Team Rubicon and Colby Rasmus

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Photography by Kirk Jackson and Dana Braverman

Photography by Kirk Jackson and Dana Braverman

“DISASTERS ARE OUR BUSINESS. VETERANS ARE OUR PASSION.”

Meet Team Rubicon

Houston is no stranger to some great philanthropic groups, but one of the latest ones we learned about (thanks to Houston Astros outfielder COLBY RASMUS) is Team Rubicon.

Team Rubicon is the only nonprofit disaster response organization that repurposes the skills of military veterans, uniting their skills and experiences with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams. The organization is currently coordinating alongside local agencies to respond to the ongoing Houston floods as well as the earthquake in Ecuador, among other issues throughout the world. Recently Team Rubicon served Houston, Harris County, Wharton County and other surrounding communi- ties during Operation Moonshot, which was launched in response to the severe flooding the area experienced this spring. From April 23 – May 15, 150 Team Rubicon volunteers from across the country deployed to Texas to serve those affected by the severe weather. The team in Houston logged more than 10,000 volunteer hours (valued at $285,000), and assisted with damage assessments, debris removal, muck out and chainsaw oper- ations, plus volunteer management. All at no charge. But Houston isn’t the only place Team Rubicon is making a huge impact. Since their founding in 2010, Team Rubicon has deployed over 120 disaster response operations around the world. The organization currently maintains a growing roster of 35,000 volunteer members who are ready to deploy, at any given moment, wherever they are needed. (Follow the ticker on their homepage to see their current operations, which are updated regularly.)

But back to Colby Rasmus. Earlier this year, the outfielder known for his outrageous clubhouse celebrations, launched Hitters for Heroes. For every home run he hits this season, Rasmus is donating one thousand dollars to Team Rubicon. Add that to your list of reasons to cheer on Rasmus to homer.

“These men and women have sacrificed so much in the name of our coun- try, and I am honored to help make a difference in their lives while simul- taneously supporting the community of Houston,” Rasmus told Team Rubicon back in April.

But the sports-tie for Team Rubicon goes beyond Rasmus. Co-founder JAKE WOOD recently shared his story from playing football at Wisconsin, to join- ing the Marines, and then onto founding Team Rubicon, a story that was shared with ESPN last month.

Additionally, the University of Texas Longhorn football team worked side by side with Team Rubicon during the Wimberley recovery operation in 2016, and members of the Oklahoma Thunder visited with Team Rubicon during the response to the Moore, Oklahoma tornado in 2013, Team Rubicon explained. Wood and fellow co-founder WILLIAM MCNULTY founded Team Rubicon as a way to continue to give back and serve when their time in uniform had ended. Team Rubicon promotes veteran reintegration and bridges the gap between military and civilian life, which statistics show is not an easy task.

Rasmus hit a career high of 29 home runs last year, so fingers crossed he continues to make an impact on the field and with Team Rubicon.

To learn more, visit teamrubiconusa.org.

(This article originally ran in the July 2016 print issue of LOCAL Houston Magazine. Click here for the online version.)

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Women’s Health Magazine (online)

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The Blonde Side selected as a Women's Health Magazine Action Hero (TBS photo: Sunshine Winters Photography)

The Blonde Side selected as a Women’s Health Magazine Action Hero (TBS photo: Sunshine Winters Photography)

July 2016: Women’s Health Magazine (online content)

The Blonde Side was selected as a Women’s Health Magazine Action Hero for the fifth straight year (every year since this program first began!).

Take a look at the interview below and click here to see the original online piece of all 61 Action Heroes. (Note: my age is listed incorrectly, but I’ll never tell :) ) 
Every year, the Women’s Health team handpicks a group of fitfluencers we call our Action Heroes. This year’s ladies are active both fitness-wise and in their communities—not to mention, they’re just totally awesome people. We want you to get to know them, too! So scroll on down for a meet and greet with these 61 special women.

