Episode 134 - Youssef Nafaa of Bella Restaurants Group
Today on the podcast Eric is joined by Matt Harris to discuss some of the latest news from the Houston restaurant and bar scene including the Houston area leading the way for Texas in James Beard Award Semifinalist nominations, the team behind Nancy's Hustle developing a new concept, and Gauchos do Sul opening a new location. In the Restaurants of the Week portion Belly of the Beast, Taqo Mexican Kitchen, and El Topo are featured.
In the Guest of the Week segment, presented by Visit Houston, Eric is joined by Youssef Nafaa of Bella Restaurants Group. Eric and Youssef discuss what got Youssef into wanting to become a professional chef, coming to America, going from Chicago to Houston, what it was like opening a restaurant in downtown Houston back in '99, the major obstacles... well construction Youssef's restaurant ran into (looking at you lightrail), developing Mia Bella, adding Coco's Crepes to the fold, his newest concept ZOA Moroccan Kitchen, vision for ZOA, and much more!
- Houston Bars and Restaurants Lead Texas with 14 James Beard Award Semifinalist Nominations
- Nancy's Hustle Team Bakes Up Plans for New Pizza-Focused Restaurant
- Successful Brazilian Steakhouse Fires Up New Location in Highland Village
- New Moroccan Restaurant Bowls Over Washington Avenue with Exotic Eats