Chef Thomas Bille of Belly of the Beast takes home Best Chef: Texas for 2025.

A Spring-based restaurant with deep roots in heritage and a mission fueled by passion has earned one of the most prestigious honors in American dining.

Chef Thomas Bille of Belly of the Beast, located in Spring, Texas, has been named Best Chef: Texas at the 2025 James Beard Foundation Awards. He prevailed over top contenders from Dallas, San Antonio, Marfa, and fellow Houston-area finalist Emmanuel Chavez of Tatemó.

This award follows two consecutive semifinalist nods in 2024 and 2025, and a notable listing in the 2024 Michelin Guide, marking a steady rise for both the chef and his restaurant.

“This recognition is a testament to his relentless passion, creativity, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of what we do at Belly of the Beast,” the restaurant shared on Instagram. “We couldn’t be prouder of him and our entire team… A huge thank you to our incredible guests and community for your support—we wouldn’t be here without you!”

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
“A love for food that warms your soul and speaks to our ancestors.”

That phrase from Belly of the Beast’s website captures the spirit that drives Chef Bille’s culinary journey.

A first-generation Mexican-American, Bille grew up surrounded by flavor, his father a professional chef and his mother a gifted home cook. Raised in a diverse neighborhood, he developed his palate early, later honing his skills in renowned Los Angeles kitchens before returning to Texas to pursue his dream.

In 2020, he opened Belly of the Beast in Spring. After two successful years and a brief hiatus to pursue other projects, the restaurant reopened, stronger and more focused than ever.

“We welcome you to experience our cuisine, our culture, our creativity, and our hospitality,” the team writes on its website.

𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗮 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗹: 𝗔 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴
Belly of the Beast isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a tribute to Mexican-American heritage, a commitment to community, and a platform for connection.

Together, Chef Bille and co-founder Elizabeth Bille have created a space where every dish tells a story. Their focus: honor tradition, use top-quality ingredients, support local vendors, and offer heartfelt hospitality.

The restaurant also engages deeply with the community, mentoring local students, supporting nonprofits, and showing up for events that promote unity and inclusion.

“Belly of the Beast is more than a restaurant, it’s a reflection of the heart and soul of the people we serve,” their website states.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗻’𝘀 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗲
The James Beard Foundation Awards are often called the "Oscars of food." Bille’s win not only celebrates his achievement, it brings the Best Chef: Texas title home to the Houston area once again.

𝗦𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗳𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱:
● CasaEma HTX (The Heights) – Best New Restaurant nominee
● Tatemó (Northwest Houston) – Best Chef: Texas nominee
● March (Montrose) – Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages nominee
● Toni Tipton-Martin – Lifetime Achievement Award (Houston native)
● Tristan Epps – Top Chef winner and James Beard Awards presenter

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁
Located in Spring, Belly of the Beast is now a nationally recognized destination. Whether you’ve never been or it’s been a while since your last visit, now may be the perfect time to discover—or rediscover, what the James Beard Foundation calls the best of Texas cuisine.

𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘁
5200 FM 2920 RD Ste 180
Spring, TX 77388


🔗 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://buff.ly/GN4kKgf
🧭 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: https://buff.ly/CAIbpcN

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Sal e Brasa, a distinguished Brazilian steakhouse, has recently opened its doors in Shenandoah, Texas, bringing the authentic flavors of Southern Brazil to the Greater Houston area. With over 30 years of culinary expertise, this family-owned establishment offers a traditional rodízio-style dining experience, where gaucho chefs serve a continuous rotation of expertly grilled meats table-side . ​ Sal e Brasa Steakhouse

🍖 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁
Guests can indulge in a variety of prime meats, including the signature picanha (sirloin cap), succulent lamb chops, and grilled shrimp. These are complemented by an extensive gourmet buffet featuring fresh salads, fine cheeses, hot Brazilian side dishes, and seafood specialties. ​

🎉 𝗔𝘁𝗺𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 & 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀
Designed to accommodate both intimate dinners and large gatherings, Sal e Brasa provides a family-friendly environment with elegant private dining spaces. The restaurant is equipped to host events ranging from weddings and graduations to corporate functions, making it a versatile venue for various occasions. ​

Sal e Brasa's commitment to traditional Brazilian hospitality and culinary excellence offers a unique dining experience in the heart of Texas. Whether you're celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a night out, this steakhouse promises a memorable feast rooted in rich cultural traditions.

𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://buff.ly/mrxvzPi

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty

Kokoro Handroll Bar, a new sushi and handroll restaurant, is set to open on March 10, 2025, at 24 Waterway Avenue, Suite 110, in The Woodlands Town Center. This expansion is led by Duckstache Hospitality partners Chef Daniel Lee, Chef Patrick Pham, and C.J. Short. ​

The restaurant's interior features a minimalist design with natural tones, including a 20-seat horseshoe-shaped sushi bar, additional dining room seating, outdoor tables, and a private room. Guests are greeted by a view of the wine and sake room upon entry, and a private dining room is available for small gatherings. ​

The menu focuses on nigiri, sashimi, crudos, and handrolls, using high-quality ingredients such as bluefin tuna and A5 Wagyu beef from Japan. Vegetarian options like avocado, shiitake, and tofu handrolls are also available. The restaurant offers an extensive drink menu, including sake, beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. ​

Operating hours are Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Reservations can be made through their website or by phone at (832) 585-1264.

