I was born in Houston, TX, and I’ll be the first to admit that it isn’t on the top of many “must-visit” lists. When I tell someone in Colorado that I’m going down to Houston, I often get a grimace and a statement about either the humidity or the traffic. But….if you do Houston right…you’ll find an eclectic and vibrant city, full of culture, good food, and community. Ryan, Lucy, and I spent a few days there earlier this month, and we’re happy to share another Little One Travel Guide.
Blacksmith. Ryan and I look for good, third-wave coffee everywhere we go. Blacksmith happens to offer some of the best coffee in town, along with a simple but well-executed menu. Not only do they make precise and delicious cappuccinos, but they also serve their homemade square scratch biscuits. Ryan’s favorite way to eat them is with an egg, while I prefer their jam and mascarpone cheese. Lucy loves watching the people filter in and out of this bustling coffee shop in Montrose. And yes, while she doesn’t drink coffee, she certainly eats biscuits.
Neighborhoods. If you stay in the suburbs of Houston, expect traffic, chain restaurants, and big box stores. So we suggest moving inward and exploring the eclectic neighborhoods that give Houston it’s food and cultural prowess. Montrose and the Heights are favorites in our book, but there are several others that you might want to visit. Despite the heat (and yes, it’s hot), I enjoyed wearing Lucy as we walked down oak-lined streets. She fell asleep quickly and easily, which allowed for me to get exercise and for her to get a much needed nap. You will find locally owned boutiques and restaurants. Good food, great shopping, and beautiful homes to look at too.
The Pass & Provisions. This pair was listed as one of Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants, and it’s easy to see why. Take an old Houston landmark (an Italian deli and import company) and turn it into an expertly run kitchen with a wood burning stove and you’ve got a clear winner. We enjoyed brunch late on a Saturday afternoon. By far the “fanciest” restaurant we visited, Provisions made us feel at home. Lucy enjoyed a beautiful berry smoothie and a melt-in-your-mouth baguette. Because we ate brunch at the tail end of their serving hours, the restaurant wasn’t nearly as crowded (which allowed for a much more relaxed mom and dad).
Catalina Coffee. Another Houston coffee institution. Catalina coffee was packed on Sunday morning with a line going out the door. We sampled one of their fresh fruit danishes (made by a local baker in the Heights). Once again, our little one loved people-watching (and there were a lot of people to watch in this small coffee shop downtown).
Down House. Coffee shop. Bar. Restaurant. Down House does it all, and does it all well. We came here for brunch on Sunday morning and enjoyed two big plates of food. Local ingredients and pastured eggs made for a delicious (albeit greasy) start to the day. In typical baby form: one of us took Lucy outside while we waited for our food. This often makes all the difference in a peaceful restaurant meal. It worked for us at Down House, and I have no doubt we’ll use this method in Portland and Pittsburgh later this summer.
Al Aseel. Houston has amazing food from all over the world. On a rainy Sunday afternoon, we visited Al Aseel in a small strip center near my grandparent’s house. (For really good and authentic ethnic food, you often need to leave the city center). We were warmly greeted by the owner, an elderly Palestinian man. We were seated right away and ordered some of the best hummus I’ve had since traveling to Jordan and Egypt. And the chicken kebobs? Well, they were delicious too. Some of the best food we’ve had in quite a while. The only downside? In the back, they offer hookah. The odor wasn’t terribly strong, but it wasn’t somewhere I’d want to take Lu (or a child with sensitive lungs).
We had a quick but great trip to Houston…and we’re excited that Portland is just around the corner. If you’d like in-the-moment updates, follow me on instagram. You can find us here: @cakestand.
I have lived in Houston briefly but did not explore it enough. I will have to remember to see this next time I am there.
Great tips!!! And as always, I love the photos 🙂
I am glad I found someone who sure did Houston right.
I visited Houston a couple of times for scientific meetings and enjoyed it very very much
These series of photos of Lucy made me think she has a lot of her Daddy in her eyes and mouth – she does look a lot like you too, but she is changing a little, to turn into more of a well balanced mixture of Mom and Dad… super cute!
the last photo is to die for!
I love this insider’s guide to Houston. I love Texas, but have never visited Houston… Now I know where to get the best food if I ever do 🙂
I’ve always wanted to visit Houston! It looks like a great place! Hope you had a wonderful time there! xx
Hey there! I did not remember if you knew I’m from Houston. I love the montrose area alot. I actually have tried Catalina Coffee but none is the others you listed. I’m going to try to check them out. Thanks! !
It’s funny, I’ve only been to Houston once, but I remember being amazed at the lack of traffic! Must be all those years I spent in LA.
First I love Lucy’s little whale dress – so cute. The coffee and breakfast places look amazing. My husband would want to visit them all. Of course I wouldn’t mind going along for the ride as well.
I love all your little one travel guides! I’ve never been to houston but in case I ever go I know where to look for recommendations! And of course I really like these posts to see the photos of Lucy : ) Happy monday!
LOVE these posts. You guys are so amazing!
Your baby is very cute! I loved those pics which you posted about Houston…Great to know that it is full of restaurants and has a vibrant life! Wonderful post!!
Love love love the photos!! Your baby is Adorable 🙂
ps. I wouldn´t mind visiting a few cities in Texas, I´ve heard that the ppl are super kind 🙂
Makes me want to plan a trip to Houston. Lucy looks like she had a good time. 🙂
That girl is growing up around so much good food and so many fun travels.
Looks like your little one is enjoying everything. Thanks for sharing the great photographs.
What great pictures! I’ve never been there – so thanks for sharing!
These photos make me want to visit Houston. Lucy is just getting bigger and more beautiful 🙂
Never been to Houston, but your report and photographs catch the atmosphere so well that I feel like being there. Thank you for the food traveling inspiration!
Aww!! This looks so fun! The food looks delicious and your little one is too precious!! So fun! Beautiful photography as well 🙂
My parents lived in Houston for seven years after college, and they still talk about places they loved and miss. Looks like a great trip for the family! We’re going to Portland later this summer– I’m excited to see where y’all visit!
I love reading personal recommendations of places to go. If I ever go to Houston, I’ll be sure to refer back to this post, thank you.
Love the photos! I’ve never been to Houston but this definitely makes me want to visit one day and it looks like Lucy had a wonderful time 🙂
Monet, you could write about anything and I’ll fall in love with your words. You have such an incredible voice. And these photos are gorgeous – I feel like I’m right there (if only I were, cause you guys had some pretty fine meals!). I love these travel posts.
I am loving your Little One Travel Guide. It is inspiring me to write some posts about our summer travels. I have never been to Texas, but it sounds like it could be fun.