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BEST OF CITY
AND CAMPUS LIFE
Offers valid through 6/30/15. TDECU membership required. For full terms/conditions, contact TDECU. Federally insured by NCUA. 1
To receive the $150 bonus, you must
establish a recurring direct deposit in the amount of $100 or more within 60 days of opening your account. The bonus will be paid to your checking account the month
after the direct deposit is established. Bonuses are considered interest and will be reported on IRS Form 1099-INT. 2
APR and benefits are accurate as of 4/1/15 and
are subject to change without notice. Rate includes 0.25% discount for auto pay. To receive $150 bonus, you must refinance your auto from another lender with TDECU
and have/open a new primary checking account with a recurring direct deposit. $150 bonus will be deposited into your checking account once loan has been funded.
6002.9-ChkApr8 7600.10
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800.839.1154
OFFERING DEALS TO ALL
I-COULD-USE-AN-EXTRA-$300
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Open a FREE TDECU personal checking account with a recurring direct
deposit and receive $1501
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help you refinance it with an annual percentage rate as low as 1.99%2
and
give you another $150!
What great ways to start getting your finances in order!
Visit our member center located in
the Student Center!
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6002.9_CORP_UHChecking_Apr8.indd 1 3/30/15 4:40 PM
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can’t meet or beat your qualified rate.Visit TDECU.org/mortgage for complete loan requirements. Offer valid through June 30, 2015 exclusively to the students, faculty/staff and
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OFFERING LOANS TO ALL
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Need more? We can do that for you! TDECU can finance up to 103% on your
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We can even sweeten this deal for you. We’ll give you up to $1,000 off your
closing costs, and if we can’t meet or beat a competitor’s rate on the purchase
or refinance of your home, we’ll give you $250 after closing.
More is always better, so don’t wait!
Contact TDECU Mortgage or stop by our member center located in the
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COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 3
The Best Vue This Side of the Bayou!
Community Amenities
THE VUE 5th floor lounge area with foosball,
basketball shoot game, kitchen and flat screen TVs.
Spacious covered outdoor deck overlooking campus
and views of downtown
THE COURTYARD Outdoor kitchen featuring flat
screen TVs, grilling stations and dining tables,
spacious green spaces
FIT State-of-the-art fitness center with
state-of-the-art tanning beds
WET Resort-style swimming pool with in-water
lounge chairs, water volleyball net and surrounding
Acapulco deck lined with palm trees
Apartment Amenities
LIVE Efficiency, 1, 2, and 4 bedroom apartments -
shared accommodations also available
SLEEP Queen size beds with pillow tops in private
bedrooms
CHILL Spacious, fully furnished living rooms with 50”
flat screen TV, sofa, lounge chair, coffee table and end
table
STUDY Desk and chrome chair
COOK & DINE Full kitchens with dishwasher/disposal,
full refrigerator, microwave, oven/stove
PEACE OF MIND Individual leases – you are only
responsible for your rent and not the rent of your
roommates
CONVENIENCE In-home washer and dryers, walk-in
closets, on-site management and maintenance staff,
covered parking garage
STYLE Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances,
wood-look flooring, track lighting
LEASE AT:
5048 Calhoun Road | Houston, TX 77004
LIVE AT:
4459 N MacGregor Way | Houston, TX 77004
281.942.8519
campusvueapartments.com
Brand New Student Living
COOGS CHOOSE4 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
CANS
now broadcasting in
come visit our brewery just north of downtown
we serve lunch and offer tours and tastings
monday through saturday
BEST
LOCAL
BREW
COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 5
PHOTOGRA-
PHERS
Cara Smith
Justin Tijerina
Jenae Sitzes
Izmail Glosson
Julie Soefer
Emily Chambers
PRODUCTION
Jose Cruz
Alex Tomic
Josue Diaz
COVER DESIGN
Alex Tomic
CLOSING
EDITORS
Cara Smith
Jenae Sitzes
Chris Shelton
ADVERTISING
TEAM
JP Montgomery
Elizabeth Murphy
Jose Salazar
Summer Davis
Yissel Lerma
Tiffany Willie
Coogs Choose is part of a series of new
special sections published every month
by The Cougar. These sections are
intended to give recognition and focus
to certain aspects of student life that
can often be overlooked.
NEWSROOM
713-743-5360
editor@thedailycougar.com
facebook.com/thedailycougar
twitter.com/thedailycougar
ADVERTISING
713-743-5340
csmadvertising@uh.edu
Contact The Cougar
thedailycougar.com
email edition
thedailycougar.com/
subscribe
Follow us on Instagram
instagram.com/
thedailycougar
Follow us on Twitter
@thedailycougar
Like us on Facebook
facebook.com/
thedailycougar
table of contentstable of contents
When it comes to burgers, Houston offers an overwhelming amount of options.
But don't worry; we've narrowed it down for you. Page 30
The Cougar takes you around the globe with food options
that will excite your taste buds. Page 27
With Swisha House past its prime,
a new crop of rappers is grabbing
the wood wheel. Page 20
Learn to become a
better beer snob.
Page 31
FOOD & DRINK
Who's got spirit?
Professor Simon
Bott does. Page 7
CAMPUS LIFE
Case Keenum's
13-1 season still
resonates with the
UH community.
Page 11
CAMPUS LIFE
Drooling yet?
Become the next explorer
The changing
face of Houston
hip hop
ENTERTAINMENT
Improve your
wooing and golf
swing at the same
time. Page 17
COURTESY PHOTO
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
COURTESY PHOTO
COOGS CHOOSE6 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
A
few weeks ago, I was chowing
down on a $3 cheeseburger a
block away from campus. This
burger had my head spining — the fine-
ly-ground, juicy beef crumbled during
each bite, and that perfect, single slice
of American cheese melted and meshed
into the crisp veggies and buttery bun.
The family-owned eatery, Cream
Burger, has been up and running for
54 years. And to this day, the source of
its quirky, noteworthy name remains a
mystery.
“You’d have to ask my parents that —
they’re no longer with us,” said Sandra
Greenwood, 55, who is one of the
restaurant’s co-owners. “But I’d have to
say it’s because we have ice cream and
hamburgers.”
Houston is chock-full of these hidden
gems, ones that are breeding grounds
for cultural crossover and conversa-
tion. For every Cream Burger, there’s
a Kanomwan Thai, one of the Second
Ward’s most authentic Thai offerings.
Then there’s Moontower Inn, Houston’s
only brewpub that also cooks up a
mean venison dog and burgers topped
with fried eggs and jalapenos.
That’s why it was disheartening to see
students voted McDonald’s as the city’s
best hamburger, Starbucks as Houston’s
best coffeeshop and Chipotle as our
best burrito.
Houston is one of the nation's best
cities to eat and be entertained in.
Our city's population fulfills America's
identity as a melting pot better than
any other. Call me crazy, but I'm not
sure every city in the United States has
Cuban bistros that a Vietnamese family
can be seen packing into on a Saturday,
or a hole-in-the-wall soul food kitchen
that young professionals will wait three
hours or more to eat at. That's some-
thing that I believe is unique to Coog
City.
You’ll see The Cougar’s dining,
entertainment and lifestyle favorites
highlighted throughout the issue.
These aren’t places that were voted
on, but they’re ones that members of
The Cougar and the Center for Student
Media think represent Houston and
all of its layered cultures and inspiring
character. We hope you’ll learn to call
these places your favorite Houston
hangs, too.
Oh, and if you find yourself grabbing
a bite at Cream Burger, stay off your
cellphone while you order at the front
counter. Rumor has it the owner won’t
hesitate to slam the screen door shut
on you mid-sentence. I don't think they
do that at McDonald's.
— Cara Smith, editor in chief
Letter from the Editor: Students,
get to know your Houston
EDITOR'S NOTE
VISIT bit.ly/cougarstaffapp TO APPLY
(LOGIN REQUIRED)
JOIN THE NEXT GENERATION
OF STUDENT JOURNALISM.
facebook.com/thedailycougar @thedailycougar @thedailycougar
PHOTO BY IZMAIL GLOSSON
PHOTO BY JUSTIN TIJERINA
Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 7COOGS CHOOSE
CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE
If you're involved on campus, chances are you've encountered one of these members of the community. These
students, faculty and staff were voted the most impactful people at UH.
Movers and shakers
Best Student Leader
Anthony Hidrogo
Though he has only served as Financial
Officer for the Society of Human Resource
Management since December, Anthony
Hidrogo has already made quite an
impression on his team. "I really emphasize
teamwork and a positive attitude where
students can do their best."
2nd Place: Christine Bang
3rd Place: Erica Tat
Best Registered Student Org
Asian Business
Student
Association
President Christine Bang
said the Asian Business
Student Association’s
enthusiasm is what sets
them apart from other student organiza-
tions. “Having such positive energy really
does radiate through to other people.”
2nd Place: Society for Human Resource
Management
3rd Place: Veteran Students for America
Best Best Teaching Assistant
Sameer Thacker
Computer science major Sameer Hai serves
as a biology teaching assistant. Hai said he
enjoys the responsibility of the job, noting
that that the best parts of being a TA are
“being in charge...(and) teaching.”
2nd Place: Angelynn Alvarez
3rd Place: Cesar Pham
Best Academic Adviser
Sandra Gold-Singleton
Political science adviser Sandra Gold-Sin-
gleton served as an assistant to
Undergraduate Director Jerald W. Jackson.
She also contributed to a linguistic and
phonetic analysis study entitled “Effect of
Accent and Dialect on Employability."
2nd Place: Colleen Davies
3rd Place: Jeremy Dafoe
Best UH Staff Member
Custodial & Maintenance Staff
Jeanne Brewster is one of more than 350 custodial and maintenance staff members who were collectively recognized for this cat-
egory because they keep the school clean and running smoothly while going almost unnoticed. “We are composed of people from
all parts of the world. Either through choice, luck or divine providence, we were brought together as a team,” said Ray Mosley, North
Zone and Custodial Program Manager.
2nd Place: Lawren Bradbury
3rd Place: Taylor Wiley
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
COOGS CHOOSE8 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE
Best Resident Assistant
Kayla Fischer
An RA on the fifth floor
of Cougar Village 1,
Fisher said her passion
for helping people is
what motivated her to
apply for the position.
“(My residents) are such a talented group of
students who I know will be successful, so I
would do anything to help them.”
2nd Place: Christian Ohabunwa
3rd Place: Chris Pinto
Best Sorority
Delta Zeta
Delta Zeta dates back to 1902, when six
young woman came together to establish a
sorority on the male-dominated Miami Uni-
versity campus in Oxford, Ohio. Today, Delta
Zeta has more than 15,000 undergraduate
members at any given time and over 165
collegiate chapters throughout the United
States and Canada.
They host the largest philanthropy event on
campus, Gong Show, and over the past year
Delta Zeta was able to donate more than
$10,000 to their causes.
2nd Place: Chi Omega
3rd Place: Phi Sigma Rho
Best Fraternity
Pi Kappa Phi
Pi Kappa Phi is only national fraternity to
establish its own philanthropy, The Ability
Experience, which serves people with
disabilities. Boasting more than 7,000
undergraduate brothers and 160 active
chapters nationwide, Pi Kappa Phi sets high
expectations for its members in terms of
their academic success and campus involve-
ment outside the fraternity, with 80 percent
of its members making over a 3.0 for the
past two years. Pi Kappa Phi has been No. 1
in Greek intramurals on campus for the past
three years and won Best Fraternity in 2010.
2nd Place: Kappa Sigma
3rd Place: Lamda Phi Epsilon
CONGRATULATIONS
TO OUR WINNERS
OF BEST FRATERNITY
AND BEST SORORITY
Excellence in Intellectual
Development
Chi Omega
Delta Gamma
Triangle Fraternity
Excellence in Leadership
Development
Delta Zeta
Excellence in Service and
Citizenship
Delta Gamma
Kappa Delta Chi
Phi Mu
Pi Kappa Phi
Sigma Phi Epsilon
Zeta Phi Beta
Excellence in
Brotherhood/Sisterhood
Chi Omega
Delta Gamma
Zeta Phi Beta
Excellence in Ritual and
Values
Chi Omega
Delta Gamma
Delta Zeta
Phi Mu
Sigma Phi Epsilon
Zeta Tau Alpha
PI KAPPA PHI
AND
DELTA ZETA
PI KAPPA PHI
AND
DELTA ZETA
THE CENTER FOR FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO EXTEND
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RECIPIENTS OF OUR FRATERNAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS!
Best Professor
Simon Bott
Arguably the most spirited person on campus, chemistry professor Simon
Bott is known for getting students involved. He gives extra credit for attend-
ing campus events and wearing red on Fridays. "I do try to make my classes
a more holistic experience, emphasizing life and university issues as well as
chemistry.”
2nd Place: Bekki George
3rd Place: Melahat Almus
COURTESY PHOTO
COOGS CHOOSE
SAY YES TO GETTING INVOLVED...
SAY YES TO GETTING SUPPORT...
SAY YES TO SUCCESS
SAY YES TO STAYING HEALTHY...
UH_DSAESuh.edu/dsaes
SAY YES TO SUCCESS
SAY YES TO LIVING ON CAMPUS...
UH_DSAESuh.edu/dsaes
What does #UHSuccess look like to you?
Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 9
COOGS CHOOSE10 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
With computer labs to
connect online and
private group rooms,
UH's main library has
everything a student
could ask for. “There is basically something
for everybody here,” student leader Mike
Alder said. “Whether you need a really quiet
area or a public area where you can speak as
loudly as you need to and collaborate with
other folks, the library has it all.”
2nd Place: The Nook Cafe
3rd Place: Student Center
CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE
Best On-Campus Hangout
The Student Center
The new Student Center, of which renovations were completed this semester, has
become a staple student hangout space as well as a go-to spot for food and drink.
The second floor is a great spot for studying, since most students still forget it’s
been completed. If nothing else, students are just glad they don’t have to walk by
construction anymore and feel like their ears are going to burst.
2nd Place: The Nook Cafe
3rd Place: Recreation and Wellness Center
MD ANDERSON LIBRARY
“2015 BEST PLACE TO STUDY ON CAMPUS”
THANKS, COOGS!
info.lib.uh.edu
Best On-Campus Place to Study
M.D. Anderson Memorial Library
CONGRATULATIONSTo the winners
of Coogs Choose!