Kokoro, meaning "heart" in Japanese, reflects the team's passion and dedication to providing an intimate dining experience.

🔗 Website: https://buff.ly/z1tPO0g

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

📅 Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 2 to 6 p.m.
📌 Town Green Park (2099 Lake Robbins Drive; The Woodlands, Texas 77380)
📢 No rain date or refund for cancellation due to weather.

The registration fee helps cover essential event production costs, including sound, entertainment, supplies, and staffing, most of which remain even if the event is canceled. The Spicy Tails Arts Sale is a rain-or-shine event, with cancellations considered only after all possible alternatives have been evaluated.

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀:

🏆 People’s Choice – Voted by Spectators
🍽️ Best Crawfish – Judged by Experts
🔥 Best Cajun Dish (Optional) – Judged by Experts
🎨 Best Decorated Tent – Judged by Experts

For more details, visit: https://buff.ly/42Ip2KX

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Taste of the Town culinary showcase on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. Thousands of attendees sampled the best bites from nearly 40 area food and beverage vendors.

Taste of the Town Judges voted on three different categories including: Best Appetizer, Best Entrée and Best Dessert. In addition, attendees were able to choose their favorite vendor through the People’s Choice Award.

𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀:

Best Appetizer: Del Frisco’s Grille
Best Entrée: Black Walnut Café
Best Dessert (tie): Dessert Gallery and Bruster’s Ice Cream
People’s Choice Award: Rise Soufflé

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿’𝘀 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗷𝘂𝗱𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲:

Logan Baker: Team Chef, Houston Astros.
Mark Waits: Restaurant Reviewer/Chef.
Marcus Bridgewater: Author and Creator.
Ann Wolford: President, The Wolford Group.
Ashley Havard: Texas Commercial Sales Manager, Consolidated Communications.

For three decades, Taste of the Town has been a beloved culinary tradition showcasing area cuisine. Guests sampled mouth-watering appetizers, entrées, desserts, pastries, and drinks from more than 40 of the area’s finest restaurants, caterers, bakeries, and beverage companies.

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
The Woodlands Chamber: https://buff.ly/4hfHj6X
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center: https://buff.ly/3EimVU6
Hello Woodlands: https://buff.ly/4gvtbp6

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Le Creuset, the renowned French cookware brand, is opening a modern retail store concept in Conroe, Texas, in February 2025. This location at 14900 Interstate 45 S will feature the largest selection of Le Creuset products under one roof. The store aims to enhance the shopping experience with a contemporary design and an expanded product range.

𝗔 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗛𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘁

Founded in 1925 in Fresnoy-le-Grand, France, Le Creuset is best known for its enameled cast-iron cookware, particularly its Dutch ovens. The company revolutionized the industry with its vibrant, colorful designs, starting with its iconic Flame color. Over the years, Le Creuset has expanded into stainless steel, stoneware, and kitchen accessories, maintaining a reputation for quality, durability, and timeless style.

𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲: https://buff.ly/2QM7C7J

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Montgomery County residents can now enjoy Paris Baguette, a French-inspired bakery café, at its new location at 2501 Research Forest Drive in The Woodlands. This marks the brand’s first Montgomery County store, blending French baking traditions with South Korean influences. With over 200 locations across North America and plans to reach 1,000 by 2030, Paris Baguette continues its rapid expansion.

𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵
The Woodlands location is led by franchisees Jorge Molina and Armando Cordova. Cordova, a seasoned restaurant industry professional, saw the need for a unique bakery café in the area. “There really isn’t a bakery café like Paris Baguette in The Woodlands, and we are excited to introduce everyone to its high-quality menu,” Cordova shared.

Molina added, “We wanted a business that integrates organically into our community, and Paris Baguette was the perfect choice.”

𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀
The café’s menu features cakes, tarts, donuts, savory items like Quiche Lorraine, breakfast sandwiches, and a variety of coffees. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., it’s a convenient spot for any meal or treat.

𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗲𝘅𝗮𝘀
This location joins others in Katy, Bellaire, and Houston, with a new Pearland store opening soon. Visit Paris Baguette in The Woodlands to experience its unique offerings firsthand.

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Paris Bauette: https://buff.ly/4h5wMv1
Conroe Courier: https://buff.ly/4jxsD4q
What Now Houston: https://buff.ly/3E9Z7li

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Meals on Wheels Montgomery County (MOWMC) proudly announces Marion Hubbard as its new Director of Development. Bringing a wealth of expertise in business development, event management, and community engagement, Hubbard is set to play a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission.

In her new position, Hubbard will lead all aspects of fund development, including cultivating donor relationships, spearheading fundraising campaigns, and organizing special events. She will collaborate with MOWMC’s leadership team to expand the organization’s outreach and deepen its impact on the community.

