Ted Bowen
Birthplace
Fort Bend County, Texas. I'm a sixth-generation Texan, a direct descendant of the "Old 300" Stephen F. Austin led to Texas from Tennessee.
Occupation
Public Relations & Marketing, Convention & Entertainment
Tex-Mex or BBQ?
Margaritas or beer? Definitely Tex-Mex.
Inner Looper or Outer Looper?
Inner – Washington Avenue.
Houston in one word is:
Surprising. On many levels – not just in size, but that it's also one of the most culturally-rich cities in the nation. Eating is one of my favorite things to do and with more than 8,000 restaurants in the Houston area with culinary choices that represent more than 35 countries to choose from, I'm lovin' it.
Favorite Annual Event?
My favorite of Houston's annual events is the Greek Festival, held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral complex between Montrose and the Museum District. Although I'm not Greek (Czech, German and Italian, actually), it's always on my calendar – and a fun way to experience the culture, music, food and wine of Greece in a unique indoor/outdoor space. And, of course, run into a lot of Greek friends along the way. OPA!
What's a Houston must-see?
Hermann Park is a must-see – it's majestic. The fountains combined with the reflection pool, pedal boats, Miller Outdoor Theatre and Houston Zoo all set the perfect scene for a perfect day.
A must-have?
Well, it's a combination - SmartWater, running shoes, "lip stuff."SmartWater because you get all the hydration without the sugar from sports drinks. Custom-fit running shoes from Luke's Locker: Luke's is the go-to source for avid runners. They'll watch you run, examine your feet and recommend the best shoes for your running style. And with more than 100 miles of hike and bike trails, Houston's a runner's paradise. My favorite "lip stuff" is from Bath Junkie in the River Oaks Shopping Center - right by Luke's! I'm addicted.
What's the one (activity, place or thing) that you haven't experienced, but would like to?
I'd love to participate in the Wednesday night sailboat races on Clear Lake. I've sat outside and enjoyed the seafood and sunsets, but always wanted to take to the sails and give it a go!
What would you say is Houston's best hidden gem? Why?
Last Concert Café is definitely one of Houston's hidden gems. Tucked away in the warehouse district between lofts and movie studios on the cusp of downtown, Last Concert is one of Houston's oldest live-music venues. Absolutely no better place to sip margaritas and chow down on authentic Tex-Mex, while catching a jam session any night of week. And I believe it was one of Houston's original gay-friendly watering holes. Not to mention, a former brothel.
When I'm not spreading the word about what makes Houston such a great city, I'm trying out the newest restaurants around town and giving my own taste test.
Houstonian that you admire most?
The Houstonian I admire most. . . That's hard to say, but I think I'd have to go with Beyonce Knowles, Miss Sasha Fierce. She rocketed H-Town's exploding music scene to the forefront and gave all the single ladies a reason to be proud.
Favorite place to grab a bite?
My favorite place to grab a bite is Niko Niko's Greek & American Cafe. Casual, quick and the food is fresh and delicious. Awesome grape leaves. And great chicken and lemon soup if I'm feeling under the weather.
Best brunch in town?
Shade in the Heights has the best brunch in town. I love the neighborly ambience and the food is always unique and tasty. Their curried tuna salad sandwich with grapes is to-die-for. So is their homemade challah French toast and whiskey pecan scones.
Favorite Happy Hour?
My favorite happy hour is at The Grove. Nothing starts the evening better than an ice-cold ginger margarita, Buddha Bar-esque lounge music and soaring floor-to-ceiling views of the downtown skyline and Discovery Green park.
