User Lists in Houston, TX Metro

Houston food and culture aficionado Caroline Gallay curates a list of the top new & notable destinations to check out in Houston.

There's nothing better than a good drink or meal--other than that same drink or meal for less, of course. Whether it's a Houston happy hour special, or just a great bar and restaurant deal all the time, we've got you covered for when you really don't want to splurge. Except, of course, on that extra drink. (Photo: Marquis II)

There is no way to replicate New Orleans. The city has a charm, uniqueness and history all its own. The only way to truly experience the Big Easy is to plan a New Orleans vacation. But for when you need a little N?awlins fix in Houston to get you in the mood, we have the inspiration in these restaurants, bars and more that channel the French Quarter and beyond.

The man behind the meals for Shane Battier of the Houston Rockets is Memphis transplant and chef Justin Turner. He was recently named the executive chef of Gourmet Prep Meals, an alternative to traditional restaurant delivery that supports social entrepreneurship for at risk youth cycling out of the foster care system. Later this fall, he'll debut Bernie's Burger Bus, a mobile food operation in a converted school bus.

Gents, we know you have your reasons for hitting the mega-chains for your haircut. There are flatscreens showing the game and a woman in a tank top will massage your scalp. And, while that does sound appealing, might we suggest your friendly local barbershop as an alternative? A hot shave with a straight razor is not only an art, it's a heavenly gift. And retro is in. Haven't you seen Mad Men?

Greg Lowry has worn the chef toque all over Houston, from his position as the executive chef of Farrago to the executive pastry chef at Tony's. He was recently hired as the executive chef of VOICE at Hotel ICON where he's currently working his magic--and when you were valedictorian of French pastry production, you've got a lot magic. These are his favorite spots in Houston.

Formerly at *17 in the Alden Hotel, Chef Chip Hight now wields his knife at Blue Apron Catering--named after his signature cooking accessory. This St. Thomas High School and HCC Culinary Arts graduate is a self-described lover of animal fat. Here are some of his favorite places in Houston.

Sure, it hurts to see bands skip over Houston music venues for others in Austin and Dallas--which they often do--but there's no better revenge than looking good. Thanks to our multitude of live music options, from the mega-sized stadiums to the underground bars, Houston still manages to hold its own. (Photo: Elaine Greer at Khon's)

Does lamb no longer seem like an adventurous proposition? Is bone marrow a been-there-done-that offering? Then we triple-dog dare you to test the freaky food waters. Here are some places in Houston to chow down on the best and worst in "Fear Factor" foods, from brains to butt. We're still looking for a place that serves Peruvian guinea pig--so if you find it, let us know. (Photo: Flickr/daveiam)

Classic Southern foods have experienced a gourmet renaissance of late, with chefs to the north and out west getting behind such butter-laden dishes as the iconic shrimp and grits. And while a North Carolinian grandmother might not make it this way, the once humble fisherman's breakfast is getting dolled up with fancy additions like butter broth and pimientos del Piquillo in restaurants all over Houston. We can't say we disapprove. (Photo: Flickr/biskuit)