What's Eric Eating

On today's edition of What's Eric Eating, Eric is joined by Ryan Hildebrand of Killen's. Ryan speaks with Eric about his time in Wimberley, the challenges they faced, why it was time to come home to Houston, the best thing they took away from their time in Wimberley, what appealed to him about working at Killen's, collaborating with Ronnie, the changes they've made to Killen's, some of the menu items they've added, the new lunch menu, the pressure to maintain the restaurant's Bib Gourmand status, the goals for the restaurant, and much more!  Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Casual Houston Coffee Shop Pokes into New Sawyer Yards Location Southwestern-Inspired Houston Restaurant will Close After 28 Years Running List of Houston Restaurants Serving Decadent Easter Brunches Street Corn Shines at Houston's Truffle-Powered Chef Competition YouTube Star Mark Wiens Gets a Taste of Texas at Iconic Houston Steakhouse

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Houston BBQ Festival co-founder Michael Fulmer. Eric and Michael cover some of the latest news from the Houston culinary scene including the new California chicken restaurant chain Starbird coming to the city next year, the closure of Houston's only Pie Tap Pizza, and early thoughts on the new culinary competition show The Culinary Cup hosted by Padma Lakshmi. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Texas Roadhouse and Star Rover are featured. Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: New Chicken Restaurant Flies into Houston with 'Gluten-Friendly' Tendies Running List of Houston Restaurants Serving Decadent Easter Brunches Street Corn Shines at Houston's Truffle-Powered Chef Competition YouTube Star Mark Wiens Gets a Taste of Texas at Iconic Houston Steakhouse These 10 Restaurants and Pop-Ups Serve Houston's Best Sandwiches

Today on the show Eric is joined by Paul Miller of Gr8 Plate Hospitality. Paul speaks with Eric about the latest happenings at Gr8 Plate Hospitality, why Union Kitchen didn't end up working out in Katy, changing the Union Kitchen in Garden Oaks to Jax on the Tracks, why the change was right for that location of Union Kitchen, how the neighborhood has responded so far, what the future looks like for Gr8 Plate, why things are so difficult for restaurants currently, and an overarching conversation about the state of things for restaurants currently. Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Houston's 10 Best Neighborhood Restaurants Offer Comfort and Convenience New Chicken Restaurant Flies into Houston with 'Gluten-Friendly' Tendies These 10 Restaurants and Pop-Ups Serve Houston's Best Sandwiches Growing Houston Sushi Chain Rolls into New Galleria-Area Development Loch Bar Owner Takes Over Downtown Tower's Cafe, Adds Japanese Eatery

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by Mary Clarkson of Heights Grocer and Montrose Grocer. The duo discuss some of the latest news from the Houston food scene including the 4 Houston spots that made Texas Monthly's Best New Restaurants of 2026 list, the new Japanese concept coming from Atlas Restaurant Group, and Handies Douzo getting ready to open a 4th location later this year. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Bar Xolo is featured.   Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: 4 Houston Spots Make Texas Monthly's Best New Restaurants of 2026 List Loch Bar Owner Takes Over Downtown Tower's Cafe, Adds Japanese Eatery Growing Houston Sushi Chain Rolls into New Galleria-Area Development Western-Inspired, Family-Friendly Restaurant Now Open Near the Heights Houston's 10 Best Neighborhood Restaurants Offer Comfort and Convenience

On today's edition of the show Eric is joined by Reginald Scott of The Smoke and Coarse. Reginald catches Eric up on what's been happening with him since first appeared on the podcast 5 years ago, how he's forged his own path in the culinary scene, how The Smoke evolved into what it is today, the incredibly challenging logistics of running a BBQ spot in Finn Hall, being an established presence at Urban Harvest, what made the location for Coarse the right choice, the story behind the name Coarse, what people can expect from the new concept, whether we'll see a brick + mortar of The Smoke one day, and more!Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Western-Inspired, Family-Friendly Restaurant Now Open Near the Heights Houston's 10 Best Neighborhood Restaurants Offer Comfort and Convenience 4 Houston Spots Make Texas Monthly's Best New Restaurants of 2026 List Houston Restaurateur Dishes on Swapping Tex-Mex for New Retro Steakhouse Beard-Recognized Houston Chef Fires Up Second Taqueria in Lindale Park

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by CultureMap contributor Brianna McClane. Brianna and Eric dive into some of the latest news from the Houston bar and restaurant scene including; Cochinita & Co. getting ready to open a 2nd location and the relaunch of Fancy's under new ownership. In the Restaurants of the Week portion, Lee's is featured. Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Beard-Recognized Houston Chef Fires Up Second Taqueria in Lindale Park 4 Houston Spots Make Texas Monthly's Best New Restaurants of 2026 List Houston Restaurateur Dishes on Swapping Tex-Mex for New Retro Steakhouse Favorite Houston Burger Joint Fires Up Memorial Opening Date Houston Restaurant Known for Meatloaf and Bourbon Sets River Oaks Opening Date

On today's edition of the show Eric is joined by Chico Ramirez of Johnny Ritas Cocina y Cantina. Chico speaks with Eric about what happened with White Elm Brasserie, why Johnny Ritas was the right choice as his next project, deciding where to setup the concept, designing the space, developing the menu, why it was important to describe their food as "authentic Mexican cuisine with Tex-Mex familiarity", what they offer at brunch, how the cocktail program stands out, how his grandparents influenced him, the story behind the name, his team getting the recognition they deserve, goals for the concept, and much more! Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Favorite Houston Burger Joint Fires Up Memorial Opening Date Houston Restaurant Known for Meatloaf and Bourbon Sets River Oaks Opening Date Fertitta Family Reveals First Details for Pop-Up Steakhouse at RodeoHouston Meet the 10 Rising Star Chefs Shining in Houston's Culinary Scene These Houston Restaurants Won Big at Rodeo Best Bites Competition

