Houstonians look forward to Houston Restaurant Weeks every year and even though the 2020 HRW will look a bit different, the show must go on. Due to COVID, restaurants have had to pivot, like a lot of other local businesses. But that doesn’t mean that the Houston Restaurant Weeks won’t be happening. Starting August 1st- September 30th, 2020 a whole list of Houston restaurants will participate in this annual fundraiser benefitting the Houston Food Bank.
Update:: HRW has been so successful that they have extended it to the end of September!
Since its start in 2003, founded by volunteer Cleverly Stone, Houston Restaurant Weeks has raised more than $9.6 million. Another reason why this year will look different for the Houston Restaurant Weeks, is Cleverly Stone passed away in May after a long battle with cancer. Her daughter, Katie Stone, has stepped up to head this event. Cleverly will forever be missed, as she was not only the founder of this wonderful fundraiser, but a Houston restaurant enthusiast. She founded a restaurant-focused newsletter and talk show, and always exuded passion for this industry. She is greatly missed, but through HRW her legacy lives on.
The Houston Food Bank
The Houston Food Bank is the largest food bank in distribution leading the charge for hunger relief in 18 southeast Texas counties. And if that isn’t enough to get your attention, they feed over 800,000 people annually and distribute over 104,000,000 meals each year. Some of their flagship programs and services include their Teachers Aid program which provides school supplies to teachers in low income schools, and their Kids Café which serves nourishing/kid-friendly meals to children all year round. The Houston Food Bank is open during COVID and accepting volunteers. They are taking extra safety and cleaning precautions. More information is available on their website.
How It Works
Every year, Houston Restaurant Weeks releases its participant list. They continue to add participating restaurants to this list all the way up until August 1st, so be sure and check their site for the list frequently. The participating restaurants will have a set menu you can choose from, generally 2 to 4 courses depending on when you go {$20 brunch / $20 lunch / $35 OR $45 dinner per person}. Due to the effects of Covid-19 on the restaurant industry, this year $1 will be donated from each meal purchased for Houston Restaurant Weeks. This translates to providing 3 meals each time you participate in Houston Restaurant Weeks!Most restaurants are offering curbside/to-go options as well. Call the restaurants directly to verify. This is a great chance to try new restaurants or revisit your favorites.
The Houston restaurant scene has proven it’s resiliency over the years and now it’s our time to dine out with a purpose {safely of course} and show our support for these amazing essential workers! COVID-19 has hit the restaurant industry hard, causing some local spots to close their doors. Like many industries right now, the future is uncertain, though we can be sure they will continue to rally together to support this great city.
Top 10 picks for Houston Restaurant Weeks
- BB’s Tex-Orleans- With multiple location all over Houston, this is a great option, especially with kids!
- Caracol- This Mexican Coastal Kitchen has the freshest seafood and focuses on really fresh and regional ingredients. Their Dinner menu for HRW also has an optional wine pairing. Yes, please.
- Carrabba’s The Original and Voss– Both original locations are participating and it’s always my top choice for yummy and hearty Italian. A Houston icon, the original locations can’t be beat.
- Common Bond Bakery and Cafe’- I can’t stress enough how yummy this place is. They have lots of gluten-free options, and have multiple locations to boot.
- Hugo’s- This authentic Mexican restaurant in the heart of Montrose is amazing not only for their chef driven menu, but their drink selection is top notch. They are also offering an optional wine pairing for the HRW menu.
- Peli Peli South African Kitchen- Participating in the Lunch and Dinner HRW menus, their exciting and always flavorful food is sure to please. *Galleria and The Woodlands locations
- Perry’s Steakhouse and Grille- Have you tried Perry’s Famous Pork Chop? Well, here’s your chance! With all 7 Houston locations participating, you are sure to find one near your neck of the woods.
- Tobiou Sushi Bar- This place is a hidden gem in Katy, with amazingly fresh sushi.
- Weights and Measures- This casual neighborhood restaurant and bakeshop has a ton of great vegan options for the whole family.
- Xochi- Another one of Hugo Ortega’s restaurants, you will not be disappointed with the unique and well executed Oaxacan cuisine.
The all inclusive list can be found on the Houston Restaurant Weeks website.
What restaurants are on your list to visit during Houston Restaurant Weeks?
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