Issuu

O C TO B E R 2 02 0

Houston's Culinary Trendsetters

When Others See a House, We See a Work of Art

C: 832.289.9245 O: 713.401.3175 E: sara.black@nanproperties.com

9 West Lane Your Local Neighbor and Luxury Realtor Expert 2200 Post Oak Blvd Suite #1475 Houston, TX 77056

713.714.6454

nanproperties.com

This report is compiled from listings reported to the Houston MLS. If your property is currently listed with a broker, this is not intended as a soliciation.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

OCTOBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Kamilla Batchelor | kamilla.batchelor@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Let's Eat!

Gabriela De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall

OH, HOUSTON, ARE YOU IN FOR A TREAT. This month is all about food—the

L AYO UT DESIGNER

prettiest, trendiest, newest and tastiest foods we can find.

Jayme Emery

Houston is known for its oil and gas, sports teams and ethnically diverse population, but what people are really starting to rave about is the food scene. As Houstonians, we are a gastronomically spoiled bunch - delicious cuisine from every country, ethnicity, and trend is literally just a short drive away. Craving a unicorn milkshake?

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Radhika Patel CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Yvonne Villegas-Vasquez

Fajitas covered in gold? Crawfish so spicy you have to wear gloves? Yes, we have it all and people from all over the country are starting to notice. Houston has become the venerable culinary “cool kid” and we couldn’t be prouder. On the cover this month are three chefs who are setting the standard for what a good dining experience is. Collectively, Chefs Justin Yu, Felipe Riccio, and Sash Kurgan lend their talents to nine restaurants scattered across the city. Even in a restaurant dense city like ours, their expertise stands out. This issue is full of great tips on everything from stress-free entertaining to grilling up a great weekend meal and even vegan snacks. We hope it excites your taste

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

buds and inspires you to add something new to your culinary rotation.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Stay safe and well!

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Happy eating, Houston.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Gabriela De la Rosa, Editorial Coordinator

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

ON THE COVER

TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Chefs Sash Kurgan, Felipe Riccio, and Justin Yu Location: Rosie Cannonball

PHOTOGRAPHY BY YVONNE VILLEGAS-VASQUEZ 4

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

Proverbs 3:5-6 River Oaks Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the River Oaks area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in River Oaks Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE OCTOBER 2020

FEATURES 08 King of the Grill Executive chef Joey Chavez shares a nostalgic recipe from his childhood with a modern twist.

10 The Art of StressFree Entertaining Restaurateur Benjamin Berg gives his favorite tips for a night of delicious fun.

18 On Our Radar: Ostia New American cuisine with undertones of Italian and Mediterranean flavors await at Ostia.

32 Houston’s Culinary Trendsetters Chefs Justin Yu, Felipe Riccio & Sash

32 18

Kurgan on motivation, memories, and cooking during a pandemic.

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Times Past

10 DIY 14

Healthy Lifestyle

Hot Spot

22 Road Trip 28 Local’s Choice 32 Local Limelight 38 Artist’s Palette

HOUSTONâ€™S ONLY

Feel better before you leave the office.

Your time. Your concerns. Your body. Personalized care for the entire family by Dr. Mary Talley Bowden with on-site diagnosis and treatment of ENT, allergy and sleep disorders. EAR, NOSE & THROAT CARE | SINUS THERAPY | ALLERGY TESTING & IMMUNOTHERAPY SLEEP MEDICINE | INFRARED SAUNA THERAPY | SINUS THERAPY | SNORING & SLEEP DISORDERS ALLERGY TESTING AND TREATMENT | INFRARED SAUNA | WELLNESS

3600 Kirby Drive Houston, TX 77098

Call (713) 492-2340 or visit breathemd.org to schedule your appointment.

