Houston Restaurant’s New Friday Market Brings a Bustling Scene: Celebrating the Real Heart of the City with Laid Back Charm

Its’ hard to believe that in the middle of bustling, uber urban Houston, there is a corner with a slower, quieter tempo. FM Kitchen and Bar, tucked away on Shepherd Drive just north of Washington Avenue, takes me back to the glories of a lazy summer and beckons me to slow down and take in the sights and sounds of the city on a leisurely Friday afternoon.

Visitors to the casual neighborhood watering hole are encouraged to loosen their ties, take in the laid back attitude, and enjoy the comforts and small-town hospitality that make this place special. Whether you visit with a few work friends, old school friends, or just your dog, FM Kitchen and Bar brings a hometown feel to the bustling metropolis.

But there’s something more to FM Kitchen and Bar than just a restaurant giving Houstonians a place to savor tasty bites and sip on local beers. Every Friday through December 14, the eatery is hosting a small but mighty market from 11 am to 2 pm, rain or shine.

Amidst the noises of whizzing cars and country music, a number of local artisans and fledgling entrepreneurs are out to share their handiwork and craftsmanship with those stopping by the restaurant. Whether you fancy food, fashion, artisan work, or all-natural beauty supplies, the market gives Houstonians more reasons to celebrate their beloved city.

As chef Ryan Hildebrand notes on the website, the event “proudly celebrates all Houston has to offer including the artists who make the city a colorful and engaging place to live. . .  Shop at the market for everything from art to jewelry, beauty products, local eggs, food products and more.”

While some vendors actually have brick-and-mortar shops, others pride themselves on their homes as their brick-and-mortars. One such vendor is Underhill Urban Farm Co. If you have a taste for all things pickled, jammed, and sauced, this organic and homegrown brand is sure to bring joy and delight. The great variety of pickled vegetables, sweet jams and savory sauces will make your head spin – in the best way possible.

What could be more “going local” than savoring what’s been grown out of our own Houston soil?

Continue perusing, and you’ll be met with brightly colored leathers and beautifully painted porcelains from Artesanias Mexicanas, which has three Houston locations, but is also taking part in FM’s Friday market. Their products are a reminder of the spirit and vibrancy of our neighbor to the south. From clay cups and pitchers, to leather loafers and bags, Artesanias Mexicanas has it all.

And then there’s Blacklick Spice Co., a hot sauce business famous known for unique flavors, and an owner whose passion for the business is just as flavorful. From traditional flavors like Red Habanero, to Wasabi, to even Lemoncello, Blacklick shows that curating hot sauces is a blend of both creativity and passion.

Each of the market purveyors has a different story to share about who they are and why they do what they do. If I can impart anything, it would be to visit these vendors, hear their unique stories, and support them as they continue on their journeys as local artisans and creatives.