Category: Travel & Entertainment

Travel Guide: My Five (5) Favorites in Round Top, TX

Zena TP Williams

TRENDING TRAVEL

I recently wrote a blog about five (5) fancy date spots in Houston, TX . Here is a travel guide to my favorites in Round Top, TX. Okay, so here’s the thing. I’ve always been a fan of spontaneous trips, especially to those little hidden gems that obviously have more than just potential. Take Round Top, for instance. The first time I ended up there, I was on a mission—a hunt for the best vineyard within a two-hour radius of Houston. And yes, you heard that right vineyards in Texas.

But here’s the twist: I didn’t just find wine (though, don’t get me wrong, the wine was good). I stumbled upon a magical town that felt like it came straight out of a storybook, with its charming hilly country roads, antique shops, and, well, delicious food. That was only the beginning. After my first visit, I knew I was into something. But the truth is, it took me three trips to truly get acquainted. I kept thinking, “Is this all there is to this place?”

Not quite.

Being curious, I decided to dig a little deeper on my most recent visit. And guess what? I unearthed some very well-done spots, each more delightful than the last. Now, I’m about to share with you my straight-forward guide to making the most of a day (or two) in Round Top, a little slice of creative inspo that I’m convinced is one of Texas’ best-kept secrets. Ready for some wine, shopping, food, and maybe a few surprises? I don’t want to spoil your own sense of exploration but keep reading for a guide that will help you be more certain about where you do want to pop into… The verdict is still out around where to stay the night… TBD.

Prost: On Block 29 – IG

Although I couldn’t find a website for Prost, I’ve always known it as the go-to spot for wine. To my surprise, they recently added a full bar to complement their impressive wine selection, along with a menu of snacks and treats to enhance the experience. For some reason, I always seem to visit Round Top when the weather’s chilly, so I naturally ordered something warm and cozy to enjoy by the fire. This time, I went for the “Spicy Juan” (or something like that). It was loaded with meats, drizzled in local honey—produced by the lovely lady who took our order. We shared a laugh about how, if I ever started bragging about beekeeping, my friends would have strict instructions to stage an inter-freakin-vention. The dish was just enough and delicious, and while we waited, I sipped on a Hot Toddy and chatted with some friendly strangers around the fire. I start at Prost because that’s the furthest I’ve been and I typically work my way back towards 290 headed back to Houston.

Boon & Co – IG

This was my first experience here. It was recommended by the young lady at Prost. That’s my typical strategy. Bartenders are trained in reading people. So, I strike up a bit of conversation and then ask them what my next move needs to be. They size me or us up and send us along the yellow brick road. This place has multiple fire pit situations. I can’t tell you how much I love a good fire pit. We were, however, there for the fancy loft. What we found was a specialty shop that I will need to spend more time in and a speak easy upstairs with all the makings of a 70s boho den. We sat at the bar and took it in and plotted our return immediately. We were running out of daylight. But this will now forever be on our list of spots. It’s worth it!

Lulu’s – IG

Our next stop was supposed to be The Ellis Motel, but no matter how we tried, the GPS kept dead-ending us. It didn’t take long before we spotted a promising gem on the main street—Lulu’s. We just knew it was the place, so we decided to make a pit stop and regroup while we figured out where the motel might be. The hostess kindly pointed us in the right direction, but by then, we had already fallen in love with the bar area at Lulu’s. We couldn’t help but smile—those genuine, instinctive smiles that come when you know you’re making the right choice. The vibe reminded me of old-town Panama, with a little extra charm. We had a spritzer, chatted some more, and then took a look at the menu—perfectly our speed. But we were still on a treasure hunt, so I challenged my companion to surprise me and plan a proper dinner date right here. Honestly, I was starting to get tired of Houston. This was way more exciting.