Jayme Lamm | The Blonde Side

What she does: Sports + Travel + Fitness Writer
What she wants you to know: I have worked for myself as a writer/blogger/social media influencer for the past six years and it is equally the most exhilarating and difficult thing I’ve ever done. In no particular order, I am proud of my faith, my bikini collection, my ability to recount the most random and useless sports statistics known to man (or woman!), my sarcastic wit and my love for the Lord.
The dish she can whip-up with chef-level skills: Spinach & Ricotta Lasagna (don’t test me without the recipe though!)
Her favorite food to indulge in: DONUTS (and champagne – does champagne count as a food? If not, it should.)
Her mantra: You can’t always do the right thing, but you should always try.
Best work or workout advice received: If you have a spare 10 minutes, that’s enough for a workout.

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Purina Pro Plan BRIGHT MIND

Denali, my 12-year-old Chihuahua

Denali, my 12-year-old Chihuahua

When your beloved pup gets to a certain age, preservation and quality of life truly become top of mind.

Denali, my sweet teacup chihuahua (who weighs 20lbs and most certainly isn’t a teacup like his papers say) is now 12 years old. Seems like just yesterday I got the Miami-born pup who now happily lives in Texas.

I decided to try putting Denali on Purina® Pro Plan® Bright Mind® Adult 7+, which is specifically for dogs over 7 years of age. Pro Plan contains a proprietary blend of brain-supporting nutrients along with enhanced botanical oils that have been shown to promote alertness and mental sharpness in older dogs, with claims of visible results within 30 days.

So…I gave it 30 days (the hardest part was feeding our dogs two separate foods) and noticed a huge difference. For starters, I realized that feeding a two-year-old bulldog the same food as a 12-year-old chihuahua just didn’t make sense. Sure, it was super convenient come dinner time, but one was a puppy and still growing, and the other was slowing down – they had completely different health and dietary needs, just like humans often do.

It took about two weeks for Denali to be happy with his new food – I don’t know if it was adjusting to the taste or the fact that Hank (our bulldog) was getting served a different meal – but once he settled into his food, I noticed he was a lot more alert and much more energetic. We can even say he started being feisty again. It’s nice to see my baby with a little more bounce, and even better, I feel like I’m being a better mom simply by paying close attention to his food.

Like human ingredient labels, the first ingredients listed are the ones in highest concentration, and I love that Bright Mind has high-quality protein, which includes chicken as the first ingredient. Granted, my dog will eat anything, but it needs to be things I can pronounce to ensure he is eating healthy stuff.

I love that this food promotes alertness and mental sharpness but my favorite thing is that it has an omega-3 fatty acid (EPA) and glucosamine that help support joint health and mobility, which is the first thing I notice to start to deteriorate as dogs age. 

What about you? Do you feel like a bad doggy parent if you don’t pay super close attention to their diet? I honestly never thought it was that big of a deal until I noticed this drastic change. My dog is still a major pain in the butt, but I hope this food and closer attention to his care helps him stay around as long as possible!

*This post was part of The Blonde Side’s involvement with being a Women’s Health Magazine Action Hero, but all content above is true and owned by me.*

 

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Guide to Galveston

Photo courtesy of Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark

Photo courtesy of Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark

With historic roots and a renewed energy, Galveston remains a weekend favorite for many Houstonians, less than an hour’s drive south of the city, located on the Gulf of Mexico. Sure, it may not be as exotic or luxurious as Belize or Cabo, but it’s a lot more affordable.

For starters, Galveston is home to 32 miles of beaches open year-round for recreation, so no matter how many times you’ve been, you probably haven’t even seen half of it. And 15 blocks of brand new beaches located on a stretch of the Seawall west of 61st Street, named Babe’s Beach after former Texas Rep. A.R. “Babe” Schwartz, were recently unveiled.

But there’s so much more to do than lounge on the beach.

Play Time

Aside from the obvious “play time” beaches are known for, new attractions are popping up around the island. The latest is the world’s tallest water coaster, aptly named MASSIVE, at Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark. According to the website, “unlike a waterslide, a water coaster is designed to send riders on both downhill and uphill experiences.” Sounds fun to me.

If you’ve got kids (or are trying to relive your youth), another popular attraction along the beachfront is the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park, which stands over the Gulf of Mexico complete with 16 thrill and amusement rides, live entertainment, games, food and even a full-service restaurant.

