Many categories had places I hadn’t heard of, so I left those out.
Many categories represented industries I have dear friends and referral sources in, but who didn’t make the cut this year. You can check out all of my top recommendations for services in Houston on my Resources page. I tend to network mostly with people who offer things you’re bound to need at some point.
The fun part of the Chronicle’s Best of the Best contest is that there’s lots of “want to use” businesses, whereas my Resources list is mostly “need to use” businesses. What I’m really trying to say is, the foodie in me was blissfully overloaded with choices. Check them out below and let me know:
- Did you agree with my favorites?
- Any that made you shake your head in disgust?
- Any categories I didn’t list that you have an awesome recommendation for (whether it’s on or off the list)?
I’d love to hear all your thoughts in the comments!
Therapeutic Massage: Zalla Massage
Therapeutic Massage: Zalla Massage
Bakery: Three Brothers Bakery
The quality is matched only by the incredible story. It involves 5 generations, liberation from Nazi concentration camps, surviving three devastating floods, and one big-ass viral sensation pie-cake! You’ve got to learn about them and then go!
Dessert: Three Brothers Bakery
Bakery: Three Brothers Bakery
(Please click both links as they are for different categories)
DJ: DJ Sun
DJ Sun is a Houston legend – aside from earning his props for decades in the Houston music scene, he is also a curator for the Museum of Fine Arts Houston’s Mixed Media, and he owns The Flat, our favorite #MontroseForever watering hole, right around the corner from Zalla Massage. I may or may not go there regularly after work. They have wonderful pizzas (Try The Goat or the Bahn Mi pizza) and their famous frozen mojitos! You can catch Sun DJing frequently, and they always have a great vibe – sometimes it’s better for chatting with friends, sometimes more for dancing, but you can always escape to the ample patio for fresh air.
DJ: DJ Sun
Trusts & Estates: Doehring & Doehring Attorneys at Law
I’ve known David Doehring through networking for years and have always experienced him as competent, friendly, and able to use humor to make really challenging topics a little lighter without compromising professionalism. I personally use Katherine Boyd for my estate planning needs, but I would absolutely trust Doehring & Doehring and they certainly deserve your vote. They specialize in probate and estates, wills and trusts.
Trusts & Estates: Doehring & Doehring Attorneys at Law
Auto Dealer: Sterling McCall Lexus
Dave Capin has been a trusted resource to me in the auto industry for over a decade. This man knows his cars, and the process of working with him is purely no-BS (how often can you say that about auto sales). He finds out what’s really important to you, and then he leans on his product knowledge, industry connections and Sterling McCalls gargantuan inventory of new and used vehicles. Don’t let the name Lexus fool you – he can truly connect you to just about any car you need.
Auto Dealer: Sterling McCall Lexus
Gift Store: Magpie’s Gifts & Interiors
Definitely come to Zalla Massage for any wellness / self-care / spa-at-home gifts! But if you’re looking for something really unique, or you want a whole lotta variety, Magpie’s in Bellaire is for you. They have gifts for men, women, babies and kids, they have beautiful items for every room in the house, and they do monogramming. I personally know Brittany Kettle, their in-house interior designer, and she has a wonderful inventory to work from. Full transparency, I do also really love Kuhl Linscomb (another nominee) – I could get lost in that place smelling all their bath goodies, and they have great gifts – I just can’t bring my kids there or I will leave broke.
Gift Store: Magpie’s Gifts & Interiors
Jewelry Store: Dubin’s Fine Jewelry
Jordan Dubin and his family were some of Zalla Massage’s first clients, and they’ll always have a special place in my heart. It’s obvious that Jordan is carrying on the family legacy of high-quality gems, skillful craftsmanship, customer education and connection, and giving back. Check our their website and you’ll see what I mean.
Jewelry Store: Dubin’s Fine Jewelry
Mattress Store: Mattress Firm
John McCarty at the Bunker Hill location will take excellent care of you. Their guarantees remind me of the Zalla Massage guarantee – they won’t stop until you’re amazed. I got a well-marketed bed that felt great in the store, and once it was home, we hated it! John brought us back in and let us take our time with all the mattresses and pillow combinations in the store, and we were able to find something we loved. John handled pick up and delivery, and we never lifted a finger.
Mattress Store: Mattress Firm
Hospital: Texas Children’s Hospital
My son has a rare genetic condition that is monitored quarterly for signs of cancer *thank you God, his results have been all clear for 4 years*. The staff are always so compassionate, friendly and patient with us – they know that nobody wants to be taking their kid there, and they make the experience smooth and stress-free from the valet to check-in, billing, and certainly the doctors. I’m so grateful to live in Houston with this incredible medical community, and TCH is a gem among them.