“Marion’s incredible track record in business development and her innate ability to connect with people make her a perfect fit for our team,” shared Carrie Watkins, President and CEO of MOWMC. “Her professionalism and expertise in marketing and event planning are only matched by her genuine compassion for others. From her first day with us, Marion’s commitment to our seniors and her natural rapport with our staff stood out. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Meals on Wheels family.”

Hubbard’s professional background includes nearly a decade managing two premier wedding venues, Big Sky Barn and Iron Manor. There, she refined her skills in client relations, event coordination, and business growth. Transitioning into the nonprofit sector, Hubbard aims to channel her talents into making a lasting difference in Montgomery County.

“From the moment I delivered my first meal with Meals on Wheels, I felt an undeniable sense of purpose,” Hubbard reflected. “This organization radiates love and dedication to serving others, and I’m honored to be a part of it. I’m especially excited about our upcoming event, A Night in Nashville, on April 10, 2025. With the collaboration of our amazing staff, volunteers, and community partners, we’re committed to ensuring our homebound veterans and seniors receive the support they need, from nutritious meals to essential transportation services.”

MOWMC looks forward to a bright future under Hubbard’s leadership as she builds on the organization’s legacy of compassion and service.

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Meals on Wheels: https://mowmc.org/
Hello Woodlands: https://buff.ly/4j9m3kJ
Facebook: https://buff.ly/4gThXM1

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Pho Prime, a sister concept to the popular Crawfish Cafe, is expanding its presence in Greater Houston with three new fast-casual Vietnamese eateries. The first location opened in Shenandoah-The Woodlands in January 2025, with additional openings planned for the Galleria in February and Pearland in March.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Kiet and Julie Duong, who have nearly 15 years of experience in Houston's hospitality scene, Pho Prime offers an interactive dining experience inspired by their Vietnamese roots. The restaurant specializes in build-your-own pho bowls, allowing customers to customize their meals with fresh ingredients and generous portions.

A standout feature of Pho Prime is its house-made broth, prepared fresh daily by boiling beef bones to create a rich, flavorful, and nutrient-dense base for the soup. Menu highlights include the Oxtail Pho, featuring a double serving of oxtail, and the Pho Supreme, which combines oxtail, beef rib, and bone marrow. Vegan options are also available, made with vegan broth, tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and bok choy. For families, mini pho bowls with choices of chicken or meatballs are offered.

Beyond pho, the menu includes dishes like Bun Bo Hue—a beef noodle soup with brisket, beef rib, tendon, Vietnamese ham, and lemongrass shrimp sate—and Bo Kho, a 12-hour braised brisket and tendon stew. Lighter options such as vermicelli bowls and shareable starters like egg rolls and spring rolls are also available. A signature dish, the Pho Dip, offers a creative twist on the French dip sandwich, featuring a baked baguette filled with fatty brisket, bone marrow butter spread, basil, cilantro, onion, spicy aioli, and hoisin drizzle, served with a side of beef broth for dipping.

Each Pho Prime location provides cozy indoor seating, ranging from 2,000 to 2,250 square feet, along with convenient carry-out, delivery options, and catering services. Operating hours for all locations are Monday through Sunday, 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

For more information about Pho Prime and its offerings, visit their official website at http://buff.ly/4aafLx7. You can also follow them on social media at @Pho .Prime.

𝗣𝗵𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗲 - 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗮𝗵-𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗼𝗱𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀
Shenandoah, TX
The first of Pho Prime's new locations, offering build-your-own pho bowls and authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy setting.

𝗣𝗵𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗲 - 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮
Houston, TX
Opening in February 2025, this location will bring Pho Prime's interactive dining experience to the Galleria area.

𝗣𝗵𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗲 - 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱
Pearland, TX
Scheduled to open in March 2025, offering customizable pho options and traditional Vietnamese dishes.

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
QSR: https://buff.ly/4af7ub7
Pho Prime: https://buff.ly/4aafLx7
Woodlands Online: https://buff.ly/3Ptts0u

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty

Get ready, foodies! Market Street is gearing up to welcome LOCAL Public Eatery, a dynamic Canadian-based restaurant set to open in the space formerly occupied by La Madeleine. This new addition promises to infuse the area with a vibrant, community-driven dining experience.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
Elevated Comfort Food: Enjoy a menu filled with upgraded classics crafted with a focus on quality and flavor.
Craft Beverages: Savor local craft beer, an extensive wine list, and expertly mixed cocktails.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Whether you're catching up with friends, watching the game, or enjoying a casual dinner,

LOCAL aims to be the go-to spot.

Known for creating spaces that bring people together, LOCAL Public Eatery emphasizes connection through great food, drinks, and memorable experiences.

Stay tuned for more details about the grand opening, this exciting new venue is sure to become a neighborhood favorite in no time. 🥂✨

𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Local Public Eatery: https://buff.ly/4238WeI
Community Impact: https://buff.ly/4ab2S5L
The Woodlands Guide: https://buff.ly/4h59NQg

#thewoodlandstx #thewoodlandstexas #thewoodlands #conroetx #springtx #montgomerycounty #harriscounty