Anthony Hidrogo
Christine Bang
Erica Tat
BEST
STUDENT
LEADER
Asian Business Student
Association
Society for Human
Resource Management
Veteran Students for
America
BEST
STUDENT
ORGANIZATION
Anthony Hidrogo
Christine Bang
Erica Tat
BEST
STUDENT
LEADER
Asian Business Student
Association
Society for Human
Resource Management
Veteran Students for
America
BEST
STUDENT
ORGANIZATION
Registered Student Organization Resources
Leadership Development Programs
Campus Traditions and Entertainment Events
Service and Civic Engagement Opportunities
At the Center for Student Involvement, we provide the tools and
expertise to develop student leaders and organizations to become the
best they can be! Check out or website or visit us in Student Center
North to find out what we have to offer! We want you to be next
year’s best!
Register your organization today and start making an impact on campus!
2015 – 2016 Student Organization Registration April 6th
through May 22nd
Check the Center for Student Involvement
website for times, dates and locations!
uh.edu/csi
FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 11
Case Keenum
Not since Andre Ware's Heisman has a single football player had a bigger impact on the
program than Case Keenum. He piloted the Air Raid offense, leading the Cougars into
the national spotlight and a 13-1 season in 2011. After two stints with the Houston
Texans, Keenum is now with the St. Louis Rams.
2nd Place: Cathy Frank
3rd Place: Jim Parsons
Best Alum
Best Cougar Fan
Taylor Rouleau
Taylor Rouleau exemplifies the
perfect Cougar fan by showing
up to games early, cheering on
the UH teams and staying late no
matter what the score was.
“I love this school with all my
heart and have since day one. If
we don't love our school and have
great school pride, how can we
expect anyone else to? We need
to show incoming freshmen and
all outsiders that UH is amazing.”
2nd Place: Crissy Martinez
3rd Place: Allen Lin
Best Student Athlete
Greg Ward Jr.
Greg Ward Jr. certainly has a flare for the dramatics. He led the Cougars to 29 fourth-quarter
points en route to an improbable 35-34 victory in the Armed Forces bowl to cap the 2014
season. In his eight games as a starter, Ward’s 2010 passing yards and 12 touchdowns
helped UH go 6-2 down the stretch.
2nd Place: Zachary Brown
3rd Place: Joey Mbu
CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE
FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
COOGS CHOOSE12 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
bikebarn.com
Ⓡ
CLEAR LAKE
2422 Bay Area Blvd.
281-480-9100
CYPRESS
25807 NW Fwy
281-213-3791
KATY
629 S. Mason Rd.
281-492-7433
UNIVERSITY
5339 Weslayan
713-529-9002
WESTCHASE
11105 Westheimer
281-558-2234
CUSTOM FIT STUDIO
5339 Weslayan
713-432-7720
CHAMPIONS
6935 Cypresswood Dr.
281-320-0399
ATASCOCITA
7506 FM 1960 East
281-812-8423
Proudly Supporting the Cougars!
FIRST PLACE
WINNER Best Bike Shop in
Houston
Coogs…thanks for
voting us the Best!
We've got final exams to take and Frontier Fiesta cowboy costumes to make. There's no time to sweat the
little stuff during college. Rely on these places for the fastest, cheapest or most consistent day-to-day
services in or around campus.
The living's easy
Best Screen Repair
Apple Store
Apple will repair
models as far back
as the iPhone 5 for
$129, except for the
iPhone 6, which will cost you $109 to get
a new screen. Apple’s service is fast, with
same-day repair if you go to the store and a
3-5 business day return if you send in your
phone for service.
2nd Place: Best Buy
3rd Place: Cougar Byte
Best Bike Shop
Bike Barn
Bike Barn has every-
thing you need for
your ride. In addition
to the wide variety of
bicycles, Bike Barn offers cycling resources
and showcases social bike riding events.
You also won't have to worry about finding
a location, as Bike Barn is arguably the most
popular bike shop around.
2nd Place: Bay Area Cycling
3rd Place: Blue Line
Best Off-Campus Apartment
The Vue
The Vue provides top-of-the-line appliances
and furnishings, including gourmet kitchens,
a flat screen television that includes cable
and even private balconies and wood floors.
You'll find every amenity that comes to mind
at or near this residence without the hassle
of travel, such as Wi-Fi, computer center,
tanning beds, fitness center and even a dog
park nearby.
2nd Place: Cullen Oaks
3rd Place: Domain by Windsor
LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE
FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015| 13
Best App
Waze
Have you ever been driving, wondering
whether there’s a police car tucked in that
ditch on the side of the interstate? Or
maybe you’ve just been frustrated with
Google Maps underestimating how much
traffic there is on I-59.
Download the free, user-generated traffic
app that lets you leave messages for
other Waze users about traffic, dangerous
potholes and hidden cops.
Its traffic updates and accident infor-
mation are all updated in real-time and
fueled by user feedback, so the app gives
you more information about driving condi-
tions than most satellite-driven GPS apps.
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITE
LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE
Best Tech Store
Best Buy
Best Buy has a huge
array of appliances
including TVs, com-
puters, cameras, audio
equipment, vacuums
and even washers and
dryers. With several locations around the
greater Houston area, students shouldn't
have trouble finding a nearby location.
In addition, Best Buy frequently offers
sales, especially around the beginning of
the semester, which is pretty clutch for a
college student.
2nd Place: Apple Store
3rd Place: Cougar Byte
Best Auto Shop
Maaco
Whether your car
needs a new paint
job, dent fix or major repair, Maaco has
a long list of locations around Houston
THANKS FOR
VOTING FOR US!
UH students get 15% discount
PASADENA
2049 South Richey (Richey & Allengenoa)
Pasadena, TX 77502 713.472.6651
WEBSTER - CLEAR LAKE
16864 Hwy 3(@Bay Area Blvd)
Webster, TX 77598 281.332.6433
ready to assist. The company takes pride
in its affordable and reliable paint process.
In 2014, Maaco paired up with Uber so
that the body shop’s customers can utilize
special Uber deals while their cars are being
restored, and Uber Driver Partners receive a
discount on Maaco services.
2nd Place: Pep Boys
3rd Place: Apollo Paint and Body
Best Car Dealership
Sterling McCall Toyota
Though not all students may consider
purchasing a new vehicle while under the
monetary constraints of college, those who
are looking can feel good turning to Sterling
McCall.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the
students at the college,” said Customer
Relations Manager Aisha Foster. “We are
very big on taking care of customers. That’s
the type of business we are, and we believe
in customer service; we don’t just say it.”
2nd Place: CarMax
3rd Place: Russell & Smith Auto
Best App for Students
BlackBoard
Blackboard has made life easier for students on the go who don’t
always have the time to sit at a computer and check their notes. The
app notifies you when a grade has been posted, and it's a quick way to
look over notes on your phone before a test.
2nd Place: Yik Yak
3rd Place: Snap Chat
COOGS CHOOSE14 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Best Place To Buy UH Gear
UH Bookstore
With a new look for the Student Center, the UH Bookstore provides fresh new gear for
Cougars of every age. UH-themed sweatshirts, workout gear, coffee mugs, pints, children's
clothes and more are available at the bookstore.
“We’ve been working really hard to be the best, we got some new gear, we’re expanding and
it’s good to hear that our hard work is paying off," bookstore manager Jalisa Fisher said.
2nd Place: Academy
3rd Place: Amazon
Best Place To Keep Fit
Recreation and Wellness Center
With free workout classes, an indoor track, 24,000 square feet of workout machines,
treadmills and weight areas all for the swipe of your Cougar Card, this is a deal that students
would be remiss not to take advantage of.
2nd Place: 24 Hour Fitness
3rd Place: S Factor
GET REC’D
UH.EDU/RECREATION713-743-7529 (PLAY)
UPCOMING EVENTS
Backpacking on the Lonestar Hiking Trail (UH Student $100/Guest $150)
Friday–Sunday, April 24–26
Enjoy the weekend backpacking on a 20 mile section of the 96 mile long Lonestar
Hiking Trail, which runs the length of Sam Houston National Forest. No experience
is necessary and equipment is provided. The deadline to sign up for this trip is
4/20 at 5pm.
SUP Yoga and Kayak Trip (UH Student $25)
Friday, May 1
You don’t have to stay out of the water just because the pool is closed! Join us for
a day of fun on the water and in the sun! Two hours of beach time will include
sea kayaking and a stand-up paddle-board (SUP) yoga class. Cost includes all
equipment rental and lunch! Event is from 10:00am- 3:00pm. Registration is at
the Outdoor Adventures desk. Deadline to sign up is Monday, April 27th.
Florida Paddling and Hiking Trip (UH Student $500/Guest $600)
Friday–Sunday, May 16–23
Join Outdoor Adventure for a Florida adventure trip. We will be going to several
National forests and State parks as well as beautiful Cape San Blas. No experience
is necessary and equipment is included. The deadline to sign up for this trip is on
5/4 at 5pm.
PLACE BEST TO KEEP FIT
BEST CAMPUS HANGOUT
1ST
3RD
LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE
FILE PHOTO/ THE COUGAR
COURTESY PHOTO
COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 15
LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE
ON CAMPUS
ON DEMAND
AND
facebook.com/coogtv
@coogtv
youtube.com/coogtv
www.coogtv.com
News, Sports, Entertainment & More
On your desktop. On your phone.
On your tablet. Anywhere you go.
YOUR STUDENT-RUN TV STATION
Best Slang
"Go Coogs!"
This modern Cougar
call to arms is a
great way to rally up
campus spirit. You’ll
hear it uttered like a
spell at games and team-building events,
and it's become eponymous with being a
proud UH student and proud Houstonian. Of
all the social media tags that reflect Cougar
Pride, #GoCoogs is one of the most popular.
2nd Place: "On fleek"
3rd Place: "YOLO"
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITE
Best Adult Shop
Pleasure Zone
Pleasure Zone is an accessible sex shop
for newbies and seasoned shoppers alike.
The knowledgeable staff will answer any
question you have, no matter how silly.
And Pleasure Zone celebrates "all that is
feminine," so you'll have a wide variety of
toys for you and your partner to pick from.
Best Smoke Shop
Smoke Alley
Smoke Alley would be better designated as
a head shop, rather than smoke shop. With a
varied collection of glass pipes, the premier
item among other smoking tools, the store
is a place to spend some time really thinking
about your next pipe purchase. The prices
are fair, so your hobby won't break the bank.
Smoke Alley is like a boutique, delivering a
sense of safety and cleanliness void in many
other smoke shops.
2nd Place: BC Smoke Shop
COURTESY PHOTO
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entertainmententertainment
Best Club
Limelight
Limelight is the
perfect place to
dance and rage on a
night out in Midtown.
Patrons can expect to feel their feet shake
upon stepping through the doors from the
heavy bass of EDM or rap music. Complete
with multiple bars, two floors, cages and
go-go dancers, Limelight is a great place for
young singles.
2nd Place: Stereo Live
3rd Place: Drink Houston
Best Country Bar
Wild West
Wild West is a great place for everyone who
enjoys some good country music. True to its
motto of ‘Wild West is Texas, Two-Steppin’
& Longneckin’, its solid oak dance floor is a
match made in heaven for your boots.
The atmosphere is complete with the DJ
playing the hottest country music and Top
40 pop and hip hop songs, while fresh fajitas
and other appetizers are always available in
between dancing.
2nd Place: Midnight Rodeo
3rd Place: Buckwild
Calhoun's Rooftop Bar and Grill
As the name implies, Calhoun’s Rooftop Bar and Grill’s big draw is its location - a door
wedged next to the Nook on campus takes you to a dark, grey flight of stairs, which
open out to an airy, open-window bar and rooftop. As the temperatures rise, Calhoun’s
becomes the perfect spot to grab a pint of beer and overlook the spectacular views, with
the downtown skyline clear in view. Those who aren’t big beer fans won’t be disap-
pointed - Calhoun’s also serves cocktails and shots, several of which are UH-themed,
and a full menu of appetizers, burgers, flatbreads and even Sunday brunch.
2nd Place: Pub Fiction
3rd Place: The Den
Calhoun's Rooftop Bar and Grill
Best Live Music Venue
House of Blues
The House of Blues Houston is a unique
venue that allows fans to see some of the
biggest names in music up close and per-
sonal in an intimate setting with an amazing
atmosphere. Tickets are affordable and the
restaurant and bar have a divine variety of
options. This venue has become one of the
city's top spots for live music performances
and it’s easy to see why.
2nd Place: Fitzgerald's
3rd Place: Warehouse Live
If you go to UH, you're now a Houstonian. It doesn't matter if you grew up around Houston or if you're from
out of state or country. Discover (or rediscover) one of the nation's most vibrant cities the way it's meant to be
discovered — with good friends during even better nights.
Worth the splurge
Best Bar, Best Place to Watch UH Away Games
Calhoun’s Rooftop Bar and Grill’s big draw is its location - a door wedged next to The
Nook on campus takes you to a dark, gray flight of stairs, which open out to an airy,
open-window bar and rooftop. As temperatures rise, Calhoun’s becomes the perfect
spot to grab a pint of beer and overlook the spectacular downtown skyline. Those who
aren’t big beer fans won’t be disappointed - Calhoun’s also serves cocktails and shots,
several of which are UH-themed, and a full menu of appetizers, burgers, flatbreads and
Sunday brunch.
2nd Place: Pub Fiction
3rd Place: The Den
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Best Bar
Neil's Bahr
Who said you can’t have your alcohol and
video games together — in public? Even if
you just want to strike up a conversation
with a crowd that’s just into gaming as you
are, this is the place for you. With arcade
games, table games and console games,
there’s something here for everyone. Keep
in mind that this place can get crowded on
the weekends.
Best Local Music Act
A More Perfect Union
The Pearland-based band has been making quite a name for themselves by streaming their
music online and performing all over Houston. The 4-piece rock band formed together in
Spring of 2014 and has already found their own sound, a blend of alternative rock and punk
rock. Blink-182 and Green Day are among the band's influences.
2nd Place: Only Beast
3rd Place: Football, etc.
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
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COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 17
Top Golf
Top Golf won't leave you bored. The entertainment monolith combines driving-range
golfing with a full bar, restaurant and bar games that'll give you and your date plenty of
ways to break the ice. It gets crowded on weekend nights, though, with wait times climb-
ing above three hours or more, so be sure to arrive early or make a reservation.
2nd Place: Hermann Park
3rd Place: Discovery Green
Best Date Spot
entertainmententertainment
Best Movie Theater
AMC Theatres
Voted the best in Houston, AMC goes above and beyond to provide the greatest variety
of films in a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere.
Depending on your budget, locations like Studio 30 on Dunvale come complete with a bar,
plenty of concessions, and every rendition of Coke you can think of.
