3 Best Steakhouses in Houston, Texas
What better place to get a steak than in Texas, and if you head to Houston, you’ll have plenty of options. The city has a diverse dining scene that includes several steakhouses where you can dig into everything from a huge bone-in rib-eye or a tender filet that you can cut with your fork.
- Taste of Texas
Taste of Texas serves more steak than almost any other restaurant in the country, and they do it right. Choose from massive certified Angus tomahawk, porterhouse, or rib-eye steaks that you can even get on a cow-shaped platter if you want. Taste of Texas also has a huge salad bar, and the family-friendly restaurant offers cowboy hats and red bandanas if you want to look the part.
- Steak 48
Steak 48 opened its doors in 2016, serving up steak in a glamorous atmosphere. Its menu offers USDA Prime wet-aged steaks along with seafood, chops, and more. All the steaks are hand-cut in house by the master butcher and come with sides such as whipped potatoes, creamy mac & cheese, sweet potatoes, or sauteed sweet corn. If you can’t decide between steak or seafood, the menu offers options with seafood on top of your steak so you can have both.
- Killen’s STQ
Killen’s STQ is chef-owned and offers steak with a twist. You can get beef short rib tamales or smoked brisket ragu here along with the STQ burger with Gruyere, melted onion, and BBQ fries. You can also choose from wet or dry-aged wood-fired steaks.
Stop by one of these Houston steakhouses and fill up on steak and more.
The Jetta Trims Explained
The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta is a top-tier sedan that makes any driveway look good. Here’s a breakdown of what the Jetta’s trim levels entail so you can decide which is best for you:
S, SE, and R-Line
The 2020 Jetta’s S and SE trim levels are all about tech upgrades. The entry-level SE has a 6.5-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The SE adds heated leather-trimmed front seats, dual-zone climate control, a keyless ignition, and driver-assist technologies.
The R-Line adds sporty stylings to the exterior. It also adds has a boost in traction, thanks to an electronic differential lock. The 2020 Jetta, except for the GLI models, comes with a 147-horsepower 1.4-liter turbo engine.
SEL and SEL Premium
The SEL and SEL Premium are the luxury-minded trim levels. The SEL’s cabin offers a 10-color ambient lighting feature, a digital driver information screen, and a wireless phone charger. The SEL has premium leather seating with ventilation, satellite navigation system, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings.
GLI
The 2020 Jetta GLI is many steps above the rest. It’s a sport-minded version of the Jetta that’s available in two sub-trims: the S and Autobahn. Each comes equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder that produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The S has plenty of creature comforts, as well as a limited-slip differential. The Autobahn is the top-tier Jetta, with an enhanced suspension, advanced driver-assist tech, and all the smart cabin tech the Jetta offers.
You can experience what these Jetta trims offer at Archer Volkswagen in Houston, Texas. With this great spread of options, there’s a Jetta for everyone.
3 Reasons to Drive the Passat
If you’re on the hunt for your next sedan, be sure to give the 2020 Volkswagen Passat more than a passing glance. Here are a few reasons why you should drive the new Passat:
- Creature Comforts
The 2020 Volkswagen Passat sedan offers plenty of creature comforts to take your driving experience to a new level. With features such as dual-zone climate control and heated front seats, you can stay comfortable in any weather. The available leatherette seating surfaces and ample legroom for four adults let you and your passengers stay relaxed for the ride.
- Advanced Tech
When you drive a Passat, you’ll have access to many of the best vehicle technologies on the market. Each model comes equipped with a 6.3-inch touch screen that lets you connect your phone to your Volkswagen. The standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto features let you stay fully connected on the go while keeping your eyes on the road.
- Driver-Assist Systems
In addition to entertaining you, the 2020 Passat’s technological advancements also keep you safer. Smart driver-assist safety systems help you stay safer on the road by keeping you more aware of what’s happening on it. These systems include the blind spot monitor, automatic high beams, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and more. These technologies are game-changers when it comes to maneuvering through busy city streets.
Come test drive the impressive 2020 Passat at Archer Volkswagen in Houston, Texas. With so many reasons to love the new Passat, it’s one of your best sedan options.
Let Your Dog Out In Houston at These 3 Dog Parks
If getting out of the house for a bit is a good idea for you, it’s probably a good idea for your furry friend as well. If you’re looking for a park in the Houston, Texas, area where you and your dog can take in a little sunshine, here are three you can check out:
- Discovery Green
Head to Discovery Green to explore one of the city’s most beloved doggy destinations. The two dog runs at this park are split into two sections: one for large breeds and one for small breeds. Each dog gets 45 minutes in the appropriate dog run and they must be accompanied by their owners.