TIMES PAST Photo credit Kimberly Park

King of the Grill

EVERY CHEF HAS A FAVORITE DISH – SOMETHING THAT BRINGS BACK THE DELICIOUS NOSTALGIA OF THEIR YOUTH. For Brennan’s of Houston executive chef Joey Chavez, that dish is beef ribs. Chavez grew up with Sundays dedicated to two things, barbeque and yard work. After a long day of work, he watched his dad fire up the grill and cook what would eventually become his favorite dish. Chavez, who has been at the helm of wellknown restaurants and cooked alongside notable chefs all over the country, decided to make his dad’s recipe his own and has served beef plate short ribs in nearly every

BRENNAN’S OF HOUSTON EXECUTIVE CHEF JOEY CHAVEZ SHARES A NOSTALGIC RECIPE FROM HIS CHILDHOOD ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

restaurant he has worked in.

Smoked Beef Plate Short Ribs 4 - 6 Beef plate short ribs Beef Cure: + 1 cup salt + ½ cup sugar + 1 cup ground coffee + 1 tablespoon ground thyme + 1 tablespoon ground coriander + 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper + 2 tablespoons granulated garlic + 1 tablespoon ground ginger Mix all ingredients together. Rub beef ribs until completely covered and refrigerate overnight. Remove ribs from refrigerator. Pour off the marinade, rinse ribs well under cold water and pat ribs dry with paper towels. Turn grill on high heat and sear ribs over high heat until all sides of ribs have caramelized. Allow them to cool. After caramelizing all sides of the ribs, turn heat down to medium on two-thirds of the grill, leaving the burner under the last third of the grill where the meat will cook on low. Paint ribs heavily with BBQ sauce. Close lid of grill and allow the ribs to cook, checking every 10 minutes to make sure they don’t burn and applying more sauce if necessary. Cook ribs to medium, or when tender when

Executive chef, Joey Chavez. Photo credit Kimberly Park 8

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

pressed down with your fingers. Remove ribs from grill, cover and rest for about 10 minutes.

From traditional to modern, eclectic to electric, luxurious furnishings, accessories and objects dâ€™art from around the world.

Creating Homes since 1967

Established in 1967

2401 BISSONET STREET, HOUSTON, T X

713.524.3171 | ALYSONJON.COM

DIY

THE ART OF STRESSF R E E E N T E R TA I N I N G Photo Credit Jenn Duncan

RESTAURATEUR BENJAMIN BERG SHARES HIS FAVORITE TIPS FOR A NIGHT OF DELICIOUS FUN. ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

STEPS/HOW TO

HOSTING A SUCCESSFUL FÊTE IS

QUITE

ACHIEVEMENT

FOR A HOME CHEF, BUT FOR A 20-YEAR

INDUSTRY

VETERAN

“B e i n g i n t h e

LIKE BENJAMIN BERG, IT IS JUST

restaurant

Berg, founder and CEO of Berg

i n d u s t r y, I h a v e a passion for

ANOTHER DAY AT THE OFFICE.

Create a great ambiance with music,

Have champagne and wine ready

has been a staple in Houston’s upscale steakhouse roundup ever since. Berg

to offer as people arrive. It sets the mood and puts everybody at ease.

Hospitality, opened B&B Butchers & Restaurant in 2015 and the restaurant

lighting, and candles.

Have great appetizers passed or on display when guests arrive so

h o s p i t a l i t y. I l o v e

has since opened a second B&B

they can snack on them. When I am

Butchers & Restaurant in Fort Worth

entertaining in my home, a cheese

being a par t of

and several concepts in Houston,

and charcuterie platter from The

including ultra-sophisticated Turner’s

Butcher Shop at B&B Butchers &

helping friends

and a revamp of Café Annie - both

Restaurant is always an appetizer.

projects with James Beard award-win-

Other universal crowd-pleasers are

ning chef Robert Del Grande.

pigs in a blanket (you would be sur-

and family create

prised how fast these go at a party)

After so many years in the hospi-

new and lasting

tality industry, Berg takes the job of

m e m o r i e s .”

fun and delicious food. Whether he is

infusing his guests’ experiences with at one of his restaurants or entertain-

and mini crab cakes.

