Grab a slice after a concert at the Pavillion at Grimaldi's, a national pizza chain known for its New York style pie (the favorite pizza of former New York City mayor Rudy Guilliani). Casual but charming, Grimaldi's boats checkered table cloths, exposed brick, and a coal-fired brick oven that creates crispy, thin-crust pizza. Choose from three sizes and your choice of red, white, or pesto base. Pies are topped with handmade mozzarella and your choice of meats and veggies. There is a nice variety of toppings, but at $2 to $4 per topping, choose judiciously; they add up quickly.

Add a Mediterranean Salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese for a complete meal. In cooler weather, the outdoor patio makes a delightful spot to share a pie with a friend. Grimaldi's is quite popular, so be prepared for a bit of a wait.

Grimaldi's
20 Waterway Avenue
The Woodlands, TX 77380
(281) 465-3500
http://www.grimaldispizzeria.com
http://www.yelp.com/biz/grimaldis-the-woodlands

Taste the flavors of Louisiana at Schilleci’s New Orleans Kitchen in The Woodlands. Conveniently located near the Market Street shops, it's an ideal spot to stop in for lunch. Diners love the complimentary basket of Cajun potato chips. The menu offers all of the standards of Big Easy cuisine, like chicken and sausage gumbo, etouffe, jambalaya, and po'boys (try one with sloppy roast beef). Just be sure to save room for beignets (New Orleans-style doughnuts) and a French Press coffee. Come by on Wednesday or Thursday for "Wine Lovers Night" and take advantage of $10 off any bottle of wine. Regulars love Schilleci's for its friendly service and cozy space.

9595 Six Pines Drive, Suite 1120
The Woodlands, TX 77380
(281) 419-4242
www.schillecis.com
www.yelp.com/biz/schillecis-new-orleans-kitchen-the-woodlands-2

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday season with all the warmth and splendor this time of year has to offer. Happy Holidays!