Each week “My Top 5” showcases a Houstonians who is affecting the flavor of our great city. This week we are delighted to present Chef Andrew Hradecky, corporate chef for the Houston-based Berryhill Baja Grill restaurant group, who reveals his own favorite activities around Greater Houston.
My Top 5 Things to Do in Houston
by Andrew Hradecky
- Running in Memorial Park – It’s always nice, with a group or by yourself, to get a few miles in and do some people watching. There are so many people doing so many different activities, it’s hard not to get motivated to do something when you’re around the park. Living in Katy makes it difficult to run there on a daily basis, so when I get the opportunity I jump on it.
- Astros Opening Day – There is nothing like an opening day baseball game at the field! The complete unknown of what the team has in store for the season gets everyone’s energy flowing. I have been to opening day for the last five seasons, and plan to continue for years to come. Always make a full day of it by getting downtown early, enjoying the festival outside, having a beer and getting to your seat early to catch the pregame festivities. The atmosphere in the stadium is always amazing.
- Ron’s Pub/White Horse Inn – I have had many a good times at Ron’s drinking a few pints, throwing some darts and watching whatever game is on. I always look for a very casual and laid back place when I go out, and Ron’s fits the bill perfectly. Great neighborhood place that is always inviting. Call up Cliff’s Burgers next door and order the chicken fried steak sandwich with onion rings when you get those hunger pains… They’ll even walk your order over to you.
- Local Breweries – No matter what part of Houston you are in, you should be able to find a small brewery nearby. Living in Katy, it is very easy for me to shoot over to No Label and hang out with family and friends for a few drinks, food and some live music. A couple of my other favorites are Karbach and St. Arnold. They’re family friendly and there’s always something for everyone.
- Ironman Texas – Held in The Woodlands, Ironman Texas is one of the most awe-inspiring events I have ever been around. As both a spectator and athlete, Ironman triathlons are some of the most amazing athletic events out there. I began as a spectator in 2012 watching my brother do the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike and 26.2-mile run. It is amazing to witness firsthand what the human body is capable of, and in May of 2015 I was able to feel what it was like to cross the finish line as an Ironman. Even if you’re not an athlete, I think everyone should at least be a spectator for an event like this. Thousands of people from around the world are there to race, volunteer or cheer on their loved ones. I cannot put into words the emotions that go through your body as you watch people give everything they have to make it to the finish line.
About Chef Andrew Hradecky
Chef Andrew Hradecky is the corporate chef for the Houston-based Berryhill Baja Grill and Cantina restaurant group. Hradecky oversees food product consistency and develops new products for the company’s corporate and franchise stores, including the group’s current Taco of the Month series. A 2003 culinary school graduate of the Art Institute of Houston, he grew up in the small Wharton County community of Louise. He first joined Berryhill in 2005, working his way up from bartender to manager of the Memorial City location to corporate chef.