Episode 535 of What's Eric Eating, with Eric Sandler! This week Eric was joined by the Swanky Maven, Felice Sloan, an expert on food, wine, and good times to discuss... Pop Up Bagels, a national bagel chain with a couple locations opening up in Houston The Green Room, a new 26 seat, intimate dining experience in town Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles, a cult favorite chicken and waffles chain opening in our city And the restaurant of the week is 'Weights and Measures' Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: These Houston restaurants won big at Rodeo Best Bites Competition James Beard-winning chef opens 26-seat new restaurant in the Heights Celebrity-backed East Coast bagel shop rolls into prime Houston neighborhood Garden Oaks Restaurant Reboots as Family Friendly Bar and Grill Cult-Favorite Chicken and Waffle Restaurant Opens in Houston This Weekend

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by Dave Mattern and Cary Grider of Trulucks. Dave and Cary speak with Eric about their culinary careers leading up to Trulucks, the early days of Trulucks, being known for stone crab, their recent renovations, their intentional culture that allows for longevity with it's staff as well as business cards, the difference between their ownership situation versus other restaurants around the city, the company's thoughtful growth approach, being more of a seafood restaurant than a steak restaurant, their beverage program, goals for the restaurant, and much more!Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Garden Oaks Restaurant Reboots as Family Friendly Bar and Grill Cult-Favorite Chicken and Waffle Restaurant Opens in Houston This Weekend The Rustic Owners Tee Up New Casual Icehouse at Fifth Ward Golf Course Houston Charity Dining Event Returns with $15 Lunches and $25 Dinners Johnny Carrabba Now Serving Southern Comfort Food at New Bellaire Locale

Today on the show Eric is joined by Raffi Nasr of Craft Pita to go through some of the latest happenings from the Houston restaurant and bar scene. First Raffi and Eric discuss  a CultureMap exclusive regarding Brasserie 19 owner Charles Clark's 2 new Italian concepts coming soon, 2 recent closures (Succulent Fine Dining and Fainmous BBQ), and the return of Spanish Village. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Hong Kong Food Street and Honest Mary's are featured. Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: Houston Restaurateur Brings Two New Italian Spots to Montrose Parking Problems Shutter Houston Restaurant After Less Than a Year Houston Barbecue Joint Will Soon Shutter Due to $72,000 of Unpaid Rent Iconic Houston Tex-Mex Restaurant will Reopen in New Third Ward Project Houston Charity Dining Event Returns with $15 Lunches and $25 Dinners

Time to find out who won The Ultimate Houston Date Night Draft 3.0 with special guest judges Erin Smith and Patrick Feges of Feges BBQ. The couple speak with Eric about why they felt [redacted] had the best lineup, the process they took in selecting the winning team, what selections stood out to them, what they would've selected, and more! Plus, they give an update on what's been happening at Feges BBQ. Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: Houston Restaurateur Brings Two New Italian Spots to Montrose Iconic Houston Tex-Mex Restaurant will Reopen in New Third Ward Project Heights Restaurant Celebrates Lunar New Year with Epic Barbecue Collab Texas-Based Microbrewery Theater Chain Claims Houston's Shuttered Alamo Drafthouse Michelin-Recognized Houston Sushi Chef Fires Up 4 Seat Japanese Skewer Spot

Since it's Valentines season Eric said "you know, we should do another Date Night Draft" and since it's Eric's show we said... well nothing you know because it's his show.The Ultimate Houston Date Night Draft is back for a 3rd iteration! This year, Eric is joined by Chelsea Thomas, Monica Danna, Brianna McGriff, Dominick Lee, and Chris Shepherd to draft the perfect date night lineup. This year's categories are: First Date, Coffee Date, Place Your Friends Won't See You Date, Happy Hour Date, Breakup Date, and a Wild Card spot which is any place they'd like to go for a date or somewhere that would be fun for a date.  The winner will be announced on the next episode of the podcast as selected by special judges. So stayed tuned to your podcast feeds to find out the eventual winner. The Draft RulesRule 1: All selections must be located in with in the Greater Houston area.Rule 2: Once a restaurant has been selected for a certain category, no other drafter may select it for the same category. For example, only one drafter can select 13 Celsius for a first date but someone else could select 13 Celsius for a Happy Hour date.Rule 3: Drafters cannot pick the same bar/restaurant/business twice. All 6 selections must be from different places.Rule 4: Snake draft format. The draft order will go one through six in round 1 then go backwards six through one in round 2.Rule 5: Categories may be selected in any order.Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: Houston Restaurateur Brings Two New Italian Spots to Montrose Parking Problems Shutter Houston Restaurant After Less Than a Year Michelin-Recognized Houston Sushi Chef Fires Up 4 Seat Japanese Skewer Spot Veteran French Chef Blows into Bellaire with a New Neighborhood Bistro New Restaurant Shakes Up Houston with Oaxacan and Tex-Mex Classics

On today's edition of the show Eric is joined by Paul Prior of Lankford's. Paul speaks with Eric about the history of Lankford's, inheriting the family business,   being known for burgers, expansions to the menu, the evolution of the Midtown location, why Bellaire was the right place for their 2nd location, possible areas they'd like to expand to, changing to counter service, the opening of The Woodlands location, what's new at the 3rd location, listening to customer feedback, and much more!Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: CultureMap Editor's 11 Favorite Houston Restaurant Dishes of January 2026 New Restaurant Shakes Up Houston with Oaxacan and Tex-Mex Classics Arizona Mexican Restaurant is the Latest to Shutter at the Galleria Chopped Champion Houston Chef Packs His Knives for Top Chef Carolinas Houston Taqueria Opens 2 New Locations with Cocktails by Anvil Owner