Ellis Motel – IG

After our spritzers, we could have hit the road. The sun had set, and it was getting late, but the Ellis Motel was still calling our name. The fire pits were glowing, and one shop was still open. It was one of those places that’s hard to put into words, but you know it’s a stop that needs to be made. Just go, and you’ll see. I ordered a martini, and we continued our day-long debate by the fire. I declared that this was the kind of place I needed to visit twice a year for the sake of my soul. He’s a city guy, and I’m a hybrid country mouse who needs to breathe in the fresh country air. As the night stretched on, our conversation deepened, and we lost track of time—never even making it to my usual stomping grounds.

Duo Modern: The Restaurant at Market Hill – IG

We had planned to enjoy one of those unforgettable dinners at a fantastic spot in Round Top. This place is amazing—not just for the food but also for the chance to explore the antiques. It’s a huge warehouse where the inventory spills into the communal spaces, leading you on a treasure hunt until you finally reach the restaurant. I’ve been there before, so while I wasn’t too disappointed, I’m still looking forward to going back for an experience to remember.

That said, our unexpected adventure turned out to be just as memorable! On our way to Houston, we were planning to stop at one of our go-to spots for dinner when we both needed a restroom break. I found the nearest Buc-ee’s, and we pulled over.

What happened next was pure chaos—in the best way! I’d forgotten just how incredible Buc-ee’s is. We ran around like kids, grabbing things off the shelves because, let’s face it, Buc-ee’s is irresistible. We started with the merch, then made our way to the jerky station (I’m a sucker for good jerky), and finally ended up at the BBQ counter. Watching them make sandwiches right in front of us was too tempting to resist.

We looked at each other, knowing we’d hit the jackpot—a BBQ feast at a gas station! Sometimes, the unexpected stops turn out to be the most fun.

Enjoy Round Top—you won’t regret it!

Top Five (5) Fancy Date Spots in Houston

Zena TP Williams

Houston Date Nights

Houston’s restaurant scene is buzzing with energy, and when a new restaurant concept opens, my partner and I often make bets on whether it will thrive or fade. We’ve developed a list of criteria to evaluate what makes a restaurant survive in this competitive market. It seems that, regardless of quality, a strong following is essential. Some places defy the odds, thriving not because of a flawless concept but because their owners have cultivated a devoted following. Location, too, plays a significant role; real estate matters when it comes to drawing in patrons.

For me, the experience hinges on a few key factors: unbiased, excellent service (both food and drinks), parking availability (I prefer parking to valet, though my partner enjoys valet), the quality of food, and the thoughtfulness of the space. Now, before I list my top five favorites, I’ll mention a few places I miss—restaurants that, sadly, didn’t survive. Rest in peace to Benny Chow’s (by Berg Hospitality), Indianola (by Agricole Hospitality), and the beloved Traveler’s Table, which I hear might be permanently closing (but miraculously didn’t thank goodness). It’s a tough loss when great places shut down, but we move forward.

For those unfamiliar with Houston’s gems, here are my top five fancy date spots. If you’re on a budget, be warned—you might leave a little broke, but you’ll certainly have an unforgettable experience.

State of Grace: American (Regional Texas Specialties) – Nighttime – IG

I have a soft spot for State of Grace. Anyone who knows me can attest to my quiet obsession with this place. I discovered it while reconnecting with Houston through a chance meeting at Kirby Icehouse, and I was hooked. From the raw bar to the beautifully lit oak behind the bar, the ambiance is fantastic. The food is always spot on—whether it’s Thai-inspired crab claws or lamb ragu (which I wish they’d bring back). I show up without a reservation, and whether it’s a busy night or not, I always leave happy. This place is truly a gem, and if it ever closed, it would be a major loss for Houston.

Katami: Japanese – Nighttime – IG

Katami is a standout in the Houston dining scene, and it has earned its place on my top five list. The restaurant is alive with energy, and parking is not a hassle. My partner and I walked in without a reservation, which always stresses him out, but the staff made us feel at ease. Having lived in four different countries, I’ve learned that showing up without expectations can lead to the best experiences. Katami does not disappoint. The food is excellent, and the staff is attentive. The energy of the place, combined with the top-notch sushi and creative dishes, makes it a must-visit. I try to get there at least once every few months.

