Food and Drink
Houston's 10 James Beard Award semifinalists
Illustration: Allie Carl/Axios
Several Houston chefs and restaurants got some major nods from the prestigious James Beard Foundation, which released its semifinalist list Wednesday.
Why it matters: The James Beard awards are considered the Oscars of the food world. Being on the list equates to having made exceptional culinary achievements.
Five options for Dry January in Houston
The Dove's Nest mocktail featured at Bludorn. Photo courtesy of Michael Anthony
If you're taking a break from booze but still want to imbibe, we've got you covered with mocktails from a handful of Houston bars and restaurants.
Why it matters: Nearly 18% of Texans reported excessive drinking in 2021, slightly higher than the national average, according to the latest data from the CDC.
A travel guide to holiday fun in Austin
The Capitol Christmas tree display during Austin's annual holiday stroll. Photo courtesy of Downtown Austin Alliance
Calling all Texans: If you're looking for a weekend getaway with plenty of holiday fun, Austin is ready to welcome you with open arms.
- Just to clarify, don't move here.
Houston restaurants open for Thanksgiving
Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
If you're not a fan of being in the kitchen all day or your meal didn't go as planned, Houston has some restaurants open for Thanksgiving.
Be smart: If you're leaning toward the dine-in options, consider making reservations ASAP as several restaurants are already fully booked.
- Nicole Cobler, author of Axios Austin
Craft beer production rises in Texas after dip in 2020
Texas craft breweries rebounded in 2021, a promising sign after the pandemic crippled the industry.
The state of beer: Of the state's 10 largest breweries, seven increased production in 2021 compared to the previous year, according to an Axios analysis of data from the Brewers Association.
How record heat and inflation impact local breweries
Illustration: Maura Losch/Axios
Texas' unseasonably hot summer, coupled with rising prices, has left some local craft breweries struggling to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels.
Why it matters: Local breweries are still regaining their financial footing after the pandemic shuttered taprooms and halted in-person events with draft beer.
Things to do in Houston, Sept. 9-11
Illustration: Allie Carl/Axios
🛰 Say Cheese! Take a selfie from space as part of the celebration for the 60th anniversary of the JFK Moon Speech.
- The photo from space will be taken at exactly 12:06pm Saturday at Rice Stadium.
6 great places to get tacos in Houston
Birria Quesatacos. Photo: courtesy of TJ Birria ya Mas
There are plenty of places to get tacos in Houston, but who stands out above the rest? Here are six terrific places to grab a taco or two.
1. Dichos Taqueria
Why it stands out: Dichos serves a wide variety of breakfast tacos.
Get a free daily digest of the most important news in your backyard with Axios Houston.