Memorial Forest: A prime location with storied tradition and tree-lined surrounds

Your Expert Guide

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

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.

---

Located in the epicenter of Houston, Memorial Forest is known for its beautiful natural topography, upscale properties, and easy access to major city freeways like the Beltway and I-10.

“Memorial Forest is very much a front-yard neighborhood, surrounded by restaurants and parks and boasting two elementary schools — Bunker Hill and Frostwood — which are within walking distance, as is Memorial Mall,” says Janice Murphy, who is the third generation of a four-generation real estate family.

She lists and sells predominantly in the Memorial neighborhoods, where she has also lived and been an active community member for more than 30 years.

Murphy offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in Memorial Forest. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
"Ciro's Italian Grill not only has great food, there’s a beautiful patio along with an outdoor space for children to run and play, and you can often catch live music there, too,” says Murphy.

She also suggests several other fine restaurants within a five-minute drive, including the coastal flavors of Liberty Kitchen & Oysterette, State Fare Kitchen & Bar’s casual-fun menu (dill pickle dip with house-made barbecue potato chips, anyone?), farm-to-table flair at Dish Society, Southern comfort at Treebeards, and elevated steakhouse fare at Jonathan’s The Rub.

Smoky goodness is served up at Goode Co. Barbeque — and don’t miss sister restaurants Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina and Goode Co. Seafood, she adds.

For mixing and mingling over drinks, Murphy recommends by Popular Demand (or "bpd," as the locals say).

Where to play
To maximize your downtime in the area, there are parks, movie theaters, shopping, and spas and salons all very close to the Memorial Forest neighborhood.

What to see
Memorial Forest is quite close to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, The Museum of Fine Arts, and the Theater District, where a number of venues host everything from touring Broadway shows to the Houston Grand Opera and the Houston Ballet, along with concerts, bands, comedians, and more.

Where to live
“The average lot size in Memorial Forest is about 10,500 square feet,” advises Murphy. One- and two-story homes range from 2,400 square feet to about 5,600 square feet. “The Architectural Committee ensures that the new builds are styled to fit into the original neighborhood,” she adds.

Murphy highlights the European flair of the stunning 12222 Cobblestone Dr. as representative of the Memorial Forest area, what with its timeless remodel and expansion along with it pool and garage apartment.

---

Janice Murphy lives, works, and plays in Memorial Forest. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email janice.murphy@sir.com or call 281-236-6853.

Agent Janice Murphy

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Agent Janice Murphy.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Kingwood: A livable forest with trails, trees, and kindness

Your Expert Guide

Located in northeast Houston, Kingwood offers a welcoming, suburban lifestyle with traditional homes that have been remodeled as well as new construction nearby.

Kingwood’s proximity to the airport and downtown appeals to commuters as well as frequent fliers, while outdoor enthusiasts gravitate to the area for its natural beauty, 75 miles of greenbelt trails, and its adjacency to Lake Houston for boating and fishing.

For real estate agent Michelle Star, the community feel and the highly rated schools were additional factors that drew her family to Kingwood when relocating from Austin about seven years ago.

“Also, having grown up in the Midwest, all of the trees in Kingwood made me feel more at home,” she says.

Indeed, when Kingwood was first developed in the '70s, it was dubbed the "Livable Forest" — and you’ll see that tagline all around town, adds Star.

As the wife of a U.S. Marine, Star lived in nine other states before calling Texas home and previously worked on Capitol Hill. So she is masterful at planning every step of a move — and is also an International Relocation Specialist. She is passionate about finding the perfect property (and deal!) for her clients.

Star offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in Kingwood. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
"For a celebration or a special night out, Chimichurri's is hands-down my top spot," says Star. "This South American grill has top-notch service and some of the best steaks I've had — and their chimichurri sauce is amazing! You'll be asking for extra. Their executive lunch is always a hit as well for client meetings or a nice lunch with friends."

If Star wants a little something sweet, she hits Taste of Gnome, a boutique bakery. "This placeis so delicious; it's dangerous that it's right next to my office!"

Where to play
For Star, East End Park is one of her favorite places to relax and enjoy nature and wildlife. “You’ll often see deer and a variety of birds,” she says. “I have even seen an eagle on an early morning walk. The park is also a beautiful location for sunsets along Lake Houston and family photos.”

But there are so many other ways to enjoy the outdoors in Kingwood, too.