- Congressman Bill Archer Park
The Congressman Bill Archer Park is our choice for the best dog park in the area if you have a very active dog. This park has 20 acres where your dog can explore a pond, agility course, and trails. Spend the whole day, give your furry friend a bath at the on-site showers, and sleep easy that night.
- Johnny Steele Dog Park
The Johnny Steele Dog Park over in Buffalo Bayou Park is a great choice if you want a park near the city center. It’s 2 acres large and split into two size-specific sections. It offers great natural views that are as relaxing to us as the park is exciting to our pups.
Let your dog socialize with other dogs, burn some of that pent-up energy, and have fun at these three dog parks. Both you and your dog should try something new this weekend — visiting these dog parks is an excellent way to do so.
Choose Your Volkswagen SUV
Volkswagen’s lineup is full of great opportunities to find your next SUV. But which Volkswagen SUV to choose?
Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas is the largest SUV the company offers. The Atlas is designed to take on big, busy families and full schedules. Its three rows of seating can fit up to seven passengers. With the seats folded down, the 2020 Atlas offers up to 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space that lets you pack what you need for that day’s adventure.
Atlas Cross Sport
The Atlas Cross Sport is the smaller of the Atlas siblings. It has a more crossover-like cabin that offers up to 77.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The Cross Sport does away with the third row to seat five passengers comfortably and offer you a larger rear cargo area when all the seats are up. This best-of-both-world mentality, as well as the elegant and modern style it brings to the road, makes the Atlas Cross Sport one of our go-to SUV models.
Tiguan
The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s smallest SUV. Though it’s more compact, it can still be outfitted with an optional third row that lets you pack all your favorite people for your trips. Between the 2020 Tiguan’s size and the many safety-boosting driver-assist technologies available to it, this SUV is perfect for those who want to confidently tackle the city streets.
When you’re ready to get behind the wheel of your favorite Volkswagen SUV model, come see our team at Archer Volkswagen in Houston, Texas. Let us help you find the SUV that best fits your lifestyle.
3 Best Places To Go for a Scenic Walk Near Houston
Getting out and enjoying some fresh air and sunshine is a great way to inspire an otherwise dull day. If you’re looking for some scenic walks near Houston, Texas, be sure to explore these three beautiful destinations:
- Houston Arboretum and Nature Center
The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a picturesque place to take a walk with the family or a date. This Houston attraction offers 5 miles of trails in its 155 acres of nature sanctuary. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just a gorgeous view for your walk, the Houston Arboretum is one of the first places you should stroll around.
- Buffalo Bayou Walking Trail
If you’re looking for a walk through a nearby natural area, take on the Buffalo Bayou Walking Trail. This 15-mile paved trail winds through Buffalo Bayou Park, which cuts through Houston’s center. Its location makes for an easy destination to see both beautiful nature and cityscapes.
- Marvin Taylor Jogging Trail
The tree-lined, 2-mile Marvin Taylor Jogging Trail is a surprisingly scenic city path. Whether you’re looking for a great workout or just a photo-worthy walk through a city park, this trail is well worth the visit. You’ll find the trail in Hermann Park, near the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
Whether you’re looking for an uncommon view of the city or you want to escape to nature, there’s a walk in the Houston area for you. Strap on your hiking shoes and head out on these walks to start exploring.
3 Best Patio Dining Options In Houston
There’s nothing quite like an al fresco brunch or a family dinner with a view of the city. If you’re looking for a top-notch restaurant in Houston, Texas, where you can have a great meal on a patio, check out these destinations:
- Eunice
Eunice is one of Houston’s favorite outdoor dining destinations. This restaurant is well known for its beautiful interior, and its outdoor patio dining area follows suit. Eunice’s menu is inspired by American cuisine with a focus on Cajun dishes. Etouffee, gulf fish, gumbo, and oysters are just a few menu items you’ll find at Eunice.
- Brenner’s Steakhouse
Brenner’s Steakhouse has a large, hip outdoor dining and cocktail area that lends itself exceptionally well to dinner with friends. As its name suggests, you’ll find plenty of steak cuts on Brenner’s menu, as well as other less common dishes, such as locally sourced roasted chicken and herb-marinated ostrich tenderloin.
