EventsinCOLOR

EventsinCOLOR is a Houston Based Special Event planning and Consulting group. We cater to the COLORFUL client.

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Click here for my "Top 5" Must Do's in (& Around) Oakland, CA!

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Last time I did this I regretted it! #HardHead #SoHood #HotPickle #Hortons

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#TASTYTUESDAY - Summer Edition

All the things I love to Eat and Drink during these sweltering summer months!

Oh Tuesday.. here we are again...but this time isn't  so bad because I am off work for the rest of the week! I thought I would kill some time by sharing with you what I love to eat and drink and where you can get some!

I have a major sweet tooth and a slowly expanding waistline to show for it. So when it comes to the summer time I go all out because.. well.. I'm board and love to simply veg out on the couch with plenty of unhealthy, super sweet junk food in the form on cookies, tasty summer cocktails and snow cones, while catching up on my semesters worth of recorded DVR episodes. Sometimes I will shock my system by throwing some fruit in there but that's rare!

Lemon Oreos now come in my favorite flavor... Lemon.. so when I saw them at Kroger I lost my shiz and bought two packs. But when I got home I noticed some snot-nosed kid (or adult..still snotty) had eaten the entire middle sleeve of one of my packs. I returned them and grabbed a box of White fudge dipped oreos!!! They were AMAZING,  that chocolate and creme cloaked in white fudge simply melted in my mouth. I didn't share a single one of them, with the exception of the one I dropped outside on the ground. I offered that one to my husband so I wouldn't have to share later. 

When it gets really hot snow cones are a MUST in TEXAS. That One Place is the BEST SNOW CONE STAND IN THE LAND serving up flavorful Louisiana snow balls, boudain, crawfish and other stuff, but I only get the snow balls! I order the "Arkansas", of which I named, it consists of a cherry bottom with a dill pickle top. My pregnant friends RAVE about it...I am not pregnant though.. apparently I'm just gross. It seems that I have an infatuation with dill pickle because that "Big Papa" dill pickle popcorn had me going back and fourth to Bed Bath and Beyond like some sort of Dill Pickle crackhead.. that was a very dark and "dill" period in my life.

To quench my thirst in the summer I visit The Grove. I plop down at the bar during their Happy Hour (4-7 , M-F) and order up a round of their Raspberry Margarita's with sugar on the rim. It's so refreshing and flavorful that before I know it I've had three and my eyes are crossing. When I am not sipping on "ritas" at The Grove I am more than likely at Plate and Bottle in the village purchasing a couple bottles of my favorite wine to hold me over during the week. Pepe Nero Rosso , priced at $18 a bottle, is an Italian wine with bold, dark berry-fruit flavors and a subtle sweetness that hits the spot. I prefer to enjoy this wine at room temp, straight out the bottle.

When at HEB I always find myself trying new things. It seems like every time I go there is a "NEW ITEM" sticker on something and I am a sucker for new stuff and stuff that's $1. I once bought a giant 10lb bag of potatoes because they were $1.. they ended growing legs and walking back to the grocery store! I had tried the bud light lime-a-ritas but simply was burnt out on that super sweet taste so I tried the Dos A Rita, a lager Margarita by Dos Equis. They were great and come in a smaller can with the same amount of alcohol AND less calories.. but who gives a shit about calories?! In non-alcohol news HEB has a slamming Lemonade made with Texas honey.. I mix it with Deep Eddy's Sweet Tea Vodka to keep the party going..

I can't do too much Ice cream or it will start to do me, but when I do, I get the little ones. I fell in love with Häagen-Dazs, Coconut Macaroon ice cream. It tasted just like the real thing.. not the French, Meringue based Macarons (one "O") but the American Macaroons (double "O") made of coconut. The best meringue based Macarons are sold at Macaron's By Patisse where you can get a dozen for $25. That's a bit steep but well worth the moola.  There are so many bright colors and toothsome flavors to choose from. My top picks are lemon, pistachio, blood orange and vanilla bean. YUM!

There is nothing about this Texas heat that entices me to drink anything warm, but when I do have that random cup of coffee (which I recently stopped altogether and now only drink tea) I like to add a little Patron "XO Cafe"..coffee flavored Tequila, because who needs sugar and creme when you've got liquor on your team! 

So, Make sure you enjoy your favorite treats this summer *RESPONSIBLY and check out some of mine as well. I would love to know what you think and if you love them just as much as I do!

[cultofcolor]

#TASTYTUESDAY - Summer Edition

All the things I love to Eat and Drink during these sweltering summer months!

Oh Tuesday.. here we are again...but this time isn't  so bad because I am off work for the rest of the week! I thought I would kill some time by sharing with you what I love to eat and drink and where you can get some!

