Conroe, TX October 2024

FOOD + BEVERAGE BBQ WORTH THE DRIVE

GULF COAST SEAFOOD CLOSER THAN YOU THINK WASH IT DOWN WITH LOCAL WINE OUR FOODIE FAVORITES LIST

Food, Drink, Community and Thanks!

Food and drink are life-sustaining. In the simplest of terms, they are fuel, but in reality, they are so much more. The country or culture doesn't matter. Its effect is universal. We celebrate with them, mourn with them, and create a sense of community with them.

Our October issue salutes those passionate about sharing their love of food and drink. They tirelessly work so we can enjoy the fruit of their labor and call ourselves "Foodies." From the streets of Vietnam to our own Gulf Coast, from a smoke pit in downtown Houston to a Speakeasy in Montgomery, all the people you are about to read about felt called to share their knowledge and recipes so that they can nourish us and allow us to create a bit of community with family and friends. So next time you are out on the town, take the time to thank the people who work so hard to make it possible.

On the subject of thanking people, I need to thank my editor, Margie Taylor. Two years ago, Margie agreed to help me fulfill my goal of starting Conroe City Lifestyle. She has done a fantastic job, and I'm glad she started this journey with me. However, she can now improve her life by stepping back from the magazine.

Margie, you will be missed, but I wish you all the best as you begin this next chapter of your life. You deserve all the happiness you can create.

I also want to thank you, our readers! I hope the magazine allows you to learn as much about the people in our community as I do each month, bringing it to you.

God Bless,

ALISON KARTEVOLD, PUBLISHER @CONROECITYLIFESTYLE

October 2024

PUBLISHER

Alison Kartevold | Alison.Kartevold@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Margie Taylor | margie.taylor@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ian Garrett, Travis Hager, Margie Taylor, Ron Saikowski

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Arrowhead Photo, Ian Garrett, Travis Hager

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

1: Yes to Youth Gala funded mental health counseling and crisis intervention services to local youth. 2: Local nonprofits were awarded with donations totaling $1.4 million from the Woodforest Charitable Foundation. 3: Yes to Youth Fundraiser with Senator Brandon Creighton/ guest, Mindy Mack, and Judge Wayne Mack. 4: Peyton Riley performs at the Yes to Youth Gala to fund their youth services. 5: Honorees of the Yes to Youth fundraiser, Dr. Hilton Yee and Alison Yee. 6: Children’s Safe Harbor broke ground on a $10 million facility to better assist abused children. 7: Shooters participated in the Montgomery County Community Foundation’s annual Shoot Out at Blackwood Gun Club. https://www.facebook.com/MCCFoundationTX

Child Advocates of Montgomery County Unveils New Brand Identity

Child Advocates of Montgomery County, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare of children, is proud to announce a significant rebranding to reflect the broadening of its advocacy work. The organization, previously known by the acronym “CASA,” has chosen to move forward with the name “Child Advocates of Montgomery County” to represent its comprehensive advocacy services more accurately and to ensure that all families feel safe and supported when working with the organization.

Conroe ISD Ranked 13th in Texas as Best Employer

Conroe ISD was ranked 13th in Texas among the Forbes list of America’s Best Employers By State 2024. The district has made the list for three consecutive years and was the highest-ranked out of the seven K-12 education systems on the list of 101 companies from the state.

7 Brew Drive Through Coffee Open

7 Brew was born from a desire to change drive-thru coffee into a fun, mind-blowing experience for everyone, serving premium coffee quickly and, making new friends and increasing relationships. They offer espresso-based coffee, chillers, teas, infused energy and sodas, lemonades, smoothies, and shakes through its drive-thru services. Located at 3830 W. Davis, they have 29 specialty syrups and four sauces to add to any beverage. Try the White Chocolate Pumpkin Pie this month!

Spin in the Wind Open in Montgomery

If you are looking for fun yard art with spinners, windmills, and yard art, Spin in the Wind is a whimsical store with colorful additions to your outside living space. Located at 302 John Butler Street in Montgomery, owner Michelle Shores invites the community to visit her store to add colorful fun that will bring a smile to your face.