Hospital: Texas Children’s Hospital
Local University / College: Texas Southern University
If you’re not loyal to any of the options on the ballot, vote for TSU. They’re one of the nation’s largest historically black universities, and the majority of my husband’s family are graduates (so basically, my kids have to go there lol). If it weren’t for swim coach Johnnie Means recruiting my husband’s father and uncles to TSU from Los Angeles in the decade, the chain of events leading to meeting my husband never would’ve happened. So a vote for TSU is a vote for love 😉
Local University / College: Texas Southern University
Photos: My father-in-law’s 1968 swim team, my daughter with the TSU tiger, my son with the TSU president.
Category: Beauty
- Hair Salon: Shine in the Heights
It’s been years since I’ve been there, but I remember it being a lovely salon in a converted old house in the Heights (you won’t be surprised to learn that such venues are my kryptonite). - Manicure: Gloss Nail Bar
My go-to salon (Q Nails) wasn’t on the list, but I’ve been to Gloss once with girlfriends, and I was super impressed with how long my dip manicure lasted – plus, they kept the champagne coming, and we were in a semi-private room, which was nice so we didn’t disrupt those who wanted to relax while we dished.
Category: Eat & Drink
- All-Around Restaurant: The Breakfast Klub
I live in Third Ward and work in Montrose, so I pass The Breakfast Klub quite regularly, and lemme tell you, there is always a line down the block. I don’t know what they’re putting in those chicken + waffles to have people standing in heels for hours waiting, but I want some. #ThirdWardLove - Boba Teahouse: The Teahouse
Last time I was there, they had public computers, which is pretty cool for those without access to high-speed internet. There’s a backroom that’s great for studying or working. #RiverOaksLife - Breakfast:
every single one of the options listed are my favorites, but I voted for Common Bond because #MontroseForever and because I’m not even really a bread person and their breads are amazing! I also got a super cute unicorn birthday cake for my daughter there once, and it was delicious to boot (a relief because it was not inexpensive). The food and coffee are also great, but I usually order to-go because it’s always packed, unless you can snag a table outside. - Brunch: Backstreet Cafe
Great for groups or date night. Indoor space is intimate, outdoor space is open and has great ambiance. The food and drinks are highly Instagrammable. - Burger: Burger Joint #MontroseForever
I know some people are morally opposed to a fish burger, but their grilled mahi mahi sandwich is off the chain! And their Impossible Burger was the best I’ve ever had. Their bacon parm fries used to be a late night fave, dipped in their aiolis – one even has bacon in it #baconoverload - Business Lunch: Perry’s Steakhouse
I love Perry’s Porkchop Friday, I named my network of referral partners after it. #PorkChopPowerTeam. We meet at Perry’s for their $17 giant, delicious pork chop and beautiful cocktails, and strengthen our referral-generating capacity. And there are always leftovers with this 7-finger-high masterpiece. (Available every Friday 10:30-5 for dine-in or to-go). #NotAnAd #ItsReallyThatGood - Chinese Restaurant: Cafe Ginger
A #RiverOaks staple - Crawfish: BB’s Tex-Orleans
My personal fave is 99 Boiling Crawfish in Briarforest, but BB’s doesn’t disappoint. They even have a location in #MontroseForever - Donuts: Shipley’s
While other nominees Krispy Kreme and Voodoo Donut (hailing from my hometown of Portland, Or) certainly get my business, I most strongly associate Houston and donuts with Shipley’s. They’re so nostalgically tied to a memory of the one year I lived in Houston growing up, and I was playing Lucy in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. After a show at the Shriners Hospital, we were awarded hot and fresh Shipley’s and no other donut can ever take that memory away from me. - Fajitas: El Tiempo Cantina
Sizzling hot. Ample servings. I’d pair it with a mango margarita for a perfect fun dinner. - Fine Dining: Vic & Anthony’s
Hubby’s and my favorite Date Night / Celebration spot. We always stick to our faves: filet mignon with foie gras for me and whatever size is between that and the tomahawk for him, Oscar style. And we share asparagus and some pretty cocktails. If you can get Renard for your server, you’ll be well taken care of. - Fried chicken: Frenchy’s
I know a club promoter who would take all his talent to Frenchy’s as a Welcome To Houston. (Raisin Cane’s is a close second, but I know people are very touchy about their favorite fried chicken, so just do you; you know what you like). But for real, if you haven’t tried Frenchy’s, you need it in your life at least once. - Greek Food: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill
It’s physically impossible to leave Aladdin unsatisfied. From vegans to carnivores, there’s something for everyone! The most memorable things on their menu for me are the roasted cauliflower, the mashed potato ball and their fresh juices. Fellow nominee Niko Niko’s is also really good, but they don’t have the vast buffet selection. And they’re both in #MontroseForever - Healthy Restaurant: Local Foods
My real favorite is A Moveable Feast (which I visit religiously after every colonic, along with Mind Body + Soul, one of the best metaphysical shops in town) because if I’m going outside the loop, I’m gonna make it worth it! But Local Foods has a great garden sammie, addictively good hand cut potato chips, and ridiculously yummy soups and teas. Nice spot for a lunch meeting. - Ice cream: Amy’s Ice Cream or Marble Slab Creamery
I’ve been going to the same Marble Slab as long as I’ve been about that #RiverOaksLife and the same woman has been working there for over a decade. There’s something about a familiar face that makes the experience of loading up your favorite toppings that much better! Helpful hint: you can sign up for their rewards program and unsubscribe from texts so you’re not constantly reminded of ice cream, but you can still get points when you give them your number at check out (you have to remember, they usually don’t ask). - Indian Food: Pondicheri or Kiran’s
Pondicheri is such a unique experience – visually and gastronomically. The menu and decor are “non-traditional authentic” Indian food, and they really are a fusion of the entire subcontinent. I like to take out-of-town guest to this #RiverOaksLife destination. Kiran’s is also a fusion restaurant with no shortage of creativity. My husband tends toward the #basic side of things (that’s why he has me: to spice up his life), so we have to get calamari everywhere we go. This was a unique experience here as theirs are paired with chaat masala and vindaloo aioli. I had a hard time choosing between all the flavored and stuffed naans. - Japanese Food: Jinya Ramen Bar
While other nominees Kata Robata, Miyako, and Uchi are all places I’ve enjoyed, I don’t think any could top Jinya. The ramen is straight from heaven, their cocktails are phenomenal, and service is really good despite it usually being packed. Parking sucks, so Uber if possible. - Kolache: Kolache Shoppe
Most authentic of the nominees. My fave for donuts and kolaches is still Christy’s Donuts. #MontroseForever - Pet-Friendly Restaurant: Barnaby’s
We usually go to the one in Museum District with the family, but I’ve been going to the three around Montrose and River Oaks forever, and they’re all consistently amazing (just know Baby Barnaby’s will always have a wait, and it is always worth it). I can’t wait to take Nash for the full puppy experience! - Pizza: Mod Pizza
If you like a ton of stuff on your pizza, this is the place for you. Their toppings are varied, interesting, and so delish. The crust is thin, which I love, but they’ll double it up for you if you want thicker. The atmosphere is funky and fun, but I’m still able to get a very refined mini pizza for me, and a basic pepperoni for the rest of the family. - Salsa: El Tiempo Cantina
Mix the green and the red salsas. That’s all I’m gonna say. - Sandwich Shop: Jason’s Deli
All of the nominees are pretty good. I favor Jason’s Deli for their salad bar, but I’m sad Corner Bakery Cafe or Brown Bag Deli (the real MVP) weren’t in the running. #RiverOaksLife - Seafood Restaurant: Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
I will never forgive them for taking the opulent Seafood Salad off the menu, but they still have killer oysters and The Grand Hennessy drink. - Steakhouse: B&B Butchers + Restaurant
Upstairs is open and airy, this is a great birthday / celebration or business lunch spot. The food is as delicious as it is beautiful. And we could literally hear them slapping the crap out of the raw meat from upstairs, so we know it’s a legit butcher. - Vietnamese Restaurant: Mai’s
You can’t go wrong with Mai’s – for lunch, or even late-night. It’s not unusual to get to see Mai herself in this midtown institution. Not on the roster, but my fave, is Vietnam Coast on Hilcroft. - Wine Bar: 13 Celsius or Postino
Both fine establishments for happy hour, charcuterie with friends, and before/after dinner celebrations.
Category: Entertainment & Leisure
- Bar: Numbers Nightclub
They’re a Houston institution. Just vote for them! - Bowling: Pinstripes
This place is so cool!! The bowling is nice and new, and a good spot for private parties / company gatherings. But it honestly takes up a small percentage of the square footage compared to the restaurant/bar. I’ve been for the boozy brunch weekend – the food was really good, but we were really there for the bottomless mimosas in several flavors! - Local Band: I don’t know any of them, but how could The Suffers not be included?!