I have a major sweet tooth and a slowly expanding waistline to show for it. So when it comes to the summer time I go all out because.. well.. I'm board and love to simply veg out on the couch with plenty of unhealthy, super sweet junk food in the form on cookies, tasty summer cocktails and snow cones, while catching up on my semesters worth of recorded DVR episodes. Sometimes I will shock my system by throwing some fruit in there but that's rare!

Lemon Oreos now come in my favorite flavor... Lemon.. so when I saw them at Kroger I lost my shiz and bought two packs. But when I got home I noticed some snot-nosed kid (or adult..still snotty) had eaten the entire middle sleeve of one of my packs. I returned them and grabbed a box of White fudge dipped oreos!!! They were AMAZING,  that chocolate and creme cloaked in white fudge simply melted in my mouth. I didn't share a single one of them, with the exception of the one I dropped outside on the ground. I offered that one to my husband so I wouldn't have to share later. 

When it gets really hot snow cones are a MUST in TEXAS. That One Place is the BEST SNOW CONE STAND IN THE LAND serving up flavorful Louisiana snow balls, boudain, crawfish and other stuff, but I only get the snow balls! I order the "Arkansas", of which I named, it consists of a cherry bottom with a dill pickle top. My pregnant friends RAVE about it...I am not pregnant though.. apparently I'm just gross. It seems that I have an infatuation with dill pickle because that "Big Papa" dill pickle popcorn had me going back and fourth to Bed Bath and Beyond like some sort of Dill Pickle crackhead.. that was a very dark and "dill" period in my life.

To quench my thirst in the summer I visit The Grove. I plop down at the bar during their Happy Hour (4-7 , M-F) and order up a round of their Raspberry Margarita's with sugar on the rim. It's so refreshing and flavorful that before I know it I've had three and my eyes are crossing. When I am not sipping on "ritas" at The Grove I am more than likely at Plate and Bottle in the village purchasing a couple bottles of my favorite wine to hold me over during the week. Pepe Nero Rosso , priced at $18 a bottle, is an Italian wine with bold, dark berry-fruit flavors and a subtle sweetness that hits the spot. I prefer to enjoy this wine at room temp, straight out the bottle.

When at HEB I always find myself trying new things. It seems like every time I go there is a "NEW ITEM" sticker on something and I am a sucker for new stuff and stuff that's $1. I once bought a giant 10lb bag of potatoes because they were $1.. they ended growing legs and walking back to the grocery store! I had tried the bud light lime-a-ritas but simply was burnt out on that super sweet taste so I tried the Dos A Rita, a lager Margarita by Dos Equis. They were great and come in a smaller can with the same amount of alcohol AND less calories.. but who gives a shit about calories?! In non-alcohol news HEB has a slamming Lemonade made with Texas honey.. I mix it with Deep Eddy's Sweet Tea Vodka to keep the party going..

I can't do too much Ice cream or it will start to do me, but when I do, I get the little ones. I fell in love with Häagen-Dazs, Coconut Macaroon ice cream. It tasted just like the real thing.. not the French, Meringue based Macarons (one "O") but the American Macaroons (double "O") made of coconut. The best meringue based Macarons are sold at Macaron's By Patisse where you can get a dozen for $25. That's a bit steep but well worth the moola.  There are so many bright colors and toothsome flavors to choose from. My top picks are lemon, pistachio, blood orange and vanilla bean. YUM!

There is nothing about this Texas heat that entices me to drink anything warm, but when I do have that random cup of coffee (which I recently stopped altogether and now only drink tea) I like to add a little Patron "XO Cafe"..coffee flavored Tequila, because who needs sugar and creme when you've got liquor on your team! 

So, Make sure you enjoy your favorite treats this summer *RESPONSIBLY and check out some of mine as well. I would love to know what you think and if you love them just as much as I do!

[cultofcolor]

{Weekend Recap} BBQ Pop-up and 8th Wonder brews at Jackson's Watering

BBQ and beer can be the key to one's soul on a sweltering summer day. Match that with a pleasant, outdoor location and you've got yourself a party. I visited Jackson's Watering Hole for this first time over the weekend and experienced some yummy "Q" from Papa Charlies and Feges Bar B Que and drank some killer $2 pints from 8th Wonder Brewery. 

Jackson's Watering hole is basically a garage/warehouse styled venue located on Richmond near Montrose and surprisingly, given the location, it wasn't crazy packed with #Pride festivity goers that were partying it up a couple blocks over.  They have their own small parking lot out front, but on busy days just park on the street and walk (look both ways when crossing the street). Ample seating both indoors and outdoors and the cool part for those of us who "prefer not to get our hair wet" is that there is a covered "hair safe zone" on the patio! The bartenders and workers were really pleasant  and we appreciated that because heat and long hours can bring out the "ugly-side" of some folks.

