OutSmart’s Magazine 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards Winners
Celebrating those who make Houston shine.
OutSmart magazine is thrilled to celebrate Houston’s best and brightest in our 28th annual Gayest & Greatest Awards.
More than 100,000 votes were cast for over 2,500 nominees, and this year’s winners—extraordinary local individuals, organizations, and businesses—rose to the top, thanks to the support of our readers.
(Editor’s note: We work hard to ensure accuracy of names and titles, but if you notice any errors that need correction, please send us an email at editor@outsmartmagazine.com)
Join Us to Celebrate Houston’s Gayest & Greatest!
Mark your calendars for October 23 at South Beach, where we’ll honor this year’s incredible winners and the community that makes Houston shine.
It’s a night of pride, joy, and celebration you won’t want to miss.
RSVP now at givebutter.com/OSGG2025
Advertise Your Business and Support the OutSmart Foundation
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists in the Gayest and Greatest 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards! OutSmart readers use our winner’s lists as a guide to community resources. OutSmart now offers marketing opportunities to boost your business or service visibility on our Gayest and Greatest 2025 winners lists.
Proceeds benefit the OutSmart Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity, which supports OutSmart’s newsroom. Your support helps sustain our media platforms and keep LGBTQ voices heard. Contact OutSmart’s marketing department here for details.
CATEGORIES:
• ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
Best Local Live Music Venue
Michael’s Outpost
Finalists: White Oak Music Hall, Dan Electro’s, The Continental Club, Rich’s Houston
Best Dance Party
Halloween Fantasy Ball
Finalists: Classic Numbers, DNVRMX, Out at the Rodeo
Best Drag Show Bar
Michael’s Outpost
Finalists: South Beach Houston, Barcode, Pearl Bar, Bar Boheme, Montrose Country Club, JR’s Bar & Grill, Los Robles, Grand Prize, Two Headed Dog
Best Drag Show in Town
Millennial Dolls
The Laugh Track, Eye Cons, King Sized–Pearl Bar, The Queer Cabaret
Favorite Place to Watch Drag
Michael’s Outpost
Finalists: South Beach Houston, Barcode, Pearl Bar, Boheme, The Montrose Country Club, Los Robles Bar and Grill, JR’s Bar & Grill, Robert’s Lafitte (Galveston)
Favorite LGBTQ Bar
Ripcord
Finalists: Pearl Bar, JR’s Bar & Grill, Los Robles Bar & Grill, Tony’s Corner Pocket, South Beach Houston,
George, Michael’s Outpost, Barcode, Crocker Bar, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon
Favorite Galveston LGBTQ Bar
Robert’s Lafitte
Favorite Ally Bar
Two Headed Dog
Finalists: Frost Town Brewing, Axlerad, Cecil’s Pub, Sassafras, Grand Prize Bar, Poison Girl, Big Star Bar
Favorite Men’s Bar
Ripcord
Finalists: JR’s Bar & Grill, Tony’s Corner Pocket, George Country Sports Bar, Los Robles Bar and Grill, Michael’s Outpost, Crocker Bar, Barcode, Play Nightlife, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon
Favorite Women’s Bar
Pearl Bar
Finalists: JR’s Bar & Grill, Cecil’s Pub, Axelrad
Favorite Bar for a Happy Hour
Pearl Bar
Finalists: Two Headed Dog, JR’s Bar & Grill, Cecil’s Pub, The Montrose Country Club, George Country Sports Bar, Barcode, Tony’s Corner Pocket, Ripcord, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon, South Beach Houston
Favorite Karaoke Night at a Bar
JR’s Bar & Grill
Finalists: Pearl Bar, Manic Mondaze – Tony’s Corner Pocket, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon, PJ’s Sports Bar, DJ Andi Pantz, Barcode
Favorite Bar to Shoot Pool
Ripcord
Finalists: Rudyard’s, George Country Sports Bar, JR’s Bar & Grill, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon, Birdie’s Den, Tony’s Corner Pocket, Black Magic Social Club, The Room Bar and Lounge
Favorite Bar to Two Step
Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon
Finalists: Los Robles Bar and Grill, Shoeshine Charley’s Big Top, South Beach Houston
Favorite Club for Dancing
South Beach Houston
Finalists: Pearl Bar, Rich’s Houston, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon, Barbarella, Crocker Bar, Los Robles Bar and Grill, Numbers Night Club
Favorite Place to Show Off Your Leather
Ripcord
Finalists: Numbers, Robert’s Lafitte (Galveston), Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon, JR’s Bar & Grill
Favorite Place to Watch Male Dancers
Tony’s Corner Pocket
Finalists: Los Robles Bar and Grill, South Beach Houston, JR’s Bar & Grill
Favorite Galveston Bar to Watch Male Dancers
Robert’s Lafitte
Favorite Trivia Night at a Bar
Ripcord
Finalists: Frost Town Brewing, Rudyard’s Pub, Play / Pause Nightlife, The Owl in Rice Village, Stonewall Trivia
Favorite Nonbinary Drag Entertainer
Zestial Celestial
Finalists: Malevolent The Psycho Ghoul, Tera Bytz, Barbie Monroe, Pup Naranja
Favorite Local (Non-Drag) Female Entertainer
Christina Wells
Finalists: Phoebe Seymour, Angie Moon Mercy, Alexis Nicole Whitney, Cara Chèrie, Sarah Golden
Favorite Local (Non-Drag) Male Entertainer
La’Darius Mirage Jackson
Finalists: Gavin LeMaire, Dustin Rouge Whitney, Angel OXL, Nick Seelhammer, Gabriel Muneco
Favorite Local (Non-Drag) Nonbinary Entertainer
Pup Naranja
Finalists: Mak Fontina, Andrew Whit, Patricia
Favorite Local Musician/Band
Jay Ariean
Finalists: Houston Pride Band, Sarah Golden, Isaac Niaz, Kam Franklin, Jane Woe, Afterlife Dating, Ben Chavez, Shame On Me
Favorite Female DJ
DJ Crazy V
Finalists: DJ Athenz, DJ London, DJ Andi Pantz, Dj Drea
Favorite Male DJ
DJ Chad Guidry
Finalists: DJ Atreyu Frausto, DJ Toma, DJ Twerksum, DJ Joe Ross
Favorite Nonbinary DJ
DJ Aracely Manterola
Kittie Purrie, DJ Chopped Liver, DJ Cheeks
Favorite Music Producer
DJ Athenz
Finalists: Sugar Hill Studios, Third Coast Recordings, Mark Kidney–Stone Sound, Edgewater Music Group, Stephen Jusko
Favorite Drag Show Host/Emcee
Queen Persephone
Finalists: Rachel B*tchface, Carmina Vavra, Sasha Frost, Reign Larue, Edna Anderson, Kofi
Favorite Drag King
Barry Mii Dandy
Finalists: Juecee, Kian Kismet, Preston Steamed, Hugh Dandy, Casper Cain, Sir Debonair, Beau Vine
Favorite Drag Queen
Queen Persephone
Finalists: Adriana LaRue, Sasha Frost, Barbie Monroe, Rachel B*tchface, Edna Anderson, Keymiyah Dupree
Favorite Veteran Drag King
Hugh Dandy
Finalists: Preston Steamed, Juecee, Barry Mii Dandy, La’Darius Mirage Jackson
Favorite Veteran Drag Queen
Kofi
Finalists: Lana Blake, Alexis Nicole Whitney, Regina Dane, Dina Jacobs, Carmina Vavra
Best New Drag King
Beau Vine
Finalists: Kian Kismet, K-1 Vee Zah, Juecee, Hideki Synth, Zestial Celestial
Best New Drag Queen
Delulu
inalists: Rene B*tchface, Purple, Mari Jane, Jessika Del Ray Larue, K-1 Vee Zah, Madame Prominence Frost
Best Pageant King
La’Darius Mirage Jackson
Finalists: Juecee, Mykey Whitney
Best Pageant Queen
Sasha Frost
Finalists: Violet S’Arbleu, Dessie Love Blake, Sinema LaRue, Angela Mercy, Alexis Nicole Whitney, Malibu Blake Von Schweetz
Favorite Adult Film Performer
Silver Steele
Finalists: Dante Kieran, Ryan St. Michael, Matt Coven, Mary King, Preston Steamed
Best Promoter
DragSpace
Finalists: Alexis Nicole Whitney, Andrew Whit (The Happening), DNVRMX, DJ Athenz
PEOPLE
Best Female LGBTQ Business Person
Kris Owens
Finalists: Tammi Wallace, Barbie Monroe, Debbie Storrs, Angel_TheCakeChef, Julie Mabry
Best Male LGBTQ Business Person
Christopher Cerda
Finalists: Colt Ables, Jeff Harmon, Charles Armstrong, Tony Vacarro, Clay Melder, John Donato
Best Nonbinary LGBTQ Business Person
Queen Persephone
Finalist: Tae Moon
