There is a lot to say about the connection between food and politics in the Middle East. From the Fertile Crescent and the beginning of agriculture to, more recently, the bread riots that led to the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011. While I was in Jordan, a contemporary art museum in Amman called Darat al…

With the sheer number of food blogs, cookbooks and Instagram accounts available, sitting down on a Sunday to meal plan for the week can sometimes be overwhelming. I’ve been there. Well, I’m still there every week. What I’ve found helpful, though, is focusing in on a few cuisines – for me, that’s Mediterranean and Asian….

Over the past few months, I’ve significantly increased the number of cookbooks I own, the hours I spend at grocery stores and in the kitchen and the quality of food that I serve. And I’ve learned one thing – I can cook most things better, and for sure cheaper, than restaurants. So instead of going…

In Houston, we’re lucky to have such fantastic and diverse food, including a large number of black-owned restaurants, many of which are historically located in southwest Houston – an area called the Third Ward. Below are some of my favorites ranging from fast food to fine dining, but there are other excellent places out there…

Food is something we all have in common. For some, it’s pure sustenance. For others, it’s associated with Thanksgiving and family gatherings. And for some chefs, it’s the ultimate space for creative expression, such as at Alinea or Eleven Madison Park. Food has been used in art for ages, from Arcimboldo’s portraits in the 1500s made…

Texas BBQ is more than just food – It’s a religion. With Texas Monthly as its Bible, and its Holy Trinity being the trio of brisket, sausage and ribs. BBQ should be an experience. BBQ should consist of a road trip, waiting in line, or a combination of both. If you can walk straight up…

Japan is a foodie paradise. Tokyo has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world (230!), beef from Japanese cattle (wagyu) is coveted in the West’s fanciest restaurants, and a Japanese chemist was the one who first coined the word umami. Japan’s cuisine has even been added to UNESCO’s list of intangible world heritage. After a…

Forget Renn Fest and Thanksgiving – this is the only turkey leg you need. It’s hard to find a place more Houston than Turkey Leg Hut. In between the Third Ward and the Museum District, it’s become an absolute staple in the city, attracting people of all careers, races and ages. Turkey Leg Hut began…

I am a foodie, through and through. When I’m not eating food, I’m thinking about food, reading about food, prepping next week’s menu or planning the next foodie adventure with friends. I often get asked where I find it all, so I’ve collected a list below of some of my favorite books, articles and tv…