Each week, our My Top 5 series highlights a Houstonian who is shaping the culture of the city and making an out-sized impact on its character. In turn, each shares their own favorite things to do in Houston when not hard at work. This week, with Dining Out for Life happening on Thursday, April 27, we’re very pleased to feature Antoine Ware, Executive Chef at Harold’s Restaurant, Bar and Terrace, located in the heart of the Heights.
Urban Harvest Farmers Market – I have a passion for local and seasonal ingredients, so it’s no surprise I love spending my Saturday mornings visiting the Urban Harvest Farmers Market off Richmond and Eastside. I enjoy walking around and checking out all the vendors and seasonal selections. Not only do I typically leave with a wide variety of fresh, local fruits, and vegetables, but I also use the time to chat and visit with friends. It’s always a great time.
Houston BBQ Fest – The Houston BBQ Festival is one of my favorite events in Houston. I truly believe Houston has some of the Best BBQ ever, so when you have guys like Greg Gatlin of Gatlin’s BBQ and Patrick Feges of Feges BBQ (just to name a few) all in one place cooking BBQ, it’s unreal how much fun you have. And what’s better than getting stuffed as you walk around sampling the goods all day?
NRG Stadium – I’m from New Orleans, so anytime I have the opportunity to head to NRG to see my Saints take on the Texans it’s always a good time. Tailgating, beers, and football. What else do you need?
Rice Box – When I get a chance to take a break from the restaurant, I usually head over to the Rice Box in the Heights to grab lunch. I live and work in the Heights, so it’s fair to say I’m in the neighborhood 90% of the time. The Rice Box is a great spot for a quick break. I always order the beef and broccoli with brown rice. It’s awesome!
Houston Restaurants – Food is at the center of my life, so I really treasure getting out and enjoying the amazing restaurant scene we are so lucky to have in Houston. Whether I’m visiting a friend’s restaurant or checking out a hidden gem, I love dining around town. I’m a sucker for an awesome patio where I can sit outside and enjoy a nice bottle of wine.
After attending Delgado Culinary School in his hometown of New Orleans, Antoine Ware went on to work his way up in prestigious restaurants such as Royal Sonesta, Chateau Sonesta, Bacco Bistro and Mr. B’s Bistro. Following Hurricane Katrina, Ware relocated to Houston and went to work with Chris Shepherd at Catalan Restaurant, before teaming up with Alli Jarrett in 2013 to take on the role of Executive Chef at Harold’s Restaurant, Bar and Terrace, located in the heart of the Heights. Ware strongly values developing and maintaining relationships with farm vendors, making it possible to use farm-fresh local ingredients in every dish. In addition to leading the culinary team at Harold’s, Ware oversees Harold’s Tap Room located on the first level of the 98-year-old building.