Photography by Spin in the Wind

Willis Mercantile has numerous Vendors Under One Roof

Willis Mercantile is a Farmers market-type store with many vendors under one roof. It allows local boutique businesses to sell products and services without having to own their own storefront. Vendors sell indoor plants, candles, pickled foods, laser-engraved items, tee shirts, caps, and boutique items. Bonus is a coffee shop located in the back of the store. Stop by for unique items at 115 N. Danville in Willis.

Voguish V-Bistro

Value, Variety, and Vietnamese Comfort Food

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY IAN GARRETT

Enjoying the first anniversary of its second location in Conroe, V Bistro Vietnamese Noodles & Grill is a quaint, clean culinary delight. Nestled in a shopping center on Hwy 105, the family-owned business serves traditional Vietnamese fare with more than a dash of Southern hospitality. Though this new location is only a year old, V Bistro has enjoyed serving customers in its original location for 16 years.

General manager Julie Vo thoroughly enjoys spending her days filling the stomachs and sating the palates of Conroe area diners.

Originally, Julie had her hands full with the first location of V Bistro in Humble, established in 2008. For more than a decade, she and her two sisters served that neighborhood until she and her husband moved to the Conroe area three years ago.

“We were meant to be here in Conroe. I noticed that there was not Vietnamese food to be offered around here, and I thought I would like to bring comfort food for the neighbors. Then I found this location for our second location, and we grew from there,” she said.

Julie’s two sisters remain at the original location while Julie oversees operations in Conroe, which she readily and happily embraced as her new home.

“We’ve been very welcome,” she said. “The businesses and the community are very, very warm. Everyone has welcomed us here, the customers and neighbors alike. They come here, they enjoy the food and give honest reviews and honest comments, and they thank us for being here. So that means a lot.”

It was 34 years ago when Julie moved with her parents from Vietnam. “We came here with empty hands, but my parents had a background in cooking and selling food. They knew this type of business. Of course, in the beginning, we had no financial resources, and my parents worked for other people. After my sisters and I graduated college, we decided that we had to do something for our parents.”

“WE WE R E MEANT TO BEHERE IN CON BRING COMFORT FOODFOR OUR NEIG

This traditional sense of family was and remains to be a driving force for Julie in life and business. “We started out in Dallas in1998 and eventually moved to Houston, and in 2008 we opened our first location in Humble, by the Bush Intercontinental Airport,” she said. When asked if there might be any plans for a third location, she smiled. “We’re not sure yet; we’re busy enjoying our first year here in Conroe.”

It's readily apparent that family, honor, and hard work are paramount to Julie. “We are very proud of our accomplishments,” she said. “My sisters and I, we’re proud of our heritage, and we’re proud of our parents for giving us the skill and the passion to succeed in the restaurant business. They removed our fear, and now here we are.” As she spoke, over her shoulder was a hand-painted mural that depicts V Bistro’s humble origin story: her parents serving people from a food cart in Vietnam. The mural is not only a talking point

for diners, but also a visual representation of the entire theme of the restaurant.

“My parents live in Houston; I see them when I can, which sadly isn’t often. But I see them here in this drawing,” said Julie. Meanwhile, her family life is filled with her husband and two daughters. “My husband is my backbone support, and my girls help me in many ways, especially when it comes to interacting with people,” she proudly asserted.

V Bistro’s menu is filled with traditional Vietnamese cuisine that is hearty, hot, and heartwarming. In keeping with the sense of community, most ingredients are purchased from local markets and vendors and created on-site. “We make our broth right here, from scratch, using the best bones and meats,” said Julie. “It’s important for the food to taste like it is comforting.”

Top of the popularity list of dishes is the traditional Vietnamese pho (pronounced “fuh”), served in a large bowl and extraordinarily filling. “Our pho is good for all meals – lunch and dinner, and even breakfast,” she said. “It’s nutritious and filled with protein, providing lots of energy, but light enough that you don’t feel overfed.”

The restaurant’s vermicelli noodle bowl (rice noodles with fresh vegetables and grilled meat on top) is also wildly popular. For something that doesn’t require chopsticks or spoons, the bistro also boasts a selection of banh mi, the Vietnamese equivalent of a hero sandwich, laden with meats and condiments. The menu also features several gluten-free dishes.

V Bistro is located at 4489 W Davis Street in Conroe and is open Mondays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., and Sundays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

VBistro.net

NROE TO GHBORS”.

