Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Houston’s holiday season is in full swing, and locals have no shortage of options when it comes to great dining, festive cocktails, and seasonal entertainment. From new restaurant menus to dazzling light displays across the city, here are some of the top ways to enjoy the weekend.

Where to Eat

Katami serves top-tier sushi in Montrose
Montrose’s culinary scene continues to expand with Katami, chef Manabu Horiuchi’s latest high-end Japanese concept. Guests can expect premium seasonal fish, elegant omakase offerings, and wagyu specialties, along with inventive dishes designed to elevate a night out during the holidays.

Traveler’s Table debuts holiday dinner specials
A new limited-time menu brings festive flair to Traveler’s Table. Highlights include blue crab carbonara, Mediterranean branzino, and a Japanese-style Texas wagyu entrée with purple potato-nori purée and roasted Parmesan oyster mushrooms — all crafted to match the restaurant’s globally inspired theme.

Houston restaurants dish out holiday tamales
Tamale season has arrived, and Houston restaurants are answering the call. Picos continues to offer classics from multiple regions of Mexico, BB’s Tex-Orleans adds Cajun influence, and dozens of additional spots across the city are accepting advance orders by the dozen for holiday gatherings.

Where to Drink

Frosty’s Christmas Bar returns to EaDo
Pop-up holiday bars are taking over Houston once again, and Frosty’s leads the way with a two-story, photo-ready setup featuring Santa’s chair, a sleigh backdrop, and oversized ornaments. Seasonal cocktails include the Naughty & Spice margarita, a Polar Espresso martini, and candy cane shots.

He Cha Lou joins Katy Asian Town
Taiwan-based tea brand He Cha Lou recently opened its first Houston-area location, complete with drive-thru service and specialty teas not commonly found at local boba shops. Popular drinks include magnolia-infused jasmine and buckwheat teas with tea-based jellies — plus traditional milk teas for those seeking something sweeter.

What to Do

The Nutcracker takes the stage at Houston Ballet
Through December 28 | Downtown | $49+
Houston Ballet’s classic performance returns, bringing the iconic holiday story of Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, and the Land of Sweets to audiences of all ages.

A Christmas Carol shines at Alley Theatre
Through December 28 | Downtown | $67+
The theater company continues its annual run of A Christmas Carol, along with the return of its newer holiday comedy The Night Shift Before Christmas, giving families multiple options for seasonal entertainment.

Festive lights illuminate the city
Houston’s holiday displays are spreading cheer across major attractions. Space Center Houston’s Galaxy Lights merges seasonal magic with space-themed installations, while Downtown’s Marriott Marquis showcases Texas Winter Lights on its famous rooftop lazy river. For an outdoor walk-through experience, Memorial Park offers a free display set amid sparkling trails — a scenic way to enjoy cooler temperatures.