The 3 kegs of "Dome Feauxm" and "Intellectuale" from 8th wonder were a Godsend for a few of reasons:

The pints were $2

They beers were super cold and refreshing with great flavor

The pints were $2

Points 1 & 3 repeat.. because that's important in my world!

The June 26th BBQ dinner  titled " Some Traditional Que, Some Not" was a huge hit and was mentioned in the Houston Chronicle, bringing a lot of folks out to get a plate because we love us some BBQ here in the great state of Texas.

Patrick Feges of Feges BBQ (current pitmaster position at Killen’s Barbecue) and Wesley Jurena of Pappa Charlies, who just made the leap from "competition cooker" to retail and catering, served up a variety of items for all to taste. I ordered the brisket and rib duo, consisting of 1/4 lb of brisket and 1 rib from each pitmaster. The brisket was good, smokey and toothsome and the ribs even better, but Pappa Charlies flavorful char and rub had me at first bite. It reminded me of being in my hometown of Little Rock, sitting outside on my uncle's porch while watching him work his magic on his old school open range smoker that he lovingly referred to as "lucy", it just had that taste of "comfort" about it with a little tangy kick at the end.

I regret not trying more from Feges BBQ but I will as he is often serving up tasty items like his famous Turducken sausage at Jackson's!

I like my bbq a little "feisty" and Jurena being a little feisty himself totally brought his A game this past Saturday and I was happy to be there and take part! Look out for Pappa Charlies truck cruising around the streets of H-town and check out his website to learn more about catering opportunities for your next event. Your guests will be overjoyed!!

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GRISTLE & GOSSIP: WEEKEND EDITION - #PRIDE, #BBQ and #BEATS

DOPE BEATS AND BOMB ASS BREWS AT 8th WONDER BREWERY

There is nothing better than tasty brews and bomb ass beats, and luckily for me this event has both of those going down this Friday. The action is happening at 8th Wonder Brewery, where they will be serving up some of their summer sips and ales for all to enjoy (21+ of course). While sipping (or chugging, depending on how you roll) there are also some great local musicians/engineers on the bill providing the soundtrack for a festive Friday night! 

BBQ & BEER AT JACKSON'S 

Come out this Saturday at 6pm for "Some Traditional Que, Some Not" at Jackson's Watering Hole where Pappa Charlies will be serving up the "Q" and 8th Wonder Brewery serving up the "brew"...see how I did that?

We are always.. yes ALWAYS On the hunt for tasty BBQ and are excited and hopeful that Pappa Charlie can help us with our search. There aren't too many pit masters that are known in Houston as "competition cookers" because hell, frankly there is no competition here unless it's rodeo time and even then I have tasted some "2 thumbs down" bbq. 

When I think of good Que, I think of meat with a flavorful char, which comes from a flavorful rub NOT a dirty pit. I am an Arkansas girl, so I could do with or without the sauce, but if there is sauce it better be *GOOOOOD ( meaning "sop-able" with bread) with the meat holding up either way. Oh, and a little "fall off the bone" action never killed anyone! 

PRIDE #HOUSTON PARADE

Where the dudes will be dressed like chicks and the chicks will be dressed like dudes...

"For more than 35 years, Pride Houston has been a central part of the local LGBT community in Houston. Pride Houston's core mission is to strengthen equality and increase awareness around issues important to our community such as health, safety and marriage equality. Pride Houston celebrates the individuality and diversity of every person as we all strive for acceptance from parents, friends and society-at-large."  -- Pride Houston

Official Pride After Party at South Beach

#Pride Parties & Special Events

Indika restaurant is the place to be with excellent front row seats on their street side patio. Indika will be serving up small bites, "Pride potions" and hosting their happy hour all night on Saturday.

Rosemont Social Club has no doubt the best view and drink specials for the 2014 Houston Pride Parade! Get your tickets TODAY for Saturday's Pride Parade Patio Bash! Ticket prices will rise day of parade! 

[cultofcolor]

GRISTLE & GOSSIP: WEEKEND EDITION - #PRIDE, #BBQ and #BEATS

DOPE BEATS AND BOMB ASS BREWS AT 8th WONDER BREWERY

There is nothing better than tasty brews and bomb ass beats, and luckily for me this event has both of those going down this Friday. The action is happening at 8th Wonder Brewery, where they will be serving up some of their summer sips and ales for all to enjoy (21+ of course). While sipping (or chugging, depending on how you roll) there are also some great local musicians/engineers on the bill providing the soundtrack for a festive Friday night! 

