We are loving Flower Child in Uptown Houston! It’s healthy and delicious with a super cute atmosphere. Perfect for a girls’ lunch or casual dinner. Don’t miss their amazing gluten free desserts!!

This brand new, super chic cafe specializes in dairy free and gluten free foods as well as delicious coffee beverages all made with coconut milk. The interior design is fabulous and the staff wears trendy jumpsuits. We can already tell it's going to be a favorite!

Local Foods is our go-to lunch option during the week for delicious salads and sandwiches. They also have dinner and weekend brunch. There are multiple locations, so no matter where you are there will likely be a Local Foods nearby!

We love everything about this restaurant: the name, blue and white decor, foliage print wallpaper, and handsome bar. It’s open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but we prefer to go for brunch on a leisurely afternoon with a group of girlfriends.

This new Heights restaurant serving up Southern fare sits in an adorable bungalow home. The space is tight, so be prepared for a wait. If there are only two of you, sit at the bar and enjoy a hearty dish like biscuits and gravy with a Bloody Mary. Be prepared to take a nap after!

This is my go-to spot when we have friends or family in town to visit. I don't let anyone come to Houston without experiencing Tiny Boxwoods. If it is a pretty day, sit outside and enjoy the views of the nursery next door, the best spot to chat with friends over good food and drinks! This could also easily be on the dinner list, but I had to pick one! Also, note their sister location, Tiny's No. 5 is also on the list!

Island Grill is a longstanding neighborhood favorite. This Mediterranean American fast casual concept dishes out fresh salads, famous chicken pitas, burgers, and a mean breakfast taco. Not to mention a delicious selection of juices and smoothies. A go-to casual lunch option -- we love picking up to-go!

When you step into Cuchara, you feel as though you have been transported to a chic restaurant in Mexico City. The crowd is lively, the guacamole is delicious, and decor is super sophisticated. This Montrose Mexican eatery is great for any time of the day, but we especially love it for brunch when they have a live mariachi jazz band.

Adair's is in our neighborhood so I frequent this favorite at least once a week. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu; breakfast, lunch or dinner! My typical order is breakfast tacos, the Super Foods Bowl, or friend chicken and waffles if I loose all my will power.

This is the second restaurant by the Tiny Boxwood team and it is just as amazing. This one is conveniently located in West U so you can do a little walking and shopping while you are there. This is also the home to their newest concept, the Milk & Cookie Bar (see sweets below).

When our kitchen was under construction, this is where I would set up shop in the mornings for a working breakfast. This is another restaurant that belongs both here and under 'eat' because dinner is just as amazing as the brunch. You can pop in for casual dinning and sit downstairs or head upstairs to the more formal area with white table clothes and the full menu. (I personally prefer downstairs.)

This long standing favorite is secluded in a former River Oaks residence so you feel like you are right at home (or someone else's). The menu is a perfect blend of southern and Mexican inspired dishes and the quaint courtyard will have you never wanting to leave. (Another great dinner spot, as well.)

I must confess, I come here for the people watching and swanky setting as much as I come for the food. Located in the center of River Oaks Shopping Center, you are in a prime location for shopping after a few French 75s. ;)

In the heart of the Museum District, Lucille's serves up southern food. Come here for brunch, you won't be dissapointed!

Enjoy a delicious brunch of traditional mexican fare at this Montrose cafe.

Rosie Cannonball has a chic retro feel to it and serves up delicious European comfort food including pasta and pizza. This is the perfect spot to grab dinner and drinks before a night out - Montrose Cheese and Wine and Goodnight Charlie's are next door!

This hip new restaurant in Houston's up-and-coming EADO neighborhood is perfect for date night or dinner with the girls. If we're being honest, it's our favorite restaurant in Houston right now! We love perching at the bar and watching all of the action in the kitchen. Don't miss the tagliatelle and delicious natural wine selection!

You are in for a treat when you have dinner at this reservation only restaurant. The atmosphere and decor alone are ah inducing and the food is just as special. Plates not to miss are the Steak Tartar, Jamon Iberico, and the Huevos Voladores.

We're super happy that Superica has joined the Tex-Mex scene in Houston. Owned by the same restaurateur as State of Grace, this restaurant is beautifully designed and has delicious classics like cheese enchiladas and "O.G." margaritas.