Best Local LGBTQ Social Media for Community & Culture
JD Doyle
Finalists: The Shady Gay, Paris London, AmistadesHTX by Legacy
Best Local LGBTQ Social Media Presence
Ellen Solomon
Finalists: The Shady Gay, DragSpace, Timothy Wayne, Jay Michaels, JD Doyle, Latin Boy J & Paris London, AmistadesHTX by Legacy
Favorite Female (Commercial) Radio Personality
Jessie Watt
Finalists: Cindy Burbano, Betsy Ballard, Sarah Pepper
Favorite Female (Community) Radio Personality
Deborah Moncrief Bell
Adriana LaRue–La Mas Draga, Tiffany Scales, Betsy Ballard, Cindy Burbano
Favorite Male (Commercial) Radio Personality
Jay Michaels
Finalists: Special K, Ahmad Wilson
Favorite Male (Community) Radio Personality
Bryan Hlavinka
Brett Cullum, Davis Mendoza Durusman, Ernie Manouse
Favorite Nonbinary (Community) Radio Personality
Ethan Michelle Ganz
Finalists: Amanda Wolfe, Lee Collum
Favorite Female TV Personality
Pooja Lodhia
Finalists: Cathy Hernandez, Miya Shay, Tessa Barrera, Deborah Duncan, Chelsea Edwards, Cheryl Mercedes,
Lauren Kelly, Carolina Sanchez
Favorite Male TV Personality
Derrick Shore
Finalists: Ernie Manouse, Frank Billingsley, Pat Cavlin, TJ Parker, Nick Nataro
Favorite Female (Community) TV Personality
deborah lawson
Finalist: Chelsea Edwards
Favorite Male (Community) TV Personality
Ernie Manouse
Favorite Nonbinary (Community) TV Personality
Amanda Wolfe
Favorite Female LGBTQ Elementary School Educator/Teacher
Pam Straker
inalists: Samantha Pisarski-May, Shelby Ramos, Ruth Robbins
Favorite Male LGBTQ Elementary School Educator/Teacher
Adrian Santos
Finalists: Hazael Sanchez, Wayne Lopes Matthew Tharp, William (Jason) Dedrick, David Rojas, Jeff Jacobitz,
P. Tim Martindell
Favorite Female LGBTQ High School Educator/Teacher
Brandi Lira
Finalists: Julie Stayton, Samara Martinez, Teneiza Tibbs, Michelle Palmer
Favorite Nonbinary LGBTQ Elementary School Educator/Teacher
Alex Holdford
Finalist: LJ Wysingle
Favorite Male LGBTQ High School Educator/Teacher
Jeff Jacobitz
Finalists: Bryant Johnson-Wood, Sean Saunders, Kyle Levy
Favorite Nonbinary LGBTQ High School Educator/Teacher
Aidynn Green
Favorite Male LGBTQ Post-secondary Educator/Teacher
Brian Riedel
Finalists: Dr. Patrick Lukingbeal, Richard Hernandez (Lone Star College-Kingwood)
Favorite Nonbinary LGBTQ Post-secondary Educator/Teacher
Juliann Losey
Favorite Female LGBTQ Post-secondary Educator/Teacher
Maria Gonzalez
Finalist: Dr. Rachel Quinn
Favorite Local LGBTQ Facebook Page
First Christian Church Katy
Finalists: Jay Michaels, Paris London, JD Doyle, AmistadesHTX by Legacy, Jorge Serrano aka Latin Boy J, Timothy Wayne, Brian Duhon, The Montrose Center
Favorite Local LGBTQ Influencer
Kellen Solomon
Finalists: The Shady Gay, Timothy Wayne, Brian Duhon, Jay Michaels, Paris London, Miguel Jacquez, Jorge Serrano aka Latin Boy J, Kris Owens, Adriana LaRue, Purple_the_clown
Favorite Local LGBTQ Instagram Account
The Shady Gay
Finalists: Kellen Solomon, Timothy Wayne, Brian Duhon, DragSpace, Jay Michaels, Paris London, Jorge Serrano aka Latin Boy J, AmistadesHTX by Legacy
Favorite Local LGBTQ Journalist
Sam Byrd
Finalists: Frank Billingsley, Jenny Block, Matt Horn–FOX26, Brandon Wolf, Bryce Newberry, Brett Cullum, Jhonny T.–Montrose Star
Favorite Local LGBTQ Podcast
Ps & Qs Podcast
Finalists: Queer Voices, Queer PositiviTEA, Girl STFU, Prairie Rainbow Review, 22Sides
Favorite Local LGBTQ TikToker
Timothy Wayne
Finalists: Kellen Solomon, Paris London, Jessie Cruz, Jorge Serrano aka Latin Boy J, Tony Pastor,
First Christian Church Katy, Matthew Tharp
Favorite Local LGBTQ Twitter Account
The Shady Gay
Finalists: Paris London, SimonjamesIII, @thisisroxanne, HairyTrouble
Favorite Male Community Photographer
Dalton DeHart
Finalists: Victor Contreras–Close Your Eyes Photo, Seferino Garcia, Connor Hart, Miguel Jacquez,
Angels Vision, Edgardo Aguilar, Lucio Nieto
Favorite Female Community Photographer
Nora Dayton
Finalists: Tasha Gorel, Chandrayee Soneja, Alexis Melvin, Nathalie Herpin
Favorite Nonbinary Community Photographer
Pup Chance
Finalists: Angels vision, Jack Terranova
Favorite Female Local Politician
Molly Cook
Finalists: Annise Parker, Ann Johnson, Abbie Kamin, Lizzie Fletcher, Villa Shurielle
Favorite Male Local Politician
Mario Castillo
Finalists: Jon Rosenthal, Gene Wu, Christian Menefee
Favorite Nonbinary Local Politician
Paris London
Favorite Female LGBTQ Community Hero
Tammi Wallace
Finalists: Avery Belyeu, Hunny Phillips, Heather Tolleson, Taylor Mabrie, Cindy Schaeffer
Favorite Female Trans Community Hero
Avery Belyeu
Finalists: Gianna Ramirez, Alexis Nicole Whitney, Meghan Fairbanks, Atlantis Narcisse, Taylor Mabrie,
B’Yancha Foxx, Mya Wesley, Joelle Bayaa-Uzuri Espeut
Favorite Male LGBTQ Community Hero
Timothy Wayne
Finalists: Jim Sikorski, Jay Michaels, Kennedy Loftin, Austin Abernathy, JJ Fulton, Mykey Whitney, Ian Haddock, Jacques Bourgeois, Miguel Jacquez, Erik Smith, Clay Melder
Favorite Male Trans Community Hero
Lou Weaver
Finalists: Kaven O’Neil, Emmett Schelling, Daron Yanes
Favorite Nonbinary Community Hero
Kevin Nguyen
Finalists: Amanda Rose, Pup Naranja, Han Schaible, Autumn Lauener, Jace Wright, Ethan Michelle Ganz, Kris Owens–The Feisty Collective
Favorite Nonbinary Trans Community Hero
Amanda Rose
Finalists: Autumn Lauener, Anya Tsang, Ethan Michelle Ganz, Jace Wright
Favorite Local LGBTQ Writer
Sam Byrd (tie)
Zach McKenzie (tie)
Finalists: Scott Damon, JD Doyle, Brett Cullum, Matt Horn
Leading Female Entertainer Fundraiser
Alexis Nicole Whitney
Finalists: Alexa Bouvier, Jacklyn Dior, Reign LaRue, Angie Moon Mercy, Miss Demeanor
Leading Female Fundraiser
Kelly Nicholls
Finalists: Angie Moon Mercy, Jacklyn Dior, Shelby Hansen-Castillo, Dominique Hollins,
Kylie McNaught
Leading Male Entertainer Fundraiser
Roger Woest
Finalists: La’Darius Mirage Jackson, Nicholas Standards Mink Gill, Dustin Rouge Fontaine-Whitney,
Blair Fullerton, Mykey Whitney, Geary Whitney, Austin Abernathy, Don Gill, Tanner Williams, Robert Wallace
Leading Male Fundraiser
Tanner Williams
Finalists: Robert Wallace Blair Fullerton, Jacques Bourgeois, Nicholas Standards Mink Gill, Jim Sikorski, Clay Melder, Dustin Rouge Whitney, Erik Smith, Mykey Whitney, Austin Abernathy, Derrick Brown, Don Gill
Leading Nonbinary Entertainer Fundraiser
Zestial Celestial
Finalists: Pup Naranja, Feelin Jabooty
Leading Nonbinary Fundraiser
Zestial Celestial
Finalists: Pup Naranja
Leading Trans Community Fundraiser
Gianna Christina Ramirez
Finalists: Alexis Nicole Whitney, Pete Makopoulos-Senftleber, Taylor Mabrie, Kaven O’Neil, Lou Weaver, Avery Belyeu
Leading Senior Living Professional
Fred Reninger
Finalists: Edward Craft, Larry Castillo, Kaven O’Neil
Most Prominent Female LGBTQ Activist
Tammi Wallace
Finalists: Meghan Fairbanks, Hunny Phillips, Heather Tolleson, Jacklyn Dior, Angie Moon Mercy, Joelle Espeut
Most Prominent Female Trans Activist
Avery Belyeu
Finalists: Gianna Ramirez, Meghan Fairbanks, Alexis Nicole Whitney, Dayana Principal, Atlantis Narcisse, Katherine Regis, Taylor Mabrie, Maya Wesley
Most Prominent Male LGBTQ Activist
Brian Klosterboer
Finalists: Tanner Williams, Brad Pritchett, Austin Abernathy, Mykey Whitney, Jacques Bourgeois,
Clay Melder, Erik Smith, Lou Weaver
Most Prominent Male Trans Activist
Lou Weaver
Finalists: Kaven O’Neil, Landon Richie, Daron Yanes, Emmett Morales-Yoon, Cadence Campbell, Brian Tobias
Most Prominent Nonbinary LGBTQ Activist
Kevin Nguyen
Finalists: Amanda Rose, Pup Naranja, Autumn Lauener, Ash Hall, Ethan Michelle Ganz, Han Schaible, Hayden Cohen
Most Prominent Nonbinary Trans Activist
