FIT members aren't scrambling to get in and out of the gym. Unlike the crowded, uncomfortable atmosphere you'll find at most cookie-cutter gyms, FIT cultivates an ambiance that makes guests want to stay a while.

Perhaps it's the free Wi-Fi offered in a comfortable lounge. Or maybe members stick around for the steam rooms and saunas where they can unwind after a workout. Of course, it could also be the FIT cafe, where desktop computers are open for checking e-mail, low-fat meals and smoothies are served, and fitness apparel and supplements are sold.

No matter the reason, exercisers often seem to stick around around working out on FIT's state-of-the art cardio and strength equipment. That is, if they decide not to attend one of the popular Group X fitness classes. From Pilates and "Hard CORE" classes to cycling and INSANITY sessions, the group workouts get attendees sweating alongside friends.

FIT
1532 W. Gray Street
Houston, TX 77019
(713) 782-9348
www.fithouston.com
www.yelp.com/biz/fit-athletic-club-houston

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/tabor-roeder

If you’re looking for a family-owned eatery serving authentic Mexican cuisine, you’ll find it at Irma’s. If you come for lunch or dinner, Irma’s offers housemade guacamole and crispy chips to start the meal, and the popular strawberry lemonade is truly a can’t-miss menu item. Entrees like shrimp and spinach enchiladas and tender carne asada will leave you feeling full, while the sweet sopapillas make the perfect dessert to finish off your meal. For early risers, Irma’s even offers a traditional Mexican breakfast that consists of huevos rancheros and other favorites.

This local favorite is furnished with casual wooden tables and colorful Mexican decorations throughout, and it even has a full bar with flatscreen televisions for anyone who wants to stop by to watch the big game. There is also a plant-filled outdoor patio, perfect for warm evenings.

Irma’s
22 N Chenevert St
Houston, TX 77002
(713) 222-0767
www.irmashouston.com

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr kennejima

The Last Concert Cafe is a popular Mexican restaurant located right in central Houston inside of a nondescript stucco building with a mysterious red door. Although there is no sign and the front door always remains locked, this well-kept secret is among the most popular restaurants in the area for Mexican food lovers. The menu includes classic Tex-Mex favorite like loaded nachos, various styles of tacos, and black bean tostadas, and the wide selection of Mexican beers may appeal to every beer aficionado.

There is live music almost every night of the week inside of the dim, mural-covered dining room, which creates a lively atmosphere and the feeling of an underground jazz club. On the weekends, Last Concert Cafe hosts one of the most unique brunches in town, complete with hearty Mexican fare dishes, breakfast cocktails and, of course, live music all day long.

Last Concert Cafe closes between lunch and dinner, so be sure to check the hours before visiting.

Last Concert Cafe
1403 Nance Street
Houston, TX. 77002
(713) 226-8563
www.lastconcert.com
www.yelp.com/biz/last-concert-caf%C3%A9-houston-3

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/jeffreyw