so much forced time apart, the next Photo Credit Felix Sanchez

time it is safe to gather should be as

before, and make sure you accommodate any dietary restrictions.

ing at home, he believes both are at the heart of any good gathering. After

Plan the meal out a few weeks

Always have plenty of ice and a fully stocked bar. If it is a large party and,

memorable as possible, so we asked

in your budget, hire a server and bar-

Berg to share his favorite tips on how

tender to help. It makes the party feel

to turn a fun evening into a party your

more festive and causes less stress for

guests won’t want to leave.

the host, and the bartender also helps control the alcohol consumption.

Photo Credit Alex Wu CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Beautiful office views

ARTICLE RADHIKA PATEL

Beautiful Smiles fo r M i l e s INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED COSMETIC DENTIST, DR. NED SHIMIZU GIVES HOUSTONIANS THE SMILES THEY DESERVE.

COSMETIC DENTISTS ARE IN DEMAND; ACCORDING TO A RECENT STUDY BY THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY, THE NUMBER OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY PROCEDURES HAS EXPERIENCED GROWTH IN EXCESS OF 200 PERCENT, AND DOLLARS SPENT ON COSMETIC DENTISTRY HAVE DOUBLED IN THE PAST FIVE YEARS. Houstonians have a wide choice of cosmetic dentists to choose from, and Dr. Ned Shimizu, a Japanese native, is at the top of that list.

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

Dr. Ned Shimizu

Shimizu practiced for seven years in Japan before moving to the United States. He quickly garnered praise and became the sole recipient of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry's People's Choice Award in Houston. After graduating from Loma Linda University, Shimizu received his Accredited Member status from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) in 2011. This prestigious Accredited Member status is awarded to only 414 cosmetic dentists globally and allows them access to the latest, most innovative methods and techniques in the field of cosmetic dentistry. Aside from dentistry, Shimizu has a passion for photography and regularly combines the two skillsets when working with patients. He understands the importance of function as well as creating an aesthetically pleasing smile. His ability to combine his passion for art and photography with technical expertise is an asset when working with his patients, "function is important, but you need to make it look nice too." An artistic eye allows him to create and shape the tooth while using cutting-edge technology to make sure teeth remain intact and in a healthy condition. Shimizu works with a microscope that has 10-15 times the magnification of typical loupes used in cosmetic dentistry. "This type of microscope allows for a better fit, and there are maybe three dentists other than endodontists in Houston that have this type of microscope." Shimizu's philosophy focuses on touching as few teeth as possible in a minimally invasive way to ensure the patient has good teeth to work with down the line. "I want to minimize intervention and touch a smaller number of teeth, which is better so that there is still some tooth to work with in the future." Although cosmetic dentists aren't seen as artists, Dr. Shimizu is the exception. His patients receive top-of-the-line, minimally invasive care with the eye of an artist and the technical expertise

â€œI want to minimize intervention

of someone at the pinnacle of their profession. "I'm

and touch a smaller number of

and I like photography." Besides exceptional ability,

teeth, which is better so that

doing what I like the best. I like cosmetic dentistry, skill, local and global recognition, is there much else you could ask for from your cosmetic dentist?

there is still some tooth to work with in the future.â€? CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

Who Says Boosts Your Collagen? ...oh right, science The non-invasive UltherapyÂŽ procedure is U.S. FDA-cleared to lift skin on the neck, on the eyebrow and under the chin as well as to improve lines and wrinkles on the dĂŠcolletage. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials were redness, swelling, pain and transient nerve effects. Reported adverse events from post-marketing surveillance are available in the Instructions for Use (IFU). Please see the IFU for product and safety information, including a full list of these events at Ultherapy.com/IFU.

Jennifer Deaver Peterson, MD is a triple-board certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon through the American Board of Dermatology, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery in Dermatologic Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. She was born and raised in Houston, TX, and graduated magna cum laude from Texas A&M University. Dr. Deaver Peterson completed her dermatology residency training at Texas Tech in 2009. In 2010, she completed a prestigious laser and cosmetic surgery fellowship program at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in La Jolla, CA.