Annabelle Brasserie: French – Sunset – IG

Annabelle Brasserie is the perfect place for a romantic sunset meal. We sat on the patio, enjoying the ambiance and taking our time exploring the menu. The food is delicious, especially the bread with cheese and the mussels (moules). The server, a kind young woman from Ireland, was fantastic—she took time to get to know us before recommending dishes. The inside of the restaurant is Instagram-worthy, but the true charm is in the food, the service, and the quiet patio setting. I will definitely return.

Traveler’s Table: Global – Day + Night – IG

Traveler’s Table is an absolute gem. The bread pudding here is a standout—rivaled only by one other dessert in the city (which shall remain nameless). The crab samosas and benedict are also fantastic.

What makes this place special is the sense of community it fosters—people truly enjoy their time here. The warmth of the space, combined with creative food and cocktails, creates an experience that goes beyond dining. Though parking can be tight and they offer valet service, the experience is well worth it.

It was heartbreaking to hear rumors of its potential closure, but I hope it remains open for years to come and seems to still be doing well.

Nancy’s Hustle: American/Modern –Nighttime – IG

Nancy’s Hustle has a unique charm—it’s a place I used to visit solo for a perfect self-date night. The vibe feels like a New York neighborhood gem, with great music, lighting, and a fantastic menu. The Nancy cakes and other Mediterranean-inspired dishes are a must-try. Though the pandemic changed things for me, I recently re-visited, and it was just as good as I remembered.

The branzino was particularly impressive. I appreciate Nancy’s Hustle for its original flavors and laid-back yet stylish atmosphere.

A bit about me: I once dreamed of being a chef. My inspiration came from a family select team trip to Dubai when I was eightish years old. While my teammates ate at KFC, my family took us to the Chicago Beach Hotel, where I had my first taste of a truly extraordinary buffet. The experience was so memorable that I forgot all about the tennis tournament. Later, I interned at the Royal Golf Club in Bahrain, where I learned that while cooking was fulfilling, owning a restaurant was a better aspiration. That experience has given me a deep appreciation for great dining and a strong dislike for poor service.

The restaurants above are a few of my absolute favorites. Enjoy! If you’ve got more recommendations, feel free to reach out. Also, if you’re looking for places outside of Houston, check out Duo Modern in Round Top, TX, located inside an antique warehouse—it’s more of an experience than just a meal. Or, if you’re near San Leon, TX, don’t miss Pier 6, which offers a beautiful brunch with both indoor and outdoor seating by the water.

Your Houston Hit List: What to Eat Beyond the Conference

Zena TP Williams
 

Welcome to your Houston Hit List:

By now, you’ve probably caught the detail about the city’s food scene—and trust me, it’s on point. With so much happening and only so much time during your conference, I’ve procured your go-to Houston hit list to help you make the most of your stay.

I get it—your schedule is packed, and the FOMO is real with all the conference activities. But if you can sneak away for even an hour or two, this guide will make stepping outside the usual agenda totally worth it.

So, whether you’re hunting for that Instagrammable food spot, looking to explore local culture, or just need a break to vibe with the city, this list has you covered. Pick your favorites, check them out, and make your Houston experience unforgettable. Mission accepted? 

Websites and IG links are included so you can curate your experience. Simply click on the names. 

Gastro

Chop N’Block – 501 Westheimer Rd. HTX, 77006 – 15 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

If you have time to seek out local treasures beyond the conference, Chop N’Block is a must-visit in Houston’s beloved Montrose area. My intro was through an event they catered for a top global commercial real estate firm. The pies were what dreams are made of. So, I ventured to their location at the Post Houston chasing that dream. I discovered the Golden Bowl and it was a wrap. I’m a sucker for curry and theirs is fantastic I personally like their newest location on Westheimer. It has an outdoor space with plenty of biophilia and it’s adjacent to an exquisite local bakery experience – La Sicilia.

