It's easy to miss tiny Southside Espresso–it's tucked behind other shops in a Montrose plaza–but regulars say this little coffee house is definitely worth seeking out. Southside Espresso offers everything you need to start your day off right. Order a double shot of espresso, either straight up or mixed with a bit of foamy, steamed milk, then grab a chocolate croissant or blueberry muffin for the road.

Southside Espresso is also a good place to linger if you've got the time. Free Wi-Fi makes it easy to catch up on email or get a bit of work done, while the shop's specialty drinks, like the sweet potato latte or cardamom and clove spiked latte, are ideal for slow, leisurely sipping. A variety of house-made syrups complete the shop's flavor possibilities, and a line-up of beers and wines rounds out the evening possibilities at this hotspot.

Southside Espresso
904 Westheimer Road
Houston, TX 77006
(713) 942-9990
www.southsideespresso.com
www.yelp.com/biz/southside-espresso-houston

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/olfiika

Any old-school music lover will tell you that vinyl is the only real way to listen to your favorite records, and Houston’s Vinal Edge Records is one of the best places in town to pick up records both new and used.

This locally owned, independent record store has served the Houston area since the 1980s, and its extensive inventory spans all genres. Whether you’re into heavy metal, rap, country, or anything in between, you’re sure to find an affordably priced record in the stacks at Vinal Edge. (There’s even a 99-cent record bin filled with hidden treasures!) If you’re looking for a place to talk music with the locals while flipping through hundreds of vintage records, you should certainly plan a visit to Vinal Edge Records.

Vinal Edge Records is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays.

Vinal Edge Records
239 W 19th St
Houston, TX 77008
(832) 618-1129]
www.vinaledge.com

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr stevecadman

Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack prides itself on its Buffalo Burger. What’s so great about buffalo? For one thing, it’s leaner than beef, which means it’s lower in cholesterol and calories. It’s also higher in protein, is grass fed, and is free of hormones, antibiotics and other additives.

You can have either buffalo or beef in your burger, your choice, they’re both well-regarded by regular diners. They come with the usual add-ons, including cheese, bacon, chili, mushrooms, and salsa. Veggie Burgers, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Hot Dogs, and a BLT are also on the menu. Sides include Baked Potato, Garden Salad, Buffalo Chili, Frito Pie, Jalapeno Potato Salad and Chips. You can also stop by from 2 until 7 on weekdays for Happy Hour specials.

Visit Bubba's website to learn more about this Houston burger spot!

Bubba's Texas Burger Shack
5350 Westheimer Road
Houston, TX 77056
(713) 783-7270
www.bubbastexasburgershack.com
www.yelp.com/biz/bubbas-texas-burger-shack-houston

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Steven Depolo