Local celebs surprise Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell with big birthday bash

CultureMap, By Gregg Harrison
Full Article: http://houston.culturemap.com/news/society/05-25-18-local-celebs-surprise-slugger-jeff-bagwell-with-big-birthday-bash/#slide=0

What: Jeff Bagwell’s 50th birthday

Where: Potente

The scoop: Jeff Bagwell has achieved many a milestone as a member of the Houston Astros. But the Hall of Fame power hitter was completley caught by surprise when he recently reached a particular milestone: his 50th birthday. The mighty slugger celebrated his big 5-0 at Potente, Astros owner Jim Crane’s restaurant. Bagwell’s wife, Rachel, surprised the baseball legend with a “Man in Black”-themed party. The boisterous brunch was packed with friends, family, Houston sports legends — and even included a cameo by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.

The Bagwells pulled out all the stops to toast the beloved athlete including a special brunch menu, premiere wines and champagne, and gorgeous décor provided by Darlene’s Flowers. The scene included a spectacular arrangement of red carnations shaped in the number “50” to mark the special day.

Guests packed the Potente bar area with an array of appetizers while enjoying the sounds of DJ Senega and jumping in the custom-designed photo-booth. Friends made their special toasts and were joined by retired newscaster Dave Ward. Many in the group were moved to tears when Bagwell’s daughter, Bryce, read a special tribute from Robert Bagwell, Jeff’s father, who was unable to attend.

The day ended with a spectacular cake presentation. The birthday masterpiece was created by Three Brothers Bakery and was a replica of the Hall of Fame plaque awarded to Bagwell. It read, “Hall of Fame Father, Husband and Friend.” Mayor Turner then presented Bagwell with City of Houston proclamation announcing “Jeff Bagwell Day.”

Who: The many friends and family in attendance included Mary and Tony GracelyCraig and Patti BiggioAustria and Moises AlouLarry DierkerGary PetersenMelissa and Michael Mithoff with daughterMiaDebbie and Rudy Festari with sons Elton and ValentinoLaura and Dave WardTyson and Tena Faust, Brenda and Patrick HicksTena andTyson FaustStephanie and Danny Mushin and the Bagwell childrenLaurenBryceBlakeRaquel, and Maxwell  and many more.

The 27 Best Restaurants to Try in Houston

Food Network, by Megha Tepal
Full Article: https://www.foodnetwork.com/restaurants/photos/best-houston-restaurants?soc=sharetw

The 27 Best Restaurants to Try in Houston

Whether you’re craving barbecue, burgers or beyond, here are the most-delicious finds in Space City.

Savor Space City

Houston is the most-diverse city in the country and nothing reflects that more than its flourishing culinary scene, with visionary chefs and a rapidly growing list of restaurants. Tex-Mex and BBQ have always been great in H-Town, but at any given corner, expect fantastic Japanese, Italian, Oaxacan, even, Eastern European eats, along with Houston’s own Viet-Cajun creations. Here are a few favorite ways to dine out in the Space City.