Tracy Katz, MD is board-certified through the American Board of Dermatology and has practiced cosmetic and medical dermatology in her native Houston, Texas for the past six years. She attended The University of Texas at Austin and graduated with Honors with a degree in Government and Biology in 2002. She then attended the University of Texas Medical School in Houston from which she graduated in 2007. Dr. Katz completed an internship in internal medicine at The University of Texas Medical School in Houston followed by residency in dermatology at The University of Kansas in Kansas City, MO.

550 Post Oak Boulevard, Ste. 550, Houston

713.497.1417

thepearldermatology.com

HOT SPOT

NEW AMERICAN CUISINE WITH UNDERTONES OF ITALIAN AND MEDITERRANEAN FLAVORS AWAIT AT OSTIA.

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

On Our Radar: Ostia Grilled shrimp with harissa. Photo Credit Jenn Duncan

HOUSTON'S RESTAURANT OF THE MOMENT, OSTIA, OPENED IN SEPTEMBER AND HAS ALREADY MADE A NAME FOR ITSELF IN THE CULINARY DENSE MONTROSE NEIGHBORHOOD. The casually elegant venue is the brainchild of Houston native Travis McShane, a University of Texas and CIA grad. For more than a decade, McShane has been cooking in kitchens nationwide under the tutelage of acclaimed chef Jonathan Waxman and ultimately ended up overseeing all culinary operations for Waxman's restaurants in New York City, San Francisco, Nashville, and Atlanta. Ostia, which means host in Italian, is McShane's first solo venture, and although he has cooked all over the country, the decision to open his first restaurant in Houston was an easy one. "No matter where I have lived, I have always claimed Houston as home," said the chef. "It's a massive city full of culture and diversity with some of the most genuine people I've ever met. There are tons of restaurants and a lot of people who want to dine out, so the market is not saturated and allows healthy competition between chefs. Between the market, people, and my family, it was an easy decision to make." A confluence of Mediterranean and Italian inspired flavors from McShane's extensive travels fill the menu at Ostia. The chef focuses on local and sustainable food, with the cornerstone being seasonality and simplicity. McShane’s elevated flavor profiles coupled with the ambiance, created by star designer Jon de la Cruz of DLC-ID, could easily fit in a stuffy restaurant. However, McShane was adamant that Ostia have a neighborhood feel. "We want our guests to feel like they can come join us on an impromptu weekday evening yet still want to come to celebrate the special days in their lives," said McShane. "Ostia should feel like a place they can just come and have a great time no matter the occasion." As we are all drinking and carb-loading away the stresses of late, the promise of indoor/outdoor seating, delicious handmade pasta, and a robust beverage program are the prerequisites of a good dining experience. Prepare yourself Houston, because Ostia distinctly delivers on those and so much more.

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

Transform Your Living Space V sunnnnyroadinteriors B sunnyroad interiors

Sunnyroad has been beautifying homes in the Houston Area since 1985. Let us put our 30 plus years of design experience to help you with your project. At our Design Center, we invite you to explored and reinvent your style. From unique fabrics to custom furniture, Sunnyroad has the best selection in Houston. • UPHOLSTERY/SLIPCOVERS • CUSTOM FURNITURE • BEDDING

• WOOD FURNITURE RESTORATION • WINDOW TREATMENTS & MUCH MORE

Call to learn about our River Oaks Lifestyle Special! 3111 Fondren Road Houston, Texas 77063

713 - 266 - 0310

SunnyRoadInteriors.com

JOIN US FOR

PATIO SEASON

TAKE-OUT

WEEKEND BRUNCH

DELIVERY

hungryscafe.com 2356 Rice Blvd. Houston, TX 77005

14714 Memorial Dr. Houston, TX 77079

713.523.8652

281.493.1520

HungrysBistro

@hungryscafe

#hungryscafe

ROAD TRIP

WEâ€™VE ROUNDED UP THE BEST VEHICLE, DESTINATION, AND DELICIOUS SNACKS FOR THE PERFECT ECO-ROADTRIP! ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA

Ro a d Tr i p Re a d y

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

Photo Credit Courtesy of Chevrolet

IN THE WAKE OF CORONAVIRUS, WE HAVE ALL BECOME GERMAPHOBES WHICH HAS LEFT MANY DITCHING THEIR PASSPORTS AND AIRLINE DRINK TICKETS FOR TRIPS A LITTLE CLOSER TO HOME. Industry experts agree that it could be several months or even years for people to feel completely safe flying again and until then â€“ road trips are back in a big way. While planning your next road trip, why not make it an eco-friendly one by choosing an outdoor location, an eco-friendly car, and all-natural snacks. As Houstonians, we have an abundance of road trip locations where we can get away from the daily freeway grind and opt for a peaceful setting. The best part of a road trip is the ride, and this could be a great opportunity to try out an electric car. The Chevrolet Bolt EV is an all-electric vehicle that offers an EPA-estimated 259 miles of range on a full charge. It seats five, is as easy to charge as a cell phone, and comes standard with several safety features like 10 airbags and an HD rear vision camera. You will look great gliding up to any one of these fantastic green spaces in the Houston area. Brazos Bend State Park is located 45 miles from downtown Houston. The state park is a great place to fish, bike, or hike and you can even reserve a camping spot to spend the night. One of the best things about Brazos Bend is the alligators which can be observed in their natural habitat year-round. Sam Houston National Forrest is located 50 miles north of Houston between Huntsville and Conroe. One of four National Forests in Texas it is a great place for star gazing, camping, or getting out on the water at Double Lake Recreation area. Rent a canoe or kayak and hit the water. Galveston Island is so close to downtown Houston that you can be feeling the island breeze in about an hour. There are several parks to choose from including East Beach, Stewart Beach, and if you feel like island hopping â€“ you can head to Bolivar Peninsula.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

ROAD TRIP (CONTINUED)

Photo Credit Sinfull Bakery

snacks Now that you have your car and locations settled, it’s time to find the perfect snacks for your eco-road trip. Sinfull Bakery has been a Houston favorite since it hit the food scene in 2010. All the baked goods from Sinfull Bakery are vegan and made from scratch with all-natural and mostly organic ingredients. There are so many delicious Sinfull Bakery snacks to choose from it will be easy to find the perfect vegan snack for your Houston road trip.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Kolaches from Sinfull Bakery make a great breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up and nothing says Texas quite like a kolache.

Sinfull Bakery has several delicious cookie flavors to choose from. You'll love their large size - they are perfect for sharing.

Vegan cinnamon rolls for breakfast, lunch or dinner, please! What makes Sinfull Bakery cinnamon rolls special? They weigh in at 2 pounds each and you won't want to miss their specialty flavors.

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

The Power of

Attachment Afraid of intimacy & Emotionally Distant?

“Avoidant s are not exac tl y open books and tend to repres s rather than expres s their emotions .”

- Amir Levine -

Talk It Out LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELING & PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

Being avoidant doesn’t define you ... the term is used to “describe your behavior, where it originated and how to grow from it”

- Tracy Crossley Ready to Work Through Your Insecure Attachment Type into a Secure Attachment? I’m here to help!

Esther Jimenez, MS, LPC, EMDR Board Certified Sex Therapist

Mention 'Attachment' for Attachment-Related Coaching Calls One Per Person ∙ a $150 Value / Now $105

www.talkitout.net | 346.214.4189 SERVING: UPTOWN

GALLERIA

RIVER OAKS

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

GET THE SKINNY ON ZERONA LASER TREATMENTS

LOCAL’S CHOICE

ARTICLE RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF

INNOVATIVE LASERS OF HOUSTON OFFERS FAT REDUCTION WITHOUT SURGERY OR DOWNTIME.

