Editor's note: It's time to look back at the top Houston news of the week. We begin with a Houston neighborhood's surprise status as America's fast growing city. Plus, a Houston speakeasy gets international recognition, a cowboy-inspired eatery claims a prime location in Lazybrook/Timbergrove, a Tastemaker Award-winning chef has opened a new cafe, and one of favorite burger places has made a major change. Get the details on our most popular stories of the week below, and then check out our guide to the best things to do this weekend.
1. Surprise Houston neighbor was No. 1 fastest-growing U.S. city in the last decade. It led the nation with an astonishing 1,082 percent increase in population from 2014 to 2023.
2. Houston speakeasy ranks No. 59 on 100 best bars list for North America. It's the only bar in Houston to make the prestigious list.
3 Cowboy-inspired, family-friendly restaurant rides into prime inner loop space. The new restaurant's outdoor patio will have a playground, lots of TVs, and a stage for live music.
4 Successful pop-up chef opens a new all-day cafe and bakery in the Heights. After years of selling pastries at farmers market, chef Jane Wild has a permanent home.
5 Cult favorite Houston burger joint adds new co-owner to power future growth. The most immediate changes will be opening on Monday and adding dinner service on Friday and Saturday.