Celebrate a special occasion at Jasper's, an upscale restaurant offering gourmet upgrades on classic American comfort food. The creation of Executive Chef Kent Rathburn, an Iron Chef America winner and James Beard Award nominee, Jasper's features a sophisticated, yet modern, decor appropriate for special occasions.

Start with the Maytag Blue Cheese Potato Chips or a basket of the homemade bread with roasted garlic-herb butter. Many customers come for the Slow Smoked Baby Back Ribs, which were recognized by Bon Appetit as one of the top three racks in the country. These tender treats are coated with Ancho barbecue sauce and served with a side of Creamy Baked Potato Salad. If barbecue isn't your style, try an Allen Brothers Steak with a side of aged Gouda Mac and Cheese.

Prices reflect the quality and reputation of Chef Rathburn, but for those on a budget, the lunch menu offers a better deal on signature dishes. Or, enjoy happy hour on the patio from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., daily, with $5 wine, beer, cocktails, and small plates. Dinner reservations are recommended.

Jasper's
9595 6 Pines Drive, Suite 900
The Woodlands, TX 77380
(281) 298-6600
www.jaspers-restaurant.com
www.yelp.com/biz/jaspers-gourmet-backyard-cuisine-the-woodlands

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/jspatchwork

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Hummingbird Tea Room and Bakery is a delightful spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle and bask in a serene setting with a cup of tea and a homemade scone. Tea is available either in bulk by the pound, or to drink there by the cup or pot.

Their myriad teas includes Organic Earl Grey, Bombay Chai, Organic Lopsang Souchong, White Lotus, Marrakesh Mint, Orchid Oolong, and Chamomile Citrus. They also have organic brewed coffee and espresso drinks. In addition to yummy Scones, Cookies and Muffins, they have breakfast offerings like Omelets, Stuffed Croissants, Waffles and Sausage Rolls. The lunch menu features a Turkberry Sandwich with roasted turkey, Swiss cheese & cranberry sauce, and a Brie Baguette with brie cheese, tomato, fig preserves, tomato, cucumber & basil.

Hummingbird Tea Room and Bakery is open Monday through Saturday.

Hummingbird Tea Room and Bakery
30420 FM 2978
Spring, TX 77382
(281) 419-8362
www.hummingbirdtearoom.com/wp
www.yelp.com/biz/hummingbird-tea-room-and-bakery-spring

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/naama