“We have neighborhood pools and parks and a weekly farmers market at Town Center,” Star adds. “There's also Dylan Duncan Memorial Skate Park to brush up on skateboarding skills with a mini half pipe, kicktail, and ramp.”

For those who like to golf, Clubs of Kingwood has five different courses along with recreational and workout facilities.

What to see
“You can't miss the The Bevil Jarrell Memorial Bridge, adjacent to U.S. Highway 59,” says Star. “It's the original bridge crossing the San Jacinto River and is another great spot for photos or just a scenic outlook point for the river.”

Where to live
“Kingwood is a wonderful place to establish a home,” says Star. “There's so much that our community offers.”

She believes that Kingwood homes also appeal to many people because there’s a mix of traditional styles that don’t feel "cookie cutter."

“Many of the homes from the ’70s have been updated inside to showcase their character, and others are ready for a buyer's personal touch,” she adds. “As you travel through Kingwood toward Lake Houston, you'll find homes built throughout the 2000s as well as newer construction in Royal Brook and Royal Shores. Kingwood offers a little bit of something for almost everyone's architectural style.”

Star recently sold a six-bedroom home at 5503 Valley Lark Court that exemplifies all that Kingwood offers.

“This gorgeous property is within close proximity to the lake, trails, and excellent schools,” she says. “It also features a custom-remodeled interior by local Kingwood builder Framestead.”

---

Michelle Star works and plays in Kingwood. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email michelle.star@sothebys.realty or call 832-779-7827.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Agent Michelle Star.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Towne Lake: Life on the water is made sweeter with custom homes

Your Expert Guide

A Houston-area resident for more than 25 years,Lisa Adams knows her way around town, including the award-winning, master-planned community of Towne Lake.

As the centerpiece of one of the region’s most sought-after areas in Northwest Houston, Towne Lake boasts Texas-sized appeal via its 300-acre lake — the largest private recreational lake in Houston, with 14 miles of shoreline, scenic coves and waterways, boat docks and fishing piers, and a six-mile continuous boat ride.

“I absolutely love outdoor atmosphere and the water feature that Towne Lake offers,” says Adams, whose daughter happens to share her affinity for the water as a two-time Olympic swimmer. “You can waterski, swim, boat, and paddle boat in the lake. And the lazy river pool is awesome for families.”

Bordered by 290, West Road, and Barker Cypress Road, Towne Lake is in the heart of the Cypress-Fairbanks area, surrounded by restaurants, shopping, and educational and recreational opportunities. Zoned to the highly acclaimed Cy-Fair ISD, the community also has three onsite schools.

Adams offered up a few of her personal favorites about the casual-upscale lifestyle of Towne Lake. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat and drink
Start the day with fresh, seasonal flavors at First Watch, which has the best brunch around; order an açai bowl at Nektar Juice Bar; or grab a sweet or savory bite at Coco crêpes waffles & coffee.

Later in the day, head to Ambriza for authentic Mexican flavors or check out Taisho, aJapanese grill and sushi bar. Sam’s Boat is the ultimate sports bar — with good Gulf Coast food, too — and you can never go wrong with a pint at World of Beer.

You can also find easy access to fast-casual faves for tacos (Torchy’s), salads (Sweetgreen), and pies (MOD Pizza).

Where to play
Towne Lake is basically a vacation in your backyard, and even has its own 1.5-acre destination island with a beach, swim area, and a dock for boating and fishing.

Outdoor activities aren’t limited to the lake, though. Parks and recreational areas boast tennis courts, splash pads, a community garden, more than 24 miles of connected trails, covered picnic pavilions, and even a slalom ski course.

Where to live
Each Towne Lake neighborhood offers a unique setting, with most homes designed in an open floorplan that resonates with the relaxed, lakeside environment.

There are a number of exclusive, gated enclaves and communities that offer custom homes and waterfront properties in addition to a “55 and better” section.

One of Adams' favorite homes in the neighborhood, which she sold for a homeowner relocating out of the country, is 18211 Dockside Landing, an incredible, modern Mediterranean-style retreat in one of Towne Lake's gated areas.

---

Lisa Adams works and plays in Towne Lake. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email lisa.adams@sir.com, or call 281-330-4342.