BBQ & BEER AT JACKSON'S 

Come out this Saturday at 6pm for "Some Traditional Que, Some Not" at Jackson's Watering Hole where Pappa Charlies will be serving up the "Q" and 8th Wonder Brewery serving up the "brew"...see how I did that?

We are always.. yes ALWAYS On the hunt for tasty BBQ and are excited and hopeful that Pappa Charlie can help us with our search. There aren't too many pit masters that are known in Houston as "competition cookers" because hell, frankly there is no competition here unless it's rodeo time and even then I have tasted some "2 thumbs down" bbq. 

When I think of good Que, I think of meat with a flavorful char, which comes from a flavorful rub NOT a dirty pit. I am an Arkansas girl, so I could do with or without the sauce, but if there is sauce it better be *GOOOOOD ( meaning "sop-able" with bread) with the meat holding up either way. Oh, and a little "fall off the bone" action never killed anyone! 

PRIDE #HOUSTON PARADE

Where the dudes will be dressed like chicks and the chicks will be dressed like dudes...

"For more than 35 years, Pride Houston has been a central part of the local LGBT community in Houston. Pride Houston's core mission is to strengthen equality and increase awareness around issues important to our community such as health, safety and marriage equality. Pride Houston celebrates the individuality and diversity of every person as we all strive for acceptance from parents, friends and society-at-large."  -- Pride Houston

Official Pride After Party at South Beach

#Pride Parties & Special Events

Indika restaurant is the place to be with excellent front row seats on their street side patio. Indika will be serving up small bites, "Pride potions" and hosting their happy hour all night on Saturday.

Rosemont Social Club has no doubt the best view and drink specials for the 2014 Houston Pride Parade! Get your tickets TODAY for Saturday's Pride Parade Patio Bash! Ticket prices will rise day of parade! 

[cultofcolor]

#Houstons @JeffsBourbon Barrel Aged Competition

This week local bartenders have been battling in the @JeffsBourbon Barrel Aged Competition, taking place at various bars around town to determine just who is the best of the best. Contestants were asked to create special cocktails using Jefferson's Bourbon. The voting for the most yummy cocktail goes down tonight at Triniti Restaurant (after 6pm) where the winning cocktail will be served to those in attendance.

I was fortunate enough to visit Lei Low bar and taste the "Kentucky Mariner" made by Master Mixologist Stephen Carrona (@713drinkologist) and boy was it the bomb.com. It was made with some in house simple syrup, oils from a lemon rind and some smooth Jefferson's Bourbon. 

This drink is a winner in my book. Come on out tonight and VOTE for the Stephen and his Kentucky Mariner!!!!

[cultofcolor]

Lay Low at Houston's best neighborhood RUM BAR - Lei Low Bar

Houston we've got a problem and it's that I couldn't put this place in my  pocket and take it home with me! The drinks, the service the ambiance all get 4 stars from G&G because I believe you can never go wrong with RUM.

I happened to stop into Lei Low with the hopes of taking part in the "bar crawl" styled bourbon competition hosted yesterday at several bars around town. Never having visited Lei Low, I chose to visit and was so pleased that for once, I made a good decision in life. The Location is easy to find (unless you are relying on a directionally challenged boost mobile phone to get you there) as it is located on N. Main in the same parking lot as "Joe's Food Store" (look for the graffiti wall with cool tiki art). It is tucked away in the corner of the shopping center and really has no signage so just look for the items I mentioned and you will be fine. Small lot to park in and I didn't really see any street parking but after a certain time the lot opens up to Lei Low guests as they are really the only reason to be in that area. 

The drinks are GRAND and I just happened to strike gold because I was able to sit down and chat with The World's leading Rum expert himself Mr. Edward Hamilton, Author and Founder of Ministry of Rum and he is truly an expert in his field and a funny guy. In honor of their special guest Lei Low served up rum flights, Jungle Birds, and Trader Vic's Mai Tai using Hamilton's Jamaican Black Rum! Lei Low owner and bad ass bartender Russell (also super knowledgeable about rum) gave a mini presentation to each guest who ordered the flights and literally walked you through the tasting process. He would start by allowing you to smell and sip the rums straight and then he'd "dress up" each ounce with something to make it zing even more, be it a little ice and tonic or the simple squirt of a lime. They were ALL fantastic but the best was the Jamaican black rum ( found at the Houston Wine Merchant). 

With all that booze in my system I needed to eat something and fast! Luckily there are a couple of spots in the area that deliver directly to the bar. Pinks pizza was the only one that I can remember off hand but luckily I didn't have to go that route as Lindsay (dopest of the dopest bartenders) slid me some of their in house snack mix. Now, this was not just your regular salted nut mix but some really good rice cracker blend snack mix that in my opinion fit very well with the theme of Lei Low.. because they certainly aren't a "salty beer nut" kind of joint. 

