There are so many great places to live in Houston that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.
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The River Oaks Shopping Center neighborhood holds some of Houston's best dining, bars, music venues, museums, and shops of all kinds.

It’s one of the reasons real estate agent Stephanie Willis finds this area so attractive, and has chosen to call it home for eight years.

“We love walking to restaurants, coffee shops, or even the store,” she says. “We can ride our bikes downtown to watch the Astros or hang out at Discovery Green. We also love being outside and the beautiful Buffalo Bayou offers miles of hike and bike trails, kayak rentals, boat tours, and more.”

Willis has been working in the River Oaks area for the last six years. She has found that it's helpful for buyers to have a trusted real estate advisor who knows the schools, parks, best places to eat, and more to point out features that best suit their interests.

“I think the River Oaks Shopping Center area is a perfect snapshot of the city with its diversity in culture and residents,” she says. “No matter what your interests are, they are only steps away.”

Prior to residential real estate, Stephanie enjoyed a 20-year career as a personal trainer at The Houstonian Club and River Oaks Country Club. She was a collegiate gymnast and competed in adventure races and triathlons after college.

Willis offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in the River Oaks Shopping Center area. Here's her guide:

Where to eat & drink
"My favorite casual dining is Barnaby's Cafe,” says Willis. “It’s a great menu with fresh ingredients and anything you could want, from breakfast to dinner. They also have a pet-friendly patio.”

Willis’ top place for Mexican food is Cielito Cafe: “Amazing food and service; there isn’t a lot of seating, but it is definitely worth the wait!”

For brunch, Willis heads to Backstreet Cafe. Whether you like savory (try the smoked chicken and potato hash with poached eggs) or sweet (brioche French toast with roasted bananas, vanilla mascarpone, and almond brittle) or both (grilled peach flatbread with prosciutto), they have it.

And for coffee, you’ll often find Willis at Empire Cafe. “They have wonderful desserts and baked goods, too,” she says.

For good vibes, it’s Flora on the Bayou. “You truly feel like you are sitting in a treehouse lit with gorgeous chandeliers. Their patio is the best, I love the cucumber margarita, and the ceviche is delicious.”

Give the Gulf Coast oysters a try at the French-inspired Bludorn, advises Willis. It’s her five-star fine dining go-to.

And for sushi, she recommends Izakaya for their fresh and creative dishes.

Where to play
There are numerous options for everyone to relax with friends, starting with Buffalo Bayou’s outdoor activities and its wildlife to see.

The Buffalo Bayou Promenade hosts everything from farmers markets to concerts, food trucks, and outdoor workouts. And Eleanor Tinsley Park also has regular events, festivals, and more.

“Lola's is the oldest bar in Houston and is definitely worth a game of pool with friends — or go solo and make friends there!”

Where to live
“The style of homes ranges from the original bungalows to elaborate new construction. You will find something for everyone here; there are residents from college-age through retirement, and neighbors from all over the world,” Willis says.

“We have full-service, luxury high-rises, smaller condominiums, single-family homes with large yards and pools, and fabulous townhouses with minimal outdoor spaces for easy upkeep,” she adds. “Several townhomes in the area offer rooftop terraces with panoramic views of the city.”

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Stephanie Willis works and plays in the River Oaks Shopping Center area. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email stephanie.willis@sothebys.realty, or call 713-256-3369.