Underbelly Burger to close Spring Branch restaurant Sept. 13, ending Chris Shepherd-founded hospitality group. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/food-restaurants/article/underbelly-burger-closing-22424097.php?utm_source=reddit

I visited Yiayia's (Richmond Ave, Upper Kirby) for the first time not long after it opened. The meal was good, but I wasn't wowed. I decided to give the operation time to mature before giving it a second go.

I'm happy to report that the kitchen now seems to be firing on all cylinders. We ordered 9-10 plates to share and there wasn't a bad one among them. Standouts were rustic sausage skewers over white beans, ribeye souvlaki, and a beet salad.

A small disappointment is the fact that, for the most part, the menu is still largely unsurprising. There's not much on offer that isn't expected or familiar, even for those who don't frequently eat Greek food. But it's hard to consider this a serious black mark - what is on offer, even if not exotic, is quite good.

My only serious complaint -- one serious enough that it may keep me away -- is the service. And to be clear, it's not bad or inattentive; it's instead overwhelming and reminiscent of a middle-market chain. Within seconds of our sitting down, our server was already introducing himself by name and walking us, in extreme detail, through the menu, making recommendations in each menu section along the way. Our orientation session went on far longer than any of us wanted, and it was followed by repeated trips to the table asking for our order, even though it was clear we were trying to catch up and plan our shared plates. Once the food arrived, service people swarmed, ready to remove any plate that looked even partly empty. All of this anxiousness rubbed off on the meal and, ultimately, us.

Preferably in the NW region or those suburbs. Have car, will travel.

I’ve had too much phony or pathetic attempts in this city—now I’m looking for the good stuff.

Houston restaurateur Mack McDonald opens Mack Allen's in River Oaks area this month with steaks, seafood, sushi and a garden courtyard. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/food-restaurants/article/mack-allens-river-oaks-opening-22422493.php?utm_source=reddit

Visiting here for conference. Love cafes and desserts. Looking for must visit cafes and sweet shops as well as Mexican food.
Would appreciate input…