- Theatre: I’m sure these are all great, but I wish more people knew about Stages! #MontroseForever
- Museum: Houston Museum of Fine Arts
I always thought this museum would be stuffy and pretentious, but I recently went to the grand opening of their Obama portraits exhibit and they had fun activities for the kids, and so many interesting exhibits, I really want to go back! - Musician: Megan Thee Stallion (you can’t go wrong with any of the choices, but when I win, I want to see MTS at that award ceremony!) So vote for her as a favor to me.
- Rapper: Lizzo (see above reason)
- Waterpark: Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
I loved Six Flags as a kid, and I’m happy to say this one is exactly as fun as I remembered. The wave pool is intense, and I was grateful for plentiful life vests. You know how some places aren’t as big as you remembered when you grow up and go back. Well, that’s not the case here – we didn’t even get to see everything!
Category: Fitness
- Yoga: I’ve heard great things about BIG and Black Swan, but haven’t been to either. My faves are Alcove Yoga (esp for prenatal yoga) and Republic Yoga (esp for aerial yoga)
Category: Health
- Chiropractic: my favorite, Dr. Sue Bradshaw at Lonestar Chiropractic, didn’t make it this year (though she has won before!) Unfortunately, I don’t know any of these chiropractors, but I can’t say enough for the value of having a good one!
- Eye Exams / Optical Store: Again, my recommendation wasn’t listed. I like Dr. Bimal Patel at Focus: Refined Eye Care.
- Place to have a baby: The Women’s Hospital of Texas or Memorial Hermann
I feel like I didn’t have the full experience of Memorial Hermann because my son was born during Hurricane Harvey, but the lactation consultants were super helpful about identifying his tongue and lip ties and referring me to someone who could diagnose and recommend treatment, which is the only reason breastfeeding was possible for me without excruciating pain. I remember The Women’s Hospital experience in a good light as well – they allowed me and my hypno-doula (shoutout Nina Spears!) to turn the lights down and listen to hypnosis music, and they honored all of my non-traditional requests. Both hospitals worked effortlessly with the cord blood registry people, too, even during a hurricane.
Home Services & Finance
- Heating & AC Services: Village Plumbing & Air
I haven’t used them, but my HVAC company said they refer to Village anytime they need a company with similar quality and they’re booked up. Plus, support #womanownedbusiness - Interior Design: I’m not familiar with any of these, but I strongly recommend Lilly Powell at Kirby & Z Interior Design.
- Landscaping Services: I don’t know any of these, but if you’re looking for a great tree service (think planting, trimming, cutting down), my husband’s business Ecung Tree Service is where it’s at! 832-741-7144
- Maid / Cleaning Services: I’ve used Molly Maids before and was happy with them. They’re well known for their attention to detail (i.e. I heard they saved a client’s bathroom product layout on file so they set things up exactly how the client wanted every visit). These days, I use MaidLuxe and You’ve Got Maids and I’m very happy with their service.
- Moving Services: Unfortunately, I’m not familiar with any of the nominees. I use The Golden Rule Relocations. 832-594-8163
- Pest Control: I haven’t used any of the nominees. I use White Knight Pest Control – they’re very organized, professional, timely and safe.
- Plumber: Village Plumbing & Air.
I haven’t worked with Village, but I have heard good things. I usually use Obsta Plumbing. The owner is a fellow Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses graduate from my cohort!
Kids & Education
- Children’s Activity: YMCA of Greater Houston
From swim lessons to soccer, from day camps to summer camps and even daycare, our family has used the Y for child care and enrichment , and we’ve never been let down. Even though some of the staff are fairly young, they all carry themselves with professionalism and maintain child safety as the primary objective, while promoting learning and fun. And they’re usually the most affordable option. How often do you get quality and affordability?!
Services
- Car Wash: Splash Hand Car Wash
- Pet Groomer: Woof Gang Bakery & Groomer
This place is adorable – they have a little buffet of dog treats at the front, all the toys, accessories and food you need for your pet (much smaller selection than a big-box pet store, though). But the grooming is why we’ll stay loyal. They are so kind and gentle with our little Nash. And he always comes out looking and smelling phenomenal! - Tire Center: Discount Tire
They are simply the best. Their warranties are worth it when you’re driving on Houston roads. Sometimes you need an appointment, but I always feel treated fairly (not upsold unnecessarily) and the wait time isn’t too bad.
Shopping
- Antique Store: The Guild Shop
This #MontroseForever gem is my favorite place for vintage jewelry, funky shoes, interesting glassware and occasionally some great furniture.
If you made it this far, FIVE GOLD STARS for you! Thanks for checking out my first blog. I can’t wait to keep sharing all my favorite things – be they places, practices, or people!