Next door to Superica and owned by the same folks, La Lucha is a dimly lit, cozy spot that offers hearty fare like fried chicken and biscuits and crispy shrimp tacos. The bar is beautiful and worth stopping by even if you have dinner plans elsewhere.

A new concept by Chris Shepherd of Underbelly, UB Preserv reflects Houston's rich culinary history and cultural diversity. The result is delicious Asian-inspired cuisine that is original and totally enjoyable. Our favorite spot in the restaurant is perched at the bar where you can interact with the friendly staff, including Chef himself.

It seems like the Heights has a new restaurant opening every week! Mastranto’s on Studewood is a quaint neighborhood spot open for breakfast and dinner (closed for lunch). Grab a fresh pastry and latte in the morning (there are also lots of heartier dishes), and enjoy their refined global cuisine at dinner — it’s a small selection, but it won’t disappoint!

This super cozy bistro is ideal for a romantic date night. The interior design is very clean and Scandinavian-inspired, and the seasonal dishes by award-winning chef Justin Yu are delicious. If there's a wait, you can grab a seat in the artist loft space next door and spin a record while sipping a glass of wine.

Italian fare made fresh with vegetables grown in the charming, on-site garden. The best way to experience the menu is to share with your friends family-style! You will want to sample their killer pastas, pies, breads and garden vegetables. They don't take reservations so get their early and grab a drink!

Tucked away in an unassuming house in Montrose, Nobie’s is our go-to place for good vibes and creative, delicious food. It’s super cozy, so you may have to wait for a table, but it’s worth it! Huddle by the bar and enjoy a cocktail and the fantastic playlist while you wait. Once you’re seated, we suggest ordering a bunch of plates to share so that you get to try as many dishes as possible!

Atlanta chef Ford Fry brought his talents to Houston with this modern American establishment. The menu has a little bit of everything from a raw bar to a nod to Tex-Mex with the famous 'cheese enchiladas a la Felix'. It is also my favorite restaurant when it comes to the interior design. Make sure to check out the oval oyster room in the front, it's definitely worthy of an Instagram.

Very rarely food leaves me speechless. One bite of their and I had no words. This outpost of the Austin hot spot gets the best sushi in Houston vote from me because it checks all the boxes when it comes to raw fish, inventive creations and an intimate, but hip scene. Your tab can get pretty pricey, but it's worth every penny. They do save tables for walk-ins so if you have trouble getting a reservation there is still a chance. Or, arrive early for their daily 'Sake Social' where you can sample the highlights of the menu accompanied with sake (or beer, or wine), at a fraction of the cost.

Named the second best steak house in the country, this should be on your Houston bucket list. This traditional steak house doesn't disappoint and neither does the extensive wine list. I should also note you can't go wrong with any of the Pappas family restaurants (Pappas Burger & Pappadeaux are my two favorites).

No Houston restaurant list would be complete without Tex-Mex and this local chain is our go-to for our favorite fajitas! Also not to be missed is Hugo's and the original Ninfa's on Navigation.

If you are headed to the theater district or for a night out in downtown Houston, don't miss out on celebrity chef Chris Cosentino's new restaurant, Rosalie Italian Soul.

This much-anticipated restaurant from chef Aaron Bludorn does not disappoint! From the mid-century modern aesthetic to the delicious food, you are in for a lovely dinner at Bludorn.

This beautiful, dark, and cozy restaurant is perfect for a special occasion. The food is delicious, the wine list extensive, and there's a baby grand piano in the center of the dining area.

This upscale Mexican restaurant serves up modern Mexican fare and delicious margaritas.

This spacious coffee shop is great for working remotely or taking meetings. It's a non-profit coffee shop and all proceeds go to local organizations that fight against human trafficking.

Kraftsmen Baking is a super cozy cafe and bakery perfect for lazy weekend mornings or working remotely. We love the breakfast tacos, free wifi, and thoughtful decor. Plus, the old building it's housed in is super cool!

I can't rave enough about Common Bond. It's the perfect meeting spot, with the most delicious coffee and pastries. When I'm in the area I always pick up a chocolate croissant to-go. They also make amazing custom gourmet cakes.

If you find yourself at Tiny's No. 5, you must save room for Milk & Cookies next door. They truly make the best cookies in town!

We love the industrial-chic vibe of Tout Suite. It’s the perfect place to work remotely or to have a meeting with fellow creatives. Bonus points: in addition to serving delicious coffee and pastries, Tout Suite operates as an all day cafe serving lunch, dinner, and beer & wine.

