We're only halfway through May, but the Big Vibe Group's quartet of restaurants have been busy serving up fun times and fabulous food.
On May 7, more than 80 people turned up at Gratify for a mahjong fundraiser to support JDRF to help find a cure for Type 1 diabetes, hosted by Alexandra and Rich Bruskoff.
Ready to play?Photo by Leah Wilson
The Bruskoff's eldest daughter, Georgina, was diagnosed with the incurable disease in February 2020 at age 10, shortly before the start of the global pandemic. By 2022, the Bruskoff's were actively involved with JDRF's Houston chapter, attending their annual gala and initiating relationships with their team and other volunteers.
This spring, Ali was determined to make a larger impact. Her friend group's newfound love of mahjong sparked the beginning of her fundraiser, Mahjong for a Cure.
"When I shared my interest in hosting a fundraiser for JDRF, we received support from every corner of the country," Bruskoff said in her welcome speech. "Everyone who made this night possible is pushing us one step closer to a cure for T1D."
Cocktail hour was a sea of signature cocktails, including the Jacy Margarita, the Four Winds Ranch Water, and more, along with elegant passed apps like Gratify ceviche and caviar and chips. A delicious buffet of entrees was prepared and served by The Big Vibe Group.
Luxurious raffle prizes were also up for grabs from The Breathing Room, The Mahjong Line, and even a private styling appointment and $500 to spend at LoveShackFancy.
If this has piqued your game-playing spirit, mark your calendar for May 22 from 12:30-3:30 pm for Tiles & Cocktails: A Mahjong Social Series at Graffiti Raw.
This ticketed special event includes passes appetizers, lunch, passed desserts, non-alcoholic beverages, and instruction from Madam Allie if you're a beginner.
If these two celebrations are anything like the pair that opened the month on May 5, you're in for a fantastic time.
The Kentucky Derby took over Gratify with a hat-decorating station and special cocktail menu that included plenty of mint juleps made with Stranahan's single malt whiskey.
The whiskey flowed freely on Derby Sunday.Photo by Kirsten Gilliam
Over at Flora Mexican Kitchen, Cinco de Mayo was in full swing. House margaritas were only $10 all day on Sunday, with special flavors like guava, hibiscus, and tamarind giving the margs some extra festive color. Don Julio, Maestro Dobel, and Jose Cuervo pop-up bars dotted the restaurant, and no doubt fueled the energetic dancing that accompanied the live entertainment and music.
Cinco de Mayo was only the start of taco time for Flora Mexican Kitchen.Photo by Kirsten Gilliam
The Big Vibe Group encompasses Graffiti Raw, Gratify Neighborhood Bistro, Coppa Osteria, and Flora Mexican Kitchen. Learn more about each concept, see upcoming events, and make a reservation here.