2nd Place: Edwards Cinema
3rd Place: Studio Movie Grill
Best Movie Theater
River Oaks Theater
The River Oaks Theater is a historic
three-screen theater north of down-
town. Notable for its Art Deco style, the
theater’s focus is on screening previ-
ously released, indie and cult films. This
landmark is a great place to hang out
with friends.
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITE
We would like to say a big THANK YOU to all of the students of UH
who took the time to vote for us in the Coogs Choose Category
as Best Date Spot and Best Spot for a 21st Birthday! Go Coogs!
FROMALLOFUSATTOPGOLF,BESTDATESPOTAND
BESTSPOTFORA21ST BIRTHDAY
FIRST PLACE
WINNER
Location 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd. Houston, TX 77084 Phone (281) 406-3176 Website www.topgolf.com
happy hour!
#failedatgolf
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
COOGS CHOOSE18 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
entertainmententertainment
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
When it comes to clubbing, it's all about going to the right place at the right time in the
right outfit with the right people. Sound overwhelming? Let us help you figure out where
you were born to rage.
The Scene
Punk, alternative
Numbers
The crowd at Numbers is of the alternative
scene. If you're up for a little rebellion and
a trip to the wild side, you'll find the right
company here. The people are edgier and
come from a different shade of cool.
Dance, lounge
Grooves
Grooves is a local brunch spot for the younger and professional crowd. The people
there take brunch seriously. But on weekend nights, it comes to life with hip hop
dancing and a lounge that fills up quickly. If you're young and hungry for a good
meal and a good time afterward, Grooves needs to be your destination.
Prep, modern
Vao's
Vao's crowd is of the more upscale, white
collar scene. The people are strictly dressed
to impress and nothing less. Expect the club
to be laden with young professionals just
getting off work at Ernst & Young, dressed
to the nines and tossing back cocktails. It's
also a Greek-heavy scene, with members of
UH's sororities and fraternities flocking to
the club on weekends.
LGBT, vibrant
South Beach
The scene at South Beach is and almost
exclusively LGBT. Gay, straight, or transgen-
dered - the atmosphere is open and friendly.
The scene at South Beach features people of
all ages, all looking for a fun night in one of
Houston's most popular clubs.
VAOCLUBLIFE
2016 Main St, Houston, TX • 702 530 9650 • www.vaoclublife.com
21 and over • Dress code enforced • Doors 10:30pm till close
OPEN FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS
DOORS 10:30PM TO CL
FROM 10:30PM TO 11:30PM
VAOCLUBLIFE
2016 Main St, Houston, TX • 702 530 9650 • www.vaoclublife.com
21 and over • Dress code enforced • Doors 10:30pm till close
OPEN FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS
DOORS 10:30PM TO CL
FROM 10:30PM TO 11:30PM
713-655-0700
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COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 19
WATCH
GETINVOLVED!Build your portfolio. Make an impact.
READ LISTEN
THE COUGAR COOG TV COOG RADIO
COOGS CHOOSE20 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Where he's from:
Northside
You've probably turned up to his
local hit "Flicka Da Wrist," but
he's more than just this regional
hit. The record executive turned
rapper has made a habit of
making hit songs in the past few
years.
What you should download:
"Greatness" ft. Rick Ross, Slim
Thug and Rich AndruwsBoston George
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
That Third Coast waveFor Houston's next generation of rappers, the throne is ready for the taking. We've highlighted four who have embraced
the city's hip-hop history while distinguishing themselves from the growing group looking to fill the city's rap void.
Where they're from: South Park and
Mo' City
"2 legited 2 Quited" has been a staple on the radio and in
the club. Their chemistry on wax reminds many of Migos,
another popular rap duo, and we foresee many club bangers
in their future.
What you should download: "93" ft. Doughboy
Sauce Twinz
Travis Scott
Hiram Clarke
The former college basketball player reached new heights when his collaboration with Rich Homie Quan "2
Rounds" extended his reach past Texas. Propain features a combination of complex lyrics and catchy flow not
often found in Slab City. Expect your friends that live outside of the Loop to learn more about Propain in the next
few years.
What you should download: "Father's Day" and "All Day" ft. Zero
Where he's from: Mo' City
After getting his start as a producer on Myspace, Scott is
becoming more popular as the man with the microphone.
He is featured on "Company" off Drake's recent project "If
you're reading this it's too late." But don't doubt that he still
has the production skills that got him noticed. He helped
produce Rihanna's recent single B*tch better have my
money.
What you should download: "Skyfall" ft. Young Thug
Propain
entertainmententertainment
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COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 21
Sound Exchange
Though it doesn’t have as much of a selec-
tion as Cactus Music, Sound Exchange is
a great destination for those who have a
specific niche.
Cactus Music
If being a source for records isn’t enough,
Cactus Music also hosts live music with free
beer on the weekends.
Sig's Lagoon
The chance to enjoy all that music you heard
your parents playing around the house or
in their car will keep you sifting through
cassettes, CDs and vinyls for hours.
Vinal Edge Records
With a constant stream of new and old
music coming in, Vinal Edge is a great place
to revisit often.
Heights
A one-stop shop for old jazz and blues
records, Heights Vinyl is another niche shop
that won’t have much outside of its genre. It
is a good place to get a turntable.
coogradio
Listen anywhere on TuneIn.com (search for Coog Radio)
Broadcasting24/7atCoogRadio.com
STUDENT-RUN RADIO
facebook.com/coogradiohouston @coogradio
entertainmententertainment
COOG RADIO'S FAVORITES
BIGSTOCK
Best Record Store
Cactus Music
With an extensive collection,
Cactus Music doesn’t disappoint
customers looking for vinyl
records and impressive prices. If
being a source for records isn’t
enough, Cactus Music also hosts
live music with free beer on the
weekends.
2nd Place: Best Buy
3rd Place: Half Price Books
22 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE
Best Taco
Torchy's Tacos
It's one of the trendiest places in Houston to get a taco. Torchy's is also affordable for stu-
dents, with tacos costing around $4 each.
2nd Place: Taco Bell
3rd Place: Taco Cabana
Best Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings
Customers can choose the sauce the wings
are tossed in, ranging from super spicy to
sweet. In addition to wings, BWW also offers
tasty appetizers, like mozzarella sticks and
potato wedges.
2nd Place: Wing Stop
3rd Place: Pluckers
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
Best Pizza
Pink's Pizza
The opening of Pink’s on campus has answered our pizza and beer needs. Even though we dole
out $7 for a slice, we leave Pink’s with no regrets. It's helped to boost UH's campus nightlife
and vastly improved our on-campus dining.
2nd Place: Pizza Hut
3rd Place: Star Pizza
Houston is one of the best cities in the nation to eat in. It's a heavyweight in ethnic diversity, affordability and
accessibility, with many of Houston's eateries spread out in different pockets of the city.
Clutch dining
Just
wing it
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FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
Best Wings
Pluckers
The Shepard location has a sprawling
environment that’s great for watching
the game at (and is better lit than Buffalo
Wild Wings). They boast fewer wing
sauces than BWW’s, but this is a case of
quality over quantity. And if you’re looking
for sides other than French fries, go for
Plucker’s insanely-creamy macaroni and
cheese.
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Best Sushi For Your Dollar
Sushi Wabi
You're in the mood for sushi, you don't
have an hour to wait in line at Oishii,
and you're not dressed for Ra or Sushi
King. Where do you go? Sushi Wabi is the
perfect place for a casual meet-up with
friends or a spontaneous date night - it's
just around the corner from the Edwards
Greenway theater. Take advantage of its
happy hour menu - we're talking large $6
rolls.
Best Off-Campus Lunch
Empire Cafe
Empire is 10 minutes from campus and promises some of the most delectable cafe
food. Go for the Not-Fried Chicken sandwich. It's baked, breaded chicken on a butter
criossant with chipotle aoli sauce and fresh greens.
Best Off-Campus Lunch
Chipotle Mexican Grill
The grill has a little something for every-
one, with plenty of options for your burrito
or bowl.
2nd Place: Whataburger
3rd Place: Chinese Star
Best $5 Lunch
Cream Burger
The family-owned joint caters to its customers with quality meals that are easy on the
wallet. “We make each burger individually and with a whole lot of love for each customer,”
said co-owner Beverly Greenwood.
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Best Pho
Pho Saigon Noodle House
With six locations around the city, it’s not hard
to see why Pho Saigon is great for students.
2nd Place: Mai's Restaurant
3rd Place: Pho Binh
Best Sandwich
McAlister's Deli
McAlister’s Deli is a favorite for students
because it is easy to get to on campus and
accepts Cougar Cash in exchange for their
delicious sandwiches. They offer a variety of
sandwiches ranging from classic to grilled. In
addition to tasty sandwiches, McAlister’s Deli
also has salads, soups, spuds and desserts.
2nd Place: Subway
3rd Place: Chick-Fil-A
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THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
If it's good
enough for
Beyoncé...
If you see a line wrapping around the
corner of an unassuming yellow-roofed
building in Midtown anytime between
7 a.m. and 2 p.m., don't be alarmed;
these patient folks are customers of
the iconic Houston eatery. If you’re
hungry and have a few hours to spare,
park and get in line – it’s worth it.
Known for signature dishes such as
the “Katfish and Grits” and “Wings and
Waffles,” The Breakfast Klub excels at
southern specialties that will bring back
memories of Grandma’s kitchen for
any southern-born visitor. In addition
to its award-winning breakfast menu,
the restaurant also offers sandwiches
and salads for lunch as well as a “heart
healthy” menu.
The Breakfast Klub
Best Breakfast
IHOP
Being open 24 hours is a big plus for college
students. A Rooty Tooty Fresh & Fruit never
fails to hit the spot.
2nd Place: Breakfast Klub
3rd Place: McDonald's
Best 24-Hour Diner
IHOP
The diner offers classic breakfast dishes such
as pancakes, eggs, omelettes, waffles and
crepes as well as lunch and dinner items like
hamburgers, salads and desserts.
2nd Place: Dot's Coffee Shop
3rd Place: House of Pies
Best Restaurant to Broaden
your Horizon
Katz's Deli and Bar
This late-night spot is the perfect place for
when you crave a taste of the Big Apple. If
you're hungry after burning some calories
on the Midtown dance floors, look no further
than Katz's, because it never closes.
2nd Place: Cafe 101
3rd Place: Sweet Paris
Best Kolache
Kolache Factory
This shop offers traditional kolaches
with fillings like fruit, sausage and
jalepeno. Try the specialties, including
Bar-B-Q-Beef, Philly Cheese Steak and
Sausage and Gravy.
59 Diner
Known for its classic '50s throwback look and decadent milkshakes, 59 Diner has the
vibe of a hangout you'd find in a Scooby Doo episode. It offers a menu of classic favorites
from hamburgers to steak, with those filling U.S. portions people just can't get enough of.
59 Diner is also open 24/7, so there's no excuse not to head to the nearest one and try
some of its fare.
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
Best $5 Lunch
McDonald's
McDonald's won't break the bank and
makes grabbing lunch as convenient as ever.
2nd Place: Subway
3rd Place: Taco Bell
EMILY CHAMBERS/THE COUGAR
EMILY CHAMBERS/THE COUGAR
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Best Food Trucks
Eatsie Boys
It can be found across from Agnes Arnold
Hall offering a range of mouthwatering
sandwiches stuffed to capacity with
hearty meats and flavorful ingredients.
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Flip 'n Patties
Filipino street food has never tasted so
good. Flip ‘n Patties offers a variety of
burgers, appetizers and rice dishes that
you will definitely need a napkin for.
Bernie's Burger Bus
If you’re accustomed to Big Macs, trying
any burger from Bernie’s menu will give
you well-needed shock — each burger is
handmade from scratch.
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
The Group Activity
Top Golf
Top Golf has entertainment for all ages, and
not in the cheesy way your parents hope for.
There’s full bar and craft beer pints, but your
under-21 buds won’t be shortchanged on
things to do. Your group can golf, eat dinner,
play pool or just hang out at the bar, which
requires ID for only those drinking.
The First Bar
Little Woodrow's
Little Woodrow’s is a good bar to know. There’s several of them scattered around Houston,
but the most popular location is on Brazos Street. It’s a fairly casual place, and it’s in the
center of Midtown, which boasts one of the highest concentrations of popular bars in Hous-
ton. On Thursdays during summer months, you can also enjoy turtle races – bet on the right
turtle, and you get a free drink. It doesn’t get much better than that.
The Dinner Spot
The Hay Merchant
For dinner, take your crew to The Hay Mer-
chant on Westheimer. It's the perfect place
to wet your whistle, as the bar boasts over
30 taps that rotate throughout the season.
You'll be able to figure out your preference
in beer, all while waiting for your Cease and
Desist burger to arrive.
21 in Houston
Reaching that glorious age is exciting for anyone, but those of us in the Bayou
City party even harder. When planning your night, stick with these tried-and-true
hotspots that promise a good time.
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
Triple J’s Smokehouse
Triple J’s is a tried-and-true favorite. Its loaded baked potatoes can come stuffed with sau-
sage, beef and ribs smothered in BBQ sauce, with two-meat, two-side dinner clocking in at
an affordable $11. Its reputation as one of Houston’s best-known BBQ joints has been alive
and thriving for 20 years.
Ray's BBQ Shack
Ray’s BBQ Shack excels in regional cuisine beyond BBQ. In addition to succulent brisket, beef
and BBQ ribs, Ray’s also serves a healthy variety of fresh seafood. Its catfish basket, which
comes with three large helpings of catfish for just over $10, rounds out a diverse seafood
menu.
Gatlin's BBQ
Gatlin’s BBQ is probably Houston’s most widely-known and talked about BBQ joint, making a
monumental impact on the city in its five short years. It started out of the current co-own-
ers’ home and has quickly established itself as a regional staple of BBQ, with juicy beef and
pork sliders that are hard to rival.
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Best BBQ Joints
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26 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Close to Coog City
Mandola's Deli
Moontower Inn doubles as the city's only brewpub and the best place for a gourmet,
greasy hot dog at an affordable price. You'll find wild boar dogs and venision dogs, but
Moontower and its sprawling back patio attract an unpretentious crowd.
Walk, bike, jog or rollerblade to these places from campus — just make sure
you get there, because they're some of the city's best-kept secrets.
Brooks Family BBQ
Moontower Inn
Mandola's Deli's walls are covered with
UH gear, and all UH students get 10
percent off their delicious meals.
To say Frenchy's is just succulent is an
egregious understatement. The chicken
is tender, juicy and insanely flavorful.
