Houston’s attention may be firmly focused on RodeoHouston, but the next few days offer three food events that are worthy of considering. Those looking an alternative to cowboys, concerts, and turkey legs should read on.

Friday, March 3

45th Anniversary Celebration at Treebeards
Get the restaurant’s signature red beans and rice with sausage for $1.95, the original price it sold for in 1978 (cheese and onions available for an additional fee). Available at all four Houston-area locations, the special will also repeat on Friday, March 10.

Topo & The Beast at El Topo
Chef-owner Tony Luhrman has invited Belly of the Beast chef Thomas Bille to collaborate with him on a seven-course, $140 menu of Mexican-inspired fare. The dishes include infladita with Mexican hummus, dorade tiradito, lengua al pastor with trumpet mushrooms, and a surf and turf of a sope asada with a shrimp empanada.

Sunday, March 5

Let’s Talk Womxn at Caracol
Part of a series of gatherings happening at 14 cities across the country, this tasting event aims to “build the camaraderie, counsel, visibility, bargaining and economic power of its women entrepreneurs.” Described in press materials as a “Gold Glamour Bash,” attendees are encouraged to wear gold to capture an appropriately festive mood.

The night features food and drinks from 20 women-owned bars and restaurants across Houston. Participants include: Angel Share, Ate Kitchen, Fat Cat Creamery, Kiran’s, Kriti Kitchen, and The Upside Pub. Hosts Sharon Haynes (Tacos A Go Go), Alli Jarrett (Harold’s), and Tracy Vaught (H-Town Restaurant Group) will also have a presence.

Tickets, $100, are available online, 6:30-8:30 pm.

Monday, March 6

The Truffle Masters at The Revaire
This annual event always assembles an impressive group of Houston chefs who compete to determine the tastiest dish with black truffles. Contestants include: Maurizio Ferrarese (Alba Ristorante), Jassi Bindra (Amrina), Michelle Wallace (,b’Tween Sandwich Co.), Joseph Geiskopf (Ciel), David Skinner (Eculent), Niki Vongthong (Hidden Omakase) Alex Au-Yeung (Phat Eatery), Benchawan Painter (Street to Kitchen), David Cordua (The Lymbar), and several others. While attendees sample bites from all of the participating chefs, a panel of media judges will pick a winner.

All attendees will have the opportunity to sample an espresso martini bar presented by David Skinner and sponsor Meticulous Spirits. As the event benefits the Houston Symphony, some of its musicians will perform throughout the night.

General admission tickets, $295, are available online. VIP is sold out.