Lei Low in currently hosting a "Bacardi Tiki Competition" (June 23-26) in celebration of Texas Tiki Week. ***Join them this Thursday for the Mai Tai Throwdown! Come vote for your Favorite, Trader Vic's, Donn Beach's, or our Hawaiian style. 

[cultofcolor]

#TuesdayToothache at Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop

Tuesday's typically suck. There is nothing special about them, no funny name associated with Tuesday and it happens to follow after the dreaded Monday, which makes it dumb by default...sorry Tuesday. In an effort to make it all better we  visited a little sweet spot in Rice Village that is certain to provide a little pick me up and turn that sour, Friday is 3 days away -frown upside down. 

 Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop located on Rice Blvd. in the Village is certainly one of my favorite candy shops when in the area. Not being a huge chocolate fan I was pleased to see TONS of other cavity creators that will have the fillings in your teeth aching for more. They have the best selections of specialty candies and those "old school", nostalgic goodies that my mother and I enjoy so much like BB Bats taffy candy, Mary Jane's peanut butter and molasses candy, Bit-o-honey taffy's and I must not forget the chic-o-sticks and lord knows one can't continue without mentioning the Candy Buttons on Paper tape ..I would ALWAYS end up eating some of the paper but it was totally worth it! 

If you are like me and need a soda fix, but don't want your typical coke or sprite this is where you need to stop. Rocket Fizz is one of the only places that has a "Great Wall of Soda" a wall dedicated strictly to soda.. all kinds of soda.. like banana nut,  blue cream, gingerbread & black licorice, they even have pickle flavored soda. I wasn't ballsy enough for the bulk of those so I just went with the blue cream that I slammed before I even left the store. I was as high as a kite on sugar when I left that place or maybe even before I left.. hence the "Squirrel Underpants" that I could not NOT buy. I mean.. I can't even catch my cats when they're running around.. So, what made me think:

That I could catch a squirrel?

That I could catch said squirrel and put these underpants on him?

Oh yea.. it was the sugar induced coma that caused me to suffer from delusions of super human, squirrel catching speed. But I digress.. 

Rocket Fizz brings out the kid in everyone who visits. They have great pricing for candy sales by the pound.. ($1 per lb on some items), a much better deal than Dylan's or Big Top (Austin).

So stop by and say hello to the staff for me, they are as sweet as their products and allow you to take your time (you'll need it) while shopping, laughing and texting your mom. Sometimes they have samples which are always a plus.

Parking can be a beast, especially if you roll up on a Saturday, so be warned and have fun!

Really like candy.. Rocket Fizz has franchise opportunities available too! 

BRING ME SOMETHING BACK!!!!

[cultofcolor]

#TuesdayToothache at Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop

Tuesday's typically suck. There is nothing special about them, no funny name associated with Tuesday and it happens to follow after the dreaded Monday, which makes it dumb by default...sorry Tuesday. In an effort to make it all better we  visited a little sweet spot in Rice Village that is certain to provide a little pick me up and turn that sour, Friday is 3 days away -frown upside down. 

 Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop located on Rice Blvd. in the Village is certainly one of my favorite candy shops when in the area. Not being a huge chocolate fan I was pleased to see TONS of other cavity creators that will have the fillings in your teeth aching for more. They have the best selections of specialty candies and those "old school", nostalgic goodies that my mother and I enjoy so much like BB Bats taffy candy, Mary Jane's peanut butter and molasses candy, Bit-o-honey taffy's and I must not forget the chic-o-sticks and lord knows one can't continue without mentioning the Candy Buttons on Paper tape ..I would ALWAYS end up eating some of the paper but it was totally worth it! 

If you are like me and need a soda fix, but don't want your typical coke or sprite this is where you need to stop. Rocket Fizz is one of the only places that has a "Great Wall of Soda" a wall dedicated strictly to soda.. all kinds of soda.. like banana nut,  blue cream, gingerbread & black licorice, they even have pickle flavored soda. I wasn't ballsy enough for the bulk of those so I just went with the blue cream that I slammed before I even left the store. I was as high as a kite on sugar when I left that place or maybe even before I left.. hence the "Squirrel Underpants" that I could not NOT buy. I mean.. I can't even catch my cats when they're running around.. So, what made me think:

That I could catch a squirrel?

That I could catch said squirrel and put these underpants on him?

Oh yea.. it was the sugar induced coma that caused me to suffer from delusions of super human, squirrel catching speed. But I digress.. 

Rocket Fizz brings out the kid in everyone who visits. They have great pricing for candy sales by the pound.. ($1 per lb on some items), a much better deal than Dylan's or Big Top (Austin).

