Archive for ‘News’

New Year’s Eve Soul Celebration & New Year’s Day Brunch at MKT BAR


Posted in News

Wednesday, December 31, 2014, 9PM – 2AM

On December 31st, we’re ringing in 2015 with a New Year’s Eve Soul Celebration! Partygoers will be greeted with the live funky sounds of The Journey Agents as well as ’60s soul, pop and rock 45s spun by DJ Tempty. Delicious MKT BAR bites will be on hand throughout the night, and at midnight, goers can expect Hill Country Chicken & Waffles and artisan pizza paired with a champagne toast. VIP tables will be available and include champagne bottle service, chocolate-covered strawberries and New Year’s Eve party favors. Ages 18 and up.

COST:
Pre-sale tickets are available for purchase online until December 31st at 6PM.

VIP Table Pricing (purchased online, in advance only, priced per table, doesn’t include general admission)
*2-3 seat table (1 bottle of bubbles, chocolate-covered strawberries and New Year’s Eve party favors): $100
*2-4 seat table (1 bottle of bubbles, chocolate-covered strawberries and New Year’s Eve party favors): $100
*5-8 seat table (2 bottles of bubbles, chocolate-covered strawberries and New Year’s Eve party favors): $200
*9-12 seat table (3 bottles of bubbles, chocolate-covered strawberries and New Year’s Eve party favors): $300

Please note: VIP Table guests must also purchase general admission tickets separately. Tickets for entry are not included in the VIP Table price.

General Admission per person
$45 in advance; $55 at the door

New Year’s Day Brunch
Brunch will be served from 10AM-3PM on January 1st and half-priced Chicken & Waffles will be available all day from 10AM-8PM.

 

 

 

 

 

Meet David Berg


Posted in News

We are proud to introduce newest member of the Phoenicia Downtown Team Master Baker, David Berg!

Chef David is a passionate baker whose background is steeped in Old World Traditions. He weaves those traditions into stylish desserts, pastries and rustic breads that are as beautiful as they are YUMMY!

David’s dedication to Artisan breads is prodigious and he maintains an old world starter that was created by his mother several years ago from a piece of 200-year-old starter from France! This is the base for his amazing breads, rolls and baguettes that we offer at Phoenicia Downtown.

David also has a fine-dining background and spent more than a decade running his own restaurant and bakery in Santa Monica, California before moving to Houston in 2002. In Houston, he taught at a local culinary school and while he enjoyed a diverse career, David truly enjoys teaching and mentoring young baking hopefuls, he has stated, “My goal as a Master Baker is to teach young people and bring this art back” and behind that maxim our employees are flourishing. Chef David’s affection for instruction is evident; he becomes thoughtful as he discusses the different types of bakers; pastry chefs and bread makers and how he educates and motivates them to enhance their skill set.

David has a long history of shopping at Phoenicia and has always enjoyed the gourmet delights we offer as well as the vast variety of International products. He is a fan of the olive bar and loves our amazing assortment of olives, some he has never seen! He is enthusiastic about all the products Phoenicia has available that he can use to create a unique product line that no one else has; from new and tempting cuisine, to delectable pastries and beyond! He has already introduced a delicious sandwich, the Croque-monsieur and Croque-madame and an incredible Imperial doughnut with yummy fillings! Chef David is eager to give customers the opportunity to experience flavors that they aren’t accustomed to and savor the delights that are rooted in his classic European technique and sprinkled with his incredible imagination!

Chef David is excited by the challenges that he faces, this is the first time he has worked in a market of this kind and the variety of customer services Phoenicia offers is daunting. He is impressed by the level of customer service Phoenicia offers and his desire is to match that standard by teaching his front of house staff about all the awe-inspiring products he is creating and motivating them to make sure all of our customers get individual attention.

David and his wife are proud parents (and grandparents) and his dedication to family eclipses his passion for baking, he beams with pride when he talks about his children and their accomplishments and achievements.

