Located in the heart of the Galleria district in Houston, Uptown Park has always been a go-to spot for great food and shopping. Currently in the midst of re-development, the area continues to grow and become an even better place to spend an afternoon.
Wondering where you should make sure not to miss a meal? Here are some solid favorites.
The Tasting Room
Come in before 6 pm on weekdays and order a glass of wine or an appetizer for only $6. The American wine bar’s Six by Six happy hour menu covers everything from cabernets and bordeauxs to pinots and rosés. Pair that with eggplant and tomato jam crostini or roasted stuffed mushrooms, and you've got a simply lovely happy hour.
Songkran Thai Kitchen
A native of Bangkok, chef Junnajet "Jett" Hurapan always uses fresh ingredients to create his traditional Thai cuisine. Fan favorites are the Kang Phet Ped Yang with clay pot crispy duck, red curry, and pineapple and the Pad Si-ew Pak, which has wok phat noodle, Chinese broccoli, red pepper, egg, and garlic-soy. Top it off with a homemade sorbet, which is carefully crafted by Jett's wife, pastry chef Jira Hurapan.
Etoile Cuisine et Bar
With a goal of making French food less pretentious, chef Phillippe Verpiand and Monica Bui have created a more casual and inviting way to enjoy authentic French cuisine. This season, try the risotto aux légumes de saison or the pavé de saumon rôti. Also make sure to try one of the homemade cocktails — all mixers are made in-house from real ingredients.
Uptown Sushi
If you’re a sushi lover, Uptown's got you covered. But if raw fish isn't quite your favorite, the menu here has plenty of mouthwatering options. Start off with the avocado miso soup with grilled shrimp, masago, micro cilantro and fried onion bits. Another must-try is the ground beef kobe cubes, which include crispy rice cake, quail egg sunny side up, and a black pepper soy glaze. Of course there are always tuna rolls, but live a little and try the Godzilla roll.
Don't forget that Father's Day is quickly approaching, and you don't want to be found empty handed. After you've fueled up, pick up one of these classy gifts for Dad.
M Penner
Get Dad the perfect suit to show him that he's always been a gentleman. This store offers luxury labels and on-site tailoring, but if you're shopping on a budget, a classic tie or two is also a good choice.
Bill Walker Clothier
Whether your dad is all business or more of a sporty dude, Bill Walker has something he'll like with brands like Tommy Bahama, Vineyard Vines, and Peter Millar. Shirts are also available for customization and can be monogrammed if you're looking to add a personal touch.
Embajadores Fine Cigars
This local tobacco shop is for the true cigar aficionado. Get your old man some premium hand-rolled cigars or a nice humidor. Or you can give the gift of quality time and spend an evening together smoking cigars at the shop.
Crispy chicken and shrimp rolls at Songkran Thai.
