gulf fish round out the entrée selections.
For sides, Brussels sprouts fanatics — everybody knows one — should order this Creole vinaigrette iteration with crispy garlic and onions. Alternatively, try the charred corn inspired by elote street corn, its kernels tossed with diced red pepper and spicy crema topped with queso fresco. Also gussied up is the cauliflower with turmeric yogurt, feta and herbs. If you’re with a group, do start with the UB charcuterie board or the seafood tower stacked with a daily selection of fresh oysters and much more.
The Drinks
Its glassed wine room can hold 3,800 bottles in racks built by HTXmade, a local firm responsible for wood accents throughout the restaurant. A list of 500 global wines offers representation from all major producing regions, in addition to more obscure locations and varietals. Thankfully, Georgia James’ sommeliers offer an array of well priced wines that will challenge preconceptions about a steakhouse wine list. The beverage team is equally focused on a global spirits and introducing guests to new brands, while spotlighting producers close to home and reinforcing a passion for American whiskey.
Sourcing and Service
As with all Underbelly Hospitality restaurants in the past, the experience remains focused on sourcing quality products direct from farmers and ranchers, cooking technique and execution, plus an intelligent level of service. On our first visit, the friendly staff knew the food menu inside and out as well as the cocktail and wine menus.
The Details
Rooftop lounge (photo by Michael Anthony)
Parking options include valet or self-parking in the free garage. Walk-ins are welcome for the rooftop and upstairs indoor bar tables. Dinner is served nightly, and the rooftop will remain open for one hour after the dining room closes. For reservations, call 832.241.5088 or visit georgiajamessteak.com for the Resy link.
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