Agent Lisa Adams.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Agent Lisa Adams.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Montrose: Wonderfully eclectic spirit in the heart of Houston

Your Expert Guide

Developed in 1911, Montrose is merely four square miles — but don’t let its small size fool you. Situated just west of downtown Houston, it’s a vibrant pocket of bold eccentricity and diversity in the heart of the city, where you can celebrate art, culture, food, and nightlife.

A licensed real estate agent since 1986, Judy Cohen has lived off and on in the Montrose since 1979 and loves celebrating the uniqueness of the area and its residential real estate.

When she’s not checking the box on every possible detail for her clients, she volunteers with Casa de Esperanza and the City of West University Senior Services and has been a member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Committee for six years.

Cohen offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in Montrose. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
Hugo’s is the namesake restaurant of James Beard Award-winning chef Hugo Ortega and serves authentic, regional Mexican cuisine. But don’t just go for dinner; this place has one of the best Sunday brunch buffets in town. The chilaquiles and the huevos poblanos — poached eggs over sweet cornbread with roasted potatoes and asparagus — are musts.

There are a number of Mediterranean places, including Aladdin, a local institution.

You can also journey around the world with global flavors from the Far East, India, Africa, the Caribbean, and more at The Traveler’s Table.

Among the bars in the neighborhood, many would point to Anvil as the epitome of the cocktail scene, with their take on 100 classic drinks along with seasonal, creative spins on bevvies.

Where to play
The quaint Cherryhurst Park in the heart of Montrose has a playground, lighted tennis court, and a large green space and park benches; it’s also just one side street away from the bar and restaurant scene.

On Westheimer, there’s a quirky conglomeration of shops and more, from antiques to thrift stores and boutiques. “One of my favorite gems is the weekend market at Montrose and Westheimer,” says Cohen. It’s hosted every Sunday from noon to 5 pm.

Where to live
“There is a big mix of homes in the area; you can have a new-construction home next to a duplex,” says Cohen. “But I love the older Craftsman-style homes that have been restored and updated.”

One thing to note is that some of the neighborhoods, like Cherryhurst, are deed-restricted so they do not allow small-lot patio or townhomes.

---

Judy Cohen works and plays in Montrose. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email judy.cohen@sothebyshomes.com, or call 832-755-9654.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

West University: A small town with the biggest heart

Your Expert Guide

Real estate agent and fourth-generation Houstonian Laura Mayer knows her way around the block. She specializes in Houston’s finest neighborhoods, including West University, which she also calls home herself.

“I have worked in West U my entire career of 20-plus years,” says Mayer. “As a resident, I’m involved in the community myself — and through my children’s various activities — which keeps my network strong in the area. It’s the best place to live, and I am honored to sell in this neighborhood.”

With a gorgeous setting, a great community feel, and stellar schools, Mayer says West University cannot be beat.

“I love feeling like I live in a small town in the heart of the fourth largest city in America,” she adds. “The central location, safety, amenities, and community events are just a few of my favorite highlights. My husband and I love to walk to dinner or up to the ball field, and my kids can ride their bikes to many places.”

Mayer offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in West U. Here's her guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
“Head to Tiny's No. 5 for breakfast — and to hang with friends!” says Mayer. The charming restaurant is nestled in the old JMH No 5 Grocery Store that served the West U community for 60 years, and is right next door to their bakery, Milk & Cookies.

She also loves Leaf & Grain for a healthy lunch and Torchy's for a quick and easy dinner.

Little Matt's is great if you have kids, Mayer shares. Their mission is beautiful, too: to honor their young son’s memory by donating proceeds from the restaurant to Texas Children’s Hospital.

Where to play
West U has multiple parks, playgrounds, and two swimming pools, Mayer advises; it’s a great community environment. The neighborhood is also very convenient to shopping in Rice Village, which is a walkable, historic haven.

What to see
There are many things to see that are very close by, including the Museum District, Herman Park, and the Houston Zoo. Exploring the art on the Rice University campus — including a piece of the Berlin Wall — is another must.

Where to live
“West U is an eclectic neighborhood with varied architecture and style,” says Mayer. It’s a small town with a big heart and you really can’t go wrong in this area."

---

Laura Mayer works and plays in West University. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email laura.mayer@sir.com, or call 713-443-6776.

Photo courtesy of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

Oak Forest: Trendy digs in the urban woods of Houston

Your Expert Guide

Real estate may just run inFreddie Minahan's blood. Both of his parents were in the industry and, although he grew up in Philadelphia, he has adopted Houston as his second home over the last seven years, embracing every ounce of Southern charm.