When asked what his Phoenicia Favorite food is, he of course has created a specialty item from Phoenicia’s finest products and his amazing talent…a baguette w/ tabouli and hummus!  Keep an eye on our bakery cases for more items he is creating; bagels and some new breakfast items to appeal to the downtown customers who know that breakfast is the most delicious meal of the day!

So come visit Chef David’s amazing bakery but come early, his magical treats have a tendency to disappear!

Houston’s Holiday Headquarters


Posted in Downtown Market, News

Got a Phoodie on your gift list this year? Put down the ugly Christmas sweater. That’s exactly what they don’t want! Indulge the lover of food with a YUMMY! Gift Card or choose from our plethora of gourmet gifts.

HolidaySweat
YUMMY! Gift Card
The perfect stocking stuffer, hostess gift or peace-offering for a meal-gone-wrong, the YUMMY! Gift Card is sure to put a big smile on any Phoodie’s face. Pick one up in any amount!

giftbasket
Gourmet Gift Baskets
Designed with that special person in mind, our gift baskets are fun, festive and filled with favorites to fit any theme you select. For the hospitable hostess, favorite teacher or as a simple thank you, a gift basket of freshly-baked cookie creations or gourmet chocolates is sure to spread holiday cheer.

housewares
Unique Housewares
Our impressive selection of quality cookware will inspire the creative juices of your favorite cook. One-of-a-kind ceramics from Bulgaria, Spain, Poland and beyond are perfect for anyone with a flair for innovative design and timeless functionality.

Wine
Good Cheer
Whether you need to find a fun sparkling for a holiday party, a perfect match of red or white for dinner, or a liqueur or dessert wine to cap the night off, you can find it at Phoenicia. For those who prefer hops to grapes, our coolers are filled with a healthy selection of brews that come from Texas to anywhere between Brazil, Spain, Russia and Japan.

lamb

Za’atar Dusted Lamb & Sour Cherry Demi-Glace

Succulent lamb chops get a zesty punch with fragrant za’atar seasoning while pairing well with the sweet tartness of sour cherry demi-glace. Try it out here.

ginger

Ginger Crème Brûlée

These rich and creamy gingery custards will make any food-lover sing. Break out the mini blowtorch for this one!

Top YUMMY! Picks

Dry Sour Cherries

Yes, there is such a thing as a sour cherry tree! Although the true origins are unknown, the sour cherry is thought to have originated in Western or Eastern Europe. The tangy fruit is best when cooked or baked. P.S. Don’t forget to try our Zergut brand sour cherry in light syrup–a perfect complement to both sweet and savory dishes.

Za’atar

Wonderfully aromatic, this Middle Eastern spice has its own house blend at Phoenicia. Look for Zohrab’s MidEast the next time you come in. It’s great for seasoning meats and vegetables, dipping with olive oil, and can be baked to produce a tasty herbed bread. Try it sprinkled on pita or toast drizzled with olive oil, too!

Phoenicia Lamb and Butcher Shop Meats

We pride ourselves on using the best meats in our butcher shop, and can guarantee they’re all-natural, hormone and antibiotic-free. Keep in mind that our butchers can prepare most any cut for you, so special orders are welcome!

Crystallized Ginger

Find crystallized ginger, saffron, vanilla and beyond when you wander into our extensive spice and baking goods sections. We promise sky-high value at down-to-earth prices!

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Citrus and Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
For a delicious twist on a traditional favorite, try this recipe for a moist, melt-in-your-mouth turkey that never fails to impress.

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Duchesse Pressed Cookies
If you’ve been searching for an easy and versatile cookie to add to your holiday baking this year, this is it!

Top YUMMY! Picks

Phoenicia Turkey
Phoenicia prides itself on stocking all-natural, hormone and antibiotic-free halal turkeys that don’t contain animal byproducts.

Specialty Herbs and Spices
Just consider Phoenicia spice world! Come and explore our holiday budget-friendly extensive herb and spice section for all of your cooking and baking needs

Five Roses Flour
For the best baking results, our chef recommends Five Roses Flour. Find it stocked in the baking section.