Frenchy's Chicken
Brooks Family BBQ is located across Scott St. on the
opposite side of the stadium from campus, so it's a
great place to grab a chop beef sandwich after watching
the Cougars on a Friday night.
Kanomwan Thai
Kanomwan serves strictly authentic Thai —
its pad thai isn't laden with gooey peanut
sauce, which is a welcome change.
Ben's Beans
It's a five-minute drive from campus and
promises a chill place to study, serving
sandwiches, coffee, smoothies and pastries.
Bohemo's Cafe
If Bohemo's open mic nights aren't enough,
its shrimp tacos, coffee and craft beer make
it great for weekend decompression.
Hoang Sandwich
Hoang Sandwich is a hidden gem that offers
affordable, delicious Vietnamese food and a
quiet, comfortable atmosphere.
La Imperial Bakery
There aren't many places that make
homemade tamales, empanadas and other
Mexican delicacies, but this is one of them.
Cream Burger
For less than $4, Cream Burger will fill you
up with a cheeseburger, but we recommend
splurging for an added super rich milkshake.
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
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FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
AROUND THE WORLD IN
8 DAYS
DAY 1: Vietnamese
Mai's Restaurant
In the ‘90s, the Houston community was
introduced to Vietnamese food by the
founders of Mai’s Restaurant, who named
the restaurant after one of their daughters.
Called a “landmark” by the Houston Chron-
icle, Mai’s offers hundreds of Vietnamese
dishes into the wee hours of the night,
staying open until 3 a.m. on weeknights until
4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. A large bar
faces the entrance of the two-level estab-
lishment, which is packed every time you
walk in. The wait is never long, though.
Houston's diverse foodie
culture can be intimidating at
first. Don't fret; The Cougar
has suggestions that stretch
past Cullen Boulevard.
R E S T A U R A N T
R E S T A U R A N T
25% DISCOUNT
FOR UH STUDENTS
Must show UH ID. Discount does not include
alcohol. Discount lasts for 2 months (through
the end of the semester).
812 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77006
713-523-0425
www.theoshouston.com
HOURS OF OPERATION
Open every day
10AM — 4AM
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR DAY 2: Italian
Mandola's Deli
This UH alumni-owned deli is chock-full of Cougar Pride — there's a wall almost completely
covered in Cougar red attire. Though it specializes in wes and po'boys, its American-por-
tioned pasta dishes are sure to leave even the hungriest without room for another bite, and
their pizza packs more flavor that most. Mandola's is only a short drive down Cullen Boule-
vard and a perfect stop for lunch.
COOGS CHOOSE28 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
DAY 3: Soul Food
This is it
You won’t leave this selection of Southern comfort food hungry.
From ox tails to collard greens, this soul food hotspot has a slew
of affordable breakfasts, lunches and dinners worth the money
and classic desserts that’ll pleasantly remind you of childhood.
Only four minutes from campus, this restaurant is an easy
lunchtime trip for the stressed student needing some down-
home comfort.
DAY 4: Tex-Mex
El Tiempo Cantina
For many Americans, there’s not much difference between Tex-Mex restaurants, but El Tiempo distinguishes itself
among the rest with its 55 years of serving family recipes. With seven locations across Houston, El Tiempo’s menu
offers everything from calamari appetizers and creamy enchiladas to jumbo shrimp platters and more meat options for
fajitas than you thought possible.
DAY 5: Mediterranean
Aladdin
This Montrose establishment is the perfect choice if you’ve barely eaten all day and you’re
ready to consume the entire planet. Accept this fact: You will have leftovers – enough for
another full meal, which makes the $12 to $15 that you’ll pay worth it. Endless pita is
available, and there are several flavors of hummus. Aladdin claims the gyro as its specialty
sandwich, and with a combo platter you can pick or choose from all your favorites to create
the perfect meal.
E L T I E M P O C A N T I N A . C O M
THE NEW EL TIEMPO 1308 ANNEX
LOCATED AT 322 WESTHEIMER
COMING APRIL 2015
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FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
BEST
ITALIAN
PO’BOYS
4105 LeelandHouston, TX
mandolasdeli.com
713.223.5186
FRIED
LASAGNA
ACROSS THEFREEWAY
TEXAS
BEERS
(yup. we said it.)
FROM CAMPUSON CULLEN
*Limit one discount per person, per order, per visit. Not
BEST OF 2015
COUGAR
FAVORITE
DAY 6: Japanese
Miyako
With a sizeable menu of both sushi and seafood,
Miyako fills up fast, so you might want to make
reservations if you’re coming with a large group. In
spite of that, the restaurant feels spacious and the
atmosphere is warmly lit just enough. As with other
sushi bars, what you spend depends on what kind of
rolls you buy, but take advantage of the happy hour if
you get the chance.
DAY 8: Indian
Shiva
With two locations in Rice Village and Sugarland, Shiva's menu is expansive, containing dishes for meat-eaters and vege-
tarians alike. Most entrees hover around $10, but you’ll walk away with leftovers. With a low-lit atmosphere, Shiva is classy
enough for date night. Have fun trying different curries, and be sure to let your waiter know if you’re sensitive to spicy
foods. Order a mango lassi; the cool drink will cut through the spiciness of the food.
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DAY 7: Greek
Theo's Restaurant
Occupying a large slot of Westheimer Road’s real estate all on its own, Theo’s can be decep-
tively empty, but that doesn’t speak of the quality of its Greek cuisine. Its gyros are good, but
don’t hesitate to try other classic Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. It’s open until 4
a.m., which makes it a great stop even on late nights, and if you’re not hungry and want to
try a unique pick-me-up, be sure to order a Greek frappe.
30 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Hubcap Grill
Bernie's Burger Bus
Hay Merchant
Barnaby's Cafe
Best burgers
At Bernie's Burger Bus sky-high sand-
wiches are filled with any Tex-Mex topping
under the sun – “The Principal” comes with
garlic tomatoes, “Homeroom” is topped
with a fried egg and “Fire Drill” boasts spicy
guacamole and tortilla chips. Bernie’s also
makes detention sound like a good thing:
Its “Detention” burger uses bacon grilled
cheese sandwiches as the bun.
Hubcap Grill’s greasy, tender burger is
consistently seen on the tops of Houston’s
best burger lists. It has one of the juiciest
burger patties in the city, and the grill’s
outdoor patio is the perfect place to chow
down like it’s your last meal.
Barnaby's Cafe is more than just a
burger joint, but its tasty bacon cheese-
burger will have you running back for lunch
as often as you can.
You have to be of-age to get into the
Westheimer craft bar Hay Merchant,
but its Cease and Desist burger is better
than any cocktail you’ll have on your 21st.
It’s named after a lawsuit that was filed
against them by In-N-Out (originally, the
burger was called the Double Double), and
it’s made with farm-fresh beef in partner-
ship with Underbelly’s award-winning chef
Chris Shepard.
Andes Café's salchipapas
Salchipapas are a classic South American
street food with cut up hot-dog, toma-
toes, peppers, onions, fried bananas and
brown gravy. And while they're great on any
occasion, we know that they’ve cured many
hangovers.
Fat Bao's avocado fries
Not all fries are potatoes, people. As the
name of the restaurant implies, these are
FAT slices of avocado breaded and deep
fried. They’re the perfect marriage of creamy
and crunchy goodness.
La Boheme's Bankgok
style french fries
We've always throught that French fries
needed pork shoulder and peanuts.
Happy Endings' queso
kimchi fries
UH, if you haven’t tried Queso Kimchi Fries
yet, then you should be ashamed of your-
self. Kimchi is a probiotic, which helps aid in
digestion. It’s a perfect counter-balance to
the queso, which definitely doesn’t.
Live free or
die fryin'
Some of the best french fries
Houston has to offer aren't even
made of potatoes. Say whaaaat?
Burger heavenHouston has a slew of grills competing for the hearts and
stomachs of the Bayou City's burger aficionados. Which one has yours?
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
COURTESY PHOTO
PHOTO BY JULIE SOEFER
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
COURTESY PHOTO
COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 31
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
BREWCITY,
TEXAS
Houston's craft beer scene has
exploded, making it a national
leader in microbreweries, craft
brews and all things beer.
Crack one open.
Best Local Brew
Saint Arnold
Open since 1994, Saint Arnold is the state’s oldest craft brewery. Its most
sought-after brews are the crisp Lawnmower and the punchy Elissa IPA. But Saint
Arnold brews 23 beers a year on a rotational basis, including Pumpkinator, which
is known to sell out of grocery and liquor stores within hours of being stocked.
2nd Place: Karbach
3rd Place: Pluckers
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Summer Pils is one of Saint Arnold's freshest
brews. The Germain pilsner has a medium body
and hoppy notes. It has a sweet malt taste and is
full-bodied but doesn't bog you down after a pint
or two.
Rocketfuel
8th Wonder infuses a porter with
dark, cold brew coffee and lactose.
It's a cult favorite and a great excuse
for drinking before noon.
Love Street Summer Seasonal
Love Street is extremely refreshing. It's a
Kolsh-style, meaning it's a tad floral but
lighter than the Rodeo Clown. The hoppiness
(the beer's earthiness or bitterness) is fairly
medium in this brew.
New to Karbach? Start out
with a...
New to 8th Wonder? Start
out with a...
Intellectuale
It's light and easy to drink, but
this blonde-wit hybrid is bursting
with floral notes and faint hints of
sweetness. Sip it on a patio.
Rodeo Clown Double IPA
Rodeo Clown still packs a mean punch, but
it's a fairly floral, fruity IPAs. This isn't a beer
you should plan on chugging. Instead, pair it
with fried food or a spicy Mexican dish.
Our favorite Saint Arnold brews...
Santo is a malty brew and drinks like a darker
ale. It might be pretty gritty if you aren't a big beer
drinker, but its dark malt flavor promises a smooth
punch.
A beer snob's guide
to talking
Use these words casually to achieve
maximum beer literacy, pretentiousness
HOPS The flavoring and stability agent
in beer. Hops are a flower of the hop plant.
They give beers "spice," or bitterness. They're
present in all beers but not necessarily dom-
inant. An IPA is a hoppy beer; Coors Light is
not hoppy (whether Coors is a beer is another
discussion).
IPA Stands for "India Pale Ale." The beer was
originally brewed with extra hops to last the
long sea voyages from England to India. Now,
the strength has become a preferred taste
regardless of voyage. IPAs are very bitter and
floral.
HEAD The foam at the top of beer. You
usually want to pour a beer that yields a 1" to
1 1/2" head. There are YouTube videos that
show you how to do this, but it comes down to
the speed and angle of your pour.
FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
COURTESY PHOTO
32 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE
IS IN YOUR HANDS
Download the latest version of Redline, your
dashboard for student life at UH, now for
iOS and Android devices. Check on the latest
campus alerts and events, tune in to student
media, catch the next bus and more!
You don’t have an Android or Apple phone?
Just tap the web app version of Redline at:
http://uh.edu/redline
• CALENDAR
• ALERTS
• CAMPUS MAP
• BUS ROUTES
• BUS ROUTES
• SOCIAL MEDIA
• COOG RADIO
• CAMPUS NEWS
ABOUT REDLINE FEATURES
CAMPUS LIFE
COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 33
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
Thanks for making
us your prime
on-campus hangout.
4701 Calhoun St. Suite 150 Houston, TX 77004 832-831-3620
COUGAR FAVORITES
Ben's Beans
Located just five minutes away from campus,
Ben’s Beans warehouse-style high ceilings
and local art displays set it apart from the
cozier coffeehouses on this list. It’s usually
empty, which is astounding once you see the
eclectic atmosphere and take a seat in their
dense, cozy black leather couches. This is a
hidden gem by all accounts.
Empire Cafe
Empire Cafe is the only place on this list
where you can eat breakfast, brunch, lunch,
dinner, dessert, a cocktail, beer and a bot-
tomless cup of coffee. There are two outdoor
patios to enjoy on nice days.
Ben's Beans
In Houston, it's not so much what you're studying as where you're studying. Whether you're looking for
a coffeehouse with great brunch or belly dancing, we've got the best of the Bayou City lined up.
Caffeine overload
Agora
Best Coffehouse
Starbucks
You never have to stress about finding a
nearby Starbucks location. But for us, that's
where the advantages end.
2nd Place: The Nook
3rd Place: Agora
Best Place to Study Off-Campus
Starbucks
With artisan coffee and pastries at affordable
prices, it's no wonder students flock here to
get their study on.
2nd Place: Agora
3rd Place: The Nook
Open until 2 a.m. daily, Agora has established itself as one of the best study and lounge spots
in Montrose. People go for the Wednesday night belly dancers, but they stay for the shop’s
coziness. It’s housed in – quite literally – a large, old house, so there’s two stories worth of
hang space. Tip: Don't creep on people too much if you're sitting upstairs.
The Nook Cafe
Even if The Nook wasn’t affiliated with UH,
it would still make this list as one of the best
coffeehouses in Houston. Its new outdoor
patio and consistently fresh, delicious brews
make it a cafe to keep coming back to.
Antidote
Antidote makes up for sparse parking outside
with ample seating inside. With arts lining
the walls and dozens of people studying their
laptops seriously, it's a non-distracting atmo-
sphere that encourages productivity. They
don't serve many pastries, but the coffee's
delicious.
Antidote
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
34 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE
FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK
Don't worry about what the doctor told you — sweets are good for the soul. Houston serves up some mean
helpings of pie, cake, ice cream and cupcakes, all with a signature Bayou City twist.
Desserts galore
Best dessert
Cheesecake Factory
There's a variety of flavors to choose from,
such as Oreo and Reese’s. If you're not a
fan of cheesecake, there are still plenty of
desserts for you to enjoy.
2nd Place: The Chocolate Bar
3rd Place: House of Pies
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Best Cupcakes
Crave Cupcakes
Crave is consistently at the top of lists
ranking Houston's cupcakes. Once you taste
the rich icing, such rankings make total
sense. Its cupcakes are dense and always
fresh, and its expansive offerings (including
gluten-free flavors) makes Crave one of
Houston's best.
Sprinkles Cupcakes
Sprinkles Cupcakes has become eponymous
with its cupcake ATMs, which allow you to
buy fresh cupcakes at any hour. Sprinkles
also delivers, making it one of the most
accessible bakeries on this list.
In stores, ice cream and cookies are also
available for purchase, which makes Sprin-
kles an ideal stop after a long week.
MMM Cupcake
This food truck does deliveries around
downtown and offers any flavor of cupcake
you could desire. Specializing in fruit flavors,
like strawberry-banana and pineapple, the
truck offers other delightful flavors, such as
a cookies and cream, s’more, red velvet and
even carrot cake, all for affordable prices
that rival the other two shops on this list.
THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES
Best Dessert
Engineering junior Diego Guala (left) shares our enthusiasm for
House of Pies, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The
iconic café specializes in desserts such as Bayou Goo, which is
coated in cream cheese and custard with chocolate chunks.
House of Pies
THANKS COOGS!
We’ve got the Best Dessert in Houston
Look for your next sweet treat at the Houston Galleria!
NOW HIRING!
Hostesses and servers for Houston Galleria location.
To apply visit www.cakecareers.com.
SWEET GIG
WE’VE GOT A
FOR YOU
5015 Westheimer Road Houston TX 77056
713.840.0600
JENAE SITZES/THE COUGAR
JENAE SITZES/THE COUGAR
COURTESY PHOTO
COURTESY PHOTO
COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO
2015 The Cougar Coogs Choose
2015 The Cougar Coogs Choose

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2015 The Cougar Coogs Choose

  • 2. Offers valid through 6/30/15. TDECU membership required. For full terms/conditions, contact TDECU. Federally insured by NCUA. 1 To receive the $150 bonus, you must establish a recurring direct deposit in the amount of $100 or more within 60 days of opening your account. The bonus will be paid to your checking account the month after the direct deposit is established. Bonuses are considered interest and will be reported on IRS Form 1099-INT. 2 APR and benefits are accurate as of 4/1/15 and are subject to change without notice. Rate includes 0.25% discount for auto pay. To receive $150 bonus, you must refinance your auto from another lender with TDECU and have/open a new primary checking account with a recurring direct deposit. $150 bonus will be deposited into your checking account once loan has been funded. 6002.9-ChkApr8 7600.10 TDECU.org/CheckingAuto 800.839.1154 OFFERING DEALS TO ALL I-COULD-USE-AN-EXTRA-$300 COUGARS. Open a FREE TDECU personal checking account with a recurring direct deposit and receive $1501 . We won’t even ask you for an opening deposit. Plus, you’ll gain access to more than 55,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Another way to get extra cash is by bringing your auto loan to us. We’ll help you refinance it with an annual percentage rate as low as 1.99%2 and give you another $150! What great ways to start getting your finances in order! Visit our member center located in the Student Center! Be YOU and Belong. 6002.9_CORP_UHChecking_Apr8.indd 1 3/30/15 4:40 PM Credit approval required. Certain terms and conditions may apply.Additional loan options available for primary residence, second home, and investment properties.The offer for payment of closing costs applies to new purchases and refinances only. Loans of $100,001 or more will receive $1,000 off closing costs. Loans less than $100,000 will receive $500 off closing costs.We require the Truth in Lending, Good Faith Estimate and HUD-1 closing statement from the competitor for comparison purposes in order to receive the $250 if we can’t meet or beat your qualified rate.Visit TDECU.org/mortgage for complete loan requirements. Offer valid through June 30, 2015 exclusively to the students, faculty/staff and alumni of the University of Houston, and cannot be combined with any other TDECU Mortgage offer. Federally insured by NCUA. 6002.9-MtgApr8 OFFERING LOANS TO ALL NEEDING-MORE-THAN-100%- FINANCING COUGARS. Need more? We can do that for you! TDECU can finance up to 103% on your home loan to help minimize your out-of-pocket costs. We can even sweeten this deal for you. We’ll give you up to $1,000 off your closing costs, and if we can’t meet or beat a competitor’s rate on the purchase or refinance of your home, we’ll give you $250 after closing. More is always better, so don’t wait! Contact TDECU Mortgage or stop by our member center located in the Student Center. Apply today! Be YOU and Belong. TDECU.org/mortgage 800.839.1154 x4614
  • 3. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 3 The Best Vue This Side of the Bayou! Community Amenities THE VUE 5th floor lounge area with foosball, basketball shoot game, kitchen and flat screen TVs. Spacious covered outdoor deck overlooking campus and views of downtown THE COURTYARD Outdoor kitchen featuring flat screen TVs, grilling stations and dining tables, spacious green spaces FIT State-of-the-art fitness center with state-of-the-art tanning beds WET Resort-style swimming pool with in-water lounge chairs, water volleyball net and surrounding Acapulco deck lined with palm trees Apartment Amenities LIVE Efficiency, 1, 2, and 4 bedroom apartments - shared accommodations also available SLEEP Queen size beds with pillow tops in private bedrooms CHILL Spacious, fully furnished living rooms with 50” flat screen TV, sofa, lounge chair, coffee table and end table STUDY Desk and chrome chair COOK & DINE Full kitchens with dishwasher/disposal, full refrigerator, microwave, oven/stove PEACE OF MIND Individual leases – you are only responsible for your rent and not the rent of your roommates CONVENIENCE In-home washer and dryers, walk-in closets, on-site management and maintenance staff, covered parking garage STYLE Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, wood-look flooring, track lighting LEASE AT: 5048 Calhoun Road | Houston, TX 77004 LIVE AT: 4459 N MacGregor Way | Houston, TX 77004 281.942.8519 campusvueapartments.com Brand New Student Living
  • 4. COOGS CHOOSE4 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 CANS now broadcasting in come visit our brewery just north of downtown we serve lunch and offer tours and tastings monday through saturday BEST LOCAL BREW
  • 5. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 5 PHOTOGRA- PHERS Cara Smith Justin Tijerina Jenae Sitzes Izmail Glosson Julie Soefer Emily Chambers PRODUCTION Jose Cruz Alex Tomic Josue Diaz COVER DESIGN Alex Tomic CLOSING EDITORS Cara Smith Jenae Sitzes Chris Shelton ADVERTISING TEAM JP Montgomery Elizabeth Murphy Jose Salazar Summer Davis Yissel Lerma Tiffany Willie Coogs Choose is part of a series of new special sections published every month by The Cougar. These sections are intended to give recognition and focus to certain aspects of student life that can often be overlooked. NEWSROOM 713-743-5360 editor@thedailycougar.com facebook.com/thedailycougar twitter.com/thedailycougar ADVERTISING 713-743-5340 csmadvertising@uh.edu Contact The Cougar thedailycougar.com email edition thedailycougar.com/ subscribe Follow us on Instagram instagram.com/ thedailycougar Follow us on Twitter @thedailycougar Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ thedailycougar table of contentstable of contents When it comes to burgers, Houston offers an overwhelming amount of options. But don't worry; we've narrowed it down for you. Page 30 The Cougar takes you around the globe with food options that will excite your taste buds. Page 27 With Swisha House past its prime, a new crop of rappers is grabbing the wood wheel. Page 20 Learn to become a better beer snob. Page 31 FOOD & DRINK Who's got spirit? Professor Simon Bott does. Page 7 CAMPUS LIFE Case Keenum's 13-1 season still resonates with the UH community. Page 11 CAMPUS LIFE Drooling yet? Become the next explorer The changing face of Houston hip hop ENTERTAINMENT Improve your wooing and golf swing at the same time. Page 17 COURTESY PHOTO CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO
  • 6. COOGS CHOOSE6 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 A few weeks ago, I was chowing down on a $3 cheeseburger a block away from campus. This burger had my head spining — the fine- ly-ground, juicy beef crumbled during each bite, and that perfect, single slice of American cheese melted and meshed into the crisp veggies and buttery bun. The family-owned eatery, Cream Burger, has been up and running for 54 years. And to this day, the source of its quirky, noteworthy name remains a mystery. “You’d have to ask my parents that — they’re no longer with us,” said Sandra Greenwood, 55, who is one of the restaurant’s co-owners. “But I’d have to say it’s because we have ice cream and hamburgers.” Houston is chock-full of these hidden gems, ones that are breeding grounds for cultural crossover and conversa- tion. For every Cream Burger, there’s a Kanomwan Thai, one of the Second Ward’s most authentic Thai offerings. Then there’s Moontower Inn, Houston’s only brewpub that also cooks up a mean venison dog and burgers topped with fried eggs and jalapenos. That’s why it was disheartening to see students voted McDonald’s as the city’s best hamburger, Starbucks as Houston’s best coffeeshop and Chipotle as our best burrito. Houston is one of the nation's best cities to eat and be entertained in. Our city's population fulfills America's identity as a melting pot better than any other. Call me crazy, but I'm not sure every city in the United States has Cuban bistros that a Vietnamese family can be seen packing into on a Saturday, or a hole-in-the-wall soul food kitchen that young professionals will wait three hours or more to eat at. That's some- thing that I believe is unique to Coog City. You’ll see The Cougar’s dining, entertainment and lifestyle favorites highlighted throughout the issue. These aren’t places that were voted on, but they’re ones that members of The Cougar and the Center for Student Media think represent Houston and all of its layered cultures and inspiring character. We hope you’ll learn to call these places your favorite Houston hangs, too. Oh, and if you find yourself grabbing a bite at Cream Burger, stay off your cellphone while you order at the front counter. Rumor has it the owner won’t hesitate to slam the screen door shut on you mid-sentence. I don't think they do that at McDonald's. — Cara Smith, editor in chief Letter from the Editor: Students, get to know your Houston EDITOR'S NOTE VISIT bit.ly/cougarstaffapp TO APPLY (LOGIN REQUIRED) JOIN THE NEXT GENERATION OF STUDENT JOURNALISM. facebook.com/thedailycougar @thedailycougar @thedailycougar PHOTO BY IZMAIL GLOSSON PHOTO BY JUSTIN TIJERINA
  • 7. Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 7COOGS CHOOSE CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE If you're involved on campus, chances are you've encountered one of these members of the community. These students, faculty and staff were voted the most impactful people at UH. Movers and shakers Best Student Leader Anthony Hidrogo Though he has only served as Financial Officer for the Society of Human Resource Management since December, Anthony Hidrogo has already made quite an impression on his team. "I really emphasize teamwork and a positive attitude where students can do their best." 2nd Place: Christine Bang 3rd Place: Erica Tat Best Registered Student Org Asian Business Student Association President Christine Bang said the Asian Business Student Association’s enthusiasm is what sets them apart from other student organiza- tions. “Having such positive energy really does radiate through to other people.” 2nd Place: Society for Human Resource Management 3rd Place: Veteran Students for America Best Best Teaching Assistant Sameer Thacker Computer science major Sameer Hai serves as a biology teaching assistant. Hai said he enjoys the responsibility of the job, noting that that the best parts of being a TA are “being in charge...(and) teaching.” 2nd Place: Angelynn Alvarez 3rd Place: Cesar Pham Best Academic Adviser Sandra Gold-Singleton Political science adviser Sandra Gold-Sin- gleton served as an assistant to Undergraduate Director Jerald W. Jackson. She also contributed to a linguistic and phonetic analysis study entitled “Effect of Accent and Dialect on Employability." 2nd Place: Colleen Davies 3rd Place: Jeremy Dafoe Best UH Staff Member Custodial & Maintenance Staff Jeanne Brewster is one of more than 350 custodial and maintenance staff members who were collectively recognized for this cat- egory because they keep the school clean and running smoothly while going almost unnoticed. “We are composed of people from all parts of the world. Either through choice, luck or divine providence, we were brought together as a team,” said Ray Mosley, North Zone and Custodial Program Manager. 2nd Place: Lawren Bradbury 3rd Place: Taylor Wiley CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
  • 8. COOGS CHOOSE8 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE Best Resident Assistant Kayla Fischer An RA on the fifth floor of Cougar Village 1, Fisher said her passion for helping people is what motivated her to apply for the position. “(My residents) are such a talented group of students who I know will be successful, so I would do anything to help them.” 2nd Place: Christian Ohabunwa 3rd Place: Chris Pinto Best Sorority Delta Zeta Delta Zeta dates back to 1902, when six young woman came together to establish a sorority on the male-dominated Miami Uni- versity campus in Oxford, Ohio. Today, Delta Zeta has more than 15,000 undergraduate members at any given time and over 165 collegiate chapters throughout the United States and Canada. They host the largest philanthropy event on campus, Gong Show, and over the past year Delta Zeta was able to donate more than $10,000 to their causes. 2nd Place: Chi Omega 3rd Place: Phi Sigma Rho Best Fraternity Pi Kappa Phi Pi Kappa Phi is only national fraternity to establish its own philanthropy, The Ability Experience, which serves people with disabilities. Boasting more than 7,000 undergraduate brothers and 160 active chapters nationwide, Pi Kappa Phi sets high expectations for its members in terms of their academic success and campus involve- ment outside the fraternity, with 80 percent of its members making over a 3.0 for the past two years. Pi Kappa Phi has been No. 1 in Greek intramurals on campus for the past three years and won Best Fraternity in 2010. 2nd Place: Kappa Sigma 3rd Place: Lamda Phi Epsilon CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS OF BEST FRATERNITY AND BEST SORORITY Excellence in Intellectual Development Chi Omega Delta Gamma Triangle Fraternity Excellence in Leadership Development Delta Zeta Excellence in Service and Citizenship Delta Gamma Kappa Delta Chi Phi Mu Pi Kappa Phi Sigma Phi Epsilon Zeta Phi Beta Excellence in Brotherhood/Sisterhood Chi Omega Delta Gamma Zeta Phi Beta Excellence in Ritual and Values Chi Omega Delta Gamma Delta Zeta Phi Mu Sigma Phi Epsilon Zeta Tau Alpha PI KAPPA PHI AND DELTA ZETA PI KAPPA PHI AND DELTA ZETA THE CENTER FOR FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE WOULD ALSO LIKE TO EXTEND CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RECIPIENTS OF OUR FRATERNAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS! Best Professor Simon Bott Arguably the most spirited person on campus, chemistry professor Simon Bott is known for getting students involved. He gives extra credit for attend- ing campus events and wearing red on Fridays. "I do try to make my classes a more holistic experience, emphasizing life and university issues as well as chemistry.” 2nd Place: Bekki George 3rd Place: Melahat Almus COURTESY PHOTO
  • 9. COOGS CHOOSE SAY YES TO GETTING INVOLVED... SAY YES TO GETTING SUPPORT... SAY YES TO SUCCESS SAY YES TO STAYING HEALTHY... UH_DSAESuh.edu/dsaes SAY YES TO SUCCESS SAY YES TO LIVING ON CAMPUS... UH_DSAESuh.edu/dsaes What does #UHSuccess look like to you? Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 9
  • 10. COOGS CHOOSE10 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 With computer labs to connect online and private group rooms, UH's main library has everything a student could ask for. “There is basically something for everybody here,” student leader Mike Alder said. “Whether you need a really quiet area or a public area where you can speak as loudly as you need to and collaborate with other folks, the library has it all.” 2nd Place: The Nook Cafe 3rd Place: Student Center CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE Best On-Campus Hangout The Student Center The new Student Center, of which renovations were completed this semester, has become a staple student hangout space as well as a go-to spot for food and drink. The second floor is a great spot for studying, since most students still forget it’s been completed. If nothing else, students are just glad they don’t have to walk by construction anymore and feel like their ears are going to burst. 2nd Place: The Nook Cafe 3rd Place: Recreation and Wellness Center MD ANDERSON LIBRARY “2015 BEST PLACE TO STUDY ON CAMPUS” THANKS, COOGS! info.lib.uh.edu Best On-Campus Place to Study M.D. Anderson Memorial Library CONGRATULATIONSTo the winners of Coogs Choose! Anthony Hidrogo Christine Bang Erica Tat BEST STUDENT LEADER Asian Business Student Association Society for Human Resource Management Veteran Students for America BEST STUDENT ORGANIZATION Anthony Hidrogo Christine Bang Erica Tat BEST STUDENT LEADER Asian Business Student Association Society for Human Resource Management Veteran Students for America BEST STUDENT ORGANIZATION Registered Student Organization Resources Leadership Development Programs Campus Traditions and Entertainment Events Service and Civic Engagement Opportunities At the Center for Student Involvement, we provide the tools and expertise to develop student leaders and organizations to become the best they can be! Check out or website or visit us in Student Center North to find out what we have to offer! We want you to be next year’s best! Register your organization today and start making an impact on campus! 2015 – 2016 Student Organization Registration April 6th through May 22nd Check the Center for Student Involvement website for times, dates and locations! uh.edu/csi FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