Amanda Rose
Finalists: Autumn Lauener, Ethan Michelle Ganz, Alex Holdford, Kevin Nguyen
Most Prominent Youth LGBTQ Activist
Timothy Wayne
Finalists: Hayden Cohen, Rose Daphne, Chris McDonald, Marshall Romero, Rose Yard, Lucio Nieto
Most Valuable Female Trans Community Volunteer
Gianna Christina Ramirez
Finalists: Alexis Nicole Whitney, Meghan Fairbanks, Nora Dayton, Taylor Mabrie, Shayla Anderson,
Dayana Principal, Maya Wesley, Rose Yard
Most Valuable Female Volunteer
Gianna Christina Ramirez
Finalists: Meghan Fairbanks, Heather Tolleson, Angie Moon Mercy, Alexis Nicole Whitney, Sara Beth Summors,
Christyna Lewis, Taylor Mabrie, Alexa Bouvier, Angela Mercy, Ana Sanchez Morales, Roxanne Werner, Ana Sanchez
Most Valuable Intersex Advocate/Educator
Koomah
Finalist: Mo Cortez
Most Valuable Male Trans Community Volunteer
Kaven O’Neil
Finalists: Lou Weaver, Pete Makopoulos-Senftleber, Daron Yanes, Jevon Martin, Brian Tobias
Most Valuable Male Volunteer
Austin Abernathy
Finalists: Tanner Williams, Jack Berger, Timothy Wayne, JJ Fulton, Erik Smith, Mykey Whitney, Brandon Mack,
Jacques Bourgeois, Clay Melder, Lucio Nieto, Nicholas Standards Mink Gill
Most Valuable Nonbinary Community Volunteer
Kevin Nguyen
Finalists: Amanda Rose, Pup Naranja, Han Schaible, Jack Terranova, Ethan Michelle Ganz, Alex Moon
REAL ESTATE
Best Ally Real Estate Agent
Jonathan Williamson–Compass Realty
Finalists: Hedley Karpas, Adalia Espinosa, Shelley Burt, Karen Derr
Best Female LGBTQ Real Estate Agent
Jessica Wahlquist
Finalists: Aubrie Layne, Julie Fischer, Debbie Levine, Monica Branch, Lucy Cockrum, Sabrina Calvillo, Katherine Abshire, Karen Derr
Best Male LGBTQ Real Estate Agent
Brooks Ballard
Finalists: Christopher Cerda, David Batagower, Thomas Phillips, Alex Meza, Jay Monroe, Cruz Sanchez, Jeremy Alvarado, Jeremy Fain, Dan DiDonato, Michael Brown–Compass Realty, Mike Copenhaver, Tim Surratt
Best Galveston Realtor
Hudson Holmes–Joe Tramonte Realty
Finalists: Brian Schwenk, David Bowers, Tom Schwenk, Jay Monroe
Community Real Estate Icon
Bill Baldwin
Finalists: Richard Ray, Jerry Blum,Jay Monroe, Hedley Karpas
Rising Star Realtor
Jeffery Huynh
Finalists: Alex Meza, Julian Hernandez, Nicholas Guidry
Best Home Builder
Jamestown Estates
Finalists: Heels 2 Hammers Construction, David Weekley Homes, Noble Contractor Solutions, Player Properties, Seaside Construction
Best Home Remodeling Company
Texas Real Estate Rescue
Finalists: Heels 2 Hammers Construction, Best Surface Source, Inc., Noble Contractor Solutions
Best Mortgage Company
Robert Spiegel
Finalists: Riaz Pooran–Pilgrim Mortgage, Adam Buttermore Lender, Flagstone Financial Services, Pilgrim Mortgage
Best Title Company
Alamo Title Company
Finalists: Truly Title, Chicago Title, Riverway Title
Best Real Estate Website
HAR.com
Finalists: brooksballardproperties.com, TramonteRealty.com, Sothebysrealty.com
COMMUNITY
Favorite Local LGBTQ Community Organization
The Montrose Center
Finalists: Krewe of Olympus, National Leather Association–Houston, Bering Memorial United Church of Christ,
The Diana Foundation, First Christian Church Katy, Tony’s Place, Brazoria County Pride, Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, Houston Bears, AmistadesHTX by Legacy, Bunnies on the Bayou, ERSICSS, Legacy Community Health, Out at the Rodeo, Montrose Grace Place
Favorite LGBTQ Philanthropic Organization
The Diana Foundation
Finalists: Krewe of Olympus, Bunnies on the Bayou, Houston Bears
Best College or University
University of Houston
Finalists: Rice University, Sam Houston State University, Texas Southern University, University of Texas–Austin
Best Community College
Houston Community College
Finalists: Lone Star College–Houston North, Alvin Community College, San Jacinto College
Best Community Impact Technology Partner
Premier Wireless
Finalists: Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Comcast
Best Local LGBTQ News Source
OutSmart Magazine
Finalist: Montrose Star
Best Local LGBTQ Online Resource
OutSmart Magazine
Finalists: First Christian Church Katy, JD Doyle Archives, Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce
Best National LGBTQ News Source
The Advocate
Finalists: Out, Queerty, Rachel Maddow
Best National LGBTQ Online Resource
The Trevor Project
Finalists: JD Doyle Archives, Equality Texas Foundation
Favorite Media Ally
Houston Public Media (PBS/NPR)
Finalists: KHOU 11 News, Houston Chronicle, Houston Press, ABC13 News Houston, Free Press Houston
Best Political Advocacy Group
Trans Education Network of Texas (TENT)
Finalists: First Christian Church Katy, The Montrose Center, Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus, ACLU of Texas,
Equality Texas Foundation, Lambda Legal
Best Senior Advocacy Group
LOAF (Lesbians Over Age Fifty)
Finalists: AARP, The Law Harrington Senior Living Center
Favorite Community & Ally Law Firm
Katine Nechman McLaurin LLP
Finalists: Boudreaux & Hunter & Associates LLC, Law Office of Trey Yates
Favorite Corporate Supporter in HIV & Community Wellness
ViiV Healthcare
Finalists: Gilead Sciences, PURE for Men, MISTR
Favorite Corporate Supporter in Mental Health & Wellness Equity
Menninger Clinic
Finalists: MAC Cosmetics, Methodist Hospital
Favorite Foundation Partner for Houston’s LGBTQ Community
Houston Endowment
Finalists: H-E-B Community Giving, Texas Impact Funds, Kinder Foundation
Favorite Health Equity Champion and Corporate Supporter
Gilead Sciences
Finalists: Texas Pride Impact Funds, Kinder Foundation, Moody Foundation, ViiV Healthcare, Wells Fargo
Favorite Hospital Supporter for the LGBTQ Community
Houston Methodist
Finalists: Memorial Hermann Health System, Harris Health System, MD Anderson Cancer Center,
HCA Houston Healthcare
Favorite HIV/AIDS Support Organization
AIDS Healthcare Foundation (tie)
Legacy Community Health (tie)
Finalists: Avenue 360 Health and Wellness, PWA Holiday Charities, The Montrose Center, Allies in Hope, ACCT, AmistadesHTX by Legacy, Wellness Bar by Legacy
Favorite Houston Corporate LGBTQ Diversity Group
Amegy Bank LGBTQ BRG & Allies
Finalists: HP, Emerson Automation Solutions, Rice University Pride Professional Network Committee, United Airlines, AIG Pride
Favorite LGBTQ (Non-Benefit) Event of the Year
Halloween Fantasy Ball
Finalists: NLA–Spring Iniquity, Katy Pride Birthday Party, Pride In Business Awards–Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber, AmistadesHTX by Legacy Anniversary Event, Brazoria County Pride, Transparent Closet–FCC Katy
Favorite LGBTQ Benefit Event of the Year
Bunnies on the Bayou
Finalists: Montrose Center Pride Brunch, Krewe of Olympus Ball, The Diana Awards, FCC Katy Transparent Closet Drag Bingo, NLA–Spring Iniquity, Brazoria County Pride’s Project Love Gala, ERSICSS Coronation, Pride In Business Awards, Trot 4 Trans Visibility, Out for Good Gala (Montrose Center), Red Dinner Gala–UH LGBTQ Alumni Association
Favorite LGBTQ Social Group
Krewe of Olympus
Finalists: The Diana Foundation, National Leather Association–Houston, First Christian Church Katy, Houston Bears, EPAH, AmistadesHTX by Legacy, UH LGTBQ+ Alumni Association, Trans & GenderQueer Houston (TGQH), Out at the Rodeo
Favorite LGBTQ Sports Club or League
Stonewall Sports
Finalists: Space City Pride FC, Space City Rugby, Montrose Softball League Association, Pride Sports,
Lonestar Volleyball Association
Favorite Professional Sports Team
Houston Astros
Finalists: Houston Dash, Houston Rockets, Sugar Land Space Cowboys, Houston Dynamo, LOVB Houston Volleyball
Favorite National LGBTQ Organization
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
