From tacos and tamales to an island-style wine and food festival, here’s a look at this weekend’s best culinary happenings:
Cinco de Mayo Eats, Drinks and Fiestas
Friday
From a massive tequila-infused parking lot complete with tastings and tamales to all-day taco and margarita happy hour, check out our guide on Where to Eat and Drink this Cinco de Mayo.
Gratis ‘Rita and Brisket Taco Tasting at Killen’s Barbecue
Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
3613 East Broadway
The day after Cinco de Mayo, Killen’s Barbecue is continuing the celebrations by offering guests complimentary tastings of Cayman Jack margaritas and Killen’s brisket tacos. Made with smoky brisket, pico de gallo and cilantro, the taco should pair quite nicely with the limes and blue agave nectar in the refreshing Cayman Jack margaritas.
Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival at the Galveston Island Convention Center
Friday through Saturday
5600 Seawall
The 8th annual Galveston Island Food & Wine Festival returns with favorite events and new wines. On Friday, hit the Premium Tasting ($108), held from 6 to 8 p.m. and featuring fine wine from the county’s top vineyards and heavy hors d’oeuvres from top local restaurants. On Saturday at 2 p.m., the Grand Tasting ($98) will showcase bottomless samples of more than 100 vintages next to inventive tapas-style plates. VIP combination tickets for both events are available for $156.
Derby Day at Julep
Saturday, 1 to 7 p.m.
1919 Washington
Break out the big hats and bow ties for this proper Southern fête, where guests can enjoy raffles, Old Forrester juleps and a rosé wine garden, plus gourmet derby day provisions from Harlem Road BBQ. Tickets are $20 for general admission (including one raffle ticket) or $70 for a four-pack of general admission (including four raffle tickets). All sales from raffle tickets will benefit Habitat for Horses, a nonprofit equine protection agency committed to the prevention, rescue and rehabilitation of neglected horses.
5th Annual Big Taste of Houston at Audi Central Houston
Sunday, 4:30 to 7 p.m. (VIP entry at 3:30 p.m.)
2120 Southwest Freeway
Big Brothers Big Sisters’ fifth annual Big Taste of Houston showcases more than 25 of Houston’s most diverse restaurants and bars while making an impact on the children in our community. The lineup includes talent from restaurants like Kitchen 713, Mala Sichuan, Southern Goods and Uchi — all competing for the “Judge’s Choice,” “Best Overall” and “People’s Choice” awards. As a bonus for VIP ticketholders, 2016 James Beard Rising Star Award winner Daniela Soto-Innes of New York’s COSME will be preparing an exclusive dish. Advance tickets are $125 for general admission or $195 for VIP. All funds raised benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston and support the hundreds of youth waiting to be matched with a volunteer mentor within the Houston community.
This article appears in Apr 27 – May 3, 2017.