  • 11. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 11 Case Keenum Not since Andre Ware's Heisman has a single football player had a bigger impact on the program than Case Keenum. He piloted the Air Raid offense, leading the Cougars into the national spotlight and a 13-1 season in 2011. After two stints with the Houston Texans, Keenum is now with the St. Louis Rams. 2nd Place: Cathy Frank 3rd Place: Jim Parsons Best Alum Best Cougar Fan Taylor Rouleau Taylor Rouleau exemplifies the perfect Cougar fan by showing up to games early, cheering on the UH teams and staying late no matter what the score was. “I love this school with all my heart and have since day one. If we don't love our school and have great school pride, how can we expect anyone else to? We need to show incoming freshmen and all outsiders that UH is amazing.” 2nd Place: Crissy Martinez 3rd Place: Allen Lin Best Student Athlete Greg Ward Jr. Greg Ward Jr. certainly has a flare for the dramatics. He led the Cougars to 29 fourth-quarter points en route to an improbable 35-34 victory in the Armed Forces bowl to cap the 2014 season. In his eight games as a starter, Ward’s 2010 passing yards and 12 touchdowns helped UH go 6-2 down the stretch. 2nd Place: Zachary Brown 3rd Place: Joey Mbu CAMPUS LIFECAMPUS LIFE FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
  • 12. COOGS CHOOSE12 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 bikebarn.com Ⓡ CLEAR LAKE 2422 Bay Area Blvd. 281-480-9100 CYPRESS 25807 NW Fwy 281-213-3791 KATY 629 S. Mason Rd. 281-492-7433 UNIVERSITY 5339 Weslayan 713-529-9002 WESTCHASE 11105 Westheimer 281-558-2234 CUSTOM FIT STUDIO 5339 Weslayan 713-432-7720 CHAMPIONS 6935 Cypresswood Dr. 281-320-0399 ATASCOCITA 7506 FM 1960 East 281-812-8423 Proudly Supporting the Cougars! FIRST PLACE WINNER Best Bike Shop in Houston Coogs…thanks for voting us the Best! We've got final exams to take and Frontier Fiesta cowboy costumes to make. There's no time to sweat the little stuff during college. Rely on these places for the fastest, cheapest or most consistent day-to-day services in or around campus. The living's easy Best Screen Repair Apple Store Apple will repair models as far back as the iPhone 5 for $129, except for the iPhone 6, which will cost you $109 to get a new screen. Apple’s service is fast, with same-day repair if you go to the store and a 3-5 business day return if you send in your phone for service. 2nd Place: Best Buy 3rd Place: Cougar Byte Best Bike Shop Bike Barn Bike Barn has every- thing you need for your ride. In addition to the wide variety of bicycles, Bike Barn offers cycling resources and showcases social bike riding events. You also won't have to worry about finding a location, as Bike Barn is arguably the most popular bike shop around. 2nd Place: Bay Area Cycling 3rd Place: Blue Line Best Off-Campus Apartment The Vue The Vue provides top-of-the-line appliances and furnishings, including gourmet kitchens, a flat screen television that includes cable and even private balconies and wood floors. You'll find every amenity that comes to mind at or near this residence without the hassle of travel, such as Wi-Fi, computer center, tanning beds, fitness center and even a dog park nearby. 2nd Place: Cullen Oaks 3rd Place: Domain by Windsor LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR
  • 13. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015| 13 Best App Waze Have you ever been driving, wondering whether there’s a police car tucked in that ditch on the side of the interstate? Or maybe you’ve just been frustrated with Google Maps underestimating how much traffic there is on I-59. Download the free, user-generated traffic app that lets you leave messages for other Waze users about traffic, dangerous potholes and hidden cops. Its traffic updates and accident infor- mation are all updated in real-time and fueled by user feedback, so the app gives you more information about driving condi- tions than most satellite-driven GPS apps. THE COUGAR'S FAVORITE LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE Best Tech Store Best Buy Best Buy has a huge array of appliances including TVs, com- puters, cameras, audio equipment, vacuums and even washers and dryers. With several locations around the greater Houston area, students shouldn't have trouble finding a nearby location. In addition, Best Buy frequently offers sales, especially around the beginning of the semester, which is pretty clutch for a college student. 2nd Place: Apple Store 3rd Place: Cougar Byte Best Auto Shop Maaco Whether your car needs a new paint job, dent fix or major repair, Maaco has a long list of locations around Houston THANKS FOR VOTING FOR US! UH students get 15% discount PASADENA 2049 South Richey (Richey & Allengenoa) Pasadena, TX 77502 713.472.6651 WEBSTER - CLEAR LAKE 16864 Hwy 3(@Bay Area Blvd) Webster, TX 77598 281.332.6433 ready to assist. The company takes pride in its affordable and reliable paint process. In 2014, Maaco paired up with Uber so that the body shop’s customers can utilize special Uber deals while their cars are being restored, and Uber Driver Partners receive a discount on Maaco services. 2nd Place: Pep Boys 3rd Place: Apollo Paint and Body Best Car Dealership Sterling McCall Toyota Though not all students may consider purchasing a new vehicle while under the monetary constraints of college, those who are looking can feel good turning to Sterling McCall. “It’s an honor to be recognized by the students at the college,” said Customer Relations Manager Aisha Foster. “We are very big on taking care of customers. That’s the type of business we are, and we believe in customer service; we don’t just say it.” 2nd Place: CarMax 3rd Place: Russell & Smith Auto Best App for Students BlackBoard Blackboard has made life easier for students on the go who don’t always have the time to sit at a computer and check their notes. The app notifies you when a grade has been posted, and it's a quick way to look over notes on your phone before a test. 2nd Place: Yik Yak 3rd Place: Snap Chat
  • 14. COOGS CHOOSE14 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 Best Place To Buy UH Gear UH Bookstore With a new look for the Student Center, the UH Bookstore provides fresh new gear for Cougars of every age. UH-themed sweatshirts, workout gear, coffee mugs, pints, children's clothes and more are available at the bookstore. “We’ve been working really hard to be the best, we got some new gear, we’re expanding and it’s good to hear that our hard work is paying off," bookstore manager Jalisa Fisher said. 2nd Place: Academy 3rd Place: Amazon Best Place To Keep Fit Recreation and Wellness Center With free workout classes, an indoor track, 24,000 square feet of workout machines, treadmills and weight areas all for the swipe of your Cougar Card, this is a deal that students would be remiss not to take advantage of. 2nd Place: 24 Hour Fitness 3rd Place: S Factor GET REC’D UH.EDU/RECREATION713-743-7529 (PLAY) UPCOMING EVENTS Backpacking on the Lonestar Hiking Trail (UH Student $100/Guest $150) Friday–Sunday, April 24–26 Enjoy the weekend backpacking on a 20 mile section of the 96 mile long Lonestar Hiking Trail, which runs the length of Sam Houston National Forest. No experience is necessary and equipment is provided. The deadline to sign up for this trip is 4/20 at 5pm. SUP Yoga and Kayak Trip (UH Student $25) Friday, May 1 You don’t have to stay out of the water just because the pool is closed! Join us for a day of fun on the water and in the sun! Two hours of beach time will include sea kayaking and a stand-up paddle-board (SUP) yoga class. Cost includes all equipment rental and lunch! Event is from 10:00am- 3:00pm. Registration is at the Outdoor Adventures desk. Deadline to sign up is Monday, April 27th. Florida Paddling and Hiking Trip (UH Student $500/Guest $600) Friday–Sunday, May 16–23 Join Outdoor Adventure for a Florida adventure trip. We will be going to several National forests and State parks as well as beautiful Cape San Blas. No experience is necessary and equipment is included. The deadline to sign up for this trip is on 5/4 at 5pm. PLACE BEST TO KEEP FIT BEST CAMPUS HANGOUT 1ST 3RD LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE FILE PHOTO/ THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO
  • 15. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 15 LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE ON CAMPUS ON DEMAND AND facebook.com/coogtv @coogtv youtube.com/coogtv www.coogtv.com News, Sports, Entertainment & More On your desktop. On your phone. On your tablet. Anywhere you go. YOUR STUDENT-RUN TV STATION Best Slang "Go Coogs!" This modern Cougar call to arms is a great way to rally up campus spirit. You’ll hear it uttered like a spell at games and team-building events, and it's become eponymous with being a proud UH student and proud Houstonian. Of all the social media tags that reflect Cougar Pride, #GoCoogs is one of the most popular. 2nd Place: "On fleek" 3rd Place: "YOLO" THE COUGAR'S FAVORITE Best Adult Shop Pleasure Zone Pleasure Zone is an accessible sex shop for newbies and seasoned shoppers alike. The knowledgeable staff will answer any question you have, no matter how silly. And Pleasure Zone celebrates "all that is feminine," so you'll have a wide variety of toys for you and your partner to pick from. Best Smoke Shop Smoke Alley Smoke Alley would be better designated as a head shop, rather than smoke shop. With a varied collection of glass pipes, the premier item among other smoking tools, the store is a place to spend some time really thinking about your next pipe purchase. The prices are fair, so your hobby won't break the bank. Smoke Alley is like a boutique, delivering a sense of safety and cleanliness void in many other smoke shops. 2nd Place: BC Smoke Shop COURTESY PHOTO
  • 16. COOGS CHOOSE16 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 entertainmententertainment Best Club Limelight Limelight is the perfect place to dance and rage on a night out in Midtown. Patrons can expect to feel their feet shake upon stepping through the doors from the heavy bass of EDM or rap music. Complete with multiple bars, two floors, cages and go-go dancers, Limelight is a great place for young singles. 2nd Place: Stereo Live 3rd Place: Drink Houston Best Country Bar Wild West Wild West is a great place for everyone who enjoys some good country music. True to its motto of ‘Wild West is Texas, Two-Steppin’ & Longneckin’, its solid oak dance floor is a match made in heaven for your boots. The atmosphere is complete with the DJ playing the hottest country music and Top 40 pop and hip hop songs, while fresh fajitas and other appetizers are always available in between dancing. 2nd Place: Midnight Rodeo 3rd Place: Buckwild Calhoun's Rooftop Bar and Grill As the name implies, Calhoun’s Rooftop Bar and Grill’s big draw is its location - a door wedged next to the Nook on campus takes you to a dark, grey flight of stairs, which open out to an airy, open-window bar and rooftop. As the temperatures rise, Calhoun’s becomes the perfect spot to grab a pint of beer and overlook the spectacular views, with the downtown skyline clear in view. Those who aren’t big beer fans won’t be disap- pointed - Calhoun’s also serves cocktails and shots, several of which are UH-themed, and a full menu of appetizers, burgers, flatbreads and even Sunday brunch. 2nd Place: Pub Fiction 3rd Place: The Den Calhoun's Rooftop Bar and Grill Best Live Music Venue House of Blues The House of Blues Houston is a unique venue that allows fans to see some of the biggest names in music up close and per- sonal in an intimate setting with an amazing atmosphere. Tickets are affordable and the restaurant and bar have a divine variety of options. This venue has become one of the city's top spots for live music performances and it’s easy to see why. 2nd Place: Fitzgerald's 3rd Place: Warehouse Live If you go to UH, you're now a Houstonian. It doesn't matter if you grew up around Houston or if you're from out of state or country. Discover (or rediscover) one of the nation's most vibrant cities the way it's meant to be discovered — with good friends during even better nights. Worth the splurge Best Bar, Best Place to Watch UH Away Games Calhoun’s Rooftop Bar and Grill’s big draw is its location - a door wedged next to The Nook on campus takes you to a dark, gray flight of stairs, which open out to an airy, open-window bar and rooftop. As temperatures rise, Calhoun’s becomes the perfect spot to grab a pint of beer and overlook the spectacular downtown skyline. Those who aren’t big beer fans won’t be disappointed - Calhoun’s also serves cocktails and shots, several of which are UH-themed, and a full menu of appetizers, burgers, flatbreads and Sunday brunch. 2nd Place: Pub Fiction 3rd Place: The Den THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Best Bar Neil's Bahr Who said you can’t have your alcohol and video games together — in public? Even if you just want to strike up a conversation with a crowd that’s just into gaming as you are, this is the place for you. With arcade games, table games and console games, there’s something here for everyone. Keep in mind that this place can get crowded on the weekends. Best Local Music Act A More Perfect Union The Pearland-based band has been making quite a name for themselves by streaming their music online and performing all over Houston. The 4-piece rock band formed together in Spring of 2014 and has already found their own sound, a blend of alternative rock and punk rock. Blink-182 and Green Day are among the band's influences. 2nd Place: Only Beast 3rd Place: Football, etc. CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO File photo/The Cougar
  • 17. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 17 Top Golf Top Golf won't leave you bored. The entertainment monolith combines driving-range golfing with a full bar, restaurant and bar games that'll give you and your date plenty of ways to break the ice. It gets crowded on weekend nights, though, with wait times climb- ing above three hours or more, so be sure to arrive early or make a reservation. 2nd Place: Hermann Park 3rd Place: Discovery Green Best Date Spot entertainmententertainment Best Movie Theater AMC Theatres Voted the best in Houston, AMC goes above and beyond to provide the greatest variety of films in a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. Depending on your budget, locations like Studio 30 on Dunvale come complete with a bar, plenty of concessions, and every rendition of Coke you can think of. 2nd Place: Edwards Cinema 3rd Place: Studio Movie Grill Best Movie Theater River Oaks Theater The River Oaks Theater is a historic three-screen theater north of down- town. Notable for its Art Deco style, the theater’s focus is on screening previ- ously released, indie and cult films. This landmark is a great place to hang out with friends. THE COUGAR'S FAVORITE We would like to say a big THANK YOU to all of the students of UH who took the time to vote for us in the Coogs Choose Category as Best Date Spot and Best Spot for a 21st Birthday! Go Coogs! FROMALLOFUSATTOPGOLF,BESTDATESPOTAND BESTSPOTFORA21ST BIRTHDAY FIRST PLACE WINNER Location 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd. Houston, TX 77084 Phone (281) 406-3176 Website www.topgolf.com happy hour! #failedatgolf CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