While he has expertise both inside and outside Houston’s Loop, Minahan maintains a particular affinity for Oak Forest; he’s a resident himself, after all.

He has also seen a number of clients and friends move to the historic neighborhood, which was first established in 1947 and is now being revitalized into a vibrant, diverse community.

“It's fun living in a booming, comfortable, and trendy area that has constant change and exciting new restaurants,” he says.

Situated just north of the 610 loop, Oak Forest is known as the “Urban Woods of Houston” and has more than 5,500 homes and 20 acres of parks along with hiking and biking trails.

“There are so many opportunities to own a beautiful home on a great-sized lot here with convenient access to freeways and entertainment,” says Minahan. “Everyone is very friendly and welcoming, and it's nice having the trails close by.”

Minahan offered up a few of his personal favorites about life in Oak Forest. Here's his guide to the area:

Where to eat & drink
Minahan happens to be a great amateur chef, but for him, brunch at d'Alba is always a must. Their take on chicken and waffles looks like house-made carb-y goodness topped with confit chicken thigh, Fresno chiles, black pepper ricotta, and chile honey.

For a caffeine fix, it’s Sunday Press for Minahan. He also recommends Walking Stick Brewing Company for a pint in the neighborhood and Wakefield Crowbar for the ultimate sports bar environment — it’s also Houston’s only sand volleyball and entertainment venue.

Where to play
Look no further than T.C. Jester Park, according to Minahan. There are walking and biking trails, a frisbee league, a dog park, picnic spots, and more.

Where to live
Oak Forest boasts a lot of new-construction homes that range in style from traditional to modern and transitional, says Minahan.

“The neighborhood is filled with fantastic builders who deliver high-end homes with phenomenal finishes,” he adds. “Expect tons of curb appeal and many a backyard oasis.”

A recent favorite property sold by Minahan is 859 W. 41st. “I love this new-construction home on a large lot with high-end finishes and appliances,” he says. “The buyers were thrilled to move to this contemporary stunner and are looking forward to customizing the backyard with a pool.”

---

Freddie Minahan lives, works, and plays in Oak Forest. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email freddie.minahan@sir.com, or call 832-588-5991.

Ad Placement 300x100

Ad Placement 300x600

CultureMap Emails are Awesome

Property Showcase

Top things to do in Houston this weekend: Big Beyoncé takeover, a cool pool party, and more

WEEKEND EVENT PLANNER

This weekend, the biggest female pop icon in the world comes home for her wildly popular Renaissance World Tour stops at NRG Stadium. To honor local girl — and now queen — Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, locals have been shopping for that perfect fit to slay like Bey (check out our guide here) and hitting special Beyoncé-themed events (see more here).

While this weekend is rightfully dominated with all things Queen Bey, plenty of other fun activities await. Cooler temps mean more outdoor fun at the Houston Arboretum, East River, and the Dew Berry Farm Festival. Some hilarious comedians hit town, and the insider-y El Segundo Swim Club makes a splash as we say farewell to summer.

Dive into a chill weekend at El Segundo Swim Club.Photo courtesy of El Segundo Swim Club

Enjoy; here are your best bets for this Beyoncé homecoming weekend.

Thursday, September 21

Houston Arboretum presents Sip & Stroll

The start of fall will be celebrated with the Houston Arboretum’s Sip & Stroll outdoor event. Participants will enjoy a quiet evening out on the arboretum trails. The sunset walk will include two glasses of wine or Saint Arnold beer, cheese and charcuterie offerings from GRAZE HTX, and a specialty wine glass to take home. New to this year’s event, participants will enjoy an additional wine tasting featuring a variety of wines from The Cause Urban Winery, founded by Jennifer Rossi. 5:30 pm.

Nerdy Night Market at Neil’s Bahr

Nerdy Night Market will be back outdoors in the Neil's Bahr Cantina lot, giving you more space, more vendors, and the perfect opportunity to hang out, enjoy drinks al fresco, and connect with your favorite nerdy enthusiasts. Join them for an evening of geeky treasures, great company, and the coolest finds you won't want to miss. From collectibles to unique creations, there’s something for every geek and pop-culture enthusiast to explore. Must be 21 or older to attend. 6 pm.