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Michael Fulmer, a co-founder of the Houston BBQ Festival, to go through some of the latest happenings in Houston food. Michael and Eric discuss Fielding's River Oaks' rebranding as Fielding's Steak, the new Arizona seafood concept making it's way to Houston, and the closure of Wooster's Garden. In the Restaurants of the Week portion the new location of Pinkerton's Barbecue and Sushi Horiuchi are featured.  Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: River Oaks Restaurant Fields a New Menu Devoted to Prime and Wagyu Steaks Lively New Seafood Restaurant Rides into Prime Houston Location Midtown Bar with Creative Cocktails and Craft Taps Will Close in February Arizona Mexican Restaurant is the Latest to Shutter at the Galleria Chopped Champion Houston Chef Packs His Knives for Top Chef Carolinas

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Shiva and Rick Di Virgilio of ŌPORTO Fooding House & Wine and da Gama canteen. Shiva and Rick speak with Eric about how they first met, the initial humble beginnings of Oporto, wanting to experiment at The Queen Vic, the early days of craft cocktails, blending Portuguese and Indian cuisine, why they decided to move Oporto, the benefits of the bigger space, how Midtown has changed over the years, evolving over time, developing da Gama, what dishes they recommend people check out, being recognized by the Michelin Guide, future ideas, and much more!Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Historic Houston Burger Joint Sets Opening Date for New Woodlands Store French-Trained Houston Chefs Team Up for One-Night Only Mardi Gras Dinner Chris Shepherd Serves Up a New Menu for Houston Performance Series Lively New Seafood Restaurant Rides into Prime Houston Location River Oaks Restaurant Fields a New Menu Devoted to Prime and Wagyu Steaks

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by Mary Clarkson of Heights Grocer and Montrose Grocer. The pair discuss some of the latest news from the Houston restaurant and bar scene including the 12 local restaurants/chefs announced as James Beard Semifinalists, Paulie's cookies living on in a new venture, and a new concept called Exilio Latin Flair coming to Montrose. In the Restaurants of the Week portion, Zaranda is featured. Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: 12 Houston Restaurants Score James Beard Award Semifinalist Nominations Shuttered Houston Restaurant's Iconic Cookies Revived with New Name Soon-to-Shutter Houston Margarita Bar Will Transform Into New Latin Eatery Historic Houston Burger Joint Sets Opening Date for New Woodlands Store French-Trained Houston Chefs Team Up for One Night Only Mardi Gras Dinner

On today's podcast, Eric is joined by Cooper Abercrombie of Bar-A-BBQ. Cooper speaks with Eric about what drew him to barbecue, how mom's in the neighborhood got the business growing, his helpful barbecue connections, what brought him to Montgomery, developing the weekly specials, what customers can expect at Bar-A-BBQ, moving to a new location, possible expansions to the menu once they're in their new space, the attention they've received, his team, future plans, and the story of a neighbor that saved some briskets.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com:Michelin-Rated Houston Barbecue Joint Fires Up Retro-Inspired Second Location 12 Houston Restaurants Score James Beard Award Semifinalist Nominations Houston Tex-Mex Staple Now Serving Fajitas and Margaritas at Downtown Hub Shuttered Houston Restaurant's Iconic Cookies Revived with New Name Ramen Joint That Served Super Hot Broth Will Shutter After Only 18 Months Soon-to-Shutter Houston Margarita Bar Will Transform Into New Latin Eatery

Houston BBQ Festival co-founder Michael Fulmer is back on the podcast today to speak with Eric about some of the latest news from the Houston restaurant and bar scene. Eric and Michael discuss the newest retro inspired location of Pinkerton's Barbecue, the sandwich concept Yuma finding a home in the former Ninja Ramen space, and the closure of Perry's Steakhouse in River Oaks. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Casa Kenji and Seven Sushi & Robata are featured.Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Michelin-Rated Houston Barbecue Joint Fires Up Retro-Inspired Second Location Houston Sandwich Pop-Up Presses Forward with a Brick-and-Mortar Home 'Contractual Dispute' Compels Closure of Prime River Oaks Steakhouse Houston Tex-Mex Staple Now Serving Fajitas and Margaritas at Downtown Hub Shuttered Houston Restaurant's Iconic Cookies Revived with New Name

On today's podcast Eric is joined by Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel and Arjav Ezekiel of Birdie's. Tracy and Arjav speak with Eric about how they first met, their time in New York, choosing to move to Austin with a flip of a coin, conceptualizing Birdie's, developing the menu, why counter service at first, putting what they earn back into their team, their wine program offerings, why they changed to a prix fixe model, the awards recognition they've received, long term and much more in this wide ranging discussion.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: 6 Rice Village Restaurants Team Up to Support Houston Hospitality Nonprofit Houston Sandwich Pop-Up Presses Forward with a Brick-and-Mortar Home 'Contractual Dispute' Compels Closure of Prime River Oaks Steakhouse Staple Heights Wine Bar and Restaurant will Shutter After 6 Years Veteran Houston Chef Takes Over at Essential Midtown Brunch Destination

Eric is back and he's kicking off the new year with Raffi Nasr of Craft Pita to discuss some of the latest happens in the Houston restaurant and bar scene. Raffi and Eric speak about the rebranding of Superica into a steakhouse concept called Star Rover, the upcoming new delivery focused pizzeria concept coming to The Heights called Shredder's Pizza, and Chef Omar Perey taking over as the new operating partner of Weights + Measures. In the Restaurants of the Week portion, Oru is featured.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston Tex-Mex Restaurant to Shutter and Reopen as a Casual Steakhouse Delivery-Focused Pizzeria with Affordable Wine Coming Soon to The Heights Veteran Houston Chef Takes Over at Essential Midtown Brunch Destination 'Contractual Dispute' Compels Closure of Prime River Oaks Steakhouse Staple Heights Wine Bar and Restaurant will Shutter After 6 Years The Most Memorable Dishes at Houston's 11 Best New Restaurants of 2025