Sweet Paris Crepêrie is an adorable crepe shop specializing in French sweet and savory crêpes. There are two locations, one in Rice Village and one in CityCentre. We love the Parisian decor and the nutella crepes of course!

If you’re in the Heights, be sure to swing by Boomtown Coffee for a caffeine pick-me-up. We’re a fan of their strong iced coffee which keeps us energized throughout the afternoon. The owner roasts the coffee beans on site, and you can purchase bags of their coffee so that you can enjoy it at home 24/7!

We fully support the macaron trend, and Macaron by Patisse is a beautiful French-themed boutique with 22 flavors of the small round dessert. In the summer, opt for their macaron gelato pops (so delicious!). They also offer monthly macaron classes if you are looking for a unique, and très bon activity.

We can’t get enough of this chic coffee and smoothie spot owned by the same family as Adair Kitchen & Eloise Nichols Grill. The decor is super Instagram-worthy (we are obsessed with the pink walls), and we love setting up shop on our computer all day here. In addition to the delicious coffees and fresh juices, the avocado toast is a must.

Light Years is one of our new favorite spots for its amazing natural wine selection and cozy, Scandinavian design. There's really not another spot in Houston that feels like this! They have tastings every Friday and their staff can guide you down the natural wine path if it's one you aren't familiar with. Don't miss their delicious meat and cheese boards while you sip on some fun wines!

Start your evening at Tongue Cut Sparrow. It's a super classy, intimate cocktail bar that makes you feel like you're a part of an exclusive club.

Postino is a lively wine bar with an excellent happy hour ($5 wines and pitchers of beer before 5 p.m.), as well as delicious bruschetta and cheese boards. You can definitely make a dinner out of their food selection, or just pop by for snacks and a couple of glasses of vino. If you're a late owl, come by on Monday or Tuesday after 8 p.m. to enjoy their $20 bottle of wine and bruschetta board special!

You may have noticed that we are wine bar fans, and 13 Celsius in Midtown is a must-visit for oenophiles. We like perching at the bar to enjoy their extensive wine list and cheese plates.

Axelrad had us hooked at “hammocks and live music”. This festive outdoor beer garden in Midtown is one of our favorite low key hangouts. Grab a pizza slice next door at Luigi’s and post up outside with a beer (we love the decorative tap wall inside), and enjoy the acoustics.

Better Luck Tomorrow, AKA “BLT” is a casual hangout with amazing “bar food” and a hipster vibe. The retro decor at this Heights hotspot is on point; we are big fans of the neon lights and the quirky patio furniture. The food menu is by James Beard Award-winning chef Justin Yu; try The Party Melt if you’re hungry (trust us!). The drinks menu has been crafted by industry notable Bobby Heugel and his team of mixologists. Come here for a good time!

If you are looking for a patio that will accommodate a large group, head to Eight Row Flint in the Heights. We love their margaritas (warning: they are dangerous!), and their tacos always hit the spot. Don’t miss their amazing happy hour specials Monday through Friday from 2-6pm, and all day on Wednesdays!

This was the first bar to up the craft cocktail game in Houston. The lively cocktail bar located in a cool industrial building is our standby option for delicious drinks and a bustling atmosphere. Their extensive menu features over 100 classic cocktails as well as unique concoctions. Head here to feel like you could be at a hip cocktail bar in Brooklyn (when really, you’re smack dab in the middle of Houston).

A Southern-inspired bar with beautiful decor, Julep is always at the top of our list for a night out on the town. It’s the perfect bar for either an apertif and appetizer before dinner, or for a nightcap to end the evening. We love perching up at the main bar inside and watching proprietress Alba Huerta do her thing, or sitting on the patio when it’s cool enough to have the heaters going.

Tiki might be our favorite bar theme, and Lei Low is our go-to Tiki bar in Houston. Located in a nondescript shopping center in the Heights, it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. Once inside, escape to your favorite beachy destination while sipping on a frozen tropical concoction, sit back in a bamboo chair, and enjoy the people watching.

Ice houses are a popular concept in the South. In case you’re not familiar, an ice house is an open air bar that often only serves beer and wine. Kirby Ice House is a new, youthful version of the old school ice house, like West Alabama that we mentioned earlier. We love the large backyard space with funky patio furniture and food trucks for afternoon munching. You can bring your dog, but not the kiddos. You have to be 23 or older to be admitted!