- Backstreet Cafe
If you’re looking for the perfect patio dining destination for your next date, make a reservation at the Backstreet Cafe. This al fresco cafe specializes in seasonal American cuisine and every dish is a culinary adventure. However, one of our favorite reasons to visit this restaurant is its picturesque patio dining area. The restaurant is housed in a historic Houston home that sets the scene for any date or outing with friends.
These restaurants are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Houston’s world of patio dining. Start with these restaurants and broaden your search to find your new go-to destination.
Where to Get Craft Beer in Houston
Craft beer aficionados are in heaven in Houston, Texas. There are many breweries to check out in Space City, but we suggest starting with these top-notch companies:
Saint Arnold Brewing Company
If you’re looking for Austin’s greatest craft breweries, pay your respects to Saint Arnold Brewing Company. Saint Arnold is the oldest brewery in Texas, and in that time they’ve figured out what makes a great beer. Find a spot in their beautiful biergarten and try the German-style Lawnmower kolsch or Citrodos IPA.
8th Wonder Brewery
Head to the East Downtown area to check out what the 8th Wonder Brewery is about. Since opening its doors in 2013, 8th Wonder has established itself as a go-to Houston brewery. This brewery’s industrial, domed-shaped taproom lends itself well to enjoying a brew with the gang. Try the Dome Faux’m cream ale, the Vietnamese coffee porter, or the Cloud 8 hazy IPA.
Buffalo Bayou Brewing Co.
Buffalo Bayou has one of the most impressive taprooms in the city. The three-story brewery is massive. The open-air top floor offers a sweeping view of Houston’s cityscape. The brews themselves are equally impressive and creative. Since this brewery opened, it has produced over 70 brews, including the Comrade Cowbell red ale, Dreamsicle blonde ale, and the More Cowbell double IPA. Thanks to Buffalo Bayou’s wide selection, every palate is satisfied.
Whether you’re a self-proclaimed beer snob or you just want to share a pitcher of the good stuff with friends, these Houston breweries have you covered. Explore each and let us know which are your favorites.
Finding your next SUV is easy, thanks to Volkswagen’s fantastic 2020 lineup. But which one is better for your family and lifestyle: the Atlas or the Atlas Cross Sport? Here are a few of their key differences:
Interior Space
The biggest difference between the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is their sizes. The Atlas is a three-row SUV that seats seven passengers and the Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row five-seater.
Here is a good way to remember which is which: the Cross Sport is more like a crossover. The 2020 Atlas Cross Sport is the first of its kind, giving SUV drivers another great option to choose from.
Power
The 2020 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport come with the same engine options: a 235-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 258 pound-feet of torque or a 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Both have the option to upgrade to a 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. Though the differences between the two models may be different come the 2021 model year, the 2020 models are fairly identical when it comes to capability.
As you can see, the biggest decision you must make when deciding between these two models is how much cargo and passenger space you want for your travels.
When you’re ready for a test drive of your favorite Volkswagen model, give us a visit at Archer Volkswagen in Houston, Texas. The best way to decide which of these models is perfect for your lifestyle is by experiencing each vehicle in person.
3 Summer Road Trips to Take Near Houston
The first day of autumn is in late September. That means we still have time to take advantage of the great road trip destinations around Houston. If you want to experience something new this summer, take on these trips:
- Brazos Bend State Park
If you’re looking for an easy trip to take on, head to Brazos Bend State Park, about an hour’s drive away from Houston. There’s plenty to do at this state park, from taking on 37 miles of trails to fishing. Make the most of your trip by bringing a tent and camping for the night.
- San Marcos
It takes about 2.5-3 hours to drive to San Marcos, but the trip is worth it if you’re looking for a great getaway. This hip town is a fun place to spend the weekend kayaking, visiting craft breweries, and enjoying a rich nightlife. This vacation destination is best enjoyed with friends who are able to let go and have a good time.
- New Orleans
Plan a road trip you and your friends won’t forget in New Orleans. Only a little over five hours away, New Orleans is one of the most exciting cultural hubs in the southern United States. Whether you stick with ever-exciting Bourbon Street or get to know New Orleans more personally by exploring its less-frequented attractions, the Big Easy makes it easy to find a good time.
Whether you’re looking to get back to nature or you want to explore different city streets, these summertime road trip destinations have everything you need to make the most of your summer. Explore, experience, and enjoy everything Texas has to offer.
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