It's the end of 2025 which means it's time to look back and some our favorites from the year in the Houston food scene. Today on the 2025 Year in Review, Eric is joined by Mary Clarkson of Heights Grocer & Montrose Grocer, and Raffi Nasr of Craft Pita to highlight some of their favorite new restaurants that opened this year, some of their favorite dishes, old favorites they revisited this year, the closures they were most sad about, what they'd like to draft in a future draft episode, and much more in this expansive end of the year discussion. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Major Closures, Celeb Sightings, More Top Houston Restaurant News of 2025 Coastal-Inspired Houston Restaurant Will Shutter After 3 Years in Montrose Houston's Only Michelin-Recognized Tex-Mex Restaurant Now Open in Bellaire Eagerly Anticipated Houston Barbecue Joint Hosts Weekend Preview Pop-Ups Growing National Pizza Chain Will Bring Halal Pies and Pastas to Katy

On today's edition of the podcast, Eric is joined by Judith Piotrowski of Hotel ZaZa. Judith speaks with Eric about what inspired her to get into bartending/hospitality, her time at Weights + Measures, working at One Fifth during the pandemic, what she learned from working with Chris Shepherd and his team, becoming the director of bars at The Post Oak hotel, finding huge success with the Navi's pop up, making her way to the Hotel ZaZa, what makes a good hotel great, whether a speakeasy is in the cards, and much more! Plus, Judith takes on the lightning round.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston's Only Michelin-Recognized Tex-Mex Restaurant Now Open in Bellaire Eagerly-Anticipated Houston Barbecue Joint Hosts Weekend Preview Pop-Ups Growing National Pizza Chain Will Bring Halal Pies and Pastas to Katy Family-Friendly Houston Restaurant Picks Missouri City for 6th Location New Houston Cocktail Bar Serves Up a House Party Fueled by Music and Martinis

The Swanky Maven Felice Sloan returns for this edition of the podcast. Eric and Felice touch on some of the latest happenings from the Houston food scene including chef Jean-François Feuillette opening the first US location of Café Feuillette here in Houston, Local Table's 6th location set to open in Missouri City, and ChòpnBlọk getting more national recognition with the latest accolade coming from the New York Times. In the Restaurants of the Week section, Doc's Houston is featured.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: French Pastry Chef Perks Up Houston with First U.S. Coffee Shop and Café Family-Friendly Houston Restaurant Picks Missouri City for 6th Location New York Times Critic Awards Houston Restaurant 2 Stars in Glowing Review Houston's Only Michelin-Recognized Tex-Mex Restaurant Now Open in Bellaire Eagerly-Anticipated Houston Barbecue Joint Hosts Weekend Preview Pop-Ups

Today on the show Eric is joined by Nelson Monteith and Andrew Wiseheart of Honest Mary's. Nelson and Andrew share with Eric their culinary journey's leading up to Honest Mary's, how they first started working together, why River Oaks was the right area of Houston to expand to, how they set themselves apart from other concepts in the healthy fast casual space, creating the perfect bowl, and much more! Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Growing National Pizza Chain will Bring Halal Pies and Pastas to Katy New York Times Critic Awards Houston Restaurant 2 Stars in Glowing Review Family-Friendly Houston Restaurant Picks Missouri City for 6th Location New Houston Cocktail Bar Serves Up a House Party Fueled by Music and Martinis French Pastry Chef Perks Up Houston with First U.S. Coffee Shop and Café

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by Mary Clarkson of Heights Grocer and Montrose Grocer. The pair dive into some of the latest news from the Houston food scene including Home Slice Pizza expanding in the Houston area with a new location set to open in The Heights, the closure of Killen's BBQ in The Woodlands, the surprising announcement of Brett's BBQ Shop shuttering at the end of December, and ChòpnBlọk's receiving more national critical acclaim. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Hypsi at the Hotel Daphne is featured. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: East Coast Style Austin Pizzeria Confirms Plans to Open in The Heights Exclusive: Killen's Barbecue Will Soon Shutter in The Woodlands Texas Monthly-Rated Katy Barbecue Joint Surprises with Imminent Closure Esquire Names Houston's West African Eatery to Best New Restaurants List Houston Chef's Hip New Italian Restaurant Now Open in Heights Hotel

On this special episode, Eric is joined by MasterChef Season 3 winner Christine Ha, and her husband John Suh, who co-own the great Houston restaurant "The Blind Goat," to reveal the winner from the Ultimate Houston Vietnamese Food Draft on the previous episode! Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Third location of Bun B's smash hit smash burger joint sets opening date Award-winning ramen shop sets opening date for new Memorial location Eclectic comfort food restaurant to shutter after 21 years in Houston Beyoncé-loved Houston brunch spot sweetens Sugar Land with new location Houston chef's hip new Italian restaurant now open in Heights hotel East Coast-style Austin pizzeria confirms plans to open in the Heights

On today's podcast episode, it's The Ultimate Houston Vietnamese Food Draft! Listen as Eric, alongside Local Foods Group's Chelsea Thomas, Heights Grocer's Mary Clarkson, Stevie Vu from the Chow-down in Chinatown Facebook group, Isabel Protomartir from the 'Have A Nice Day' AAPI pop-up markets, and Michael Fulmer, who co-founded the Houston BBQ Festival, attempt to craft the best lineup! The drafters will be selecting a lineup of the following 6 categories: salad/appetizer, entrée, sandwich, soup, Viet-Cajun, and a wildcard item. The Draft Rules Rule 1: No drafter may select the same restaurant in more than one category. Rule 2: Once a restaurant has been selected for a specific category, no other drafter may select it in that same category.    Rule 3: Snake draft format. The draft order will go one through six in round 1, then go backwards six through one in round 2. Rule 4: Categories may be selected in any order. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Beyoncé-loved Houston brunch spot sweetens Sugar Land with new location Houston chef's hip new Italian restaurant now open in Heights hotel East Coast-style Austin pizzeria confirms plans to open in the Heights New Houston seafood restaurant adds live-fire flair to Japanese flavors CultureMap editor's 10 favorite dishes at Houston restaurants in November