Goode WHEN IS GREAT!

Goode Co Fish Camp reflects family traditions through food

ARTICLE AND

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY TRAVIS HAGER

Tucked away among the mature pines of Research Forest in The Woodlands, the Goode Co Fish Camp is a breath of fresh, coastal air that has seamlessly taken over the space once occupied by Goode Co. Barbeque. Adjacent to the Goode Co. Kitchen and Cantina, this latest concept brings a delightful slice of the Texas coast right to our neighborhood.

Upon stepping into Fish Camp, you're immediately greeted by an ambiance that exudes warmth and old-fashioned diner charm. The interior design is a captivating blend of blue and green hues, evoking a soft, beachy vibe that is both inviting and relaxing. Whitewashed wooden planks and fishing-themed decor create a playful yet refined atmosphere. At the same time, framed photographs by Tim Romano showcase the iconic Texas coast fish camps that dot the shoreline from South Padre to the Louisiana line.

Each detail, including the meticulously chosen memorabilia, was curated by Levi Goode himself. The collection reflects the Goode family's cherished fish camp on Christmas Bay. Every piece on the wall has a story.

Fish Camp offers a variety of seating options, catering to every dining occasion—from a swift lunch to a coastal happy hour to a leisurely dinner with friends. The inviting mix of chairs, tables, and booths ensures every guest can find their perfect spot. And let’s not forget the expansive patio area, which promises a delightful al fresco dining experience, though you might want to wait until the cooler months to enjoy it fully.

The food at Fish Camp is as impressive as the setting. Freshness is the name of the game here— everything is delivered fresh and never frozen, a fact I confirmed with a peek into the freezer. Inspired by the Gulf Coast, the menu is a culinary journey that should begin with the tantalizing Gulf oysters, available raw or grilled. Get both! For those who love a bit of variety, the Appellation Oysters are a must-try, with your server providing details on the specific bank from which the batch was hand-harvested.

The Smoked Gulf Fish Dip is another standout. It features an irresistible blend of chili oil, scallions, and homemade firecrackers that elevate this appetizer to new heights. You’ll want to order it alongside the oysters for a truly memorable start to your meal.

CONTINUED >

If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, the Campechana de Mariscos is also a sublime choice of appetizer. This chilled Mexican-style seafood cocktail, enriched with pico de gallo, fire-roasted Anaheim peppers, and diced avocados, offers a refreshing burst of flavors. You can choose between shrimp or crab meat, both of which add a delightful touch to this vibrant dish.

The pièce de résistance on the extensive menu, however, is undoubtedly the Redfish On The Half Shell. This signature dish features mesquite-grilled redfish with charred spring onion served with lemon butter. Pro Tip: For an extra touch of indulgence, ask for it to be served with the charred lemon-caper butter and crab meat. It’s a truly exceptional experience—easily the best fish I’ve encountered in decades, surpassing even the finest

catches from my time living all over the East Coast and in England.

Don’t even think about skipping dessert. The pecan pie at Fish Camp is legendary, having been named “best pie” by Forbes Magazine in 2018 and included on Oprah Winfrey’s “Must Haves” list. This Goode family recipe, unchanged since 1977, is a sweet finale to an outstanding meal.

Goode Co Fish Camp is a standout destination for worldclass Gulf Coast seafood without the need to venture into Houston. It’s a culinary oasis right in our backyard, offering both exceptional food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Plus, you can try everything on their Happy Hour menu for under $65. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through (conveniently near I-45), this a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic taste of the Texas coast.

in Downtown Conroe

THE CORNER PUB

9/7 - Amy n Me

9/13 - Michelle Kay

9/21 - Stange Freedom (Billy Joel and Elton John Tribute Band)

TABLE AT MADLEY

9/6 - Kate Watson (Country)

9/8 - The Jazz Connection (Jazz)

9/12 - Carson Je ery (Country) 9/13 - Allie Y Grupo Roe (Tejano)

RED BRICK TAVERN

9/5 - Southern Disposition

9/14 - Average Joe Crane

9/27 - Hank Flowers

9/28 - Junior Gordon

202 MAIN

9/7 - Mary-Charlotte Young

9/13 - Scott Morrison

9/27 - Drifters & Grifters Check

ARTICLE BY TRAVIS HAGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARROWHEAD

J BAR M REWARDS THOSE IN SEARCH OF GREAT BBQ

WORTH THE DRIVE

Four AM comes early for everyone, but it's a sacred hour when you're the pitmaster at a top-ranked restaurant. With a freshly brewed coffee in hand the world is still cloaked in darkness as you make your way around the kitchen, the smell of post oak and tender meats already wafting on the air. There's a rhythm to this early morning

Yes, we're talking about J Bar M Barbeque, the Bayou City's highly acclaimed Smokehouse and Beer Garden. Nestled in Houston's bustling East End, J-Bar-M BBQ offers a tantalizing dive into Central Texasstyle barbecue with a modern twist. This relative "newcomer" to the city's competitive BBQ scene has quickly

“YOU’RE ABOUT TO SHARE A PIECE OF YOUR SOUL WITH THE WORLD...”

ritual, a lighting of fires, a placing of meat beginning their 16-hour cook, a symphony of sizzling fat and crackling coals that only the truly dedicated can appreciate. As the first light of dawn creeps across the Houston skyline, it's not just the anticipation of hungry patrons that stirs you—it's the knowledge that you're about to share a piece of your soul with the world, one smoky, succulent, mouth-watering bite at a time. Welcome to the world of supreme barbecue, where the day starts before the roosters' crow, and the magic of the four 1,000-gallon steel grills unfolds with every slow-cooked masterpiece.

carved out a niche for itself, blending traditional techniques with innovative flavors to the point that it made Texas Monthly's Top 25 New Barbeque Places in September 2023.

Upon entering, you're greeted by the intoxicating aroma of smoldering post oak. The spacious, industrial-chic interior features communal tables, intimate nooks, and large windows that flood the 8,000-squarefoot space with natural light. An open kitchen design carving station allows diners to witness the pit masters at work, adding to the authentic experience.

J-Bar-M's menu showcases classic Central Texas barbecue staples synonymous worldwide with The Lonestar State alongside creative specials. Their brisket is a standout—fork-tender with a perfectly rendered fat cap and a peppery bark that packs a punch. The pork ribs strike an ideal balance between smoky and sweet, easily falling off the bone. The jalapeno and cheddar cheesefilled sausages pop with every bite. Unfortunately, I was too full to try the barbecued spaghetti. I can promise I will do so on one of many return trips.

Service is friendly and efficient, with staff happy to guide newcomers through the nuances of their extended menu. Dinner service also includes Hanger and Ribeye steaks which happen to be my personal favorite cuts of meat. The restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of local craft beers and creative cocktails that complement the smoky flavors of the barbecue. Their signature drink, a spin on an old-fashioned, is a homerun worthy of the nearby Astros. The drink is Old Forester bourbon, bitters, and a simple syrup that also spent 16 hours being smoked.

While J-Bar-M itself may not have the decades-long history of some of the other Houston BBQ institutions, it's quickly establishing itself as a formidable player in the local EaDO scene.

The building, which sits on land the family has owned since 1900, is owned by lifelong Houstonian and longtime restauranteur John Toomey and operated by his family. They are no strangers to barbeque. John opened both The Green Room Restaurant and Houlahan's Hamburgers in the 1970s on Westheimer. For those doing the quick math, yes, that does make him 96 years old, and you'll still find him in the restaurant every day "holding court" and inspecting the food they serve.

“IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT FAMILY.” —CHARLES TOOMEY

For his grandson, Charles Toomey, who now manages the operations, it has always been about family. His earliest memories include Sundays spent in the family pool while John tended to the grill.

For those looking to eat al fresco, step into their sun-drenched beer garden (named for a Catholic Priest and hunting companion), where the aroma of slowcooked meats mingles with the clinking of ice-filled glasses. The outdoor oasis serves up pit-smoked delights alongside handcrafted libations, homestyle sides, and indulgent desserts. With ample seating for up to 200 guests, this versatile outdoor section adapts easily to various occasions. Its combination of time-honored techniques, quality ingredients, and innovative touches makes it a worthy destination for BBQ aficionados and casual diners.

Overall, J-Bar-M BBQ offers a stellar barbecue experience that respects tradition while pushing the envelope just enough to keep things interesting. It's a welcome addition to Houston's rich barbecue landscape and definitely worth a visit for anyone craving top-notch Texas-style BBQ.