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

TARGETING FAT LOSS IN SPECIFIC AREAS OF THE BODY CAN BE CHALLENGING AND FRUSTRATING.

Several

treat-

ments promise to shrink, freeze off, or even remove fat from your body altogether, but Innovative Lasers of Houston might be the fix you are looking for. They offer treatments with the Zerona laser that result in fat loss with no swelling, bruising, downtime, and no exposure to heat or cold. Zerona Laser treatments are FDA approved, and Dr. Oz even called the treatments a "fat-fighting miracle procedure." According to Laura Alexis, CEO of Innovative Lasers of Houston, these FDA-approved lasers' application creates tiny microscopic tears in your fat cells, causing the fat to seep out. When the targeted fat cells collapse, their content is naturally released as waste from your body through urine and sweat, which results in fat loss. One of the reasons that Zerona laser treatments have become so popular is that results are immediate. Alexis says that patients can expect to lose half a pound to one pound per visit on average and lose three to 11 inches every two weeks. "Using Zerona laser for fat loss is very similar to working out and losing weight the natural way," says Alexis. "Fat cells are not destroyed; they are just shrunk down. I am very passionate about this procedure because it is not destroying or taking away anything from the patient's body." Innovative Lasers offers free consultations and will be offering over half off their regular prices through October. Laura Alexis, CEO, Innovative Lasers of Houston. Credit: Courtesy of Innovative Lasers of Houston

innovativelasersofhouston.com

WE HAVE MOVED! Houstonâ€™s Largest Resale Destination with 35,000+ square feet of incredible shopping. FEATURING: All-NEW Venue for Fashion Shows, Weddings, Girls Nights, Events & more! Outdoor Butterfly Gardens selling Butterfly weed and nectar plants.

WELLNESS ROOM | MAN ICURE | PEDICURE & MASS AG ES

Visit Our NEW Location WATCH out for our Grand Re-opening Date Only 5 Miles from our previous address. 10707 Haddington Dr. Houston 77043

Michelle Puckett, Founder

DESIGNER DIVA R E S A L E

(281) 497 - 6991 | designerdivacouture.com | designerdivallc.com

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

The Best Tutoring to help support your

CHILD’S EDUCATION Tutor Doctor will take the burden off of you and help your child to stay on track with the school’s curriculum. Whether your kids are going back to school full-time, parttime, or online, Tutor Doctor can help you take control and build structure without taking on the extra workload yourself. We work hand-in-hand with you, your child, tutor, and the school’s teacher to provide the best tutoring plan for academic success and have several different options that suits you and your child best.

At-Home or Online Sessions

One-to-One or Group Pod Learning

Schoolwork Guidance & Homework Support

Let us support you and together we’ll achieve better learning, higher confidence, and improved grades!

Up to

$250 OFF for certain packages Offer expires 10/30/2020

Houston, TX 77025

P U T YO U R C IT Y O N O U R M A P. Start a magazine & build a legacy. Life is short. Love what you do.

LifestylePubs.com/OwnIt

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

H o u s t o n’ s C u l i n a r y Tr e n d s e t t e r s CHEFS JUSTIN YU, FELIPE RICCIO AND SASH KURGAN ON MOTIVATION, MEMORIES, AND COOKING DURING A PANDEMIC.

Restaurant: Theodore Rex, Squable, Better Luck Tomorrow, Public Services Wine and Whisky Position: Chef/Owner

HOW DO YOU SPREAD YOUR TIME ACROSS

DO YOU FEEL THAT YOU ARE SCRUTINIZED MORE

DIFFERENT CONCEPTS/KITCHENS?