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by a returning Monica "The Mayor of Garden Oaks" Danna to go through some of the latest news from the Houston culinary scene. Eric and Monica discuss Ninja Ramen shuttering at the end of December, the new sushi concept from Grace and Leo Xia coming to Chinatown, and Lankford's opening a new location in The Woodlands. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Lazy Lane is featured. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston Ramen Shop Known for Asian Whisky will Shutter After 11 Years New Chinatown Restaurant Serves Up AYCE Sushi and More for $37 Historic Houston Burger Joint Serves Up New Woodlands Location Exclusive: Killen's Barbecue Will Soon Shutter in The Woodlands Esquire Names Houston's West African Eatery to Best New Restaurants List 2-Acre Houston Patio Bar Rebrands with New Name and Family-Friendly Menu

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by Tracy Vaught, Hugo Ortega, and Sofia Ortega of H-Town Restaurant Group. H-Town Restaurant Group is the company behind Backstreet, Hugo's, Xochi, Caracol, Urbe, and Zaranda. The family speak with Eric about their new concept Zaranda, why now was the right time for the concept, the inspiration behind Zaranda, integrating different flavors from other cuisines into Zaranda's dishes, Sofia's role, menu development, the signature dessert, how things have been since opening, and more. Plus, Tracy and Hugo share how they first met, their memories of opening Hugo's, their reaction when Hugo's first took off, what Sunday brunch at Hugo's represents, revamping Backstreet, their thoughts on not being included in the Michelin Guide, and Sofia's put to the Lightning Round test.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Historic Houston Burger Joint Serves Up New Woodlands Location Street Food-Inspired Houston Restaurant Swaps Counter Service for Servers River Oaks Italian Spot Claims Shuttered Woodlands Steakhouse for New Location Houston Restaurant Veteran Fires Up Pizzas and Steaks in Garden Oaks Food-Focused Houston Nonprofit Rounds Up Top Chefs for Sunday Supper

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Mary Clarkson of Heights Grocer and Montrose Grocer and the duo react to the Houston Chronicle's Top 100 Restaurant's list, did the Chronicle get it right? Is Aga's the best in Houston? Is Milton's Top 25? Kata Robata isn't on the list?! The pair explore those questions and more regarding this year's list. Plus, Eric and Mary discuss Bari Ristorante claiming the former Tris space in The Woodlands, Brian Doke's new concept called Lazy Lane, and then how things are going at Heights/Montrose Grocers. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Maison Chinoise is featured.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: River Oaks Italian Spot Claims Shuttered Woodlands Steakhouse for New Location Houston Restaurant Veteran Fires Up Pizzas and Steaks in Garden Oaks Street Food-Inspired Houston Restaurant Swaps Counter Service for Servers Food-Focused Houston Nonprofit Rounds Up Top Chefs for Sunday Supper Health-Conscious Houston Sports Bar Sets Woodlands Opening Date

On today's edition of the podcast, Eric is joined by Michael Sambrooks of Sambrooks Hospitality which is behind Candente and The Pit Room. Michael speaks with Eric about the big news that Candente's opening 2nd location will open in Bellaire, how the location popped up on their radar, why Bellaire was the right choice, what they need to do to change the former Mandito's space into Candente, bringing the same Candente experience to the new location, the expected opening date for the new location, what it's been like for both Candente and The Pit Room since they were included in the Michelin Guide, the expansion of The Pit Room's menu options at the 2nd location, the possibility of expanding both concepts, and more! Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Food-Focused Houston Nonprofit Rounds Up Top Chefs for Sunday Supper Health-Conscious Houston Sports Bar Sets Woodlands Opening Date Austin Burger Favorite Will Finally Open First Inside the Loop Location Luxurious Downtown Hotel Elevates with New Rooftop Restaurant Houston's New Retro-Styled Jazz Supper Club Sets Opening Date

Local Houston celebrity Felice Sloan, aka the Swanky Maven, takes time from her busy autograph schedule to join Eric on today's show. The pair discuss some of the latest news including the upcoming opening of Doc's Houston and how things went at the first ever Bites & Beyond Festival this past weekend. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Murray's Pizza & Wine and 93' Til are featured.    Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston's New Retro-Styled Jazz Supper Club Sets Opening Date New Houston Food Festival Reveals Stacked Lineup of Restaurants and Music Running List of Veteran's Day 2025 Food and Drinks Deals in Houston Austin Burger Favorite Will Finally Open First Inside the Loop Location Luxurious Downtown Hotel Elevates with New Rooftop Restaurant

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Deets Hoffman of Murray's Pizza & Wine and Leaf & Grain. Deets speaks with Eric about why pizza was the route he wanted to go following the success of Leaf & Grain, why they wanted to go more adult date night forward with Murray's, the wine offerings, his wife's reaction to picking her name for the concept, why they went with sourdough as their choice for pizza crust, their topping options, the small plates they offer, how things have gone in the first few weeks of since Murray's opened, being able to showcase more than they have before, ideas for future concepts, the best way to reheat a pizza, the state of Leaf & Grain, and more!   Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston's New Retro-Styled Jazz Supper Club Sets Opening Date CultureMap Editor's 11 Favorite Dishes at Houston Restaurants in October Billionaire Tilman Fertitta Saddles Up for New Rodeo Houston Steakhouse Growing Houston Street-Style Taqueria Rolls into Montrose This Week Prestigious Michelin Guide Selects 44 Houston Restaurants for 2025 Edition

