Local Foods fills a unique niche in Houston dining by serving gourmet salads and sandwiches that are prepared with local ingredients and served in a bright, airy space. The walls and counters are lined with white tile, steel prep tables have been put on whimsical blue casters to serve as dining room tables, and brightly colored leather booths make Local Foods a bright and cheerful spot for lunch.

The service is casual and quick: you place your order at the counter and then take a number to your table, where a server brings your food out as soon as it's ready. And the food, well, regulars the sandwiches just might be the best around. Bite into the grilled chicken sandwich piled high with veggies and topped with a creamy sauce and served on a toasted pretzel bun. Or for something really decadent, try the tender, smoky duck confit sandwich with melted Swiss and micro greens.

Local Foods
2424 Dunstan Road
Houston, TX 77005
(713) 521-7800
www.houstonlocalfoods.com
www.yelp.com/biz/local-foods-houston

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/shivery timbers

We wish you and your loved ones all a very happy and safe holiday season.

Shopping for a unique gift or piece of art just became a lot more fun at Space Montrose in Houston. The gallery showcases more than 130 works by local and regional artists and includes handcrafted art, clothing, housewares and jewelry. The airy store is warm and welcoming, encouraging you to stay a while to explore the many facets of the space filled with a variety of special pieces.

From handmade cards, toys, and hand-dipped candles to t-shirts, scarves, and necklaces, the works are one-of-a-kind. Stop by regularly as new artists are always being brought in by the owners, or something you missed might catch your eye. Some of the featured artists include Tim Doyle, Lisa Chow, and Poppy and Fern. The store is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Space Montrose
1706 Westheimer Road
Houston, TX 77098
(832) 649-5743
www.spacemontrose.com
www.yelp.com/biz/space-montrose-houston-2

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/evanblaser