THAN OTHER CHEFS BECAUSE YOU HAVE SO

It’s hard to map out exactly how my days or weeks will go concretely, but I’d say that my time in the kitchens is

MANY ACCOLADES? HOW DO YOU STAY OUT FROM UNDER THAT?

based on seasonal needs or just plain “putting out of the

Of course, some expectations come with the amount of

fire” (ideally figuratively, not literally) in the kitchens. I’m

attention that we’ve been lucky to receive, but I take it as

fortunate to have very talented chefs on-site at all the dif-

a charge to continue to push and consistently over-deliver

ferent restaurants and bars, so I can sort of draw a loose

on expectations. Whether it is food, service, guest com-

blueprint of where I need to be at a particular time.

fort, or small bits and touches to make every experience

memorable, we’re continually self-scouting for areas we

JAMES BEARD AWARD WINNER – DOES IT STILL THRILL YOU TO HEAR THAT EVEN 4 YEARS LATER? It’s still crazy to me. It was an unforgettable experience

can improve on. WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MEAL?

that you only dream about and never think that you might

I had spent most of my life saving to cook for free and

actually get there. It was amazing to hear my name, be on

learn in European kitchens when I ate at the Sportsman

that stage looking across a sea of captains of the industry

outside of London. From the simplicity in its food, the

and celebrate it with my restaurant family and the city that

restaurant’s unassuming nature, to how every bit and

raised me. That being said, I refuse to let it be paramount

piece of the dining experience was curated – it was a meal

of my career.

I’ll never forget.

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

ARTICLE GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY YVONNE VILLEGAS-VASQUEZ

Justin Yu

DETAILS:

WHAT GOT YOU INTERESTED IN COOKING? Growing up, my family would get together often, and my grandma and my dad would spend the whole day cooking. I saw cooking as an essential thing to do, and I took a lot of interest in it. Early on, I told my parents I wanted to be a lawyer and a chef on the side. After I took one criminal justice class, I quickly realized I didn’t want to become a lawyer and instead, I looked into the culinary program at my high school. I went straight into culinary school after graduation and besides a short hiatus to study wine, I’ve been cooking. YOU HAVE TRAVELED QUITE A BIT IN YOUR CAREER - WHAT INTERNATIONAL SENSIBILITIES DO YOU BRING TO YOUR DISHES? I am originally from Mexico City, but I grew up in Veracruz. My parents are of Spanish and Italian origins, so I grew up surrounded by three different cultures. As a teenager, I moved to Houston and as an adult, I lived in Europe. All these things have undoubtedly influenced my palate and the way I see food. WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU LEARNED AS A CHEF DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC? I think our entire culinary team learned the value and importance of serving people in our restaurants. Most of us are chefs, because we love cooking and because we love cooking for people. Takeout has been a survival tool for most restaurants, but it is not enough to feed the drive in our hearts and minds to cook day in and day out. Seeing people enjoy each other’s comDETAILS: Restaurant: Rosie Cannonball, Montrose Cheese&Wine, March Restaurant, Goodnight Charlie’s Position: Chef/Partner

FELIPE RICCIO

pany while eating the food we prepared is key to our industry’s survival. WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MEAL? My most memorable meal so far was at Reale in Abruzzo, Italy. The three-star Michelin restaurant is led by Niko and Cristiana Romito, a brother and sister team. Located in Cassadonna, a 16th-century former monastery turned into a 6-bedroom hotel. Chef Niko’s way of viewing flavor is a continued inspiration for me.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

DETAILS: Restaurant: Doris Metropolitan Position: Chef, Co-owner (Culinary Director)

SASH KURGAN HOW IS THE FOOD SCENE IN HOUSTON DIFFERENT

remaining open-minded. We were forced to think outside

FROM OTHER PLACES YOU’VE WORKED?

the box within such a short time, and the ability to adapt to

Houston’s food scene is very dynamic – I feel like it

the evolving situation is the real test.

would take years to explore the diverse culinary scene Houston has to offer. We’re fortunate that we live in such

WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MEAL?

a strong multi-cultural city with unique cuisines that accu-

My most memorable meal took place in Tuscany, Italy,

rately reflect those ethnicities – especially in China Town.