On the show today, Eric is joined by Houston BBQ Festival co-founder Michael Fulmer. Eric and Michael go through some of the latest news from the Houston culinary scene including the surprising closure of Paulie's and the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo's fine dining change coming in 2026. Plus, the guys discuss a bit more about the Michelin Guide's announcement from last week focusing on the Houston restaurants that were added this year. In the Restaurants of the Week portion, Charm Taphouse & BBQ and Truluck's are featured. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Beloved Houston Italian Restaurant Will Close After 27 Years in Montrose Prestigious Michelin Guide Selects 44 Houston Restaurants for 2025 Edition Billionaire Tilman Fertitta Saddles Up for New Rodeo Houston Steakhouse CultureMap Editor's 11 Favorite Dishes at Houston Restaurants in October Growing Houston Street-Style Taqueria Rolls into Montrose This Week

Today on the show, Eric is joined by Otto Othman and Adrian Sanchez of PINCHO. The duo speak with Eric about their culinary careers, what got them interested in the culinary scene, where the idea for PINCHO came from, what the name means, developing a family recipe for pincho into a commercial success, the evolution of the burger menu, entering food competitions, having fun with flavors, what people can expect from PINCHO's burger options, the weirdest combination of burger flavors they tried that didn't work, working with Savory Fund, why franchising wasn't the right lane for PINCHO long term, why they decided to come to Houston, how things have gone in Houston so far, and much more! Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Prestigious Michelin Guide Selects 44 Houston Restaurants for 2025 Edition Growing Houston Street-Style Taqueria Rolls into Montrose This Week Beloved Houston Italian Restaurant Will Close After 27 Years in Montrose 'Greatest Neighborhood Restaurant' to Open First Houston Location Comforting Houston Seafood Restaurant Sets Rice Village Opening Date

It's year 2 of the Michelin Guide being in Texas and during a special ceremony in Houston on Tuesday night the guide announced the newest recipients of stars, recommendations, and more in Texas. So for this edition of the podcast Eric, alongside June Rodil of Goodnight Hospitality, CultureMap contributor Brianna McClane, and Misha Govshteyn a.k.a. the Michelin Inspector Inspector, react to this years selections. In a roundtable discussion, the group cover what we've learned so far in regards to Michelin's thoughts of Texas in the 2 years they've been here, who the big winners were, the camaraderie displayed during the ceremony, what the Michelin formula seems to be, whether the service experienced is considered during the selection process, when could we expect to see a 2 or 3 star Michelin restaurant in Texas, the fake out 2 star announcement made last week about a Houston restaurant, whether they're surprised that Houston didn't have a new starred restaurant selected, the most surprising omissions, the Houston restaurants added to the guide, and more! Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Prestigious Michelin Guide Selects 44 Houston Restaurants for 2025 Edition Beloved Houston Italian Restaurant Will Close After 27 Years in Montrose 'Greatest Neighborhood Restaurant' to Open First Houston Location Comforting Houston Seafood Restaurant Sets Rice Village Opening Date Stylish New Cocktail Bar Requests Houstonians Dress Up For Drinks 

On today's show Eric is joined by Peter Skountzos and Manuel E. Guzmán-López of Doc's Houston. The duo speak with Eric about their careers leading up to Doc's, the story behind the name, why Houston was the right fit for the expansion of Jazz, TX, what was appealing about the Tower Theater space, the entertainment that patrons can expect, the food offerings at Doc's, the most important aspect of a restaurant, when Houstonians can expect for Doc's to open, and much more!  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Stylish New Cocktail Bar Requests Houstonians Dress Up For Drinks Growing Houston Group Spins Up a Memorial Pizzeria with Date Night Vibes Pat Green's Massive Restaurant and Live Music Venue Reveals New Houston Home Intimate New Wine Shop and Grocer Coming to Montrose with 4,000 Records New Houston Food Festival Reveals Stacked Lineup of Restaurants and Music

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by Mary Clarkson of Heights Grocer. The pair speak about some of the latest restaurant/bar news from the Houston scene including Mary's own news that Heights Grocer is expanding into Montrose. Mary shares what they'll be able to do with the larger space in Montrose, what she's learned in her first year with Heights Grocer, and the wide selection of products they offer. Mary and Eric also discuss Clare Smith taking over the Menil Collection's campus restaurant space with a new concept called chrôma and the newest concept coming from Hugo Ortega and his wife Tracy Vought called Zaranda. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Late August is featured. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Intimate New Wine Shop and Grocer Coming to Montrose with 4,000 Records Veteran Houston Chef Claims Menil Restaurant for New All-Day Cafe  Beard Award-Winning Houston Chef is California Dreaming at New Restaurant Pat Green's Massive Restaurant and Live Music Venue Reveals New Houston Home New Houston Food Festival Reveals Stacked Lineup of Restaurants and Music

On today's edition of the podcast Eric is joined by Ryan Lachaine and Bobby Matos of State of Grace. The pair speak with Eric about why Ryan was a fit for State of Grace, why they want to push to be more like the old State of Grace, doing their chefs table dinners, the food forward regulars at State of Grace, what they've added to the menu (mmmm butter burgers), why State of Grace's french fries are the best in Houston (as picked by Eric), the prices of oysters, and much more! Plus, Ryan shares why he decided to close Riel after 10 years, what the last month was like there, being able to focus on being just a chef, and what his go to dishes are at a restaurant. Bobby also discusses the refreshes made at Superica, and Little Rey finding it's audience.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: New Pub Flies into Familiar Montrose Space with NY-Style Pizza Tex-Mex and Craft Coffee Coming to Historic Heights Development Longtime Houston Kolache Bakery Opens New Memorial Location Veteran Houston Chef Claims Menil Restaurant for New All-Day Cafe I-45 Freeway Project Prompts Houston Vietnamese Restaurant to Close in EaDo

