Brandani's in Missouri City

Brandani's Restaurant and Wine Bar in Missouri City opened over a year and a half ago but I just recently discovered it. I live in Sugar Land, a suburb of Houston, and it is easier for me to go into town rather than head deeper into the suburbs on most evenings.

My husband and I have now eaten at this location four times in a short time period, most recently last night. Chef Ron Brandani and his wife Claire have created one of the best dining experiences in the area. Though the appearance of the restaurant has not been updated since the prior tenant, the American classics and Italian-inspired menu is a change.

The dishes we have tried have all been fresh and flavorful. We have thoroughly enjoyed everything we have tasted. A few favorites include the crabmeat stuffed zucchini blossom appetizer special when it is available and the Shrimp Marco when it is not. All of the pasta is delicious and freshly-made; we have tried all four options now and have not been disappointed. Fried chicken with mashed potatoes is already a southern favorite of mine, the added bonus of their jalapeño cream gravy served with it, makes it an irresistible choice. We have also enjoyed the filet mignon and some fish specials.

If the delicious food wasn't enough to bring us back, the wine list which is overseen by Claire Brandani encourages us as well. The stereotypical suburban restaurant list of big box names doesn't exist here. True to the wine bar concept, the list evolves and there are fun offerings to be found at reasonable prices. We've enjoyed bottles of Premier Cru Chablis, Rosso di Montalcino and Falanghina along with some good by-the-glass options as well.

I'm sorry that I was late to this party, if you haven't tried it yet, I am recommending that you do. Brandani's Restaurant and Wine Bar is something to seek out on the southwest side of town.

Sculpted in Steel - A Luxury Automobile Showcase from the Art Deco Era

Whether you are visiting the city of Houston or live here full time, if you are a car lover, there is one thing to do this spring that is a must-do. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts Houston to check out the temporary luxury art deco automobile exhibit, Sculpted in Steel . I toured the display recently and was impressed by the array. This collection is a showcase of seventeen cars and motorcycles designed between 1929 -1940. These vehicles are more than art cars or show cars, they are true art deco masterpieces. The museum has great information about the period and designers throughout the exhibit. Go sooner rather than later, they will only be on display until May 30, 2016.

Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows - Santa Monica

Refreshment on the patio of the Lobby Lounge My husband and I stayed at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows with our adult daughter this summer after her graduation from a Masters program at Claremont Graduate University. We wanted to be near the beach but still be able to easily get into Los Angeles to visit some of the tourist attractions. This was our first time to stay at a Fairmont Hotel . I chose the Miramar for its ocean views and its proximity to the Santa Monica Pier and the beach. It has a long history with a Hollywood connection, it has been a destination of the stars for almost a century. After looking over the various room options, I decided that the Palisade King Suite would easily accommodate us. My husband and I shared a private bedroom and our daughter got the fold out couch in the living room. The six story Palisades wing which housed our room is a historic part of the property that was built in 1924. For a more luxe experience, you can also book a pool

Sipping Sonoma in the Springtime

From Galveston Monthly magazine Your guide on how to identify and find Sonoma Valley wines on the Island.

by Sandra Crittenden

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