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Baked Show Goat Brie Stuffed with Fig Jam & Walnuts

Start your holiday celebrations by delighting guests with this wonderful French appetizer, full of warm buttery goodness paired with crunchy, rich sweetness.

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Pecan Praline Waffles with Peaches

Stuck on what to make the morning of? Let the heavenly scent of vanilla waffles waft through your kitchen and greet sleepy eyes with pure deliciousness. This sumptuous treat will keep bellies satisfied and smiles on faces all day long!

Top YUMMY! Picks

Cortas Fig Jam

This exotic, aromatic spread is made by Cortas, a top-quality manufacturer of Middle Eastern food products based in Lebanon using in a centuries-old tradition. Figs of the Mediterranean and Middle East are considered some of the most flavorful in the world and that shows in this staple Phoenicia product. It is wonderful on our toasted pita and goes magnificently well with brie.

Show Goat Triple Cream Brie

We’re proud to be the first to carry Houston-based Show Goat Creamery‘s debut product, Triple Cream Brie. Sourced from pastoral Fairwoods Farm and top of the line Mill-King cows cream, its downy white exterior and buttery soft interior belies its simplicity of character. Clean and tangy, decadent and creamy, this cheese is the first Triple Cream Brie made in Texas and holds the flavors of this great state within its bloomy rind.

Phoenicia Packed Pecans

Many Phoenicia Phoodies fall in love when they gaze upon on our nuts section and often think we are “nuts” based on the quality offered for the value received. The pecans we carry are no different. Tis’ the season for pecan pie, homemade spiced pecans or candied pecans for winter salad topping!

Piqui-Piqui Bronzini

Piqui-Piqui Bronzini

Try this versatile fish for a holiday break from tradition. Unique recipe ingredients such as Aleppo pepper and the Syrian or Middle Eastern pepper pastes found at Phoenicia develop this dish into big flavors. The presentation is impressive and the taste is likely to become a family fave!

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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chestnuts and Preserved Lemon

Nutty and lemony, the recipe for this side will have you viewing Brussels sprouts in a whole new light.

Top YUMMY! Picks

Bronzini

Also known as Mediterranean sea bass, our bronzini is imported from Greece. Its mild, delicate flavor harmonizes well with a range of global cuisines featuring everything from spicy variations to more subtle flavors. Resembling the texture of red snapper, bronzini is a popular firm, white fish that holds up very well to a variety of cooking methods. Find it fresh at Phoenicia.

Chestnuts (Ponthier brand)

Convenient and high quality, these chestnuts taste like they came straight from the Italian countryside to be cooked by the loving hands of your Italian grandmother (aka Nonna).

Preserved Lemon

Common in Indian and North African cuisine, preserved lemon is a condiment containing whole lemons or sections that are pickled in a brine of water, lemon juice, and salt with  occasional spices included. The pulp of preserved lemon can be used in stews and sauces, but the peel (zest and pith together) is most valued. The flavor is mildly tart but intensely lemony, making dishes especially fragrant and lemon-scented. Phoenicia also carries a dry lemon omani that is used in other parts of the Middle East for the same culinary purpose of achieving a very fragrant dish.

Leprechaun Hard Cider Pairing Dinner


Posted in Events, MKT BAR, News

Join us on Wednesday, November 12 from 7-10PM for a tasty fall evening of artisan-crafted ciders and our chef’s creations.

Pairing Dinner Menu

Featured Ciders (22-ounce bottles)
Dry 9-
Golden 9-
Pomegranate 9-
Winter 10-

Tasting Flight 8-

Food Pairings
-Crab salad with celery leaves and apple gelee 12-
Suggested pairing: Pomegranate

-Artisan pizza with sliced golden potatoes, bacon, brie and roasted garlic 13-
Suggested pairing: Golden

-Duck leg confit with cider poached orange, potato and gorgonzola gratin 17-
Suggested pairing: Winter

-Apple galette tart with dry cider apple sauce and caramel 7-
Suggested pairing: Dry

 

“Fragmented Spaces” Art Exhibition by Gissette Padilla


Posted in Events, MKT BAR, News

Explore the painting, drawing, printmaking techniques and childhood images of artist Gissette Padilla as she constructs multi-layered images that evoke the experience of fragmented spaces. Her work addresses memory as a series of shifting views composed of the real, the distorted, and the perceived elements that make up a single recalled moment. She layers images and patterns to fill in the gaps of what is missing.