On episode 503 of What's Eric Eating, Eric Sandler was joined by former food critic, and current Director of Events & Catering at Local Foods Group, Chelsea Thomas! They discussed... The unfortunate closing down of Kim Son, and the continued stress put on all businesses around the I-45 expansion The opening of Maison Chinoise A San Antonio based coffee chain opening up a couple locations in Houston Restaurant of the Week - Vida Mariscos A trip out to Connie's Frozen Custard in Cypress for dessert Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: New pub flies into familiar Montrose space with NY-style pizza San Antonio-based coffee shop brews up 2 Houston locations for 2026 Houston boutique hotel is only Texas property added to Michelin Key list Dynamic Houston Duo Opening New Neighborhood Restaurant in Montrose Riel Chef Ryan Lachaine Finds New Home at River Oaks Restaurant

On today's podcast Eric is joined by Armando DiMeo of Coastline Pizzeria. Armando speaks with Eric about how he first decided to become a chef, working in the family business, when he knew that pizza was his passion, why decided to focus on Neapolitan pizza, Houston's struggles with Neapolitan pizza, where grilled pizza came from, the creative freedoms of grilled style, the upcoming seasonal menu, how things have gone in the first 2 years, cultivating a strong team culture via listening, the menu development incentive program, the bar program, the possibility of expansion, and more! Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Dynamic Houston Duo Opening New Neighborhood Restaurant in Montrose Riel Chef Ryan Lachaine Finds New Home at River Oaks Restaurant Houston's Rising Star Chefs Shine in National Magazine's 2025 Awards Hit Cooking Competition Show MasterChef Brings Live Tour to Houston Houston Restaurant Group Flies into Upper Kirby with Fried Chicken Pop-Up

In celebration of 500 episodes, Eric is doing something never done before in podcasting ok well at least never been done on this podcast before. For the first time Eric, joined by CultureMap's Home & Design Contributor Emily Cotton, gets out the What's Eric Eating mailbag to answer listener submitted questions. What was Eric's most star struck moment? What's been some of his top, all time favorite meals since he started the podcast? What are the iconic dishes of Houston? He answers those questions and many more on this very special edition of What's Eric Eating. If you enjoyed this episode and what to hear Eric do more of these What's Eric Eating mailbag episodes let him know on Instagram Instagram @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com like: Chris Shepherd's Biggest Food Festival Yet Raises $1.7 Million California-Based Mexican Eatery Returns to Houston with New Humble Spot Houston's Mail-Order Halal Barbecue Company Fires Up First Restaurant Post Houston Hotel Serves Up Italian Twist on Afternoon Tea Service James Beard Award-Winning Taco Master Pops Up in Houston This Weekend

Eric's doing things a little different today for this 500th edition of the podcast (yep 500!). Today Eric is being joined by not 1, not 2, not 3, not 4, not 5, but 6 of Houston's Rising Stars selected by StarChefs for 2025. Eric visits with Evelyn Garcia and Henry Lu of JŪN, Lucas McKinney of Josephine's, Maham Qureshi of Shakkar, Adrian Torres of Maximo, and Kristine Nguyen of Bludorn. Hear their excitement on being selected, what they're up to as of late, and much more on this special edition of What's Eric Eating.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Dynamic Houston Duo Opening New Neighborhood Restaurant in Montrose Riel Chef Ryan Lachaine Finds New Home at River Oaks Restaurant Houston's Rising Star Chefs Shine in National Magazine's 2025 Awards Hit Cooking Competition Show MasterChef Brings Live Tour to Houston Houston Restaurant Group Flies into Upper Kirby with Fried Chicken Pop-Up

On today's podcast Eric is joined by one of StarChef's Rising Stars of 2025, Craft Pita's own Raffi Nasr!. Raffi and Eric talk about some of the latest news from the Houston restaurant and bar scene including Justin Yu and Bobby Heugel's newest concept coming to Montrose, Ryan Lachaine's new gig, and the StarChefs Rising Stars Houston Class of 2025. In the Restaurants of the Week portion North China is featured. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Dynamic Houston Duo Opening New Neighborhood Restaurant in Montrose Riel Chef Ryan Lachaine Finds New Home at River Oaks Restaurant Houston's Rising Star Chefs Shine in National Magazine's 2025 Awards Hit Cooking Competition Show MasterChef Brings Live Tour to Houston Houston Restaurant Group Flies into Upper Kirby with Fried Chicken Pop-Up

Today on the show Eric has in depth conversation with Houston hospitality veteran Jonathan Horowitz. The pair discuss Jonathan's leaving from the Houston Hospitality Alliance, how he found his way into commercial real estate, the ramifications of the pandemic on the restaurant industry, the difficulties that are now present within the industry post pandemic, the changes in customer behavior/demand, the "winning the neighborhood" strategy, the desire to stay within your area to eat, how technology has changed tipping culture, the possibility of others stepping in to save a concept that is struggling, the underestimating of the capitalization needed for starting a restaurant, and much more.    Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Riel Chef Ryan Lachaine Finds New Home at River Oaks Restaurant Dynamic Houston Duo Opening New Neighborhood Restaurant in Montrose Houston's Rising Star Chefs Shine in National Magazine's 2025 Awards 20 New Restaurants and Bars Opening in Houston this Fall and Beyond Pioneering Houston Mexican Restaurant Extends Closing Until Next Year