The

THE SOCIAL SPEAKEASY

An Upscale Bar Specializing in Craft Cocktails

ARTICLE BY MARGIE TAYLOR

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON

MATLOCK,

GO ARROW PHOTOGRAPHY

The Social is a small local, family owned and operated business with four ownersCassandra Bhogal, husband Tanvir Bhogal, mom, Natali Holbrook and her husband, Robert (Rob) Holbrook.

Ten years ago, Rob started an alcohol catering company, Southern Rum Runners. As a mobile bartending service, it offered a bar for private parties. The company has gone through ownership changes and is now Rum Runners and Bar 1901.

The warehouse stored the inventory with a small lobby/office to host bar tastings for booked couples. Rob and Natali decided the lobby needed a remodel and decided a 1920's speakeasy style theme would fit perfectly in the space. Rob and Tanvir started the remodel. During this time, Natali and Rob traveled to California and visited an underground speakeasy for inspiration.

When they got home they decided to open on Friday and Saturday nights as a speakeasy. The doors officially opened April 1st, 2022, holding a maximum of 30 guests, and immediately stayed at full capacity. In January 2023, they decided to move to a larger space. They added a kitchen, offered food, and expanded the liquor options. Two months later, they started the expansion with the reopening on August 24th, 2023, to a huge crowd!

Today The Social is an upscale speakeasy bar specializing in craft cocktails. All the simple syrups are made in house and they freshly squeeze all the juices with ingredients adapting to whatever is in season. A dress code is strictly enforced. 1920s attire is highly encouraged.

The Social helps attendees go back in time leaving inhibitions at the door. Thursday night and Sunday brunch are casual but lake attire, ball caps, athletic wear or flip flops is always unacceptable. The Social is open to the public Thursday through Sunday, with ticketed events on Wednesday nights.

They host tequila tastings where guests taste the entire Gran Centenario line with a paired dinner. Every year they host a Halloween party with a DJ. Events showcasing local live musicians will be coming soon. Space is available for any private parties.

Let us help with your Flooring ∙ Cabinets ∙ Countertops Stairs Rails More

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EXPLORE TEN AREA WINERIES

Local Wine Connoisseur tours the growing number of wineries within the “Houston Hill County”

ARTICLE BY RON SAIKOWSKI

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The Texas Hill Country has become one of the top wine regions to visit in the country, and winery operations are now extending into our area. The Texas wine industry is exploding and will be ranked number two in the country in terms of its number of wineries. The latest figures show that the Texas wine industry contributes around 24 billion dollars annually to our state’s economy. The north Houston region is achieving a mass of outstanding wineries to become another recognized wine region. Our local area is home to:

• B. E. Winery on the north side of Conroe and a tasting room in historic downtown Conroe.

• Bernhardt Winery just off S. H. 105 about 15 miles west of Lake Conroe. Jerry Bernhardt established Bernhardt Winery in 2005 when Texas had only 50 wineries.

• Deep Roots Vineyards on S. H. 249 south of Plantersville.

• Golden Oak Micro Cella r in New Waverly.

• H – Wines on Liberty Street in charming Montgomery, Texas.

• The Ferm Meadery is on the south side of the courthouse square in historic downtown Conroe.

• Tosca Winery in New Waverly

• West Sandy Creek Winery on F. M. 1791 near Richards, Texas.

• Whitley Vineyards north and west of Montgomery on F. M. 1097. This Winery overlooks a beautiful vineyard sloping toward a small lake.

• Wild Stallion Vineyards in north Harris County on West Rayford Road.

These ten wineries are in what I call the “Houston Hill County.” These family-owned/operated wineries offer Texas-sized welcomes to winery visitors. They are typically open Thursdays through Sundays except Whitley Vineyards, which is closed on Saturdays. Most of these wineries host live music concerts on their winery grounds for the pleasure of their visitors. Wine tastings are always ongoing during regular winery hours. These ten wineries proudly serve wines made from Texas grapes with the Ferm Meadery using Texas honey. In addition, H – Wines offers French wines to compare French and Texas wines together.