All artwork will be available for purchase. Exhibition organized by Megan Badger.

For more information on the artist, visit www.gissettepadilla.weebly.com

WHEN:
Opening Reception: Meet the artist on Wednesday, November 12, 2014, 7-9PM
On View: November 10 – December 13, 2014

COST:
Free admission. Food, drinks and all artwork will be available for purchase.

Complimentary parking is available in the One Park Place garage on a first-come, first-served basis. Enter garage on McKinney.

 

Meet Bria Powers


Posted in News

A native Houstonian who loves the city and its cultural diversity, Bria grew up the eldest of two brothers and two sisters. Most of her family lives in Hawaii, but her appreciation for Houston keeps her here, along with an immense love of food that leads her to call Phoenicia home.

Bria was a born foodie, raised by her mom, a chef. Her adventurous eating began when she was very young, tasting and sampling the many treats her mom made. Some of her favorite delicacies are the exotic pastries her mom creates, but her food adventure doesn’t stop there. On her many travels to Hawaii, she has enjoyed some of her most memorable meals from the food trucks that dot the island, always managing to find poi, a Polynesian staple made from the taro root. She’ll soon travel with her family to Laos and Thailand, where she is excited to try new foods and see elephants up close.

With a deep passion for animals, Bria is currently studying zoology. When she graduates from college, she would like to work in conservation, with a focus on elephants.  She loves the “gentle giants” and becomes all smiles as she discusses her thoughts on coexisting with all things and maintaining the balance of nature for generations of people to enjoy.

When Bria isn’t studying or helping customers have the very best shopping experience, she likes to relax with a good book. She’s an avid reader of many different genres and her favorite books are the Black Dagger Brotherhood series by J.R. Ward. A fan of the band A Perfect Circle, Bria listens to all genres of music with a book in one hand and a cup of tea within arm’s reach.

Tea is another passion for Bria, one she researches to learn about its natural holistic powers. While Phoenicia stocks so many healthy and amazing teas, Bria’s favorite tea is Zhena’s Gypsy Tea Mojito Mint, which she thinks is refreshing and flavorful.

Bria’s passions take her around the world, but she’s in her element in downtown Houston. She enjoys working downtown, loves the people, atmosphere and bookstores. She and her boyfriend often lunch at Phoenicia and explore museums, Discovery Green and all that downtown has to offer.

When asked about her favorite food at Phoenicia, there’s no hesitation. “Croissants!” Bria thinks our buttery, flaky pastries are perfect and she enjoys them whenever she can.

Come visit Bria downtown and explore everything that makes our city, our store and our employees unique.

Featured Wine Region: Spanish Gems


Posted in News

For deep, rich red wines, explore the Priorat region of Spain. Here, Grenache and Carignan top the production charts, resulting in beauties that perfectly pair with fall steaks and stews. White lovers savor the Rias Baixas region’s Albariño varietals, and we especially love the story behind the Santiago Ruiz label. Read more about our Spanish faves and come find them at Phoenicia.

Priorat Region

This region is known for its deep, rich red wines. Priorat is one of only two wine regions in Spain to qualify as a Denomination of Origin (DO), the highest qualification level for a wine region according to Spanish wine regulations, alongside the more well-known Rioja. Grenache and Carignan are the top two red grapes in terms of production in the region, and are typically both blended with other grapes to produce Priorat’s powerhouse reds.

Our favorite, Rotllan Torra, is a blend of 35% Grenache, 35% Carignan and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. Pair it with a beautiful rib-eye steak or hearty beef stew this fall.

