Spec's Liquor Warehouse: Spec’s is a true destination shopping experience, offering over 40,000 labels of wines, spirits, liqueurs, beers, and finer foods in its 80,000 square foot building. 6 blocks @ 2410 Smith St.

Rail Stop: Ensemble/HCC

T'afia

TO EAT

Tacos a Go Go: Good food and good prices define this casual, yet funky Midtown restaurant. ½ block @ 3704 Main St.

Julia's Bistro: This colorful bistro spices up Midtown with creative Latin fusion cuisine. 1 block @ 3722 Main St.

The Breakfast Klub: Catfish and grits, wings and waffles top a tempting array of breakfast favorites at this cozy comfort food zone. 1 ½ blocks @ 3711 Travis St.

Sparrow Bar + Cookshop: Monica Pope's simple Midtown haven transforms local market fodder into culinary sensations. 1½ blocks @ 3701 Travis St.

Artisans: This chic bistro is serving traditional yet unpretentious French food in a refined setting. Think seared red snapper Marseillaise-style and New York strip loin topped with Béarnaise sauce. 6 blocks @ 3201 Louisiana St.

Piola: This eatery fuses fast-casual and full-service dining in a vibrant, modern space. Raid the menu for one of more than 50 thin-crust pizza variations. 6 blocks @ 3201 Louisiana St.

Brennan's of Houston: Brennan’s Texas Creole-inspired menu is a longtime favorite for lunch, dinner and the popular Creole Jazz Brunch on Sundays. 7 blocks @ 3300 Smith St.

TO DRINK

Double Trouble Caffeine & Cocktails: Whether by yourself or with friends, Double Trouble is a comfortable space to enjoy a morning coffee, relax with an after-work beer, or have an evening cocktail. 1 block @ 3622 Main St.

Shoeshine Charley's Big Top Lounge: Decorated in quaint circus paraphernalia of yore, Big Top is a great place to get a drink before hitting up Continental Club for a show. ½ block @ 3714 Main St.