Next door to and owned by the folks from Paulie’s (a local Italian cafe with famous shortbread cookies), Camerata is where to go when you want a curated menu of rare wines in a cozy space. They also serve charcuterie if you are looking to have some bites with your vino. It’s perfect for date night or girls’ night out. *Note: they also carry beer and cider.

This cozy wine bar is the perfect spot to grab a glass of wine and share a cheese plate. Hosting a party? You'll want to stop by and pick up wine and cheese from their rotating selection that highlights small producers.

The 160-acre Buffalo Bayou Park recently underwent extensive renovations, and the winding trails along the bayou are beautiful. It feels similar to the trails along Austin’s Lady Bird Lake. On not-so-hot days, this urban green space perfect for a bike ride, walk with a friend, or even for a kayak trip down the bayou.

The “Cistern” at Buffalo Bayou park was Houston’s first underground drinking-water reservoir built in 1927. It is no longer a functioning reservoir, but it has been turned into an amazing historic art piece that you can tour underground. There are history, drawing, and photography tours that can be booked in advance. Admission is free on Thursdays!

The Menil Collection is arguably the gem of Houston, and one of the most significant art institutions in the world. Located in Montrose, The Menil Collection campus includes the main building, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, which holds an extensive collection of paintings, objects, photographs, etc. from the de Menil family’s personal collection. The campus is also home to a dedicated Cy Twombly gallery (breathtaking!), the Byzantine Fresco Chapel, and Dan Flavin installation. The Rothko Chapel, operated independently from the Menil, is also within walking distance and is truly a cultural masterpiece. Surrounded by beautiful “Menil grey” bungalow homes, the restaurant Bistro Menil is the perfect place to enjoy lunch or drinks while in the area. This is a must when visiting Houston!

This is the perfect museum to visit as a family and spend hours getting lost in the winding exhibition rooms. From the butterfly center and planetarium, to the wildlife and prehistoric exhibitions, this museum is very interactive and keeps you (and your little ones) entertained all afternoon. The rotating exhibitions are fantastic as well; we are eager to check out the gladiator one that is currently showing! Knox loves watching the videos in the Planetarium; he literally believes that we fly into space! (And we let him think that!) He also asks us weekly to go visit the dinosaurs!

Visiting the Houston Zoo in Hermann Park is an excellent way to spend an afternoon outdoors as a family. The zoo is quite large - 55 acres - so wear comfy shoes and bring a hat for wandering around. Make sure to check the schedule in advance so that you can make the most of their offered activities, like feeding the giraffes! If you have littles, there is a train that runs from the Zoo entrance and makes a loop around the area. It’s always a must do with the boys!

Located in Downtown Houston, Discovery Green is a 12 acre park that offers weekly activities like yoga, concerts, movies in the park, food trucks and ice skating during the winter months. At the park there is a fast-casual restaurant called The Lake House, as well as an upscale restaurant called The Grove that specializes in modern Texas cuisine. Be sure to check out Discovery Green’s calendar for a list of upcoming events.

For an afternoon stroll through beautiful flowers and greenery, head to McGovern Centennial Gardens at Hermann Park. The tranquil Japanese Garden and lush Rose Garden are a couple of ideal places to relax on a bench and enjoy the surroundings. Also, the interactive (and edible!) family garden is a place where kiddos of all ages can learn about growing produce and sustainability. We like to pack a picnic and eat lunch in the garden on our Zoo days.

Houston has a fantastic fine arts scene, and the Houston Ballet is truly world class. We love to get dressed up and head downtown to The Wortham Center for a performance, especially during the holidays to see The Nutcracker.

The Children’s Museum of Houston is literally the best in the country.The variety of activities that they offer appeal to all ages starting at the Tot Spot for the littles. We love spending hot summer days and rainy days here and the best part is that they are learning while they have fun!

Interior designers Paloma Contreras and Devon Liedtke recently opened the most beautiful shop with amazing decor finds — from tabletop and candles to art and furniture. Whether or not you are in the market for splurging on new pieces, it’s definitely worth swinging by just to browse!

The Webster is a luxury multi-brand boutique with its flagship location in the heart of Miami Beach. Since its founding in 2009, The Webster has quickly established itself at the forefront of luxury fashion through the vision and direction of Laure Heriard Dubreuil. The Houston jewel box location outside the Galleria opened in 2016.