Finalists: National Leather Association–Houston, Human Rights Campaign, Lambda Legal, LGBTQ Victory Fund, The Trevor Project, The Diana Foundation, Transgender Law Center
Favorite Place to Worship
Bering Memorial United Church of Christ
Finalists: First Christian Church Katy, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Resurrection MCC, St. Peter United Church of Christ, Unity of Houston, St Paul’s United Methodist Church, First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston–Museum District Campus
Favorite Trans Support Organization
Trans Legal Aid Clinic Texas
Finalists: Transparent Closet–FCC Katy, TENT, The Montrose Center, The Mahogany Project, Parents of Trans Youth, Save Our Sisters United
Most Supportive Champion Law Firm for Equality
Vinson & Elkins
Finalists: Haynes and Boone, Kirkland & Ellis LLP, Norton Rose Fulbright, Katine Nechman McLaurin LLP
Local Business Most Supportive of the LGBTQ Community
Frost Town Brewing
Finalists: DragSpace, Sesh Coworking, Like Minds Communications, BB’s Tex-Orleans, The Feisty Collective
National Business Most Supportive of the LGBTQ Community
Penzeys Spices
Finalists: Shell USA, Silver Eagle Distributors, Lush Cosmetics, Service Corporation International
DINING OUT
Favorite New Restaurant
City Cellars HTX
Finalists: Travelers Cart, The Kennedy, Baso, Jane and the Lion Bakehouse, Montrose Country Club
Favorite 24-Hour Restaurant
Katz’s Deli
Finalists: House of Pies, Poppa Burger, Dot Coffee Shop
Favorite Bagel Shop
New York Deli & Bagels
Finalists: Hot Bagel Shop, Jeff’s Bagel Run
Favorite Bakery
Dessert Gallery Bakery & Cafe
Finalists: Cinnamaniac, Paige’s Wee Bakery, Sweets by Syd, Koffeteria, Fluff Bake Bar, Sinfull Bakery, Leona’s Bakeshop, Three Brothers Bakery
Favorite Coffee Shop
Cavo Coffee
Finalists: Forth & Nomad, Slowpokes, Black Hole Coffee House, CasaEma, Antidote, The Doshi House, Bohemeo’s, Siphon Coffee, Koffeteria
Favorite Coffee & Cocktail Bar
Maven Coffee + Cocktails
Favorite Coffee Roaster
Cleo Roasting Co.
Finalists: Amanecer Co. –Marlen Mendoza, New Heights Coffee Roasters, XELA Coffee Roasters, Slowpokes, CasaEma, Un Caffe
Favorite Barbecue
The Pit Room
Finalists: Killen’s, Willow’s Smokehouse & Tavern, Truth BBQ, Brookstreet BBQ, Pinkerton’s Barbecue, Gatlin’s BBQ
Favorite Barista
Greg Deal
Finalists: Peter Bui, Dalton–Xela, Rosie Lucio, Felix Guerrero–The Kennedy
Favorite Breakfast Spot
Baby Barnaby’s
Finalists: The Phoenix, New York Deli & Bagels, CasaEma, Kojak’s, Mo’ Brunch+Brews
Favorite British
Red Lion British Pub
Finalists: The Phoenix on Westheimer, Rudyard’s
Favorite Brunch
The Phoenix
Finalists: City Cellars HTX, New York Deli & Bagels, Bar Boheme, CasaEma, Koffeteria, Churrasco’s,
Gloria’s Latin Cuisine, The Kennedy
Favorite Cajun
BB’s Tex-Orleans
Finalists: Lotus Seafood, Ragin’ Cajun, Eugene’s, Eunice, Kiss
Favorite Central/South American
Gloria’s Latin Cuisine
Finalists: Churrasco’s, CasaEma, Flor Y Miel, La Fogata Restaurant, Alora
Favorite Chinese
The Rice Box
Finalists: Cooking Girl, Ambassador Chinese Restaurant, Auntie Chang’s Dumpling House, Mala Sichuan Bistro, Heights Asian Cafe
Favorite Cooking Class
Cooking with Chef Tae
Finalist: Well Done
Favorite Cuban
El Rey Taqueria
Finalists: ZZ Taco, El Meson
Favorite Deli
Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen
Finalists: New York Deli & Bagels, Nielsen’s Deli, Ploughman’s Deli & Cafe
Favorite Dessert
Dessert Gallery Bakery & Cafe
Finalists: Cinnamaniac, Sweets by Syd, The Bake Happening, Fluff Bake Bar, Michael’s Cookie Jar, Leona’s Bakeshop, Cake Fine Pastry, Eazy As Pie Bakery
Favorite Dumplings
The Rice Box
Finalists: Auntie Chang’s Dumpling House, Wanna Bao, Dough Zone Dumpling House–Houston Midtown
Favorite Food Truck
Umbrella Fellas
Finalists: Pixi Dust, Tacos Laguna, Best Street Tacos, Think Tacos, Tasty Arepa
Favorite Hamburger
The Burger Joint
Finalists: Burger Bodega, Lankford’s Grocery & Market, Champ Burger, Moon Tower Inn, Boo’s Burgers,
The Toasted Coconut, The Kennedy, Umbrella Fellas
Favorite Hot Dog
The Burger Joint
Finalists: Umbrella Fellas, Moon Tower Inn, YoYo’s Hotdog, Barnaby’s Cafe
Favorite Greek
Niko Niko’s
Finalists: Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine, Ekkos Deli, AL Quick Stop
Favorite Indian
Cowboys and Indians Indian-Tex Fusion and Cocktails
Finalists: Pondicheri, Aga’s Restaurant & Catering, Musaafer
Favorite Italian
Riva’s
Finalists: giacomo’s cibo e vino, The Spaghetti Western, Carraba’s, Mimo, Maggiano’s, Marmo, Bollo Woodfired Pizza
Favorite Japanese
Ninja Ramen
Finalists: Oishii, Uchi, Kata Robata, Izakaya Wa, Osaka Japanese Restaurant
Favorite Sushi
Kata Robata
Finalists: Uchi, Hando, Oishii, Handies Douzo, Katami
Favorite Mexican
Tacos Doña Lena
Finalists: Alma Latina, Candente, Chapultepec Lupita, Original Ninfa’s on Navigation, La Mexicana, Cochinita & Co., El Tiempo Cantina–Westheimer, Spanish Flowers, CasaEma, Pappasito’s Cantina, Teotihuacan Mexican Cafe, Hugo’s, La Tapatia Mexican Cafe
Favorite Middle Eastern/Mediterranean
Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine
Finalists: Amir’s Pop-Up Kitchen, Aga’s, Fadi’s, Dimassi’s Mediterranean Buffet, Rumi’s Kitchen, Kasra Persian Grill
Favorite LGBTQ Caterer
210 Fusion Cuisine
Finalists: Chef Victoria Island Hop Catering, Event Elementz, David Alcorta/Churrasco’s, Dessert Gallery Bakery & Cafe
Favorite Local LGBTQ Chef
NaTosha Chef Tae Barber
Finalists: Monica Pope, Luis Chen, Adriana Maldonado–The Kennedy, Gregory Montelaro, Diego Chiarello, Henry Lu
Favorite Local LGBTQ-Owned Restaurant
Tacos Doña Lena
Finalists: Koffeteria, Salt & Sugar, Barnaby’s Cafe, The Kennedy, The Montrose Country Club
Favorite Lunch Spot
Tacos Doña Lena
Finalists: Barnaby’s Cafe, ALMA Latina in the Heights, CasaEma, ChopnBlok, Paulie’s, Cafe Brasil, New York Bagel, Moon Tower Inn, Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine
Favorite Tea
McHugh Tea Room
Finalists: Mai’s Restaurant, Fuji Tea, Mercantile, Ten Yen Tea & Herbs, path of tea
Favorite Pizza
Star Pizza
Finalists: Bambolinos, Nonno’s, Tiny Champions, Luna Pizzeria, Pizza Birra Vino, Romano’s Pizza, Gristworkz
Favorite Place for a Romantic Date
Nobie’s
Finalists: The Kennedy, Tiny Champions, Baso, Mimo, Plume, The Post Oak Hotel
Favorite Restaurant for a Food Happy Hour
Postino Montrose
Finalists: The Montrose Country Club, Tiny Champions, Winnie’s, Federal Grill, Jethro’s Cocktail Lounge, Marmo
Favorite Restaurant for Affordable Eats
Tacos Doña Lena
Finalists: Barnaby’s Cafe–Fairview, Alma Latina, Tacos A Go Go, Cantina Barba, Cali Sandwich & Pho,
Auntie Chang’s Dumpling House
Favorite Restaurant for Elegant Dining
Brennan’s of Houston
Finalists: Nancy’s Hustle, The Kennedy, Baso, Bludorn, Morton’s, Tony’s
Favorite Restaurant for Outdoor Dining
City Cellars HTX
Finalists: Southern Yankee Crafthouse, Moon Tower Inn, Elliott’s Table, Brennan’s of Houston, Verde Garden, Betsy’s at Evelyn’s Park
Favorite Thai
Street to Kitchen
Finalists: Nidda Thai Cuisine, Street Food Thai Market, Khun Kay, Rim Tanon, Kin Dee, NUA Thai,
Thai Bistro, Thai Tail
Favorite Steak House
Morton’s
Finalists: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Brenner’s on the Bayou, Saltgrass Steak House, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Steak 48, Hillstone (Houston’s on Kirby), Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Churrascos, Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse
Favorite Seafood
Field & Tides