Corn Row – Pop-ups & Catering only – IG

This historically focused catering business may pop up during relevant events. Owned and operated by Chester Chambers, he aims to satiate vegan cravings through the lens of West African and Native American flavors. My sister is a huge fan of her former classmate out of MIT and I couldn’t resist adding Corn Row to the list.

Gatlin’s Fin & Feather – 302 W Crosstimbers St, Houston, TX 77018 – 20-25 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

Independence Heights was the first black-incorporated neighborhood in Houston. It was annexed by Houston a day after Christmas in 1929. Fin and Feather is a part of the Gatlin chain of restaurants. It’s in my neighborhood and is super cute. I would recommend anything they have on tap in the tiny diner situated on Crosstimbers and their gumbo is well worth trying.

Gatlin’s BBQ – 3510 Ella Boulevard, Houston, TX, 77018 – 20 -25 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

Once upon a time, I set out to find the best BBQ in Houston. So, I visited all the staples in including this baddie of a BBQ spot. My indulgence of choice here is the Kitchen Sink Sandwich. Leave room for this one, I’m bias but Houston surely may have the best BBQ in the world. What did I like about it? They deliver that hit of everything you would want about a stellar BBQ experience. I often judge a place by how the food made me feel. Coming here is a good choice, I depart on a high note each and every time.

Late August – 4201 Main Street Suite 120 – 10 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

Houston realtor Michaela Green was the plug on this one. Often, I like to let clients choose their experiences when we meet. She suggested we connect at Late August at the Ion. We indulged in 3 – 4 plates including the wings. The experience didn’t disappoint as we sat on the patio and hashed out a few details. The service was on point, the recommendations the staff provided were right, and overall I felt it was a great experience. Simply scrumptious.

Lucille’s – 5512 La Branch St Houston, Texas 77004 – 10-15 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

Lucille’s has long been a staple holding its own in the heart of Houston’s med center. The space is blocks away from one of my favorite public spaces, Hermann Park. Although I haven’t been in years, I remember the bar making a stellar Bloody Mary and in general there was a strong sense of comfort and style.

Trez Wine Bistro & Wine Bar – 920 Studemont St. Suite 150 Houston, TX 77007 – 10-15 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

My sister insisted on a girl’s night here. That was the first and last time I went. This establishment is also a Houston favorite. Likely because of the lounge vibes and music that you can’t help but sway to. My thoughts were that this place was casually swank. It’s close to downtown and could be worth swinging by with friends if you are looking to be a social butterfly.  

The Warwick – 5888 Westheimer Road Houston, TX 77057 – 20-30 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

Walking in here is such a pleasant surprise. It’s warm, it’s beautiful but not over the top. The service was thoughtful, the decor is elegant. My food experience was particularly delicious. The right clothing is required for this elevated experience. But, you already knew that. So, slip into something classic and memorable then take in the scene.

Hot Desks – AD-HOC desks & conference room space

The Us Space – 808 Travis St Suite 400, Houston, TX 77002 – 5-10 minutes from George R. Brown – IG

LaGina Harris has mindfully crafted an inclusive experience at the historic Esperson building downtown. Her aim is to influence social impact through a space that promotes community and productivity. If you have an opportunity to connect with her, I highly recommend it. Here is what’s going on at The Us Space from 11.13.2024 – 11.16.

Well, that’s all she wrote! I hope to see you all in and around town doing you in Houston. Remember, the best memories are made when you take a moment to explore beyond the bounds. Go ahead and make your visit count. Share your adventures, snap those pics, and who knows—maybe Houston will leave you with stories you’ll be telling long after the conference ends. Safe travels and most importantly, live well.