6 Degrees presents POP DEMO

6 Degrees premieres Toni Leago Valle’s dance/theatre experience, a blend of political commentary, offbeat theatre, aerial, contemporary dance, and visual projections, set in a stylistic Pop Art décor. The performance provides a historical perspective through cartoons of how the ideas of popular democracy, extremism, and propaganda have shaped and warped American political and cultural beliefs, ultimately attempting to overthrow democracy. 7:30 pm (2 and 7 pm Saturday).

Friday, September 22

Houston Art Gallery Association Fall Celebration

As visitors wander through the Houston Art Gallery Association member galleries on Friday and Saturday, they will embark on an enlightening journey where each gallery offers a unique experience. From contemporary masterpieces that challenge traditional notions of beauty to thought-provoking installations pushing boundaries, HAGA encapsulates the vibrant diversity of artistry in Houston. Galleries include Anya Tish Gallery, Foltz Fine Art, Foto Relevance, Heidi Vaughan Fine Art, Koelsch Gallery, Thornwood Gallery and many others. Noon.

East River presents Live Music Weekends

East River 9 will be kicking off Live Music Weekends, which will happen every Friday and Saturday night through December. All ages are invited to experience free, live musical performances while taking in unmatched views of Buffalo Bayou and the city skyline on the expansive, open-air terrace. The fall artist lineup is sure to make a splash with a wide variety of local and regional musicians. Kicking things off will be Lucas Jagneaux on Friday and the Sheila Marshall Duo on Saturday. 7 pm.

Alley Theatre presents American Mariachi

Family, love, and tradition are at the core of this heartwarming play about the freedom to dream big. It’s the 1970s and girls can’t be mariachis … or can they? Will Lucha and her spunky cousin hunt for bandmates, dodge disapproving relatives, and bring Mom along for the ride? This play is infused with vibrant, infectious, live mariachi music and reminds us how music and love can make the impossible come true. Through Sunday, October 22. 8 pm (2:30 and 8 pm Saturday; 2:30 and 7:30 pm Sunday).

Ilana Glazer Live!

Ilana Glazer is mostly known as the co-star/co-creator of the Comedy Central show Broad City. But along with movies and TV, she’s also out here doing her stand-up thing. Her debut stand-up comedy special, The Planet Is Burning, is on Amazon Prime. She is also the co-founder of the non-profit Generator Collective, which defines minimal civic engagement and aims to humanize policy through people-powered stories on social media. 8 pm.

Saturday, September 23

Dewberry Farm Fall Festival

Every Saturday and Sunday, Dewberry Farm's Fall Festival will feature fun, pumpkins, food, and over 40 rides and attractions. Visitors can explore the pumpkin patch, paint pumpkins, follow a trail of glowing jack-o-lanterns inside "Pumpkin Hollar!," take photos by the life-sized pumpkin house, spin out on the new Jumping' Jacks ride, meet barnyard animals, and get lost in the 8-acre, Houston Astros-themed corn maze. Through Sunday, November 12. 10 am.

End of Summer Weekend at El Segundo Swim Club

El Segundo Swim Club is a total IYKYK, where locals and hip Houstonians gather for pool parties that are less about raging and IG stories and more about low-key vibes. For the last weekend of the season, the club is offering day passes for $20. Sip on $4 beers, at-cost champagne, and a bunch of great cocktail specials. DJ/podcaster Jason Stewart (who also goes by @themjeans on Instagram – we just thought that was funny) will be keeping everything cool and groovy with his DJ set on Sunday. 11 am (Noon Sunday).

Still Here at East End Backyard

Swishahouse, The Waxx Club, and others are coming together to throw a bash that celebrates 50 years of hip-hop and family. There will be a hip-hop stage where MCs and DJs (along with graffiti artists, who’ll get together for a graff session) will do their thing. But there will also be a synthesized area, where such DJs as DJ Comp 1, Steve Swift, and Joe B will be spinning everything from hip-hop to funk to reggae to soul all through the night. 6 pm.

Houston Museum of African American Culture presents The Art of Making It

This 2022 documentary explores the art-world ecosystem through the prism of young artists at pivotal moments in their careers, revealing the secret sauce that thrusts some into the stratosphere and leaves others struggling to survive. Why does it matter who we anoint to tell the stories of our time? Including the voices of luminaries and disruptors, the film leaves one to question whether the new world order will make art more accessible for all. The screening will be followed by a conversation with producer Debi Wisch. 7:30 pm.