Moody Gardens is one of those family-friendly attractions everyone has heard of, but there are new dimensions being added to the destination all the time. This family adventure resort is one of the most visited attractions and truly is a piece of paradise. And what kind of paradise would it be without a links-style, par-72 golf course with scenic views of the Bay?

Moody Gardens also features a Discovery Museum, 3-D and 4-D theaters, water park, a ropes course and zip line, historic paddlewheel boat and the famed Moody Gardens Hotel.

The island’s newest green space and a spot that’s quickly becoming Instagram-famous is Hendley Green Park, which provides visitors a place to relax after taking in the shops and various attractions in historic downtown Galveston. The mini-park built by the Galveston Historical Foundation, includes a central lawn for outdoor recreation and seating, perfect for picnicking, thanks to the grove of 30 newly planted oak trees. The area also has accompanying tables and umbrellas, helping keep you (and your picnic) in the shade.

If you’re a beach-lover more interested in water activities, Galveston has definitely stepped up their water adventure games lately. Galveston Helicoptersoffered at Stewart Beach offers five exciting tour options, showcasing different views of the island from the beach to the bay. Thanks to Extreme Water Sportsthe island now offers fly boarding (think futuristic movies water activities), where flyers strap on a jet-pack device and hover up to 35 feet above Offatts Bayou with rides lasting 20-60 minutes.

New to East Beach, Galveston Island Horse & Pony Rides offers horseback riding along the shore for a romantic experience and Galveston Water Adventures on Pier 21 is offering a new sunset cruise, a perfect way to escape responsibilities on land for a evening. Another new adventure is Sea Scout Base Galveston, which offers sailing adventures on Sundays.

If you consider yourself a foodie, check out Harborside Mercantile, a quaint new restaurant brought to you by highly celebrated Houston restaurateurs Ricky Craig and Joshua Martinez. The eatery located in a historic building on The Strand features Southern coastal food including home-style po’boys, muffuletta sandwiches, seafood platters, and more, offering only the freshest local seafood.

Sleepy Time

When it comes to finding a spot to lay your head after a long day at the beach, Galveston has plenty of options, of all price ranges. For a nicer, luxury stay, check out Hotel Galvez and Spa, the only historic beachfront hotel on the Texas Gulf Coast. The pool and swim-up bar make this popular amongst travelers, not to mention the complimentary shuttle and courtesy bikes for guests to explore the island.

The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center is a 32-acre beachfront hotel and spa that is another favorite. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, grab a refreshing cocktail at H20 Ultra Lounge for people watching and fun summer vibes complete with fire pits and a drink menu full of tropical martinis.

The Tremont House is an island boutique-style hotel located in the heart of downtown, with a unique rooftop bar, thrilling guests since 2011. Guests should also take advantage of the Jazz Group Trio du Jour Friday and Saturday nights from 6 – 10, whether you’re a hotel guest or just there for dinner and drinks.

The sprawling island also boasts a number of charming bed and breakfasts and family-friendly houses and condos. You’ll find lodging accommodations fit for you and the entire family (should you choose).

Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take ya

Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama

Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go, TO GALVESTON

This article originally ran in the travel section of Culture Map. 

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RUN10FEED10 Houston 5k – JOIN ME

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Houston's Run10Feed10 is October 15th, 2016

Houston’s Run10Feed10 is October 15th, 2016

I am so pumped (and slightly nervous) to be planning a 5k with Women’s Health Magazine and Runtastic, but I’m ready to meet this task head-on.

The 5k is still in the planning stages, but here’s what I can tell you: I NEED SIGNUPS! Also, I’ve got the date nailed down and I promise it will be a casual FUN RUN. No crazy times – your dogs and your strollers and your friends who hate running are ALL invited.

This is my fifth year being selected as a Women’s Health Action Hero and something I am incredibly proud of. In the five years this program has been around, we have raised 5 million meals for those in need. Please see below and sign-up and join me – the cost is $28 but with code WHLAMM you’ll get a discount!

WHEN: Saturday, October 15th – 8a.

Location: Houston, TBD (I will mapping out the course, so if you have ideas, let me know!)

