Houston’s culinary scene is about to get even more exciting this summer as the Four Seasons Hotel Houston, in collaboration with the celebrated Chef Chris Shepherd, introduces an exclusive pop-up series benefitting the Southern Smoke Foundation.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Four Seasons in creating this ongoing pop-up series, featuring some of my friends and favourite chefs from around the country,” says Chris Shepherd. “Bringing these exciting culinary experiences to H-Town is a great way to have some fun and share great connections over amazing food and wine.”
The Culinary Extravaganza Begins
The series kicked off in April with a sold-out engagement by the renowned Emeril’s restaurant from New Orleans, featuring Chef Patron E.J. Lagasse. This summer, on August 4, 2024, Chef Chris Shepherd himself will take the stage, inspired by his favorite childhood restaurant in Omaha, Mr. C’s Steakhouse.
A Nostalgic Dining Experience
The “Sunday Supper” event will transport diners back in time with a dark and moody dining room illuminated by holiday lights, checkered tablecloths, and Rat Pack-era live music. With two seatings at 5:00 and 8:00 pm, guests can indulge in a modern yet nostalgic family-style dinner, supported by Toro Toro Chef Jonathan Esparza, Bayou & Bottle Chef Gaby Jimenez, Executive Pastry Chef Krystin McCarley, and the talented Four Seasons culinary team.
The Menu: A Culinary Journey
Chef Shepherd’s menu is a tribute to the classic dishes of Mr. C’s, presented with a contemporary twist:
- Aperitivo: Negroni Sbagliato cocktail from Bandista, the Hotel’s acclaimed speakeasy
- Formaggio: Parmigiano Reggiano broken from a 1/4 wheel, with aged balsamic vinegar
- Insalata e Pane: Traditional Cardini Caesar served tableside; Old School Garlic Cheese Bread with “roni” and Tuscan ranch
- Pasta: Lumache alla Vodka, Mezze Maniche All’amatriciana, and Baked Cacio e Pepe
- Carne: Strip Steak and Chicken Parmesan; Crispy Potatoes with Calabrian chili aioli; Grilled Broccolini with grated horseradish, lemon, and olive oil
- Dolce: Tiramisu
- Digestivo: Amaro Cart
Reservations are required, with pricing set at $195 per person, and optional wine pairings featuring some of Shepherd’s favourite Italian varietals for an additional $130 (standard) or $315 (prestige).
Supporting a Noble Cause
“Chris is a great friend to us and the Houston community as a whole, particularly through his Southern Smoke Foundation, which we’re proud to support,” says Tom Segesta, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Houston. “In partnering with him to bring these exciting culinary experiences to Four Seasons, we’ll continue to showcase our downtown destination as a place where great things happen, including award-winning chef pop-ups from all over the country.”
About Chef Chris Shepherd
Chris Shepherd is a James Beard Award-winning chef and a prominent figure in Houston’s culinary landscape. Known for his innovative approach to cooking and his dedication to the community, Shepherd’s Southern Smoke Foundation has raised millions for those in the food and beverage industry. Southern Smoke has distributed more than USD 11.6 million directly via their Emergency Relief Fund.
Stay tuned for announcements on the chefs and dates for the fall and winter dinners. This pop-up series promises to be a gastronomic adventure, blending nostalgia, innovation, and philanthropy.
Make your reservation today and be part of this extraordinary culinary journey!
Guests are invited to make a night of it at Four Seasons Hotel Houston, while planning ahead and saving with the Advance Purchase offer, which includes up to 25 percent off the room rate (including poolside Cabana Rooms, perfect for warm summer days) when booking at least three days in advance. For more information, visit online, call 800 734 4114 or contact your travel professional (chain code FS).