Rias Baixas Region

Located near the Atlantic Ocean in the northwestern part of Spain, over 90% of the wines produced in this region are white, predominantly using the Albariño grape varietal. Blends with heavy concentrations of this grape represent Spain’s standard of white wine across the country.

Winemaker Santiago Ruiz is referred to as “the father of Albarino” as he claims to be the first to harvest it decades ago. His 2013 version is a lively white that offers lots of juicy pear and citrus fruit with a soothing mineral finish. We especially love the story of the label as it’s the exact drawing that Ruiz’ daughter had scribbled to direct guests to the winery for her wedding reception. Papa decided to use it as a memorable wine label.

Fall-Friendly Whites to Sip & Savor


Posted in News

Summer vacation time may be over, but the opportunity to travel the world and sample unique wines is a year-round luxury at Phoenicia! Before Phoodies naturally turn to drink more reds in the late fall and winter weather, we decided to highlight a few unique whites to pair with fall soups, salads and snacks made with fresh seasonal ingredients we all love.

The Wolftrap White – South Africa
Plum, apple and fresh green almond flavor come out clearly in this beautiful blend of grapes commonly used by South African vintners (Viognier/Chenin Blanc/Grenache Blanc Blend). Screams “pair me” with a seasonal salad topped with toasted pumpkin seeds or delicious Italian-style fried zucchini slices.

Becker Family Pinot Blanc – Germany
Crisp, clean and refreshing with melon and stone fruit taste, finished nicely with marvelous minerals. Arugula, pomegranate and fresh goat cheese salad sounds like a nice partner for this gem.

Aegerter Chardonnay – France
Rich wine with pear notes rounded out with white peach. Classic-styled white Burgundy that is a joy to drink year round. Try a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup with this French trademark.

Meet Michael Bateman


Posted in News

A native Houstonian, Michael Bateman traveled the world only to return to his favorite spot: Phoenicia! He’s lived in many different places, and as the son of a military family, Michael became immersed in distinctive cultures and customs early in life. His great appreciation for diversity and unique background make him an important part of the Phoenicia management team.

Graduating from high school at the tender age of 16, Michael attended the University of Mississippi and the University of Houston, where he studied history. With deep roots in the military, he felt a calling to serve his country and joined the Air Force. Michael was stationed in South Korea, the Philippines, Europe and several locations in the U.S.

After completing his duty with the Air Force, he returned to Houston and promptly joined the Army. In both military branches, Michael served in the military police, where his aim and purpose was to protect and serve. The Army sent him back to Europe, then returned him stateside where he married his long-time love and began his family. Michael beams with pride as he talks about his children, who are currently carrying on the family’s military tradition. His son, Robert, currently serves in the Coast Guard in Virginia Beach and his daughter, Christine, is at the Air Force Academy in Officer Candidate School.

When his wife enlisted in the military, Michael supported her and moved to Wiesbaden, Germany, a favorite spot because he loves bratwurst and brötchen! Michael eventually came back to the States and worked for the school district at Fort Riley as a computer proctor. A return to Houston soon followed where Michael worked as a sales manager for a tool company. Houston was experiencing an economic downturn and the tool company was facing impending layoffs. Anxious for a fresh start, Michael took the advice of a coworker who suggested he contact a long-time friend who was a manager at Phoenicia. The simple referral led to his perfect job and Michael has now been with Phoenicia for five years.

Michael becomes very thoughtful when he talks about his love for his job. The employees, office team and Tcholakian family mean a lot to him. He is especially appreciative of the family and their generosity, their loyalty to employees, and the caring environment they provide for their employees. His passion for Phoenicia is evident when he talks about his job. “When I go home, I feel good about the job I do. All of it!”

When asked to reveal his favorite food at Phoenicia, he laughs and says, “Everything!” He’s established himself as a bona fide taster, earning the nickname “Honey Badger” because he will eat anything. Lucky for Michael everything at Phoenicia is YUMMY!