To Sign-up: Click here and go to Register Now, then scroll down to RUN YOUR OWN. Then select JOIN A TEAM, select RUN YOUR OWN 5K. You’ll start the registration process and then will again select JOIN EXISTING TEAM and search for THE BLONDE SIDE. Finish registration using discount code WHLAMM.

This is a super fun event and an incredible cause – providing meals to those in need right here in Houston.

If you want to make a quick donation (honestly, even $10 goes A LONG WAY), click here to help support that way.

Interested in donating or are you a business who wants to be involved? Email me ASAP: jayme@theblondeside.com.

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Runtastic Interview

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Run10Feed10 blog post on Runtastic

Run10Feed10 blog post on Runtastic

The Blonde Side was recently interviewed for the Runtastic blog. For those who don’t know about Runtastic, it’s a health and fitness community and is an all-around awesome app, that will help keep you on track.

This interview and blog post was part of our involvement with Women’s Health Magazine as an Action Hero.

Read the blog post:

I am lucky to live in a great community like Houston – one that is an active running community and loves giving back to various charities. RUN 10 FEED 10 has been a perfect match. I have been blessed to be a part of this charity run for the past four years, and have seen how it has impacted children and families right in my own neighborhood.

(Click here to read the rest on the Runtastic blog)

To join the Houston Run10Feed10 event, click here to sign up and use code WHLAMM for a discount. The 5k is Saturday, October 15th.

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Guide to Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg Peaches are a must!

Fredericksburg Peaches are a must!

There are so many great places in Texas to stop for a long weekend, an overnight visit, or an extended stay. Too many to count, really. But Fredericksburg is one of those towns that is a must-visit on any Texans list of travels.

Located about 240 miles west of Houston (70 miles north of San Antonio) sits the town most known for hosting great bachelorette parties and romantic weekends, mostly thanks to Wine Road 290. This luscious route has 15 Texas wineries along the famed highway and Fredericksburg alone has 45 wineries, and it is the #2 wine destination in all of America. If #1 is in California, you’ll see that makes Fredericksburg #1 in the entire state.

If you’re thinking your significant other or travel companion isn’t into wine, so this trip is out of question, think again. With places like Hye and unique varieties like a whiskey chardonnay at Six Cellar Shooters, it truly has something for everyone. If you’re still not sold, check out the Texas Hill Country Beer Trail, which is packed with independent breweries (more than 20) offering unique tasting rooms, sample flights and growlers to take home.

A favorite is Fat Ass Ranch Winery, which usually has live music, a taco truck and offers frozen sangria and peach sweet tea (infused with wine, perfect for summertime). If you’re a red wine drinker, check out the Texas Red, which is a blend of six Texas grapes. (If you do a tasting, it’s on both the standard and dry tasting menu, so you won’t miss it.) According to many, the cabernet tastes like steak. The winery has a fun outdoor area with adorable seating and horseshoes to keep you entertained.

Another great winery is Hilmy, which is considered a working farm, where they use all their animals to prevent using pesticides. They give much bigger tasting pours than most other wineries and are extremely informative not only on wine but also with tips on where to hang out while in town. If you’re new to wine, this is an incredibly educational tasting, just ask for Ace.

Since we’re on the topic of adult beverages, you should know that “Sidewalk Consumption” is legal in Fredericksburg (specifically Main Street). Many of the tasting rooms and local spots even offer a “to go” cup, so you can bounce around to different venues and shops and not feel stuck in the same place.

Let Them Do the Driving

If you plan to hit up the wineries further away (which you most definitely should), use caution driving. Majesty Wine Tours is a locally owned and operated service that will take you and your group to a few of the best wineries, get you there safely, provide insight into the area and even give you a snack during your afternoon. It’s the perfect combination of “let’s make new best friends” and having solo time you can spend with your wine tasting buddy. Scout out a few of your favorites, then come back the next day for more.

Back in town, El Milagro is a great place to hang after dinner on Friday (though they do serve food) with live music and great margaritas and wine. It’s outdoor and usually has a cool breeze and is super casual. It gets pretty crowded, so be prepared to share your table.