Finalists: Truluck’s, Little’s Oyster Bar, Clark’s, Brennan’s of Houston, Connie’s Seafood, Eugene’s, Kiss, Voodoo Queen Daiquiri Dive, Goode Company Seafood
Favorite Steak Night at a Bar/Catering
Ryan Grimes–Knives in Water
Finalists: Pearl Bar, JR’s Bar & Grill–Chef Gregory Montelaro, Bobcat Teddy’s Icehouse, Pimlico
Favorite Vegetarian/Vegan
Hobbit Cafe
Finalists: Korny Vibes, Mo Brunch + Brews, Somas Semillas, green seed vegan, Ginger Mule, Trendy Vegan
Favorite Vietnamese
Mai’s Restaurant
Finalists: Huynh Restaurant, Cali Sandwich & Pho, Miss Saigon Cafe, Moon Rabbit, Lua Viet Kitchen, Simply Pho, Oui Banh Mi, Pho Saigon
Friendliest Restaurant Staff
ALMA Latina in the Heights
Finalists: Barnaby’s Cafe, Rivas, Nobie’s, Baby Barnaby’s, Baso, Tacos Doña Lena, Kiss, The Montrose Country Club
DRINKS & SPIRITS
Best Cocktail
Ripcord
Finalists: South Beach Houston, Two Headed Dog, Cecil’s Pub, Pearl Bar, Tony’s Corner Pocket, JR’s Bar & Grill, Anvil Bar, George Country Sports Bar, Catbirds, Michael’s Outpost, The Kennedy
Best Bar for Mocktails
JR’s Bar & Grill
Finalists: Pearl Bar, Anvil Bar, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon, Two Headed Dog, The Montrose Country Club, Axelrad Beer Garden, Plume
Best Happy Hour
Ripcord
Finalists: JR’s Bar & Grill, Cecil’s Pub, Pearl Bar, Tony’s Corner Pocket, George Country Sports Bar, Michael’s Outpost, Little Danny’s Go Fly a Kite
Best Margarita
Ripcord
Finalists: Alma Latina, La Tapatia Mexican Cafe, JR’s Bar & Grill, Pearl Bar, Cecil’s Pub, Spanish Flowers, El Tiempo Cantina, La Mexicana, Michael’s Outpost, Two Headed Dog, Verde Garden, Pico’s, Plume, The Flat
Best Bloody Mary
George Country Sports Bar (Gary Mears on Sundays)
Best Non-Alcoholic Beer & Seltzer Selection
West Alabama Ice House
Finalists: JR’s Bar & Grill, Birdie’s Den, Neon Boots Dancehall & Saloon, Plume, Montrose Country Club
Favorite Brand of Liquor
Tito’s
Finalists: Jeppson’s Malört, Campari, Becherovka, Fireball
Favorite Local Brewery
Frost Town Brewing
Finalists: Bad Astronaut, Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Eureka Heights Brew Co., Gristworkz, Equal Parts Brewing, No Label Brewing Co., Under the Radar Brewery
Favorite Local Craft Beer, Cider, or Seltzer
Frost Town Brewing
Finalists: Bad Astronaut, Eureka Heights Brew Co., Moon Tower Inn, City Orchard, Gristworkz, 8th Wonder Brewery, True Anomaly Brewing Company, Under the Radar Brewery
Favorite National Brand of Beer, Cider, or Seltzer
High Noon
Finalists: NUTRL, Bud Light, White Claw
Favorite Female Bartender
Chanel Chowdhury–Pearl Bar
Finalists: Holly Whitaker–Cecil’s Pub, Kayla Davidson–Frost Town Brewing, Brooke Lightfoot–Two Headed Dog, Jysselle Trevino–Crocker Bar, Brittany Blackwell–Bar 5015, Crystal Murley–George Country Sports Bar, Mary–JR’s Bar & Grill, Krissy Kris–Rich’s Houston, Kiana–Plume
Favorite Nonbinary Bartender
Joshua Chipley
Finalists: Rowan Blair, Nick Robinson–South Beach, Mauricio Wright–South Beach
Favorite Male Bartender
Brian Duhon–South Beach
Finalists: Joseph–Ripcord, Tony Delmoe–Frost Town Brewing, Nick Robinson–South Beach, Wilbert Williams–Birdie’s Den, Mykey Whitney–Tony’s Corner Pocket
Favorite Place for Drinks on a First Date
Ripcord
Finalists: Cecil’s Pub, Pearl Bar, Bar Boheme, Alma Latina, George Your Country Sports Bar, The Montrose Country Club, JR’s Bar & Grill, Barcelona, Postino Montrose, 13 celsius, Camerata, Cecil’s Pub, Postino Heights
Favorite Wine Bar
JR’s Bar & Grill
Barcelona, Postino Montrose, 13 celsius, Camerata, Cecil’s Pub, Postino Heights
Best Dive Bar
Lei Lo
Finalists: Two Headed Dog, Little Dannie’s Go Fly a Kite, Grand Prize Bar, Poison Girl, Sassafras, PJ’s Sports Bar, Trash Panda Drinking Club
Best Bar Food
Piggy’s
Finalists: Voodoo Queen, JR’s Bar & Grill–Steak Night
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Best Barbershop
Smokin’ Mirrors Barbershop
Finalists: Golden Edge Barbershop, Bangerz Chop Shop, Henry’s on Richmond, Steady Hands
Best Barber
Electa Hazenstab
Finalists: Geno O’Quinn, Kian Kismet, Jonny Lackey, Jay Infinity’s Queer Cutz, J. Bookie, KV–Hellrazr, Taylor Leven
Best Female Hair Stylist
Deah Fisher–Balance Salon
Finalists: Taylor Leven–Smokin Mirrors, Allison Outlaw–Spectrum Studios, Dana Wendell–Booked Salon,
Tameka Yoakum Lacy–Envy Me Beauty, Gabriela Alegria–Beautique Salon and Spa, Celina Carcamo
Best Male Hair Stylist
Kip Schexnaydre
Finalists: Anthony Skoog, Nathan Martinez–HSG Salon, Geno O’Quinn, John Rubio, Christopher Trevino–Christopher Wayne Hairdressing, Carlos Carrillo
Best Nonbinary Hair Stylist
Katie Roome
Finalists: Alecia Farrar, David Bamford, Amy Holt
Favorite Hair Salon
Balance Salon @ Salon Lofts
Finalists: Green Apple Salon, Smokin’ Mirrors Barbershop, HSG Salon, Spectrum Studios, Hue Hair Lounge, Therapy Hair Studio, Nu-Cuts
Best Nail Salon
D’Limo Nail Lounge
Finalists: Montrose Nails, Color Theory, Therapy Hair Studio, Green Apple
Best Nail Technician
Chelsea Garcia
Finalist: David Perez
Best Chiropractor
Dr. Trevor Hurtig
Finalists: Dr. David Mason, Dr. Hurta Airrosti, Dr. Matt Arnold, Dr. Fernando Franco
Best Community Health Services Provider
Legacy Community Health
Finalists: CrofootMD, Planned Parenthood, Avenue 360 Health and Wellness, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, The Montrose Center
Best Pharmacist
Tram Nguyen
Finalists: Shane Goulas, Gulnar Shahid, Kevon Aloysius, Scott Read
Best Pharmacy
HEB–Montrose (tie)
Legacy Pharmacy (tie)
Finalists: Walgreens Pharmacy at CrofootMD, Scott Read Pharmacy, AHF Pharmacy–Houston Binz
Best Cosmetic Skin Care Center
The Skin Renewal Center
Finalists: The Next Chapter Cosmetics, Complete Dermatology, Skin Renaissance Laser Center,
ACPS, SkinCeuticals SkinLab by Dr. Roth
Best Aesthetic Physician
Dr. Patrick McNamara
Finalists: Dr. Paul Fortes, Dr. Sanaz Harirchand
Best Cosmetic Surgeon
Dr. Robert Peterson
Finalists: Dr. Paul Fortes, Dr. George Washington, Dr. Sanaz Harirchand, Dr. Ashley Steinberg
Best Dermatologist
Dr. BJ Gill
Finalists: Dr. Dani Applebaum, Dr. Anthony Linfante
Best Female Dentist
Dr. Cynthia Corral
Finalists: Dr. Terri Alani, Farias Dental at Memorial Heights, Dr. Robyn Waring
Best Male Dentist
Dr. Austin Faulk
Finalists: Dr. Marcus De Guzman, Dr. Sam Carrell, Dr. Alex Barrera–Avenue 360, Dr. Cory Logan, Dr. Angel A. Roman
Best Female Eye Doctor
Dr. Nancy Lo
Finalists: Dr. Juliet Farmer, Dr. Sheryl Pickering, Dr. Morgan Jones, Dr. Sheena Garner
Best Male Eye Doctor
Dr. Paul Lovero
Finalists: Dr. Stewart Zuckerbrod, Dr. Huy Pham, Dr. Bimal Patel, Dr. Evan Mapes
Best Nonbinary Eye Doctor
Sheena Garner
Best Foot Doctor
Dr. Vanessa Barrow
Finalists: Dr. Ellen Roberts, Dr. Laura Zaka
Best Female Massage Therapist
Robin Mack
Finalists: Kasie Tedrick, Daisy Guzman, Tamia Anderson, Cherrise Taylor
Best Female Mental Health Therapist
Denise O’Doherty
Finalists: Angelica Ramos, Faith Northern, Larneka Lavalais
Best Female Nurse
Kay McCunnis–BeYoutiful Anti-Aging Studio
Finalists: Sandy Stacy–Avenue 360/Omega House
Best Female Nurse Practitioner
Tatianna Mai
Finalist: Maggie White
Best Female Physician
Dr. Julia Kovacs
Finalists: Dr. Maya Halliburton, Dr. Jessica Zweiner, Dr. Natalie Vanek, Dr. Anna Fields
Best Male Physician
Dr. Gordon Crofoot
Finalists: Dr. Abel Flores, Dr. Octavio Barrios, Dr. Chad Scott, Dr. Rocco Richards, Dr. James Carroll, Dr. Rolando Maldonado
Best Female Physician’s Assistant (PA)
Arbelia Roman
Best Male Physician’s Assistant (PA)
John Chapman
Finalist: Brian Seabolt
Best OB/GYN
Dr. Damla Karsan (tie)
Dr. Olga Swanson (tie)
Finalist: Dr. Erica Giwa
Best Fertility Clinic/Surrogacy Services
