Savor the Sizzling Flavors of Houston's Tejano BBQ Extravaganza

Dive into the vibrant culinary landscape of Houston this July, where a mouthwatering array of food and drink events await. From a seafood-fueled Fourth of July celebration to a farm-fresh "Summer Cookout" and the highly anticipated return of the Tex-Mex BBQ Block Party, the city is set to sizzle with a diverse array of flavors and experiences.

Indulge in Houston's Hottest Culinary Happenings

Fireworks and Feasting on the Bay

Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House is set to host a dazzling Independence Day bash, complete with a fire engine display, live music, and a grand finale of fireworks over the bay. Guests can savor fresh Gulf seafood, tropical cocktails, and a festive atmosphere as they celebrate America's birthday in style. Reservations are recommended, and those only attending the fireworks can purchase $5 wristbands.

A Patriotic Feast at Cru

Cru in River Oaks and The Woodlands will honor the Fourth of July with a special celebratory menu. Diners can indulge in a tomato and burrata salad, Allen Brothers bavette steak with garlic mash, grilled veggie kabobs, and a decadent "Big Boom" finisher of local peach and blackberry cobbler. This patriotic feast is priced at $45 per person and will be served from 6 pm to 10 pm.

A Sunnyside Celebration at Hope Farms

Hope Farms in Sunnyside is hosting its First Saturday farmers market, featuring a "Summer Cookout" with fresh farm-to-table produce, artisan goods, gardening lessons, and free cooking classes led by chef Kevin Bryant. Families can enjoy a day of community, education, and delicious seasonal fare.

Savoring Soul Food Favorites

The annual Houston Soul Food Festival at The Zone promises a mouthwatering showcase of soul food favorites from over 30 vendors across the state. Attendees can indulge in smothered pork chops, oxtails, fried fish, candied yams, greens, and more, all while supporting local small businesses.

A Lumpia-Eating Extravaganza

Be More Pacific in the Heights is bringing back its highly anticipated Annual Lumpia Eating Contest, where contestants from local food, beverage, and entertainment industries will compete to see who can devour the most of these delectable Filipino spring rolls. The event promises an afternoon of community spirit and culinary excitement.

Exploring Presidential Palates

Landry's, Inc. has revived its annual Houston Chef Series, this year with a "Presidential State Dinners" theme. Diners can enjoy chef-led multi-course meals at renowned Landry's establishments, including Brenner's on the Bayou, Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse, Grotto Downtown, Willie G's Seafood, and Morton's The Steakhouse.

A Night with the Dinos at HMNS

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is opening its doors after dark for the Mixers & Elixirs event, where guests can explore the museum's exhibits while sipping cocktails, enjoying food truck fare, and dancing the night away.

A Fusion of Flavors at Hamsa

Hamsa chef Yotam Dolev and chef Dominick Lee are collaborating on a cultural "Summer Cookout," blending the flavors of Tel Aviv and New Orleans. The family-style feast will feature dishes like blackened chicken kebabs, lemon harissa Gulf shrimp grits, and challah banana foster bread pudding.

The Tex-Mex BBQ Block Party Returns

Barbecue enthusiasts won't want to miss the 3rd Annual Tex-Mex BBQ Block Party at Saint Arnold Brewing Company. This cult favorite event showcases the growing influence of Tejano and Tex-Mex cooking traditions on Central Texas-style barbecue, with offerings like brisket chimichangas, smoked pork shoulder pozole, and BBQ tacos.

A Bastille Day Celebration at Etoile

Uptown's Etoile Cuisine et Bar is honoring the French National Day with its annual Fête de la Bastille celebration. Diners can indulge in a special four-course menu featuring dishes like roasted nectarine with serrano ham, seared wild striped sea bass, and a decadent lime and rosemary ice cream dessert.

Brews and Exhibits at Brewsology

The Brewsology Beer Fest at the Houston Museum of Natural Science promises a night of craft beer sampling and museum exploration. Attendees can access dozens of local brews and chat with brewery representatives throughout the museum's exhibits.

Elevating the Wine Experience

The Generous Pour at the Capital Grille returns for its 16th year, offering guests a unique wine tasting and educational experience. This year's theme, "Elevations: The Nature of Wine," takes diners on a journey through California's coastal growing regions of Sonoma, Mendocino, and Santa Barbara.