Bart Crow Band at Luckenbach

Bart Crow Band at Luckenbach

Luckenbach is an absolute must while in the area. Missing this spot would be like traveling all the way to Paris for the first time and not stopping for a quick glance at the Eiffel Tower. It’s unheard of. The Dance Hall/Bar/General Store has live music daily. We got to catch our favorite Texas country star Bart Crow Band. And you never know who’ll show up. (Pro tip: They don’t have Uber in Fredericksburg, but Majesty Tours will get you there and back for $15 per person).

Another can’t miss are the peaches during the summertime. Summer in the Texas Hill Country means peach season with a plethora of bountiful peach orchards anxiously awaiting pickers. You’ll see many popular roadside stands throughout the summer and won’t be able to resist the temptation.

Where to Stay

Fredericksburg is home to more than 900 guesthouses and Bed & Breakfast places. B&B complexes have become popular in the area, some of the most popular include Sugarberry Inn, Hoffman Haus, Splendid Inn, Blacksmith Quarters, and Cotton Gin Village. And the “Sunday House” style cottages are unique to Fredericksburg: Sunday Haus Cottages at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, Metzger Sunday House. The 1894 Private Pullman Palace Car is definitely a unique place to stay!

If you’re looking for something slightly more traditional, check out the Inn on Barons Creek, which is just blocks from Main Street, so you can easily park your car and walk around. The Inn also has a spa, a heated pool and a full breakfast bar, complimentary for guests.

Get Outdoors (Yes, even in the summertime) 

A huge attraction while in the area is Enchanted Rock, a state natural area with breath-taking views — although it’s a tough climb. Go early (take water!), because it gets so full that they often stop allowing people up at a certain time. It’s a short but magnificent trek up the rock’s summit, providing some of the most beautiful views of Texas Hill Country. Take your camera.

Also check out Lyndon B. Johnson’s State Park, offering a variety of activities (hint: you should pack a picnic!). You can fish or wade in the Pedernales River, go on a hike or take a guided tour. Any area of the Pedernales River is a good time and sort of a hidden gem.

A weekend in Fredericksburg will re-ignite the passion you have for all things Texas, guaranteed.

This article originally ran in the travel section of Culture Map. 

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My Marine Experience

Our Houston group attending the Educators Workshop in San Diego

Our Houston group attending the Educators Workshop in San Diego

Last month I had one of the coolest experiences since I started this journey as a sports and travel writer – I was recruited for the Marines!

Well, sort of. They invited me along with a few other members of the media and some top educators from Houston to head to San Diego to experience what the new Marines (the ones recruited) experience upon arrival. What. An. Experience.

For starters, I love San Diego, I love our military and I love getting to know other professions (i.e. teachers). Little known fact: I have always considered (still do) becoming a teacher. More on that at a later date.

This Educators Workshop was a first-hand experience of everything the Marines go through – from the yellow footprints from first arriving, until the very end where these young men (we were only at the men’s facilities) earn the title Marine. And boy do I mean earn.

Probably the coolest experience started at 3am. You’re probably thinking 3am means some kind of party story, but it’s not – it was my wakeup call. And it was TOTALLY worth it. Myself and two other members of the media got to witness the Crucible, which is the culmination of their 3-month bootcamp. This is where Recruits officially become Marines. Here is my YouTube video of the experience, but be warned you’ll need tissues and the video won’t nearly do it justice. If you know any Marines, ask them about this experience. I imagine it’s one of the top moments of their lives.

I grew up in Norfolk, Virginia, right near a Naval Base. I’m not afraid to admit that I grew up with a somewhat negative connotation of the military. I always thought men and women went into the Military if they had no other options. They were complete screw ups, but oh wait, at least one of the Military branches is bound to take you.

I walked away from this experience with a completely renewed view of the Military. I’m sure there are still some jack-offs in the Military, but I never knew how many options existed for those who enlisted. In fact, I met three different people who had MY JOB (writer, social media, public relations) in the Marines. How neat is that? And guess what – guaranteed they make more money that I do and get better benefits! But they deserve it.