CCRM Fertility of Houston
Finalist: Dr. Nola Herlihy–RMA Houston
Best Gym
Barry’s Houston
Finalists: Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense, CrossFit Central Houston, Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA, Body 3 Personal Fitness, EōS Fitness, Houston Gym
Best Male Personal Trainer
Andrew Hayes
Finalists: Robert McNeil, John Villarreal, Christopher Lucas–Spenga, Andrew Diaz
Best Female Personal Trainer
Mandy Trichell
Finalists: Danielle Sampey–Lazarus House, Amanda Garza
Best Nonbinary Personal Trainer
Cherrise Taylor
Finalist: Exy Mars
Best Cycling Studio
RYDE
Finalists: SPENGA Houston Montrose, Duo Houston
Best Makeup Artist
Melissa McKinney–Sorelle Atalier
Finalists: Jason Palermo, Amore Monet, Maria Rodriguez, Lucky Cat Beauty by Aubrie Layne
Best Male Massage Therapist
Derek Stone
Finalists: Freddy Saldana, Dean Daugherty, Jeffrey Saldana, John Villarreal, Ryan Fugate
Best Male Mental Health Therapist
Ty David Lerman Counseling
Finalists: Daniel Garces, Kamone Hyman, Matt Carrillo, Justin Bustamante, Stephen Parks, Ks Stanley
Best Male Nurse
Jason Hicks
Finalists: Bert Zumaya, Andrew McCleary, Adam Sirico, AJ Sarabia, Aaron Matthews
Best Male Nurse Practitioner
Derek Smith
Finalists: Kendrick Clack, Paul Simmons, David Cupit, Greg D. Cupit, Manny Vasquez
Best Men’s Health Clinic
Crofoot MD Clinic and Research Center
Finalists: Wellness Bar by Legacy, Village Medical–Post Oak, Legacy Community Health–Montrose Clinic
Best Nonbinary Mental Health Therapist
Riot Stanley
Finalists: Tae Moon, Casey Kaiser, Hawk Owsley
Best Mental Health Therapist/Psychologist
dr. ks stanley
Finalists: Denis “Woodja” Flanigan, PhD, Alejandro Cubria, Daniel Garces, Steven Parks
Best Mental Health Practice
Southwest Psychotherapy Associates
Finalists: Ember and Moon Counseling, Legacy Community Health, The Montrose Center, Ajana Therapy & Clinical Services, Vada Counseling, Houston Heights Therapy
Best Mental Health Therapist/Psychiatrist
Dr. Daniel Garza
Finalists: Dr. Chad M. Lemaire, Dr. Frank Y. Chen, Dr. Laura Davison, Dr. Chandler Self
Best Women’s Health Clinic
Legacy Community Health
Finalist: The Rose
Best Nonbinary Sex and Relationship Therapist
Duewa “Kaya” Spicer
Best Physical Therapist
Roy Rivera
Finalists: Huzefa Tayabali-Wilson, Tyler Humphrey
Best Tattoo Artist
Julian Solis
Finalists: Avery Foshee, Asher Diangelo, Megan Medina, Sarah Bobby, Miss Miranda Quinn, Yaniel Mieres
Best Nonbinary Massage Therapist
Cam Stodghill
Best Tattoo Parlor
Technicolor Tattoo
Finalists: Stubborn Anchor Studios, Delusional Tattoo, Houston Heights Tattoo & Piercing, Wesche Tattoo, 713 Tattoo Parlour, Ella Tattoo
Best Urgent or Emergency Care Center
NeuMed (tie)
Memorial Hermann Urgent Care (tie)
Finalists: Elite Hospital Kingwood, Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center
Best Yoga Studio
Black Swan Yoga in the Heights
Finalists: Ranch HTX, The Atrium, Lake Houston Family YMCA, Ashé Yoga Collective
Favorite Female Dental Hygienist
Jacquelyn Clemmer–Montrose DDS
Finalists: Chriszelda Luna–Bayou City Smiles, Melissa Baez–Montrose DDS
Hospital Champion Most Supportive OF the LGBTQ Community
MD Anderson Cancer Center (tie)
Memorial Hermann Hospital (tie)
Finalists: Houston Methodist Hospital, HCA Houston Healthcare
HOUSE & HOME
Best Christmas Decorator
Raymond Valdez
Finalists: Always in Season, Lisa Barth, Walker Chancey
Best Electricity Provider
MP Energy & Consulting
Finalists: BKV Energy, TXU Energy, Just Energy
Best Floor Covering Company
Floor Coverings International
Best Florist
Andrew Liebig Designs
Finalists: Robert Shipman Flowers & Events, In Bloom, Javier Jimenez–The Golden Leaf, Kirksey Gregg,
The Ranch Houston
Best Furniture Store
Native Citizen
Finalists: Texas Mattress Makers–Downtown Houston, Living Spaces, Ikea
Best Furniture Store on a Budget
IKEA
Finalist: America’s Best Furniture Store
Best Gardening/Nursery Supply
Joshua’s Native Plants & Garden Antiques
Finalists: Dirt Bag, Buchanan’s Native Plants, Another Place in Time
Best Landscaping Company/Landscaper
Hunter’s Tree Service
Finalists: Always In Season, Texas Mulch Masters, Fire + Flora Landscape Design
Best Pool Company
Hidden Cove Outdoors
Finalist: Venture Pool Company
Best Plumber
Metro Plumbing and Backflow (tie)
In the Loop Plumbing (tie)
Finalist: Apollo Mechanical Plumbing
Best Heating & Air Conditioning Company
Air Energy
Finalists: New Horizons, Steve’s Heating & A/C, Newport Air
Best Home Furnishings Store
Eklektik Interiors
Finalists: The Guild Shop, Native Citizen
Best Home Security Company
Pro Fix PC Computer & IT Services
Finalists: Smith Thompson Security, ADI
Best House Cleaning Company
Maid for It
Finalist: Natural Care Cleaning Service
Best Male Interior Designer
Raymond Valdez
Finalists: Anthony Stransky, James Hunter, Emmanuel Leventis Interior Design
Best Female Interior Designer
Kathy Anderson
Best Female Insurance Agent
Klarisa Madrigal–State Farm
Finalists: Stephanie Mier, Sabrina Marie Calvillo, Ayeshah Alam, Christyna Lewis
Best Male Insurance Agent
Lane Lewis
Finalists: Jason Palermo, Jeremy Henry, Patrick Torma
LEGAL & FINANCIAL
Best Bank
Amegy Bank
Finalists: Truist, Frost Bank, Prosperity Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, PNC Bank
Best Credit Union
Houston Federal Credit Union
Finalists: Cy-Fair Credit Union, First Community Credit Union, Gulf Coast Educators FCU, Primeway Federal Credit Union
Best Female Accountant
Melony Pope
Best Male Accountant
Richard Rosario
Finalists: John Thayer–TPS Thayer, Joseph Werle–Crunch Consulting, Craig Felderhoff, Gary Gritz
Best Female Bookkeeper
Annette Clarabut–Tidy Bookkeeping
Finalist: Olivia does your books
Best Male Bookkeeper
Gary Gritz
Best Female Financial Planner/Advisor
Grace Yung
Finalists: Christyna Lewis, Britt Kornmann
Best Male Financial Planner/Advisor
Richard Dickson
Finalists: Fo Garcia, Josh Beasley, Gilbert Rodriguez
Best LGBTQ Fund Manager
Doug Smith
Best Business Attorney
Cameron Rivers
Finalists: Megan Daic, Charles Hunter, Daniel Lee
Best Criminal Defense Attorney
Mekisha Walker
Finalists: David Maly, Dulce Toledo, Stephen Aslett, Charles Hunter
Best Estate Planning Attorney
Coleton W. Mayo
Finalists: Shelby Perrin, deborah lawson, Mitchell Katine, Your Legacy Legal Care, Peggy S. Bittick, James Cuellar
Best Female Family Attorney
deborah lawson
Finalists: Vicki Venza, Peggy Bittick
Best Male Family Attorney
Sam M. (Trey) Yates
Finalist: Daniel Lee
Best Human-Rights Attorney
Brian Klosterboer
Finalists: Chelsea Klumppace, Luis Ruiz, Ana Maria Schwartz, David Maly, deb lawson, Kathleen Wiesenthal
Best Male Immigration Attorney
Raed Gonzalez (tie)
John Nechman (tie)
Finalist: Luis Ruiz
Best Female Immigration Attorney
Ana Maria Schwartz–Schwartz Immigration Law
Finalists: Amanda Vilanova–Gonzalez Olivieri, Damaris A. Chavez
Best Labor & Employment Attorney
Emma Brockway
Finalist: Amanda Vilanova
Best Female Personal Injury Attorney
Jessica Rodriguez-Wahlquist
Finalists: Lena Laurenzo, Schechter, Shaffer & Harris LLP
Best Male Personal Injury Attorney
Eric Kirkpatrick
Finalists: Lucas Walker, Lionel Sims, David Miller
Best Male Probate Attorney
Jeff Watters
Finalist: Coleton W. Mayo
Best Female Probate Attorney
deborah lawson
Finalists: Shelby Perrin, Peggy Bittick, Your Legacy Legal Care
Best Trans Community Legal Organization
Trans Legal Aid Clinic of Texas
Best Volunteer Attorney Group
Stonewall Law Association of Greater Houston (tie)
Trans Legal Aid Clinic Texas (tie)
PETS
Best Doggie Day Care
Dogtopia of Houston–West Alabama St.