CultureMap contributor Brianna McClane is back on What's Eric Eating. Eric and Brianna discuss some of the latest news from the Houston restaurant and bar scene including Candente claiming the space formerly occupied by Mandito's for it's 2nd location, Tacos A Go Go's 2 new locations opening with cocktails by Bobby Heugel, and the fall restaurant openings they're most looking forward to. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Local Public Eatery is featured. Plus, Eric and Brianna do a quick comparison of Musaafer and Le Jardinier, 2 of Houston's 5 fine dining restaurants that hold One Michelin Star.    Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston's Only Michelin-Recognized Tex-Mex Joint Fires Up New Bellaire Store Houston Taqueria's 2 New Locations will Serve Cocktails by Anvil Owner 20 New Restaurants and Bars Opening in Houston this Fall and Beyond Houston's Rising Star Chefs Shine in National Magazine's 2025 Awards Pioneering Houston Mexican Restaurant Extends Closing Until Next Year

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Tristen Epps of Buboy. Tristen speaks with Eric about how scrambled eggs and Japanese TV set him on a path towards being a chef, his initial stint in Houston, why he decided on Houston for his big city experience, meeting/working with Marcus Samuelsson, pushing the idea of what really is fine dining cuisine, winning Top Chef: Destination Canada, why now was the right time for him to go on Top Chef, how the show has evolved to showcasing your food within the parameters of the different challenges, why the cooking is the easy part of Top Chef, his goals entering the show, finding out that his father passed during the show, wanting to tell truths with his food during the final challenge, what life has been like since he won the show, whether 2026 is the year for Buboy's opening, why the size of the space is extremely important, the possibility of casual hot dog food at Buboy, and more! Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston's Only Michelin-Recognized Tex-Mex Joint Fires Up New Bellaire Store Houston Taqueria's 2 New Locations will Serve Cocktails by Anvil Owner Pioneering Houston Mexican Restaurant Extends Closing Until Next Year More Than 30 Houston Bars are Selling $7.13 Drinks for Texas Cocktail Week Bon Appetit Showers Praise on Aaron Bludorn's Bistro in Houston Hotel

On today's podcast Eric is joined by the Swanky Maven herself Felice Sloan! Eric and Felice discuss some of the latest news from the Houston restaurant and bar scene including the closure of Bosscat Kitchen & Libations' in River Oaks, ChòpnBlọk being named to the New York Times' 50 Best Restaurants in America list, and chef Kate McClean's departure from Tony's Restaurant. In the Restaurants of the Week portion, Butter Funk Kitchen and Southern Jerks are featured.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Whiskey-Obsessed Houston Restaurant will Shutter River Oaks Location New York Times Names Houston West African Restaurant to 50 Best List Houston Fine Dining Restaurant Parts Ways with Longtime Chef More Than 30 Houston Bars are Selling $7.13 Drinks for Texas Cocktail Week Bon Appetit Showers Praise on Aaron Bludorn's Bistro in Houston Hotel

Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Jacques Varon and Evan McCarley of Baso. The pair speak with Eric about how they first got connected, the evolution of Baso since it first opened, the addition of Sarah Dowling to the team, the incredible wine list, what they've learned from their customers, what it's meant to be part of the Michelin Guide, the growth of Baso's popularity, current goals, and more! Plus, Evan shares about her culinary history, how she first got involved with Baso, and the duo talk about getting chairs. Chairs are kind of a key thing.  Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Whiskey-Obsessed Houston Restaurant will Shutter River Oaks Location Here's What 12 Houston Chefs will Serve at James Beard Fall Food Event New York Times Names Houston West African Restaurant to 50 Best List Houston Fine Dining Restaurant Parts Ways with Longtime Chef New, Mexico-Inspired Bar Shakes Up Montrose with 'Cocktail Omakase'

On today's podcast Eric is joined by Monica Danna to discuss some the latest news from the Houston restaurant and bar scene. The pair speak about Ostia shuttering this week, chefs Austin Simmons and Aaron Bludorn opening new spots in The Woodlands, and Terrence Gallivan's new restaurant set to open in Hotel Daphne. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Mayahuel is featured.    Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Houston Italian Restaurant will Shutter After 5 Years in Montrose Ex-Tris Chef and Aaron Bludorn Opening New Eateries in The Woodlands Austin Simmons' New Woodlands Restaurant Will Showcase Beef from His Ranch Exclusive: Top Houston Chef Will Lead New Heights Hotel's Italian Eatery Houston Fine Dining Restaurant Parts Ways with Longtime Chef New, Mexico-Inspired Bar Shakes Up Montrose with 'Cocktail Omakase'

Today on the podcast, Eric is joined by Shawn Singh a.k.a. Shawn the Food Sheep! Shawn speaks with Eric about how he first got started down the influencer path, why the first 3 seconds of a video are so important, wanting to showcase his personality, building a good community, finding under the radar spots, staying positive with his content, coming around on sushi, older places around Houston that he'd like to try, his quest to try every Houston area restaurant in the Michelin Guide, what restaurants could be included in this year's Michelin Guide, some of his top recommendations, the qualities of a good coffee shop, possibly going down a bar/cocktail review route, and much more! Follow Shawn on Instagram & TikTok. Follow Eric on Instagram/Threads @ericsandler. You can also reach Eric by emailing him at eric@culturemap.com. Check out some of his latest articles at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: Top Houston Chef Will Lead New Heights Hotel's Italian Eatery James Harden's Houston Restaurant Locked Out Over $2.2 Million in Unpaid Rent Houston Bagel Shop with Freshly-Baked Fare Sprints into Clear Lake Houston Italian Restaurant will Shutter After 5 Years in Montrose Hustling Houston Vietnamese Restaurant Signs 24 Unit Franchise Deal Meet the Ex-Killen's Employees Opening a New Barbecue Joint in EaDo