So stop by and say hello to the staff for me, they are as sweet as their products and allow you to take your time (you'll need it) while shopping, laughing and texting your mom. Sometimes they have samples which are always a plus.

Parking can be a beast, especially if you roll up on a Saturday, so be warned and have fun!

Really like candy.. Rocket Fizz has franchise opportunities available too! 

BRING ME SOMETHING BACK!!!!

[cultofcolor]

LOCAL FOODS: WHERE EATING SMART IS SEXY

"Everything at Local Foods is so heavy and greasy," said no one ever, but what people will tell you is eating here will make you feel good about your life choices! You can't go wrong with fresh AND local ingredients like their local sprouts, and don't even get me started on the curried cauliflower!

(Local foods rep Nahum gave me the run down on all the awesome things you can do with the cauliflower, which is sold by the jar for $6 (small) or $9 (large) but make sure to try the Pickled fennel and Pickled Market Vegetables that are great on just about anything! want specifics? ask for Nahum!)

Their Famous Market Veggie Sandwich is so yummy and filling that you would just assume there was some sort of meat protein involved.. nope... just brussel sprouts, curried cauliflower, local sprouts, tomato, hummus and avocado spread. I always roll with my own whole avocado in my purse, so that's a little extra sumthin' sumthin'. Splash a little of their Sambal Hot Sauce (cute little self-serve bottles near the beverages) on there and it's all OVER! I ended up taking half of my "sammi" with me. All sandwiches are served with 2 sides, I went with the housemade chips and the cabbage slaw. Now, those CHIPS.. honey.. will get you slapped for reaching over in my area trying to "snatch & grab".. so don't even look over here, and the slaw was 3 out of 5 stars. The sesame oil is a little to "loud" for my palette and a little sweetness would have been a nice touch, but my little bowl was empty so who really cares!

In support of the local breweries around town you will find your typical Karbach brews like "Weisse Vers" and "Hopadillo IPA" and they even support ATX (Austin) beers too with the 512 brewing co. on tap and bottles of "Convict Hill Oatmeal Stout" from Independence Brewing Co. available near the front counter! Now that's love. They also have wine for sale, but the best beverage of all is that oh so sweet, gold goodness that is Mint-ade, made with fresh orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit juice and mint leaves - It's a MUST TRY! (mix with the unsweetened tea for a real treat). I couldn't leave without getting some to-go a.k.a. "a roadie".

The service at Local Foods is impeccable and everyone is so knowledgeable about their products.. I truly love that because I am ALWAYS asking questions! Depending on the time you arrive parking can be a hassle but if you can't get into their lot there is tons of street parking available just be careful & pay attention to the signs, because there is nothing worse than walking out to your car on a "food high" and realizing 1.) your car is gone and 2.) your cell phone's dead. Lunch can be a bit cray but that is due to all the stuff I just mentioned, so the line can be out the door at times but it moves fairly quickly. Seating is first come first serve but more often than not, as you are ordering someone is leaving. (outdoor seating available as well.) 

You can't go wrong with this place and should you not be able to get to the Rice village location they have just opened the new Local Foods in the Upper Kirby area where Taco Milagro was. Haven't been there yet but I am certain it is just as awesome.

[cultofcolor]

LOCAL FOODS: Where eating smart is sexy

"Everything at Local Foods is so heavy and greasy," said no one ever, but what people will tell you is eating here will make you feel good about your life choices! You can't go wrong with fresh AND local ingredients like their local sprouts, and don't even get me started on the curried cauliflower!

(Local foods rep Nahum gave me the run down on all the awesome things you can do with the cauliflower, which is sold by the jar for $6 (small) or $9 (large) but make sure to try the Pickled fennel and Pickled Market Vegetables that are great on just about anything! want specifics? ask for Nahum!)

Their Famous Market Veggie Sandwich is so yummy and filling that you would just assume there was some sort of meat protein involved.. nope... just brussel sprouts, curried cauliflower, local sprouts, tomato, hummus and avocado spread. I always roll with my own whole avocado in my purse, so that's a little extra sumthin' sumthin'. Splash a little of their Sambal Hot Sauce (cute little self-serve bottles near the beverages) on there and it's all OVER! I ended up taking half of my "sammi" with me. All sandwiches are served with 2 sides, I went with the housemade chips and the cabbage slaw. Now, those CHIPS.. honey.. will get you slapped for reaching over in my area trying to "snatch & grab".. so don't even look over here, and the slaw was 3 out of 5 stars. The sesame oil is a little to "loud" for my palette and a little sweetness would have been a nice touch, but my little bowl was empty so who really cares!