The weather is not conducive to growing the classic Vitis vinifera grapes along the Gulf Coastal areas, so hybrid grape varietals like Blanc du Bois and Lenoir are grown in the rolling terrain of the “Houston Hill Country.” Our Texas humidity and warm night temperatures are the perfect match to produce these hybrid types of grapes. These grape vines bud out in late February and early March, with tiny white flowers popping out six weeks after bud break. The flowers are bunched tightly together and self-pollinate to form hard, green berries. The grapes form in May and have developed to the point where they can be harvested and made into wine by the last days of June and into the early part of July.

Bernhardt Winery, West Sandy Creek Winery, Whitley Vineyards, and Wild Stallion Vineyards welcome visitors during harvest. In fact, these family-owned vineyards need visitors to help them harvest grapes. Another wonderful aspect of these wineries is that they will let you into their fermentation rooms and provide visitors with access to the winemaking process.

“THE BEST PART OF VISITING THESE AREA WINERIES IS BRINGING FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO SHARE THE ENTIRE WINE-TASTING EXPERIENCE.”

Each of these ten wineries has its unique flair when dealing with the wines they make and serve. You should visit all ten winemakers to discover your favorite wines and events. Bernhardt Winery has the broadest range of winery events, including its winter indoor concerts, spring-summer-fall outdoor concerts, strawberry festival, Saturday Country Markets, Winter Solstice Celebration, and more.

Bernhardt Winery, B. E. Winery, West Sandy Creek Winery, Tosca Winery, and Wild Stallion Winery have also become wedding destinations. These five local wineries have large rooms for hosting indoor weddings or outdoor weddings. They also have commercial kitchens and more to host unique wedding or corporate events.

Bernhardt Winery and West Sandy Creek Winery have onsite bed and breakfast arrangements, with WSCW having cabins to accommodate up to 24 guests. These onsite accommodations provide opportunities to experience a winery first-hand and to spend the night safely after a long, hard day of tasting and exploring the grounds.

The best part of visiting these area wineries is bringing family and friends to share the entire wine-tasting experience. Vino is always meant to be shared and is even better when shared with your best friends! You can compare what you love in each wine. Determine what you look for in wines and experience the aspects of pairing wines and foods. Each of these ten wineries offers a wide range of tasting experiences from classic, dry, bold wines to the other end of the spectrum of sweet wines. Whatever your taste in wines, you can find it in these ten wines in the “Houston Hill Country.”

October is Texas Wine Month, and from October 1st to 31st, you can experience unique Texas Wineries with a complimentary tasting. When you travel through the local wineries listed, ask what they are offering!

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS OCTOBER

OCTOBER 3RD

Lobsterfest

Lone Star Convention Center | 6:00 PM

Join the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce for the annual Lobsterfest fundraiser, with more than 1,000 community leaders, business owners, elected officials, residents, and guests attending the two-day festivities, including a steak and lobster dinner, live and silent auction, and lots of fun followed by a golf tournament on Friday, October 4. Conroe.org

OCTOBER 3RD - 4TH

Lobsterfest

Golf Tournament

Panorama Golf Club

73 GreenBriar Drive

Shotgun starts both days. The funds raised from Lobsterfest directly support the programs provided to Chamber members. Your support is greatly appreciated in sustaining the economic growth of the Lake Conroe region. Conroe.org

OCTOBER 5TH

Legacy of Prince

Bernhardt Winery | 7:00 PM

1999’s The Legacy of Prince is a high-energy Las Vegas-style tribute production dedicated to carrying Prince’s legacy and iconic music, fashion, and showmanship. The show takes you through his authentic recreations of clothes, the custom guitars, and all of the hits you know and love. BernhardtWinery.com

OCTOBER 11TH - 13TH

Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival

Downtown Conroe

The festival is located in the heart of downtown Conroe. It features live music on several stages, vendors, food, and activities for adults and families. The festival is a nonprofit organization raising funds to give back to other local nonprofits. It brings 30,000 visitors to downtown Conroe and has a significant economic impact on the entire community.