FOUND for the Home is a stunning store in River Oaks that you can easily get lost in for hours. From gorgeous furniture to beautiful tabletop pieces and coffee table books, this store is a can't-miss for decor lovers.

At Laurier Blanc gallery on Bissonnet you'll find a treasure trove of antiques, vintage finds, and contemporary decor and fashion accessories. It's hard not to leave with at least one gift for yourself or someone else!

Birch Modern Mercantile is right around the corner from my house and has amazing local finds, including MIRTH caftans. I love having a chic boutique close by - it's actually owned by my neighbors - so that I can pick up last minute gifts or just take a work break to browse!

Parisian trained designer David Peck opened his flagship store in Houston. Pop in to meet the designer himself (he is always there!). David creates custom made to measure creations or shop his ready to wear off the rack.

Prepare for your jaw to drop when you walk in this office space and see all the Hermes, Chanel and Louis Vuitton of your dreams in one location. Don't worry, if you feel like you are entering an office building, you are in the right spot. It is just tight security! ;)

A Bientot is known for its on trend and affordable jewelry and accessories, amazing gifts, and sharp price point ready to wear. Despite the upscale River Oaks address, most items are wallet friendly. The owner and buyer has traveled the world and brings her impeccable taste home to Houston.

Tootsies is a full line specialty store based in Houston, Texas offering ready to wear, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Their new location is the anchor of West End, a development in the heart of River Oaks.

This specialty boutique has the best baby gifts, clothing, accessories, shoes and more! Sizes start at newborns and go up to size 8 in Girls and 6 in Boys.

Owner Bailey McCarthy is passionate about traditional interior design and lifestyle, striving to honor Southern traditions by adding to the conversation with products that put new twists on the classics. She believes sophistication doesn’t have to be stuffy, and good taste should never be boring. We couldn't agree more Bailey!

The inspiration behind Lam Bespoke is that products strike a balance between the essence of historical trends and the spark of timelessness. With every piece they design, they consider “How can we combine comfort and style?” (Because one must not be sacrificed for the other.)

This beautifully curated boutique by Lyndsey Zorich is a one-stop-shop for the best home, clothing, and accessory pieces.

The Post Oak Hotel in Uptown Houston boasts some of the finest accommodations and dining the city has to offer. The dining options at the hotel are not that of your average hotel - from a steakhouse and seafood to a French pastry shop, the Post Oak Hotel is your one-stop-shop for all things fine dining!

With the original Houston location within walking distance of the Museum District and Herman Park, Hotel ZaZa is truly the best of the best when it comes to Houston hotels. The Texas hotel chain just opened up a second Houston location near Memorial City late last year which is similarly decorated with Cuban and African inspired pieces. Both locations offer glamorous, resort-style pools and world-class dining.

Four Seasons Houston has gone through extensive renovations in the past year, and we love the new design and amenities. Bayou & Bottle, the hotel’s lobby restaurant and bar, has been designed with mid century modern decor, and we love the swanky, upscale vibes. It’s the perfect venue to grab a pre or post dinner beverage if you are planning to spend the evening downtown. The new spa & fitness center is one of our favorite wellness destinations in Houston, and we also love grabbing a drink on the pool deck that overlooks downtown.

The Houstonian is a sprawling health club and resort, and we recommend their hotel often because of the fantastic amenities. We love to unwind and feel removed from the busy city at Trellis spa. There is also a state of the art fitness center, resort style pool, tennis courts and restaurant for hotel guests to enjoy.

The JW Marriott Houston is located directly across the street from The Galleria and is surrounded by restaurants and shops. It’s an older hotel, but a good standby for visitors who want to stay in The Galleria area.

Hotel ZaZa is a small chain of Texas boutique hotels. We love the Museum District location of the Houston one, which has wonderful views of the city and Hermann Park. The romantic hotel decor and vibrant art make this hotel ideal for a couples trip. Another location is slated to open in the CityCenter area in 2017!

This five star boutique hotel in Uptown Houston is one of our favorite staycation destinations. The hotel’s decor and facade are designed to reflect old world Italy, with a beautiful courtyard pool and romantic details. Each room has a small kitchen, making the hotel ideal for longer stays.

Located in Houston’s CityCentre, Hotel Sorella is a great option if you are looking to stay in the Energy Corridor area. The rooms are sleek and modern, and the third floor pool is the perfect spot to relax and take in all of the action of the shopping center below.