In support of the local breweries around town you will find your typical Karbach brews like "Weisse Vers" and "Hopadillo IPA" and they even support ATX (Austin) beers too with the 512 brewing co. on tap and bottles of "Convict Hill Oatmeal Stout" from Independence Brewing Co. available near the front counter! Now that's love. They also have wine for sale, but the best beverage of all is that oh so sweet, gold goodness that is Mint-ade, made with fresh orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit juice and mint leaves - It's a MUST TRY! (mix with the unsweetened tea for a real treat). I couldn't leave without getting some to-go a.k.a. "a roadie".

The service at Local Foods is impeccable and everyone is so knowledgeable about their products.. I truly love that because I am ALWAYS asking questions! Depending on the time you arrive parking can be a hassle but if you can't get into their lot there is tons of street parking available just be careful & pay attention to the signs, because there is nothing worse than walking out to your car on a "food high" and realizing 1.) your car is gone and 2.) your cell phone's dead. Lunch can be a bit cray but that is due to all the stuff I just mentioned, so the line can be out the door at times but it moves fairly quickly. Seating is first come first serve but more often than not, as you are ordering someone is leaving. (outdoor seating available as well.) 

You can't go wrong with this place and should you not be able to get to the Rice village location they have just opened the new Local Foods in the Upper Kirby area where Taco Milagro was. Haven't been there yet but I am certain it is just as awesome.

[cultofcolor]

LOCAL FOODS: Where eating smart is sexy

"Everything at Local Foods is so heavy and greasy," said no one ever, but what people will tell you is eating here will make you feel good about your life choices! You can't go wrong with fresh AND local ingredients like their local sprouts, and don't even get me started on the curried cauliflower!

(Local foods rep Nahum gave me the run down on all the awesome things you can do with the cauliflower, which is sold by the jar for $6 (small) or $9 (large) but make sure to try the Pickled fennel and Pickled Market Vegetables that are great on just about anything! want specifics? ask for Nahum!)

Their Famous Market Veggie Sandwich is so yummy and filling that you would just assume there was some sort of meat protein involved.. nope... just brussel sprouts, curried cauliflower, local sprouts, tomato, hummus and avocado spread. I always roll with my own whole avocado in my purse, so that's a little extra sumthin' sumthin'. Splash a little of their Sambal Hot Sauce (cute little self-serve bottles near the beverages) on there and it's all OVER! I ended up taking half of my "sammi" with me. All sandwiches are served with 2 sides, I went with the housemade chips and the cabbage slaw. Now, those CHIPS.. honey.. will get you slapped for reaching over in my area trying to "snatch & grab".. so don't even look over here, and the slaw was 3 out of 5 stars. The sesame oil is a little to "loud" for my palette and a little sweetness would have been a nice touch, but my little bowl was empty so who really cares!

In support of the local breweries around town you will find your typical Karbach brews like "Weisse Vers" and "Hopadillo IPA" and they even support ATX (Austin) beers too with the 512 brewing co. on tap and bottles of "Convict Hill Oatmeal Stout" from Independence Brewing Co. available near the front counter! Now that's love. They also have wine for sale, but the best beverage of all is that oh so sweet, gold goodness that is Mint-ade, made with fresh orange, lemon, lime and grapefruit juice and mint leaves - It's a MUST TRY! (mix with the unsweetened tea for a real treat). I couldn't leave without getting some to-go a.k.a. "a roadie".

The service at Local Foods is impeccable and everyone is so knowledgeable about their products.. I truly love that because I am ALWAYS asking questions! Depending on the time you arrive parking can be a hassle but if you can't get into their lot there is tons of street parking available just be careful & pay attention to the signs, because there is nothing worse than walking out to your car on a "food high" and realizing 1.) your car is gone and 2.) your cell phone's dead. Lunch can be a bit cray but that is due to all the stuff I just mentioned, so the line can be out the door at times but it moves fairly quickly. Seating is first come first serve but more often than not, as you are ordering someone is leaving. (outdoor seating available as well.) 

You can't go wrong with this place and should you not be able to get to the Rice village location they have just opened the new Local Foods in the Upper Kirby area where Taco Milagro was. Haven't been there yet but I am certain it is just as awesome.

[cultofcolor]

INTERNATIONAL SUSHI DAY (UPDATED) - June 18

Do you Love Sushi?

Well today is your day and the best part about this holiday is that all you have to do to celebrate is EAT...

But where, you ask?

Below are some of my favorite sushi *happy hour (HH) spots around town.  

Did you know that  the word "Sushi" actually has nothing to do with the famed sushi rolls or raw fish a top a ball of rice, but actually the name of the vinegar used to ferment the rice which aids in the preservation of the fish?

UPPER KIRBY AREA

AKA serves up great sushi and offers an amazing Happy Hour  Monday - Friday  3-7 pm & Reverse HH from 9 - close &  ALL DAY Saturdays & Sundays.