  • 18. COOGS CHOOSE18 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 entertainmententertainment THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES When it comes to clubbing, it's all about going to the right place at the right time in the right outfit with the right people. Sound overwhelming? Let us help you figure out where you were born to rage. The Scene Punk, alternative Numbers The crowd at Numbers is of the alternative scene. If you're up for a little rebellion and a trip to the wild side, you'll find the right company here. The people are edgier and come from a different shade of cool. Dance, lounge Grooves Grooves is a local brunch spot for the younger and professional crowd. The people there take brunch seriously. But on weekend nights, it comes to life with hip hop dancing and a lounge that fills up quickly. If you're young and hungry for a good meal and a good time afterward, Grooves needs to be your destination. Prep, modern Vao's Vao's crowd is of the more upscale, white collar scene. The people are strictly dressed to impress and nothing less. Expect the club to be laden with young professionals just getting off work at Ernst & Young, dressed to the nines and tossing back cocktails. It's also a Greek-heavy scene, with members of UH's sororities and fraternities flocking to the club on weekends. LGBT, vibrant South Beach The scene at South Beach is and almost exclusively LGBT. Gay, straight, or transgen- dered - the atmosphere is open and friendly. The scene at South Beach features people of all ages, all looking for a fun night in one of Houston's most popular clubs. VAOCLUBLIFE 2016 Main St, Houston, TX • 702 530 9650 • www.vaoclublife.com 21 and over • Dress code enforced • Doors 10:30pm till close OPEN FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS DOORS 10:30PM TO CL FROM 10:30PM TO 11:30PM VAOCLUBLIFE 2016 Main St, Houston, TX • 702 530 9650 • www.vaoclublife.com 21 and over • Dress code enforced • Doors 10:30pm till close OPEN FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS DOORS 10:30PM TO CL FROM 10:30PM TO 11:30PM 713-655-0700 COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO
  • 19. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 19 WATCH GETINVOLVED!Build your portfolio. Make an impact. READ LISTEN THE COUGAR COOG TV COOG RADIO
  • 20. COOGS CHOOSE20 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 Where he's from: Northside You've probably turned up to his local hit "Flicka Da Wrist," but he's more than just this regional hit. The record executive turned rapper has made a habit of making hit songs in the past few years. What you should download: "Greatness" ft. Rick Ross, Slim Thug and Rich AndruwsBoston George THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES That Third Coast waveFor Houston's next generation of rappers, the throne is ready for the taking. We've highlighted four who have embraced the city's hip-hop history while distinguishing themselves from the growing group looking to fill the city's rap void. Where they're from: South Park and Mo' City "2 legited 2 Quited" has been a staple on the radio and in the club. Their chemistry on wax reminds many of Migos, another popular rap duo, and we foresee many club bangers in their future. What you should download: "93" ft. Doughboy Sauce Twinz Travis Scott Hiram Clarke The former college basketball player reached new heights when his collaboration with Rich Homie Quan "2 Rounds" extended his reach past Texas. Propain features a combination of complex lyrics and catchy flow not often found in Slab City. Expect your friends that live outside of the Loop to learn more about Propain in the next few years. What you should download: "Father's Day" and "All Day" ft. Zero Where he's from: Mo' City After getting his start as a producer on Myspace, Scott is becoming more popular as the man with the microphone. He is featured on "Company" off Drake's recent project "If you're reading this it's too late." But don't doubt that he still has the production skills that got him noticed. He helped produce Rihanna's recent single B*tch better have my money. What you should download: "Skyfall" ft. Young Thug Propain entertainmententertainment COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO
  • 21. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 21 Sound Exchange Though it doesn’t have as much of a selec- tion as Cactus Music, Sound Exchange is a great destination for those who have a specific niche. Cactus Music If being a source for records isn’t enough, Cactus Music also hosts live music with free beer on the weekends. Sig's Lagoon The chance to enjoy all that music you heard your parents playing around the house or in their car will keep you sifting through cassettes, CDs and vinyls for hours. Vinal Edge Records With a constant stream of new and old music coming in, Vinal Edge is a great place to revisit often. Heights A one-stop shop for old jazz and blues records, Heights Vinyl is another niche shop that won’t have much outside of its genre. It is a good place to get a turntable. coogradio Listen anywhere on TuneIn.com (search for Coog Radio) Broadcasting24/7atCoogRadio.com STUDENT-RUN RADIO facebook.com/coogradiohouston @coogradio entertainmententertainment COOG RADIO'S FAVORITES BIGSTOCK Best Record Store Cactus Music With an extensive collection, Cactus Music doesn’t disappoint customers looking for vinyl records and impressive prices. If being a source for records isn’t enough, Cactus Music also hosts live music with free beer on the weekends. 2nd Place: Best Buy 3rd Place: Half Price Books
  • 22. 22 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE Best Taco Torchy's Tacos It's one of the trendiest places in Houston to get a taco. Torchy's is also affordable for stu- dents, with tacos costing around $4 each. 2nd Place: Taco Bell 3rd Place: Taco Cabana Best Wings Buffalo Wild Wings Customers can choose the sauce the wings are tossed in, ranging from super spicy to sweet. In addition to wings, BWW also offers tasty appetizers, like mozzarella sticks and potato wedges. 2nd Place: Wing Stop 3rd Place: Pluckers FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK Best Pizza Pink's Pizza The opening of Pink’s on campus has answered our pizza and beer needs. Even though we dole out $7 for a slice, we leave Pink’s with no regrets. It's helped to boost UH's campus nightlife and vastly improved our on-campus dining. 2nd Place: Pizza Hut 3rd Place: Star Pizza Houston is one of the best cities in the nation to eat in. It's a heavyweight in ethnic diversity, affordability and accessibility, with many of Houston's eateries spread out in different pockets of the city. Clutch dining Just wing it COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO
  • 23. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 23 FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK Best Wings Pluckers The Shepard location has a sprawling environment that’s great for watching the game at (and is better lit than Buffalo Wild Wings). They boast fewer wing sauces than BWW’s, but this is a case of quality over quantity. And if you’re looking for sides other than French fries, go for Plucker’s insanely-creamy macaroni and cheese. THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Best Sushi For Your Dollar Sushi Wabi You're in the mood for sushi, you don't have an hour to wait in line at Oishii, and you're not dressed for Ra or Sushi King. Where do you go? Sushi Wabi is the perfect place for a casual meet-up with friends or a spontaneous date night - it's just around the corner from the Edwards Greenway theater. Take advantage of its happy hour menu - we're talking large $6 rolls. Best Off-Campus Lunch Empire Cafe Empire is 10 minutes from campus and promises some of the most delectable cafe food. Go for the Not-Fried Chicken sandwich. It's baked, breaded chicken on a butter criossant with chipotle aoli sauce and fresh greens. Best Off-Campus Lunch Chipotle Mexican Grill The grill has a little something for every- one, with plenty of options for your burrito or bowl. 2nd Place: Whataburger 3rd Place: Chinese Star Best $5 Lunch Cream Burger The family-owned joint caters to its customers with quality meals that are easy on the wallet. “We make each burger individually and with a whole lot of love for each customer,” said co-owner Beverly Greenwood. CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO Best Pho Pho Saigon Noodle House With six locations around the city, it’s not hard to see why Pho Saigon is great for students. 2nd Place: Mai's Restaurant 3rd Place: Pho Binh Best Sandwich McAlister's Deli McAlister’s Deli is a favorite for students because it is easy to get to on campus and accepts Cougar Cash in exchange for their delicious sandwiches. They offer a variety of sandwiches ranging from classic to grilled. In addition to tasty sandwiches, McAlister’s Deli also has salads, soups, spuds and desserts. 2nd Place: Subway 3rd Place: Chick-Fil-A COURTESY PHOTO
  • 24. 24 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES If it's good enough for Beyoncé... If you see a line wrapping around the corner of an unassuming yellow-roofed building in Midtown anytime between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m., don't be alarmed; these patient folks are customers of the iconic Houston eatery. If you’re hungry and have a few hours to spare, park and get in line – it’s worth it. Known for signature dishes such as the “Katfish and Grits” and “Wings and Waffles,” The Breakfast Klub excels at southern specialties that will bring back memories of Grandma’s kitchen for any southern-born visitor. In addition to its award-winning breakfast menu, the restaurant also offers sandwiches and salads for lunch as well as a “heart healthy” menu. The Breakfast Klub Best Breakfast IHOP Being open 24 hours is a big plus for college students. A Rooty Tooty Fresh & Fruit never fails to hit the spot. 2nd Place: Breakfast Klub 3rd Place: McDonald's Best 24-Hour Diner IHOP The diner offers classic breakfast dishes such as pancakes, eggs, omelettes, waffles and crepes as well as lunch and dinner items like hamburgers, salads and desserts. 2nd Place: Dot's Coffee Shop 3rd Place: House of Pies Best Restaurant to Broaden your Horizon Katz's Deli and Bar This late-night spot is the perfect place for when you crave a taste of the Big Apple. If you're hungry after burning some calories on the Midtown dance floors, look no further than Katz's, because it never closes. 2nd Place: Cafe 101 3rd Place: Sweet Paris Best Kolache Kolache Factory This shop offers traditional kolaches with fillings like fruit, sausage and jalepeno. Try the specialties, including Bar-B-Q-Beef, Philly Cheese Steak and Sausage and Gravy. 59 Diner Known for its classic '50s throwback look and decadent milkshakes, 59 Diner has the vibe of a hangout you'd find in a Scooby Doo episode. It offers a menu of classic favorites from hamburgers to steak, with those filling U.S. portions people just can't get enough of. 59 Diner is also open 24/7, so there's no excuse not to head to the nearest one and try some of its fare. FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK Best $5 Lunch McDonald's McDonald's won't break the bank and makes grabbing lunch as convenient as ever. 2nd Place: Subway 3rd Place: Taco Bell EMILY CHAMBERS/THE COUGAR EMILY CHAMBERS/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO
  • 25. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 25 Best Food Trucks Eatsie Boys It can be found across from Agnes Arnold Hall offering a range of mouthwatering sandwiches stuffed to capacity with hearty meats and flavorful ingredients. THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Flip 'n Patties Filipino street food has never tasted so good. Flip ‘n Patties offers a variety of burgers, appetizers and rice dishes that you will definitely need a napkin for. Bernie's Burger Bus If you’re accustomed to Big Macs, trying any burger from Bernie’s menu will give you well-needed shock — each burger is handmade from scratch. THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES The Group Activity Top Golf Top Golf has entertainment for all ages, and not in the cheesy way your parents hope for. There’s full bar and craft beer pints, but your under-21 buds won’t be shortchanged on things to do. Your group can golf, eat dinner, play pool or just hang out at the bar, which requires ID for only those drinking. The First Bar Little Woodrow's Little Woodrow’s is a good bar to know. There’s several of them scattered around Houston, but the most popular location is on Brazos Street. It’s a fairly casual place, and it’s in the center of Midtown, which boasts one of the highest concentrations of popular bars in Hous- ton. On Thursdays during summer months, you can also enjoy turtle races – bet on the right turtle, and you get a free drink. It doesn’t get much better than that. The Dinner Spot The Hay Merchant For dinner, take your crew to The Hay Mer- chant on Westheimer. It's the perfect place to wet your whistle, as the bar boasts over 30 taps that rotate throughout the season. You'll be able to figure out your preference in beer, all while waiting for your Cease and Desist burger to arrive. 21 in Houston Reaching that glorious age is exciting for anyone, but those of us in the Bayou City party even harder. When planning your night, stick with these tried-and-true hotspots that promise a good time. FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK Triple J’s Smokehouse Triple J’s is a tried-and-true favorite. Its loaded baked potatoes can come stuffed with sau- sage, beef and ribs smothered in BBQ sauce, with two-meat, two-side dinner clocking in at an affordable $11. Its reputation as one of Houston’s best-known BBQ joints has been alive and thriving for 20 years. Ray's BBQ Shack Ray’s BBQ Shack excels in regional cuisine beyond BBQ. In addition to succulent brisket, beef and BBQ ribs, Ray’s also serves a healthy variety of fresh seafood. Its catfish basket, which comes with three large helpings of catfish for just over $10, rounds out a diverse seafood menu. Gatlin's BBQ Gatlin’s BBQ is probably Houston’s most widely-known and talked about BBQ joint, making a monumental impact on the city in its five short years. It started out of the current co-own- ers’ home and has quickly established itself as a regional staple of BBQ, with juicy beef and pork sliders that are hard to rival. THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Best BBQ Joints COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO
  • 26. 26 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Close to Coog City Mandola's Deli Moontower Inn doubles as the city's only brewpub and the best place for a gourmet, greasy hot dog at an affordable price. You'll find wild boar dogs and venision dogs, but Moontower and its sprawling back patio attract an unpretentious crowd. Walk, bike, jog or rollerblade to these places from campus — just make sure you get there, because they're some of the city's best-kept secrets. Brooks Family BBQ Moontower Inn Mandola's Deli's walls are covered with UH gear, and all UH students get 10 percent off their delicious meals. To say Frenchy's is just succulent is an egregious understatement. The chicken is tender, juicy and insanely flavorful. Frenchy's Chicken Brooks Family BBQ is located across Scott St. on the opposite side of the stadium from campus, so it's a great place to grab a chop beef sandwich after watching the Cougars on a Friday night. Kanomwan Thai Kanomwan serves strictly authentic Thai — its pad thai isn't laden with gooey peanut sauce, which is a welcome change. Ben's Beans It's a five-minute drive from campus and promises a chill place to study, serving sandwiches, coffee, smoothies and pastries. Bohemo's Cafe If Bohemo's open mic nights aren't enough, its shrimp tacos, coffee and craft beer make it great for weekend decompression. Hoang Sandwich Hoang Sandwich is a hidden gem that offers affordable, delicious Vietnamese food and a quiet, comfortable atmosphere. La Imperial Bakery There aren't many places that make homemade tamales, empanadas and other Mexican delicacies, but this is one of them. Cream Burger For less than $4, Cream Burger will fill you up with a cheeseburger, but we recommend splurging for an added super rich milkshake. CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESYPHOTO COURTESYPHOTO COURTESYPHOTO COURTESYPHOTO
  • 27. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 27 FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK AROUND THE WORLD IN 8 DAYS DAY 1: Vietnamese Mai's Restaurant In the ‘90s, the Houston community was introduced to Vietnamese food by the founders of Mai’s Restaurant, who named the restaurant after one of their daughters. Called a “landmark” by the Houston Chron- icle, Mai’s offers hundreds of Vietnamese dishes into the wee hours of the night, staying open until 3 a.m. on weeknights until 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. A large bar faces the entrance of the two-level estab- lishment, which is packed every time you walk in. The wait is never long, though. Houston's diverse foodie culture can be intimidating at first. Don't fret; The Cougar has suggestions that stretch past Cullen Boulevard. R E S T A U R A N T R E S T A U R A N T 25% DISCOUNT FOR UH STUDENTS Must show UH ID. Discount does not include alcohol. Discount lasts for 2 months (through the end of the semester). 812 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77006 713-523-0425 www.theoshouston.com HOURS OF OPERATION Open every day 10AM — 4AM CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR DAY 2: Italian Mandola's Deli This UH alumni-owned deli is chock-full of Cougar Pride — there's a wall almost completely covered in Cougar red attire. Though it specializes in wes and po'boys, its American-por- tioned pasta dishes are sure to leave even the hungriest without room for another bite, and their pizza packs more flavor that most. Mandola's is only a short drive down Cullen Boule- vard and a perfect stop for lunch.