at a beautiful farm called “poggio del Castagno.” I was 23 years old, and it was my real first farm to table feast. I was

HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVELY INSPIRED

on a gorgeous farm with the beautiful people who ran it,

IN THE KITCHEN?

and together we spent the entire day cooking. Nothing

In today’s world, it’s like a huge amusement park for

was rushed, and you could feel that a significant part of

chefs. Cooks can learn and get inspired by searching the

dinner was the time you used to make it, the complete

internet, which takes away from the craft and makes the

opposite of the fast world I was used to and living in. It

world a much more accessible place. You can now travel

was the longest and most satisfying meal I ever had, but it

the world and get inspired sitting on a chair in your room.

wasn’t all about eating, it was about gathering.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU LEARNED AS A CHEF DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC? The most important thing that I’ve learned from the pandemic is the ability to be flexible, but creative while

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

SPAR Houston HIGH INTENSITY TRAINING Spar Houston is a unique boxing fitness facility on Washington Avenue across from Memorial Park. Our classes are designed to master the skills necessary to take your fitness to a new level while learning the art of boxing.

Develop the skills necessary to take your fitness to a new level - outside your comfort zone and motivated for more.

+ THE ART OF BOXING START EXCELLING TODAY WWW.SPARHOUSTONTX.COM

Our facility is equipped with heavy bags, towel service, boxing ring, and complete strength training area.

(281) 501-0715 | sparhoustontx.com | 6010 Washington Avenue Houston

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

EXPERIENCED Professionals Highly

Jimmy Erwin

Ria van Dright

Mark Gentry

Chicago Title Commercial in Houston has a team of highly experienced professionals. It’s not often one comes across a team that shares over 20 years of experience together in one office, but that is our distinction. We work together to make the process seamless and efficient. 713.229.8484 • www.chicagotitlecommercial.com

MO DABDOUB HAIRSTYLIST BRINGS PARIS TO HOUSTON LOOK YEARS YOUNGER WITH THE RIGHT COLOR & STYLE. A HAIRCUT IS MUCH MORE THAN A HAIR CUT, WHEN YOUR STYLIST IS MO – CLASSICALLY TRAINED IN PARIS WITH JACQUE DESSANGE. FEATURED IN MARIE CLAIRE | GLAMOUR W MAGAZINE | SELF MENTION THIS AD & RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

CALL OR VISIT US TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

882 274 2474 | V V SALON 2400 MID LN 36

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

Luxury Floors HARDWOOD | LAMINATE | LUXURY VINYL | CARPET & TILE

Free In-Home Consultations!

“We Bring the Showroom to Your Home” 10% OFF ANY FLOOR INSTALLATION (over $1,000.00)

Luxuryfloorstx@gmail.com | 832-512-8868 Luxuryfloorstx

CityLifestyle.com/RiverOaks

ARTIST’S PALETTE ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

Pumpkin Pe r fe c t i o n PUT THE CARVING TOOLS DOWN + CHECK OUT HOW YOU CAN ADD SOME PIZZAZZ TO YOUR PUMPKINS WITH JUST A PAINT BRUSH

THE +

For this design, you’ll need several pumpkins or gourds in various shapes and sizes, some white and metallic acrylic paint, hot glue and some fake creepy crawlers.

Paint

your

“background”

pumpkins in metallic colors. For your centerpiece, use white paint to cover the body, metallic paint for the stem and hot glue your creepy crawlers all around.

River Oaks Lifestyle | October 2020

C R E E P Y C R AW L E R

David Oriental Rugs Direct Importer of Fine Rugs

Warehouse Clearance • Trade Welcome Celebrating 38 Year Anniversary • Trade Welcome

OVER 1000 DECORATIVE AREA RUGS IN STOCK

GUARANTEED LOSE

3-11

INCHES IN JUST

WEEKS

LAURA ALEXIS

SPECIAL OFFER

1000

2400

REG $

+3 FREE TREATMENTS FOR THE FIRST 100 CALLERS

281.888.3094