Miyako doesn't just have great sushi and HH they also have $5 cocktails that pack a mean punch. Stop by during their "6-8-10"  Reverse HH  and try the "Crunchy Maki" ...

 MONTROSE

Uchi is the kid sister to Uchinko in Austin and has really made a name in the sand for itself here. The sous chefs have amazing knife skills and are so friendly. Stop in for their Sake Social Hour, occurring daily from 5-6:30 p. Short window for some great sushi, so show up early.

WEST SIDE 

Kaneyama is a sushi gem located on the west side of town and was certainly one of my go to sushi stops when I lived in that area. It's never too crowded, you can always sit at the bar and they have a bowl of candy at the door when you leave. Their happy hours are Monday - Thursday from 4-7 pm where all rolls are 20% off.  They even have a kids happy hour menu. 

HEIGHTS

Soma Sushi is one of the popular spots in the Heights/Washington area and I can clearly see why. Their happy hour is great and I like that it's not all just sushi that is on special but other items as well. Try their crab balls, the Crazy Irishman and the Red Dragon Rita. You will thank me later!

[cultofcolor]

INTERNATIONAL SUSHI DAY - June 18

Do you Love Sushi?

Well today is your day and the best part about this holiday is that all you have to do to celebrate is EAT...

But where, you ask?

Below are some of my favorite sushi *happy hour (HH) spots around town.  

Did you know that  the word "Sushi" actually has nothing to do with the famed sushi rolls or raw fish a top a ball of rice, but actually the name of the vinegar used to ferment the rice which aids in the preservation of the fish?

UPPER KIRBY AREA

AKA serves up great sushi and offers an amazing Happy Hour  Monday - Friday  3-7 pm & Reverse HH from 9 - close &  ALL DAY Saturdays & Sundays.

Miyako doesn't just have great sushi and HH they also have $5 cocktails that pack a mean punch. Stop by during their "6-8-10"  Reverse HH  and try the "Crunchy Maki" ...

 MONTROSE

Uchi is the kid sister to Uchinko in Austin and has really made a name in the sand for itself here. The sous chefs have amazing knife skills and are so friendly. Stop in for their Sake Social Hour, occurring daily from 5-6:30 p. Short window for some great sushi, so show up early.

WEST SIDE 

Kaneyama is a sushi gem located on the west side of town and was certainly one of my go to sushi stops when I lived in that area. It's never too crowded, you can always sit at the bar and they have a bowl of candy at the door when you leave. Their happy hours are Monday - Thursday from 4-7 pm where all rolls are 20% off.  They even have a kids happy hour menu. 

HEIGHTS

Soma Sushi is one of the popular spots in the Heights/Washington area and I can clearly see why. Their happy hour is great and I like that it's not all just sushi that is on special but other items as well. Try their crab balls, the Crazy Irishman and the Red Dragon Rita. You will thank me later!

[cultofcolor]

INTERNATIONAL SUSHI DAY - June 18

Do you Love Sushi?

Well today is your day and the best part about this holiday is that all you have to do to celebrate is EAT...

But where, you ask?

Below are some of my favorite sushi *happy hour (HH) spots around town.  

Did you know that  the word "Sushi" actually has nothing to do with the famed sushi rolls or raw fish a top a ball of rice, but actually the name of the vinegar used to ferment the rice which aids in the preservation of the fish?

UPPER KIRBY AREA

AKA serves up great sushi and offers an amazing Happy Hour  Monday - Friday  3-7 pm & Reverse HH from 9 - close &  ALL DAY Saturdays & Sundays.

Miyako doesn't just have great sushi and HH they also have $5 cocktails that pack a mean punch. Stop by during their "6-8-10"  Reverse HH  and try the "Crunchy Maki" ...

 MONTROSE

Uchi is the kid sister to Uchinko in Austin and has really made a name in the sand for itself here. The sous chefs have amazing knife skills and are so friendly. Stop in for their Sake Social Hour, occurring daily from 5-6:30 p. Short window for some great sushi, so show up early.

WEST SIDE 

Kaneyama is a sushi gem located on the west side of town and was certainly one of my go to sushi stops when I lived in that area. It's never too crowded, you can always sit at the bar and they have a bowl of candy at the door when you leave. Their happy hours are Monday - Thursday from 4-7 pm where all rolls are 20% off.  They even have a kids happy hour menu. 

HEIGHTS

Soma Sushi is one of the popular spots in the Heights/Washington area and I can clearly see why. Their happy hour is great and I like that it's not all just sushi that is on special but other items as well. Try their crab balls, the Crazy Irishman and the Red Dragon Rita. You will thank me later!