“Love Street, the Houston Scene, Market and First Ward Editions” Artist Exhibition


Posted in Downtown Market, Events, MKT BAR, News

An ode to Houston’s creative community, “Love Street, the Houston Scene, Market and First Ward Editions,” is a one-of-a-kind, collaborative exhibit located in Phoenicia Specialty Foods Downtown and MKT BAR from September 6-November 2, 2014.

ABOUT THE ART EXHIBITION:

Named for Love Street Light Circus Feel Good Machine, the classic ’60s psychedelic bar on lower Westheimer where Houston’s creative community flourished at the time, the “Love Street” exhibit will feature more than 20 artists. Through contemporary art, multimedia, photography, installations, sculpture and mixed media, the exhibiting artists will share their profound love of and appreciation for Houston’s support of its local arts community.

Local artists including Patrick Renner, creator of the Funnel Tunnel on Montrose Boulevard, and David Graeve, creator of the balloon installation at Discovery Green, will fill both floors of  Phoenicia Specialty Foods and in MKT BAR. A series of artist receptions and events with many of the artists in attendance will take place throughout the course of the exhibition as well. All artwork will be available for purchase.

The exhibition coincides with the Texas Contemporary Art Fair at the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Houston Fine Art Fair at NRG Center. The collaborative exhibit will embody Bayou City soul by focusing on works by Houston-based artists and artists that once called Houston home. Exhibition curated by Michael Macedo Meazell.

Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LoveStreetHouston

Featured Artists: David A. Brown, Suzan Budge, Michael De La Cerda, Craig Dunn Clark, Kristen Cliburn, Gallery Homeland, GONZO247, David Graeve, Kimberly Gremillion, Merideth Jack, Kelli Scott Kelley, Laura Lark, Felipe Lopez, Lester Marks, MOD Museum of Drawing, Michael Macedo Meazell, Nate Nash, Mark Ponder, Patrick Renner, Alfredo Scaroina, and Stephanie Villareal

Host Committee: Catherine Anspon, Kirk Baxter & Dave Waller, Adam Brackman, Norman Ewart, Whitney Garibay & Chance O’Dell, Lindsey George & Will Walsh, Terrence Hobdy, Henry Hunt & Donna Tennant, Dave Hess & Lori Laria de Hess, Lester & Penelope Marks, Michael Macedo Meazell, Michel Muylle, Nyala & Brian Nolan, James Phelan, Michelle Sacks, Irfan Shaikh & Amanda Beven Shaikh, Ann-Marie Tcholakian, Haig Tcholakian, Donnie Vendivel and Dr. Jennifer McQuade, Miri Wilkins & Marshal Welch, White Space, and Josh & Tina Zulu

Sponsors (as of 8/22/14): White Space Houston, Gallery Homeland, The MOD, Glazer’s, Pioneer Wine Company, New Pencil Design, Phoenicia Specialty Foods, Saint Arnold Brewing Company and MKT BAR

WHEN:

EXTENDED! On View: Saturday, September 6 – Sunday, November 2, 2014

Market Edition Opening Reception:Saturday, September 6th, 12-6PM at Phoenicia Specialty Foods Downtown, 1001 Austin Street, Houston 77010

First Ward Edition Opening Reception: Saturday, September 13th, 12-6PM at Michael Macedo Meazell Art, 1517 Shearn Street, Houston 77007

Love Street Beginning Again Reception: Saturday, September 20th, 12-6PM at Phoenicia Specialty Foods Downtown, 1001 Austin Street, Houston 77010

Phoenicia Speciality Foods Hours
Monday – Friday: 7AM – 9PM
Saturday – Sunday: 9AM – 8PM

MKT BAR Hours
Monday-Wednesday: 7AM-10PM
Thursday-Friday: 7AM-2AM
Saturday: 9AM-2AM
Sunday: 9AM-8PM

COST:
The exhibition and receptions are free events.

WHERE:
Phoenicia Specialty Foods Downtown and MKT BAR
1001 Austin Street (across the street from Discovery Green)
Houston, Texas 77010

Complimentary parking is available in the One Park Place garage on a first-come, first-served basis. Enter garage on McKinney.