In “My Top 5” we shine the spotlight on enterprising and notable Houstonians who get things done in our great city. This week, we’re pumped to feature former Houston Dynamo player and man about town Michael Chabala, who reveals his own favorites in his adopted hometown.
My Top 5 Things to Do in Houston
by Michael Chabala
- Running/Yoga – Cheaper than therapy. I find myself at peace when I take a spin around Buffalo Bayou trail and enjoy the scenery of the downtown skyline and striding next to the historic waterway. I always end my run at Big Yoga to enjoy some sweaty Baptiste flow. I love the friendly atmosphere and juice bar.
- El Tiempo – There are two things certain in Texas: Margaritas and señoritas! El Tiempo has the best Tex-Mex in town and is one of my favorite places to meet up with friends.
- Sunday Funday – When I’m in town, I always start my morning at St. Anne Catholic Church with friends. Spending time at church makes me feel closer to my grandfather and gets me in the right state of mind. Love following up mass with a fun brunch on the patio of Backstreet Cafe.
- Moving and shaking – I love networking and jumping around town (Syphon Coffee, Houstonian, Lucho, Blue Mambo and Corner Table, to name a few spots), meeting friends and talking business. Houston’s booming economy, mixed with a young and hungry 30-year-old appetite, is a perfect place to be.
- Houston Dynamo – DALE DALE DYNAMO! My favorite part of city goes back to the reason I was brought here; the Houston Dynamo. I have always appreciated the fan and community support that has now made BBVA Compass Stadium one of the best places to play in MLS and the Dynamo one of the best sporting events to watch in Houston. But what has made the Dynamo invaluable and the city so special to me are my friendships and bonds with former and current players.
About Michael Chabala
A former Californian, Michael Chabala turned Houstonian after he was drafted to Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo out of the University of Washington in 2006. A two-time MLS Cup winner and community ambassador for the Houston Dynamo, Michael was traded to Portland in 2011 and then to DC, only to make his way back to the Dynamo in 2013. Michael is known for his fitness and professional demeanor on the field and for his philanthropic work and fashionable statements off it. He co-founded the “Bald is Beautiful” charity event and is a full-time supporter of “Kick Cancer Soccer Camps,” both benefiting pediatric cancer research. Current MLS free agent, Michael enjoys spending his time working out, traveling, gaining work experience at ZT Wealth, studying for his Series 7 and consulting for TrilogyAthletes, where he works with forward-thinking professional athletes and Olympians in the hopes of building a premier organization bridging the gap between sports and business.