Sunday, September 24

Brews & Browse End of Summer Market

This weekend, Urban South HTX will say goodbye to this hot-as-heck season with an end-of-summer market. Bring the entire family out for a fun filled day of surprises including a bounce house, face painting, raffle prizes, market vendors, food, treats, and more. GastroCraft will be there at noon, serving some delicious gastro pub fare. This family, dog-friendly event is free to the public. 1 pm.

Avant-Art Gallery Soft Opening

Aspen-based painter and gallerist Christopher Martin’s eponymous Upper Kirby gallery is changing names and ownership. The high-profile Houston Gallery Row business is being reborn under former Christopher Martin Gallery directors Ally Ondarza and Abigail Henningsen. The gallery will host its soft opening to debut “Emerging Perspectives.” The exhibit will feature artwork from their entire portfolio of artists to share their community vision. Through Saturday, October 14. 2 pm.

Bert Kreischer: Tops Off World Tour

After starring in his very own movie The Machine (where Mark Hamill played his dad!), comedian, actor, podcaster, and author Bert Kreischer is back to take off his shirt and do some good ol’ stand-up. He also has his fifth stand-up special, Razzle Dazzle, on Netflix. Shameless and shirtless as ever, Kreischer spills on bodily emissions, being bullied by his kids, and the explosive end to his family's escape room outing. We’re sure he’ll hit you with more tales of family hell when he hits the Toyota Center stage. 7 pm.

Countdown to Beyoncé: Party, dance, shine – and stretch — at these Houston events honoring Queen Bey

bey there, do that

Houston is just days away from Beyoncé’s big Renaissance tour homecoming this weekend. The lights don’t go down at NRG Stadium until Saturday, September 23, but as Bey’s song says, we like to party. That means plenty of events and food and drink specials to toast the Queen.

Locals in the Beyhive who are still searching for those perfect Bey-inspired looks can show them off at these fun happenings, which include silent disco jams, a huge downtown party, Bey-themed yoga, and a special exhibit of Beyoncé’s most legendary photo.

Break out those flawless silver threads and get ready to slay at these Beyoncé events in Houston.

Thursday, September 21

Color Factory will immerse fans with a Beyoncé playlist running inside its silent disco all weekend long. The immersive art experience has teamed up with Houston legend DJ Rob G to elevate the fan-favorite disco to a party fit for the Queen and her BeyHive. 10 am.

Post Oak Hotelis “Calling All the Single Ladies” to exclusive helipad yoga classes. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed slaying in silver. Tickets are $200 per person and includes access to the pool after class. 5 and 6:45 pm.

02 Loungewill host a video and live music tribute to Beyoncé, presented by The Vibe Curator Keto Gentry The Consultant. It’s also known as a Touch of Silver Ladies Freakum Dress Theme Party. 8 pm.

Friday, September 22

The Warwickserves up two exclusive, Beyoncé-themed cocktails. Sip on a blackberry tequila lemondrop known as Alien Superstar. Later, order up a smooth sidecar riff they call the Pure/Honey Lemonade. 11 am.

Blossom Hotel raises a glass to Beyoncé's H-Town stop with a specially crafted, themed cocktail menu, including the Crazy in Love and the Break My Soul. Bonus points: The Blossom Hotel is less than 10 minutes away from where Blue Ivy’s mom will take center stage. 4 pm.

Nosie Yogiis making a strong pull by bringing back Bey-Asana, the original Beyoncé inspired yoga class. For one night only, participants can stretch in an all-level, non-heated flow session set to Queen Bey’s music. Registration is $20. 6:30 pm.

Saturday, September 23

Tootsies and Nicole Longnecker Gallery will celebrate both Beyoncé and celebrity photographer Markus Klinko. The artist will be in attendance, along with many of his larger-than-life photographs of A-list celebs like David Bowie, Lady GaGa, and Beyoncé, including the iconic cover photo of her debut album Dangerously in Love. Fans can also look forward to a close-up view of Klinko’s Diamond Dust images of Queen Bey in her unforgettable, diamond-studded spiderweb top and jeans — which she says are her favorite. 1 pm.

Radio Milano at The Moran CITYCENTRE presents a Queen Bey Kick Off, offering specialty cocktails inspired by Beyoncé’s greatest hits. Dance and sing along while sipping on such Beyoncé-inspired libations as the Cuff It and the Heated. 4 pm.

