Here’s a look at this week’s hottest culinary happenings:
Monday-Tuesday
VIRTÙ Pop-up at Bandista
Bandista, the acclaimed speakeasy inside Four Seasons Hotel Houston, 1300 Lamar, welcomes Tokyo’s VIRTÙ, named No. 11 on Asia’s “50 Best Bars” list, at its first international pop-up on Monday, February 3 and Tuesday, February 4. Bartenders Keith Motsi and Graham Kimura will take the stage, showcasing five VIRTÙ house cocktails featuring Michter’s whiskies, Los Siete Misterios mezcal and Farmers gins, priced from $30 each. Ninety-minute seatings are available by reservation, with proceeds benefiting Camp H-Town.
Tuesday, February 4
Second Anniversary Rodeo Block Party at JUN
JUN, 420 East 20th, will celebrate its 2nd Anniversary with a special Rodeo-themed block party inside and in the parking lot, hosted in partnership with Feel Good Group from 6 P to 10 p.m. Enjoy eat like Whole Hog Roast by chef Michelle Wallace and Turkey Legs and Corn Dogs from chef Evelyn Garcia, along with other food vendors. The event will also feature drinks and entertainment throughout the evening. General admission is free, with an RSVP required for entry; and VIP Packages are available for $45.
Wednesday, February 5
Black Truffle Dinner at Etoile Cuisine et Bar
Etoile Cuisine et Bar, 1101-11 Uptown Park, will be putting them on show and celebrating the winter black truffle with a special menu in addition to its regular dinner menu. The Black Truffle Dinner features four courses with Perigord truffles, with highlights from fresh pappardelle with truffle cream and shaved truffle to duck and foie gras “pie” Madeira-truffle sauce. Cost is $124 per person plus tax and gratuity and wine pairings may be added for $39 per person. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Wednesday Tastings at Montrose Cheese & Wine
Montrose Cheese & Wine, 1618 Westheimer, brings back its popular Wednesday Tastings, offering guests the chance to enjoy a free wine tasting each week. As an added bonus, when you spend $75 at Montrose Cheese & Wine, you’ll receive a free pizza from Rosie Cannonball.
Thursday, February 6
Littorai Wine Dinner at MARCH
MARCH, 1624 Westheimer, will host an evening celebrating the 30th anniversary of one of California’s most iconic wineries, Littorai Wines, at 6:30 p.m, led by Ted Lemon, legendary winemaker and proprietor of Littorai, who will share his insights into the art of crafting world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Guests can indulge in a five-course tasting menu crafted by the Michelin-starred chefs at MARCH, expertly paired with a selection of Littorai wines spanning three decades, including rare vintages from the 1990s through to the present day. The evening kicks off with champagne at 6:30 p.m. and reservations are $450 per person.
Friday, February 7
Signature Wine Dinner Series: Becker Vineyards at Leo’s River Oaks
Leo’s River Oaks, 2009 West Gray, hosts a five-course wine dinner featuring the largest purveyors of Texas wine grapes, Becker Vineyards in celebration of the winery’s 30th anniversary. The evening features a curated menu and a rare opportunity to dine with Becker Vineyards Owner, Dr. Richard Becker, beginning at 6 PM and for $150/person. Highlights include Toro with fermented pears, tamari, ginger paired with 2023 Becker Vineyards Viognier, Duck Agnolotti with 2020 Becker Vineyards Reserve Chardonnay, Veal Breast bordelaise with 2020 Becker Vineyards “Ranger Hays” and more. Reservations are strongly encouraged as seating is limited.
Sunday, February 9
Super Bowl Watch Party at Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House
Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House, 113 6th, invites fans to a Super Bowl Watch Party on the patio, featuring big screens, coastal views, drink specials and a featured menu. Game day deals include 50-cent chilled oysters (during game time only), $16 to $20 beer buckets, and happy hour pricing on draft domestic beer, draft imports and select signature cocktails starting at kickoff.
New and ongoing specials
Lunar New Year
The Year of the Snake is upon us, with Lunar New Year festivities beginning on Wednesday, January 29 spanning 15 days filled with family, cultural traditions, joy, reflection, and culinary delights. Celebrate with eats and festivities by checking out our Lunar New Year Restaurant Guide.
Super Bowl Sunday Catering
With Super Bowl Sunday kicking off this weekend, Houston restaurants are ready to help you fuel your game day party. Check out our Super Bowl Catering Guide to find wings, bbq and more for the big day.
