With social gatherings at an all-time high again, we loved the renewed relatability. Join our editors Jake Gaines in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio as they share their statewide selections that are perfect to kick off fall.
AUSTIN
WHISTLE, WHY DON’T YOU?
Whisler’s, the craft-cocktail bar, mezcalería, and speakeasy-style haunt on the Eastside creates cocktails that are completely unexpected and expertly executed…it’s what they are known for most. So for a truly special time with friends, this is the place to gather for a memorable experience.
At WhislersATX.com.
IT’S LIKE FAMILY
In two locations now, Uncle Nicky’s Italian Specialties brings to the city a relaxed and approachable, all-day dining experience reminiscent of the cafes of Northern Italy to the city. With plenty of cocktail selections, the all-day service will have you there morning, noon, or night.
At UncleNickys.com.
TO MARKET WE SHALL GO
Opening this fall on the trendy SoCo will be the 40,000 square feet of restaurants including Mignette, a bakery, and diner from Michael Fojtasek of Olamaie; a wine bar, butcher shop, and produce store from Salt & Time; Hawaiian pizza chain Fire Dance Pizza; and a location of local charitable coffee shop, Greater Goods Coffee Co., to name a few.
At StElmoMarket.com.
DALLAS
SIGNATURE SUCCESS
For many years, in their trips to Napa, Tiffany and Daniel Moon developed a great appreciation of the complexity, sophistication, and different flavor profiles of wine. In 2009 they launched their own signature Estate Reserve wines from Napa Valley as a private passion project, Three Moons Wine. Offerings include a 2020 Sauvignon Blanc, a 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, or a 2018 Proprietary Red Blend. Prices start at $42 a bottle and are shipped directly to you.
BEYOND CHICKEN
Firebird Fowl is serving up classic favorite foods with a Texas twist. In addition to the chicken and turkey menu options, you’ll enjoy the ranch-to-table duck, emu, ostrich and Texas quail choices. The cocktail menu features specialty beverages created from house-made infused spirits–even ice-creams on the dessert menu will be alcohol infused. At this Uptown high energy restaurant and bar, fowl play is encouraged.
LUCKY LORO
Loro, an Asian smokehouse and bar concept from Austin’s Chef Tyson Cole and Pitmaster Aaron Franklin, features grilled and smoked meats with Southeast Asian and Japanese-inspired sauces and sides. The communal indoor space and patio were designed to emulate good old Texas dance halls. With Chef de Cuisine Mike Perez at the helm, Loro Dallas offers dishes exclusive to this location, such as fish and chips, French onion brisket melt, and brisket coconut rice.
At LoroEats.com.
HOUSTON
SUITING UP
There’s a new hot spot in Houston (and Fort Worth) where it’s all fun and games. Pinstripes is a multi-concept restaurant that not only offers terrific food and cocktails, but also is a great venue for entertainment like Bocce ball, bowling, and more.
At Pinstripes.com.
COASTAL VIBE
Eugene’s, formerly Danton’s in River Oaks, the clientele loves the daily specials, from Gulf Coast favorites red snapper, ling, Mahi Mahi, and grouper, to seasonal specials like crawfish, soft-shell crab, and wild-caught salmon. Then there’s the all-natural, certified Angus beef filets and ribeye steaks, fire-grilled over oak and hickory.
ALWAYS GRATEFUL
Gratify Bistro, in the West U neighborhood, transports guests to a classic and Baroque French environment. In fact, it’s a grown-up escape from the every day where the disco ball shimmers and martinis flow. There are plenty of freshly shucked oysters, crudo, tartare, and caviar selections.
SAN ANTONIO
LASTEST LUXE
Landrace, now open at the new Thompson Hotel, honors the pastoral beauty of foods that can be traced back to the land where they are naturally shepherded over time. The seasonal menus celebrate regional Texas ingredients and heritage growers close to home. James Beard Award finalist Steve McHugh, known as San Antonio’s most celebrated chef, helms it.
At LandraceTX.com.
SIGNATURE STYLE
Stout’s Signature, located at the Tobin Center, is the perfect place for a pre-performance gathering. It features upscale plates, from filets to risottos, with a full bar of handcrafted cocktails. We love the wide selection of pizzas and appetizers, too.
HOUSE AND HOME
The airy Guenther House is the Art Nouveau and Victorian home at the Pioneer Flour Mills that offers homey breakfast and lunch, American and Tex-Mex fare, outdoor dining, and event space for special occasions.