I am so thankful for this opportunity. I have truly always respected those in uniform and the families that have loved ones in service, but I now have a much higher respect for the fitness – both physically and mentally – that go into being a Marine. I wish I could rewind 15 years and see if I would be able to succeed in such an environment. I’m one tough cookie, but not completely certain I could handle it.

A big thank you to the Houston Marines for inviting me out for this experience and an even BIGGER THANK YOU to everyone who has ever served our great country. America is a scary place right now and my respect and admiration for those who fight for our freedom is stronger today.

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The Union Kitchen

Pasta AND Seafood on a PIZZA. This is amazing! (photo courtesy: The Union Kitchen FB)

Pasta AND Seafood on a PIZZA. This is amazing! (photo courtesy: The Union Kitchen FB)

One of my favorite new Houston restaurants is The Union Kitchen (note: I’ve only been to the Bellaire location). I’m going to be honest – I didn’t have super high hopes for this place, and I can’t even figure out why. Maybe somewhere in an alternate universe I had a bad meal in a different city with a similar name, but even with tons of foodies telling me how much they loved The Union Kitchen, I just never put it on my list. But I finally did, and I’m so glad.

I have never seen such a huge menu with so many great things. There is not ONE thing on that menu I wouldn’t eat. They literally have a pizza with seafood and pasta on it. The burgers are massive and juicy. If you want to skip fries, opt for the parmesan risotto. The menu never ends and it’s worth every single calorie imaginable.

I truly cannot say enough great things about this place and the staff. It’s super casual (we came sort of straight from the beach), which is weird because the kind of food they serve, you’d think you should be in an evening gown.

I also had the chance a few weeks ago to try their Beer Pairing dinners with Spindletap, a local

The Union Kitchen menu has so much goodness, you can't go wrong. Houston dining at its finest.

The Union Kitchen menu has so much goodness, you can’t go wrong. (Photo courtesy The Union Kitchen FB)

craft brewery that opened up last year. Who would think that so much thought and creativity could go into a BEER dinner, but they proved otherwise. I am a huge fan of wine, but I would take another beer pairing with the great minds behind Spindletap and The Union Kitchen ANY DAY.

When you do stop by The Union Kitchen (at Bellaire), be sure to ask for Rob. He’s so down to earth, knows the menu and so much of Houston like the back of his hand. It’s truly a refreshing experience.

Ok, I’m craving this place again – who wants to meet me there?

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STOKED Tacos & Tequila

Stoked: The best tacos in Houston

Stoked: The best tacos in Houston

Forget Taco Tuesday – this’ll make you crave tacos ery’day (except they’re not open on Mondays!).

I’m pretty sure tacos (and quite likely) tequila run through my veins at any given time. So it’s no surprise that I’m downright obsessed with Stoked Tacos & Tequila, the new hotspot for tacos in Midtown.

This farm to taco, all locally sourced eatery makes you crave the deliciousness. The inside decor is about as cute as you can handle (seriously, I haven’t yet asked if they could shut it down for a photoshoot for yours truly, but I’m planning on it!). It’s got an intensely fun vibe – like the Palm Springs of tacos.

You can’t go wrong with anything you order but you MUST try the Taco de Queso ($6 for two tacos) and everything on the menu is easy to share (and it’s encouraged). Plus, the margaritas! Ok, who wants to go?

If you’re thinking that tacos aren’t really your thing, think again. Owner/Chef Adam P. was a former chef at Eddie V’s for more than five years. Stoked is truly like the fine dining of tacos.

Stoked Tacos & Tequila in Houston

Stoked Tacos & Tequila in Houston

Happy Hour at Stoked every Tuesday thru Friday, 2-7p!

  • $2 OFF All “Share” Plates – Includes House Made Chips & Guacamole | Roasted Red Mole Wings | Queso Fundido | Stoked Tex Mex Queso | Stoked Nachos
  • $2 OFF All Margaritas – Includes House Margarita | Stoked Margarita | Cantarito
  • $1 OFF All Draft Beer
  • $5 Jamo Shots & Epspolon Blanco Shots
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FREELANCE + SPORTS + TRAVEL + FITNESS
COPYRIGHT 2019, THE BLONDE SIDE
CREATED BY JAYME LAMM