  • 28. COOGS CHOOSE28 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK DAY 3: Soul Food This is it You won’t leave this selection of Southern comfort food hungry. From ox tails to collard greens, this soul food hotspot has a slew of affordable breakfasts, lunches and dinners worth the money and classic desserts that’ll pleasantly remind you of childhood. Only four minutes from campus, this restaurant is an easy lunchtime trip for the stressed student needing some down- home comfort. DAY 4: Tex-Mex El Tiempo Cantina For many Americans, there’s not much difference between Tex-Mex restaurants, but El Tiempo distinguishes itself among the rest with its 55 years of serving family recipes. With seven locations across Houston, El Tiempo’s menu offers everything from calamari appetizers and creamy enchiladas to jumbo shrimp platters and more meat options for fajitas than you thought possible. DAY 5: Mediterranean Aladdin This Montrose establishment is the perfect choice if you’ve barely eaten all day and you’re ready to consume the entire planet. Accept this fact: You will have leftovers – enough for another full meal, which makes the $12 to $15 that you’ll pay worth it. Endless pita is available, and there are several flavors of hummus. Aladdin claims the gyro as its specialty sandwich, and with a combo platter you can pick or choose from all your favorites to create the perfect meal. E L T I E M P O C A N T I N A . C O M THE NEW EL TIEMPO 1308 ANNEX LOCATED AT 322 WESTHEIMER COMING APRIL 2015 COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO
  • 29. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 29 FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK BEST ITALIAN PO’BOYS 4105 LeelandHouston, TX mandolasdeli.com 713.223.5186 FRIED LASAGNA ACROSS THEFREEWAY TEXAS BEERS (yup. we said it.) FROM CAMPUSON CULLEN *Limit one discount per person, per order, per visit. Not BEST OF 2015 COUGAR FAVORITE DAY 6: Japanese Miyako With a sizeable menu of both sushi and seafood, Miyako fills up fast, so you might want to make reservations if you’re coming with a large group. In spite of that, the restaurant feels spacious and the atmosphere is warmly lit just enough. As with other sushi bars, what you spend depends on what kind of rolls you buy, but take advantage of the happy hour if you get the chance. DAY 8: Indian Shiva With two locations in Rice Village and Sugarland, Shiva's menu is expansive, containing dishes for meat-eaters and vege- tarians alike. Most entrees hover around $10, but you’ll walk away with leftovers. With a low-lit atmosphere, Shiva is classy enough for date night. Have fun trying different curries, and be sure to let your waiter know if you’re sensitive to spicy foods. Order a mango lassi; the cool drink will cut through the spiciness of the food. COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR DAY 7: Greek Theo's Restaurant Occupying a large slot of Westheimer Road’s real estate all on its own, Theo’s can be decep- tively empty, but that doesn’t speak of the quality of its Greek cuisine. Its gyros are good, but don’t hesitate to try other classic Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. It’s open until 4 a.m., which makes it a great stop even on late nights, and if you’re not hungry and want to try a unique pick-me-up, be sure to order a Greek frappe.
  • 30. 30 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Hubcap Grill Bernie's Burger Bus Hay Merchant Barnaby's Cafe Best burgers At Bernie's Burger Bus sky-high sand- wiches are filled with any Tex-Mex topping under the sun – “The Principal” comes with garlic tomatoes, “Homeroom” is topped with a fried egg and “Fire Drill” boasts spicy guacamole and tortilla chips. Bernie’s also makes detention sound like a good thing: Its “Detention” burger uses bacon grilled cheese sandwiches as the bun. Hubcap Grill’s greasy, tender burger is consistently seen on the tops of Houston’s best burger lists. It has one of the juiciest burger patties in the city, and the grill’s outdoor patio is the perfect place to chow down like it’s your last meal. Barnaby's Cafe is more than just a burger joint, but its tasty bacon cheese- burger will have you running back for lunch as often as you can. You have to be of-age to get into the Westheimer craft bar Hay Merchant, but its Cease and Desist burger is better than any cocktail you’ll have on your 21st. It’s named after a lawsuit that was filed against them by In-N-Out (originally, the burger was called the Double Double), and it’s made with farm-fresh beef in partner- ship with Underbelly’s award-winning chef Chris Shepard. Andes Café's salchipapas Salchipapas are a classic South American street food with cut up hot-dog, toma- toes, peppers, onions, fried bananas and brown gravy. And while they're great on any occasion, we know that they’ve cured many hangovers. Fat Bao's avocado fries Not all fries are potatoes, people. As the name of the restaurant implies, these are FAT slices of avocado breaded and deep fried. They’re the perfect marriage of creamy and crunchy goodness. La Boheme's Bankgok style french fries We've always throught that French fries needed pork shoulder and peanuts. Happy Endings' queso kimchi fries UH, if you haven’t tried Queso Kimchi Fries yet, then you should be ashamed of your- self. Kimchi is a probiotic, which helps aid in digestion. It’s a perfect counter-balance to the queso, which definitely doesn’t. Live free or die fryin' Some of the best french fries Houston has to offer aren't even made of potatoes. Say whaaaat? Burger heavenHouston has a slew of grills competing for the hearts and stomachs of the Bayou City's burger aficionados. Which one has yours? CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO PHOTO BY JULIE SOEFER CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO
  • 31. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 31 FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK BREWCITY, TEXAS Houston's craft beer scene has exploded, making it a national leader in microbreweries, craft brews and all things beer. Crack one open. Best Local Brew Saint Arnold Open since 1994, Saint Arnold is the state’s oldest craft brewery. Its most sought-after brews are the crisp Lawnmower and the punchy Elissa IPA. But Saint Arnold brews 23 beers a year on a rotational basis, including Pumpkinator, which is known to sell out of grocery and liquor stores within hours of being stocked. 2nd Place: Karbach 3rd Place: Pluckers THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Summer Pils is one of Saint Arnold's freshest brews. The Germain pilsner has a medium body and hoppy notes. It has a sweet malt taste and is full-bodied but doesn't bog you down after a pint or two. Rocketfuel 8th Wonder infuses a porter with dark, cold brew coffee and lactose. It's a cult favorite and a great excuse for drinking before noon. Love Street Summer Seasonal Love Street is extremely refreshing. It's a Kolsh-style, meaning it's a tad floral but lighter than the Rodeo Clown. The hoppiness (the beer's earthiness or bitterness) is fairly medium in this brew. New to Karbach? Start out with a... New to 8th Wonder? Start out with a... Intellectuale It's light and easy to drink, but this blonde-wit hybrid is bursting with floral notes and faint hints of sweetness. Sip it on a patio. Rodeo Clown Double IPA Rodeo Clown still packs a mean punch, but it's a fairly floral, fruity IPAs. This isn't a beer you should plan on chugging. Instead, pair it with fried food or a spicy Mexican dish. Our favorite Saint Arnold brews... Santo is a malty brew and drinks like a darker ale. It might be pretty gritty if you aren't a big beer drinker, but its dark malt flavor promises a smooth punch. A beer snob's guide to talking Use these words casually to achieve maximum beer literacy, pretentiousness HOPS The flavoring and stability agent in beer. Hops are a flower of the hop plant. They give beers "spice," or bitterness. They're present in all beers but not necessarily dom- inant. An IPA is a hoppy beer; Coors Light is not hoppy (whether Coors is a beer is another discussion). IPA Stands for "India Pale Ale." The beer was originally brewed with extra hops to last the long sea voyages from England to India. Now, the strength has become a preferred taste regardless of voyage. IPAs are very bitter and floral. HEAD The foam at the top of beer. You usually want to pour a beer that yields a 1" to 1 1/2" head. There are YouTube videos that show you how to do this, but it comes down to the speed and angle of your pour. FILE PHOTO/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO
  • 32. 32 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE IS IN YOUR HANDS Download the latest version of Redline, your dashboard for student life at UH, now for iOS and Android devices. Check on the latest campus alerts and events, tune in to student media, catch the next bus and more! You don’t have an Android or Apple phone? Just tap the web app version of Redline at: http://uh.edu/redline • CALENDAR • ALERTS • CAMPUS MAP • BUS ROUTES • BUS ROUTES • SOCIAL MEDIA • COOG RADIO • CAMPUS NEWS ABOUT REDLINE FEATURES CAMPUS LIFE
  • 33. COOGS CHOOSE Wednesday, April 15, 2015 | 33 FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK Thanks for making us your prime on-campus hangout. 4701 Calhoun St. Suite 150 Houston, TX 77004 832-831-3620 COUGAR FAVORITES Ben's Beans Located just five minutes away from campus, Ben’s Beans warehouse-style high ceilings and local art displays set it apart from the cozier coffeehouses on this list. It’s usually empty, which is astounding once you see the eclectic atmosphere and take a seat in their dense, cozy black leather couches. This is a hidden gem by all accounts. Empire Cafe Empire Cafe is the only place on this list where you can eat breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, a cocktail, beer and a bot- tomless cup of coffee. There are two outdoor patios to enjoy on nice days. Ben's Beans In Houston, it's not so much what you're studying as where you're studying. Whether you're looking for a coffeehouse with great brunch or belly dancing, we've got the best of the Bayou City lined up. Caffeine overload Agora Best Coffehouse Starbucks You never have to stress about finding a nearby Starbucks location. But for us, that's where the advantages end. 2nd Place: The Nook 3rd Place: Agora Best Place to Study Off-Campus Starbucks With artisan coffee and pastries at affordable prices, it's no wonder students flock here to get their study on. 2nd Place: Agora 3rd Place: The Nook Open until 2 a.m. daily, Agora has established itself as one of the best study and lounge spots in Montrose. People go for the Wednesday night belly dancers, but they stay for the shop’s coziness. It’s housed in – quite literally – a large, old house, so there’s two stories worth of hang space. Tip: Don't creep on people too much if you're sitting upstairs. The Nook Cafe Even if The Nook wasn’t affiliated with UH, it would still make this list as one of the best coffeehouses in Houston. Its new outdoor patio and consistently fresh, delicious brews make it a cafe to keep coming back to. Antidote Antidote makes up for sparse parking outside with ample seating inside. With arts lining the walls and dozens of people studying their laptops seriously, it's a non-distracting atmo- sphere that encourages productivity. They don't serve many pastries, but the coffee's delicious. Antidote CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR CARA SMITH/THE COUGAR
  • 34. 34 | Wednesday, April 15, 2015 COOGS CHOOSE FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK Don't worry about what the doctor told you — sweets are good for the soul. Houston serves up some mean helpings of pie, cake, ice cream and cupcakes, all with a signature Bayou City twist. Desserts galore Best dessert Cheesecake Factory There's a variety of flavors to choose from, such as Oreo and Reese’s. If you're not a fan of cheesecake, there are still plenty of desserts for you to enjoy. 2nd Place: The Chocolate Bar 3rd Place: House of Pies THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Best Cupcakes Crave Cupcakes Crave is consistently at the top of lists ranking Houston's cupcakes. Once you taste the rich icing, such rankings make total sense. Its cupcakes are dense and always fresh, and its expansive offerings (including gluten-free flavors) makes Crave one of Houston's best. Sprinkles Cupcakes Sprinkles Cupcakes has become eponymous with its cupcake ATMs, which allow you to buy fresh cupcakes at any hour. Sprinkles also delivers, making it one of the most accessible bakeries on this list. In stores, ice cream and cookies are also available for purchase, which makes Sprin- kles an ideal stop after a long week. MMM Cupcake This food truck does deliveries around downtown and offers any flavor of cupcake you could desire. Specializing in fruit flavors, like strawberry-banana and pineapple, the truck offers other delightful flavors, such as a cookies and cream, s’more, red velvet and even carrot cake, all for affordable prices that rival the other two shops on this list. THE COUGAR'S FAVORITES Best Dessert Engineering junior Diego Guala (left) shares our enthusiasm for House of Pies, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The iconic café specializes in desserts such as Bayou Goo, which is coated in cream cheese and custard with chocolate chunks. House of Pies THANKS COOGS! We’ve got the Best Dessert in Houston Look for your next sweet treat at the Houston Galleria! NOW HIRING! Hostesses and servers for Houston Galleria location. To apply visit www.cakecareers.com. SWEET GIG WE’VE GOT A FOR YOU 5015 Westheimer Road Houston TX 77056 713.840.0600 JENAE SITZES/THE COUGAR JENAE SITZES/THE COUGAR COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO COURTESY PHOTO