The Plaza at Avenida Houston invites the city to Hou Run the World: Beyoncé’s Homecoming Party on the Plaza. This welcome-home bash will feature live music, fireworks, and outdoor fun. Be sure to stick around for the special drone show: More than 400 drones will light up the evening sky, creating Beyoncé-related themes to dazzle viewers. Event runs at The Plaza at Avenida Houston (between the George R. Brown Convention Center and Discovery Green Park). 6:30 pm-8:45 pm

Sunday, September 24

Bar Boheme treats Bey-loving — and brunch-loving — fans to a special, Renaissance-edition drag brunch. Enjoy delicious brunch fare, live music from DJ Athenz, and a Beyoncé-themed drag show where performers pull out all the stops to Beyoncé hits. Registration is required. 11 am.

Da Hookah Plug Lounge makes a splash with a Beyoncé & Brunch Paint & Sip Special. They’ve got the music to karaoke to, food, hookahs, and more. Guests who wish to paint must RSVP under one of the painting tickets. 12:30 pm.

Bar Louieshakes things up with a perfectly pink diva martini for Beyoncé weekend. Enjoy an array of happy hour specials, including $6 premium liquors, $7 signature martinis, $7 select house cocktails, $6 wine by the glass, 50 percent off select bar bites and more. 4 pm.

Next week: Thursday, September 28

Rooftop Cinema Club goes open air with A Queen Bey Rooftop Party. The night starts at 7 pm, where a DJ will spin tunes as tunes during a pre-game cocktail hour. Then comes a special screening of the 2001 cult classic Carmen: A Hip Hopera — starring a young Beyoncé, natch — and directed by Robert Townsend.

After the film, head to the lounge area for a silent disco/dueling DJ battle featuring electrifying Beyoncé-inspired sets. Choose the channel through the wireless headphones and move to the left, to the left all night. Live DJ set and games run 7 pm-8 pm; movie runs 8 pm-9:30 pm; dueling DJ sets and silent disco run 9:30 pm-11:30 pm.

Houston pizza maestro retools his wildly successful new Heights restaurant after overwhelming response

that's a lot of pizza

Pizza-loving Houstonians have accomplished something that once seemed impossible. They’ve left chef Anthony Calleo speechless — sort of.

The first week of service at Gold Tooth Tony’s, Calleo’s new Detroit-style pizzeria in the Heights, has so vastly exceeded his expectations that he’s had to rethink his plans for operating the restaurant. Even with limited hours of 4-10 pm, it’s been selling out of pizza. As a reminder, Calleo has sold Houstonians a lot of pizza between the Pi Pizza food truck, the Pi Pizza restaurant, and in his current role as executive chef and co-owner of Montrose favorite Rudyard’s.

“I’ve done this before. I’ve sold a bunch of pizza. We know how to do that. The fact that we’re running out of food, we didn't really expect,” Calleo tells CultureMap. “What we thought we’d do in a 14-hour day after a couple months of practice is what we’re doing in a three-and-a-half hour day.”

He adds that on Sunday Gold Tooth Tony’s sold more pizza in a single hour than in any hour he can remember from the Pi days. That’s a lot of pizza for a restaurant that occupies a 1,000-square-foot former doughnut shop.

Having survived a hectic weekend, Calleo closed on Monday and Tuesday to give its cooks a well-deserved break. The restaurant reopened for dinner today (Wednesday, September 20) with dough that he and chef Adam Bitner made for the restaurant.

In the meantime, he’s ordered more pizza pans and is looking into adding a larger walk-in cooler to deal with the unexpected demand. Whatever he decides, it will be done with his staff in mind.

“I’m not going to grind those dudes into dust. They deserve a break. They busted their ass for us at a brand new job,” he says. “They did great, period.”

Part of meeting the demand for pizza means temporarily slimming down the menu by cutting dishes such as queso and mac and cheese. Although Calleo had planned to roll out lunch as soon as this week, the restaurant will remain dinner only for now.

“I didn’t get into this business to tell people no, but it’s mathematics and physics. If I could argue with those, I wouldn’t be a chef — I’d be a super villain,” he says.

Meanwhile, the search has already begun for a second location. Calleo aims to strike while the iron is hot — and Houstonians are eating him out of pizza.

View All Listings