Finalists: Wag’n World, Dog BnB, The Green Bone, Molly’s Mutt House, Demi’s Dog House, Jackson’s Place Unleashed Pet Resort & Bakery, Rover Oaks Pet Resort, Peace Love Dogs
Best Female Veterinarian (Mobile Vet Clinic)
Dr. Leslie Jenkins–Rockin’ Pets, Rollin’ Vets
Best Female Veterinarian
Dr. Kristy Kyle–Bayou City Veterinary Hospital
Finalists: Dr. Danielle Rosser–West Alabama Animal Clinic, Dr. Meredith Perry–Montrose Veterinary, Dr. Sarah Lane–Oak Forest Veterinary, Dr. Kristen Olson–Greenway Animal Clinic
Best Male Veterinarian
Dr. Eric Cagle
Finalists: Dr. Richard Clive, Dr. L.D. Eckermann
Best Veterinary Clinic
Montrose Veterinary Clinic
Finalists: Bayou City Veterinary Hospital, The Urban Vet, The Cat Doctor, West Alabama Animal Clinic, Oak Forest Vet Clinic, Rockin’ Pets Rollin’ Vets, Westbury Animal Hospital
Best Pet Emergency Care Center
Vergi 24/7
Finalists: Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Veterinary Emergency Group, Sunset Animal Hospital
Best Pet Food or Treats
Three Dog Bakery
Finalists: Baked Bones, Patsy’s Pet Market, The Doggie Express Gourmet Treats & Cakes
Best Pet Grooming Service
Pet Bar in the Heights
Finalists: City Paws Grooming, Aussie Pet Mobile, Wag’n World, Molly’s Mutt House
Best Pet Park
Ervan Chew Dog Park
Finalists: Gene Green Dog Park, Congressman Bill Archer Dog Park, McWilliams Dog Park in Hermann Park
Best Pet Walking and Pet Sitting Service
Jackie Hirschman in the Heights (tie)
Strut and Sniff Pet Services (tie)
Finalist: WAGS Dog Walking + Pet Sitting
Best Place to Adopt a Pet
Citizens for Animal Protection
Finalists: Houston Humane Society, BARC Animal Shelter and Adoptions, Friends For Life, Houston SPCA,
K-9 Angels, VEG
Best Place to Board Your Pet
Dogtopia of Houston–West Alabama St.
Finalists: Wag’n World, Dog BnB, Molly’s Mutt House, Demi’s Dog House, Peace Love Dogs, Rover Oaks Pet Resort, The Green Bone
Best Place to Buy Pet Supplies
The Doggie Express
Finalists: Molly’s Mutt House, Patsy’s Pet Market, Pet City Houston
Favorite Pet-Friendly Restaurant/Bar
Axelrad Beer Garden (tie)
West Alabama Ice House (tie)
Finalists: Cecil’s Pub, Hearsay Levy Park
ARTS
Best Arts Center
MATCH (Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston)
Finalists: The Orange Show, Galveston Arts Center, Lawndale Art Center
Best Community Performing Arts Organization
Pride Chorus Houston
Finalists: Houston Pride Band, The Catastrophic Theatre, The Coronation Theater, MATCH (Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston), Station Theater
Best LGBTQ Community Performing Arts Group
Pride Chorus Houston
Finalist: Houston Pride Band
Best Local Equity Theater Company
Stages
Finalists: Rec Room Arts, Alley Theatre, 4th Wall Theatre Company, The Coronation Theater, Queensbury Theatre
Best Community Theater
The Catastrophic Theatre
Finalists: The Coronation Theater, Dirt Dogs, The Garden Theatre, Station Theater
Favorite Regional Equity Theater
Theatre Under The Stars
Finalists: Stages, Alley Theatre
Best Dance Company
Frame Dance
Finalists: 67ate, Diversity in Dance, Houston Ballet, Urban Souls, Houston Contemporary Dance Company
Favorite Performance-Art Creator
Andrew Whit
Finalists: Mitchell Greco, Sofia Silueta
Best Performing Arts Organization
The Happening (Orange Show)
Finalists: Rec Room Arts, Performing Arts Houston, The Coronation Theater, Arts Advocate Inc., Lighthouse Productions, Experimental Action
Favorite Fine Art Photographer
Lyn Sullivan
Finalists: Larry Garmezy, Janice Bond, Fikry Botros
Favorite Local Choreographer
Chad Fontenot
Finalists: Adam Castaneda, Travis Prokop, Gavin LeMaire
Favorite Local Dancer
Adam Castaneda
Finalists: Ryan Delacruz, Travis Prokop, Gavin LeMaire, Isabella Vik
Favorite Local Female Fine Artist
Afsaneh Aayani
Finalists: Hannah Bull, Katharine Ligon, Maryam Lavaf
Favorite Local Male Fine Artist
Matt Fries–Moon Papas
Finalists: John Slaby, Robin Baker, Trá Slaughter, Hugo Regan
Favorite Local Nonbinary Fine Artist
T Lavois Thiebaud
Finalists: Janavi Folmsbee, Irina Anikouchine
Favorite Local Female Actor
Tamarie Cooper
Finalists: Miika Stewart, Christina Wells, Mai Le, Elizabeth Bunch
Favorite Local Male Actor
Joshua Figueroa
Finalists: Dillon Dewitt, Mark Ivy, Kyle Sturdivant, Lucio Nieto, Marco Camacho
Favorite Local Nobinary Actor
Abraham Zapata
Finalists: T Lavois Thiebaud, Clarity Welch, Mak Fontina
Favorite Local Female Comedian
Janan
Finalists: Timely Rain, Flawless Oz, Vivian Rose, Emily Peacock
Favorite Local Male Comedian
Jack Keller
Finalists: Austin Faulk, Ku Egenti, Mackenzie Jewell, David Merritt
Favorite Local Nonbinary Comedian
George Brito
Favorite Local Sculptor
Lenie Caston-Miller
Finalists: Patrick Renner, Joe Hale Haden, Ian Gerson, Bridgette Mongeon
Favorite Local LGBTQ Musician
Jay Ariean
Finalists: Jonathan Craft, Kam Franklin, Amar Monroe, Nathaniel Cook
Favorite Local Music Director
Alli Villines
Finalists: Jonathan Craft, David York
Favorite Local Theater Director
Tamarie Cooper
Finalists: Jason Nodler, Matt Hune, Zach Dailey
Favorite Female Local Painter
Hannah Bull
Finalists: Stephanie Gonzalez, Katharine Ligon
Favorite Male Local Painter
Hugo Regan
Finalists: Wood Fancher Anthony, Jim Hill, Ryan Fugate, Trá Slaughter
Favorite Local Visual Artist
Ruben Ramires
Finalists: Jeremy A. Teel, T Lavois Thiebaudt, Wood Fancher Anthony, Hugo Regan, Matt Fries–Moon Papas, Alex Ramos, Kill Joy
Best Art Gallery
Archway Gallery
Finalists: Insomnia Gallery, RobinWood Art Studio, Artechouse, Heidi Vaughan Fine Art
Favorite Local Museum
Menil Collection
Finalists: Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Houston Museum of Natural Science, Holocaust Museum Houston, Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Houston Museum of African American Culture, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft
Favorite Local Poet
T Lavois Thiebaud
Finalists: Stephen Schwei, Tiffany Scales, Keagan Wheat, Ethan Michelle Ganz
Favorite Local Puppeteer
lo-fi puppets + stuff
Finalists: Kill Joy, Afsaneh Aayani
AUTO
Best Auto Body Shop
RMS Auto Care
Finalists: E and E Automotive Services, Manriquez Collision & Mechanic Shop, Sport Performance Auto Body,
Viking Automotive
Best Auto Mechanic
RMS Auto Care
Finalists: Montrose Automotive, Ronnie Jackson Mercedes, Tech Auto Mainenance
Best Mobile Auto Repair/Service
Dion & Manny’s
Finalist: Viking Automotive
Best Car Wash/Auto Detailing
