On this week’s episode of “What’s Eric Eating,” Dessert Gallery owner Sara Brook joins CultureMap food editor Eric Sandler to discuss her business. The Upper Kirby dessert shop recently celebrated its 28th anniversary.

Brooks tells Sandler about her decision to open Dessert Gallery as both a dine-in and to-go cafe at a time before coffee shops — or dedicated dessert shops — offered that kind of environment. He also asks her about the nostalgic nature of most of Dessert Gallery’s offerings.

“There have been times in my 40-year career when there have been different trends that come and go with things flying out of our dessert or all sorts of weird accessories. They’re fun to look at or order once, but it’s not something you’d want again,” Brook says. “You want the thing that reminds you of what your grandma made for your birthday. Those are the things that inspire memories and good feelings.”

Listen to the full episode to hear Brook discuss her relationship with Houston’s Jewish community and the status of her new location in The Woodlands that’s scheduled to open in time for Thanksgiving pies and Christmas cookies.

On this week’s other episode, Sandler and co-host Monica Danna discuss the news of the week and their meal at a new restaurant. Their topics include: Tatemó chef Emmanuel Chavez being named a Food & Wine Best New Chef; Levi Goode going solo by opening fine dining restaurants Credence and Sidebar; and Seattle’s Dough Zone opening its first Houston-area location in Midtown.

Photo by Becca Wright

Sara Brooks is this week's guest.

In the restaurant of the week segment, they visit Nonno’s Family Pizza Tavern, the new, retro-styled pizzeria from Nobie’s owners Sara and Martin Stayer. Listen to hear their thoughts on the restaurant’s tavern-style pizza and other dishes.

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