OCTOBER 17TH

35th Annual MCFA Golf Tournament

Panorama Golf Club | 11:30 AM

Early Bird Special:  $500/Team of 4 until Oct. 3rd. Regular Price (After Oct. 3rd):  $550/Team of 4.  Deadline to enter is October 11th. Lunch: 11:30 PM. Tee Time: 1:00 PM. Dinner: Following the Tournament. Tournament Proceeds Benefit 3 Auctions at the Montgomery County Fair:  Livestock, Non-Livestock, and Special Education. \Live & Silent Auctions following the tournament.  mcfa.org/ events/golf-tournament

OCTOBER 19TH

Conroe Symphony

“Tunes from the Toons”

First Methodist Church Conroe 2:30 PM

Relive the magic of animation as the orchestra brings to life the unforgettable scores of beloved characters. Tunes from the Toons looks at the history of how music enhanced animation from the earliest days of Steamboat Willie, Donald Duck, and Tom and Jerry all the way to the modern digital animation of Beauty and the Beast and The Incredibles. ConroeSymphony.org

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CCL’s Foodie Favorites

A list to satisfy your every craving!

When you can't decide or want to try something new, our go-to list will surely offer a restaurant that will satisfy your every craving.

Tex-Mex: Camila's Tex-Mexi-Que 1245 Grand Central Parkway, Conroe

Sushi: Wo Sushi Fusion 810 Pine Market Ave, Woodforest

Frozen Margaritas Flight: Black Walnut 2971 Hawthorne Dr, Conroe

Fast Asian: Dragon Bowl C Noodle Bar 118 Simonton, Conroe

Soup: V Bistro - Vietnamese Noodles & Grill 4489 W Davis St, Conroe

Chocolate: Chocolate Passion 1520 N. Frazier, Conroe

Main Course Salads: Pacific Yard House 101 Metcalf Street, Conroe

Mediterranean: Mezze #1 1205 Grand Central Parkway, Conroe

Meatloaf: The Red Brick Tavern 119 Simonton, Conroe

BBQ Plate: McKenzie's BBQ Conroe, and Montgomery

Catfish: Vernon's Kuntry Katfish 5000 W. Davis, Conroe

Wine Bar: The Lounge on Main,  Blue Epiphany Winery 336 North Main St., Conroe

Breakfast: 105 Cafe 3010 W. Davis, Conroe

Brunch: Hodge Podge Lodge 300 Prairie Street, Montgomery

Pies: Pie in the Sky Co 3600 N Loop 336 W, Conroe

Home-baked Cookies: Montgomery Bakehouse 240 Longmire Road, Conroe

Produce: Main Street Market Saturdays at Courthouse Square Conroe

Charcuterie: The Cuterie 1219 Grand Central Parkway, Conroe

Chicken Fried Steak: The Fish Pond 17091 Hwy 75, Willis

Bobo Tea: FENG CHA 449 S Loop 336 W, Conroe

Coffee Shop: Luv’s Coffee 820 Pine Market Ave Suite 100, Woodforest

Burger: Burger Fresh two locations, Conroe and Willis

Worth the Drive: J-BAR-M Barbque 2201 Leeland St, Houston

Sea Food: Goode Co Fish Camp 8865 Six Pines Dr suite 100, Shenandoah

Food Truck Park: The Table at Madeley 316 Madeley St, Conroe

Craft Cocktails:

The Social

107 Old River Rd Suite H, Montgomery

202 Main

202 Main Street, Conroe

All American: Honor Cafe

103 N Thompson St Suite 101, Conroe

Steakhouse:

Ransom’s Steakhouse

300 CB Stewart Drive, Montgomery

Red Flame Steak and Grill

7214 FM 1488, Magnolia

Italian: Joe’s Italian Restaurant 1604 N Frazier St, Conroe

Amore Fine Dining & Spirits 14860 Hwy 105 W, Montgomery

Lakeside Atmosphere:  B Wave Restaurant 7041 Kingston Cove Ln, Willis

Papa’s on the Lake 14632 Hwy 105 W, Montgomery

Conroe Lake House 14954 Hwy 105 W, Montgomery

The list of favorites does not end with our few selections here. Please share some of your favorites with us on social media so we can add them to our list! Don't forget the images!

BREWERIES AND OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATIONS:

B52 Brewery, 12470 Milroy Ln, Conroe Oktoberfest at B52 is September 21st | 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Fass Brewy, 236 N Main St, Conroe Oktoberfest at Fass is October 5th-6th

Southern Star Brewing Company, 3525 N Frazier St, Conroe Newly reopened. Oktoberfest event, October 16th