Sofar Houston
By Jessica Klausing
Houston Hobby Airport Poster. Photo by Marq Barnes.
This past weekend, Aries Fire found ourselves on an incredible adventure in Houston. My business partner, Marq, who also runs two podcasts (On The Marq and In My Concert Bag), informed me that our dear friend, Neo Soul artist, Padon Suber had been selected to perform for Sofar Houston! After rejoicing in the good news, we booked our flights and headed west for great music, great food, and even greater company!
Due to a flight delay from the Dallas storms, we arrived about an hour later than originally scheduled but still managed to check in to the hotel, grab a quick dinner, and head out to the Sable Gate Winery for the Sofar Houston event on time.
SABLE GATE WINERY
Sable Gate Winery. Photo credit: Tripadvisor
The Sable Gate Winery is an urban winery in the heart of midtown Houston. It’s a cozy warehouse with huge windows overlooking stunning city views. The owner, Szilvia Konya, was kind and apologetic for the long wait in line. Once I tasted the wine, I understood why the line was long and chaotic! The owners take great pride in the quality of their wines and sangrias.
We tried a glass of the Shortcake, one of their most popular wines on the menu. I prefer the Reds, but this delectable white strawberry wine made me a believer. As cheesy as this is about to sound - I could almost hear Deana Carter’s “Strawberry Wine” playing in my head. It's a sweet Riesling that will have you falling in love with each sip.
SOFAR HOUSTON
Sofar Houston. Photo Credit: Sofar Houston
If you're a music fan, you have to check out a Sofar Sounds event. Sofar Sounds is a global music community connecting artists and fans through live music in over 400 cities worldwide. Each event is hosted at a private residence or business space and features 3-4 artists from different musical genres. It's a phenomenal way to support local businesses and artists. Plus, you might even discover a few new music favorites to add to your collection too!
Krista Gene
Krista Gene. Photo by Jessica Klausing
Singer-songwriter Krista Gene took the stage first. It’s always a pleasure to see an artist who not only has a beautiful voice but also just radiates good vibes. Krista wore a constant smile, her bubbly personality evident as she regaled us with the heartwarming stories behind her songs. She reminded me of Colbie Caillat with her laidback guitar playing and soothing stage presence.
“More Than a Flame” is a testament to Krista’s uncanny ability to create a luscious soundscape that accompanies her relatable lyrics and irresistible vocal delivery.
Padon Suber
Padon Suber. Photo by Jessica Klausing
I knew we were in for a special, intimate show as Padon Suber set up his keyboard. Padon’s music is medicine for the soul. After a rough day, hearing his gorgeous vocals coo delicately over an enticing melody was like a hug from a dear friend. His charming personality is infectious; it’s hard not to smile and sing along with him.
With its heavenly soul sound, “Thursday” is an alluring and romantic single from the album, Love Daze. The song tells the story of Padon’s bandmate as he counts down the days until he’s reunited with his love on Thursday.
Keeton Coffman Band
Keeton Coffman Band. Photo by Jessica Klausing
Keeton and his band closed the night with a stripped-down version of their electrifying rock music. This band creates an adrenaline-pumped sound through mesmerizing guitar riffs, pummeling drums, and a fiery bassline. Keeton had the audience on edge as he gracefully leaped from chair to chair, belting out passionate crescendos without missing a chord, all in the name of rock n’ roll!
“Kathryn” was a stand-out track for its nod to 80’s alternative rock. The track surges with energy, as a slinky guitar riff weaves between a dynamic melody and charismatic vocals. This flawless production makes it an overall enjoyable listening experience.
MCINTYRE’S
McIntyre’s Houston. Photo credit: McIntyre’s
After the show, we headed out to a swanky sports bar called McIntyre’s located in the Heights district. It’s a cool indoor/outdoor hang out complete with TVs showing various sporting events, swings, and games, like cornhole and Jenga for patrons to enjoy!
We ordered the most delicious carne asada street tacos and nachos from the taco truck outside while sipping frozen strozes (frozen strawberry puree and rose wine), chilling out to early 2000s R&B hits blaring from the loudspeakers. Tacos, booze, and good music. I can’t think of a more perfect way to end the night.
COLOR FACTORY
There is no shortage of fun, touristy things to do in Houston, from the NASA Space Center to museums and outdoor recreation.
We visited the Color Factory, an interactive art experience. We had a ball…literally! There are 14 colorful art exhibits to explore, from the moon-shaped ball pit to a whimsical room filled with giant, floating balloons. Our favorite was the silent disco. In this room, you’ll don headphones, playing an eclectic playlist from artists such as Lauryn Hill while bright flashing lights, disco balls, and mirrored floors give the illusion of being inside a nightclub.
The best part about this museum is there are hands-free photo stations in most rooms. You don’t have to be an Instagram influencer to take those stunning, social media-worthy photos here. All digital photos are complimentary with options to purchase prints. Another perk is the free treats and souvenirs throughout the exhibits. Just when you think the fun is over, you’ll exit through the gift shop filled with dazzling surprises for purchase from artists and nonprofits.
Overall, the Color Factory boasts over a dozen immersive installations designed to engage all of your senses, inspiring a child-like wonder. It’s a fun and hands-on interactive experience that’s perfect for all ages. There are three museums (New York, Chicago, and Houston), each with different art installations and experiences.
MO’ BETTER BREWS
Mo’ Better Brews food. Photo by Marq Barnes
The biggest lesson we’ve learned about Houston is there are SO many options for incredible restaurants! The food alone is worth visiting this part of Texas.
Our favorite foodie stop on this trip was Mo’ Better Brews, a vegan restaurant with a dynamic menu. Even if you’re not a vegan, there is something for everyone here! The atmosphere is top-tier, and the staff are some of the most welcoming and friendliest folks I have ever met in the food service industry.
Our waitress recommended the Buffalo BBQ Cauliwings for appetizers, and they did not disappoint! Wing lovers, you have to try these! For our entrees, Marq ordered the Smokehouse Burger, and I had the Lump Crab Gumbo. The Smokehouse Burger tastes like a sweet BBQ burger but with a spicy kick from the fried jalapeños. The Lump Crab Gumbo is a classic gumbo topped with Lion’s Mane mushroom, but it’s those savory cajun spices that had me practically drinking the bowl. As full as we were, we made room for dessert, splitting a Dilla Donut Cream Sandwich. As the name implies - it’s a glazed donut stuffed with vanilla ice cream. A much-welcomed treat for this 90-degree Texas humidity. Special thanks to Marq for quickly snapping our food pictures because we devoured these dishes at record-breaking speed. It was that good. We highly recommend this establishment! 5 stars all around!
Thank you, Mo’ Better Brews. It’s a week later, and I am still thinking about your delectable food.
CONCLUSION - Is Houston worth visiting?
Houston skyline. Photo by Marq Barnes.
Our weekend-long Houston adventure had come to an end, and we returned home with so many happy memories. Houston is an exciting city with no shortage of things to do and eat. There’s an old saying, “Everything is bigger in Texas,” and this is very true for Houston. Houston is a massive city! You’ll want to spend at least a week here for the full experience.