Mister Car Wash
Finalists: Aqua Hand Car Wash, Brandon Ramos
Best Car Salesperson
Tony McClelland
Finalists: Lisa Priest, Travis (Baker Nissan)
Best Domestic Auto Dealership
Central Houston Cadillac (tie)
Planet Ford (tie)
Finalist: Planet Lincoln
Best Import Auto Dealership
Advantage BMW Midtown
Finalists: Joe Myers Mazda, Toyota World, Audi Central Houston, Fred Haas
SHOPPING & SERVICES
Best Commercial Photographer
Víctor Contreras–Close Your Eyes Photo
Finalists: Protography Studios, Soneja Creative, Davis Mendoza Darusman
Best Commercial Videographer
Davis Mendoza Darusman (tie)
Trent Wittenbach (tie)
Finalists: Julian Alexander–Julian’s Creations
Best Communications Agency
Mad Hat Maven Creative
Finalist: Like Minds
Best Computer Repair Service
Pro Fix PC Computer & IT Services
Best Copy/Print Shop
Copy.com
Finalist: Signs Xpress
Best Creative Agency
Casa Layfield
Finalists: John Donato–VAST Marketing Group, Mad Hat Maven Creative, Like Minds Communications, Black Sheep Agency, Love Advertising, RadHype Creative Consulting, Clarified Communications
Best Marketing Agency
John Donato–Vast Marketing Group
Finalists: REFUGE Marketing & Consulting, Like Minds Communication, Mad Hat Maven Creative
Best PR Agency
Like Minds Communication
Finalists: John Donato–VAST Marketing Group, Mad Hat Maven Creative
Best Executive Recruiting Firm
Integrus Solutions/Gary Woods
Finalist: Relate Search
Best Funeral Services
Bradshaw-Carter Memorial & Funeral Services
Finalists: Morales Funeral Home, Dignity Memorial, A Community Funeral Home
Best Grocery Store
H-E-B
Finalists: Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Sprout’s Farmers Market
Best Specialty Food Store
Phoenicia Specialty Foods
Finalists: Central City Co-Op, B&W Meat Market, Henderson & Kane, District Market Green Grocer, Dr. Delicacy
Best Jewelry Store
Silverlust Jewelry
Finalists: NG Jewelry, Zazzy Box Fine Jewelry, Zadok Jewelers, Tenenbaum & Co., Womxn on the Moon
Best Leather Store
Eros 1207
Finalists: Sir Rat Leather, Hollywood Super Center, The Montrose Forge
Best Life Coach
Nathan Herrington
Finalists: Tiffany Scales, April Coghill, Miriam Lopez–SeeqMore, Devan Ford
Best Astrologer
Lilly Roddy
Finalist: Kevin Casey
Best Liquor Store
Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods
Finalists: Total Wine & More, King Cole Liquor
Best Local Clothing Designer
Julius LaCour–King Underwear
Finalists: Mell Gambo–Pride Threads, Sarah Miller–Magpies and Peacocks, Israel Cruz–MANBUNS, Burly Bottom Designs
Best Local Resale or Thrift Store
Out of the Closet
Finalists: The Guild Shop, The Blue Bird Circle, Charity Guild Shop, The Cottage Shop, Second Blessings Resale Shop
Best Men’s Clothing Store
Stylesbear.com
Finalists: Pride Threads, King Underwear, Hollywood Super Center, Boot Barn–Hwy. 290, mosesthemogul.com, OG 713
Best Women’s Clothing Store
Pride Threads
Finalists: Jubilee, Magpies and Peacocks, Saks Fifth Avenue
Best Online Clothing Store
Stylesbear.com
Finalists: Pride Threads, King Underwear, The Feisty Collective, Magpies and Peacocks, Matty Made Me, MANBUNS
Best Place to Buy Erotic Playthings
Eros 1207
Finalists: Electric Love, Hollywood Super Center, Adam & Eve, Sir Rat Leather
Best Place to Buy Eyewear
Montrose Eye Care
Finalists: Smith’s Opticians, Eyebar Houston, Spectacles, Eye Gallery Houston
Best Place to Buy/Rent a Costume
Electric Love (tie)
CostumeWorx (tie)
WEDDINGS & EVENTS
Best Place to Pop the Question
Disney World
Finalists: Home Depot, Houston Audubon, Disney Land, Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary, Provincetown
Best Place to Rent/Buy Formal Wear
Men’s Wearhouse
Finalist: David’s Bridal
Best Wedding/Event Live Musician or Band
Harmony Strings
Finalist: Commercial Art
Best Wedding Officiant
Rev. Diane McGehee
Finalists: Rev. Heather Tolleson, John Donato, Gabriel Swift, Tiffany Scales, TJ Liebowitz, Monica Branch, Donald Wyatt, Rev. Ashley Dellagiacoma
Best Wedding/Event Cake Bakery
Dessert Gallery (tie)
The Bake Happening (tie)
Finalists: Angel_TheCakeChef, Leona’s Bakeshop, Cake Fine Pastry, Sweets by Syd, Eazy As Pie Bakery, Susie’s Cakes
Best Wedding/Event Catering Firm
Barbie’s Bites
Finalists: Chef Jace (@jace8te), 210 Fusion Cuisine, Churrasco’s, Leona’s Bakeshop, Event Elementz, Island Hop Catering, Chef Adam’s Kitchen, Cafe Natalie, City View Catering
Best Wedding/Event DJ
DJ Crazy V
Finalists: DJ London, DJ Cheeks, DJ Val, DJ TNT, DJ Rocabye
Best Wedding/Event Florist
Andrew Liebig Designs
Finalists: Robert Shipman Flowers & Events, Tamika–The Ranch Houston, Javier Jimenez–The Golden Leaf,
19eleven Events
Best Wedding/Event Photographer
Nikolas Tsakiris–Protography Studios
Finalists: Jamie Hardin Photography, Victor Contreras–Close Your Eyes Photo, Alexander Cross, Chandrayee Soneja, Davis Mendoza Darusman
Best Wedding/Event Planner
Robert Shipman Flowers & Events
Finalists: Andrew Liebig Designs, Event Elementz, Alexander Tharp-Wyatt, Blissful Balloons
Best Wedding/Event Venue
Bering Memorial United Church of Christ
Finalists: First Christian Church Katy, 1940 Air Terminal Museum, Nouveau, St Paul’s United Methodist Church,
The Ranch Houston
Best Wedding/Event Videographer
Houston Unscripted Productions (tie)
Julian’s Creations (tie)
Finalists: Pablo Escobar Photography, Protography
TRAVEL & VACATIONS
Best Airline
Spirit Airlines
Finalists: Southwest Airlines, United Airlines
Best Honeymoon Destination
Ireland
Finalists: Hawaii, NYC, Tulum, San Pedro
Best LGBTQ Cruise Company
Aquafest Cruises
Finalists: Cruise Planners–Peter Weeks, VACAYA, Olivia Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Atlantis Events, Pied Piper
Best LGBTQ Land Tour Company
Brand g Vacations (tie)
VACAYA (tie)
Finalist: Purple Light Vacations
Best Local Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn–Medical Center
Finalists: Hilton Americas-Houston, Heights House Hotel, The Whitehall Houston
Best Local Hotel Bar
Hotel Zaza
Best Local Hotel Pool
Marriott Marquis
Best Local Hotel Restaurant
Xochi at La Colombe d’Or Hotel
Best Local Hotel Spa
Hilton Americas-Houston
Finalists: The Galvez, Hotel ZaZa
Best Local Pet-Friendly Hotel
Heights House Hotel
Finalists: Hilton Garden Inn-Medical Center, Magnolia Hotel, Blossom Hotel
Best Place for a Staycation
Margaritaville–Lake Conroe
Finalist: Hilton Americas-Houston
Favorite Flight Attendant
Acianna Thompson–Southwest Airlines
Finalist: Ramone Davis
Favorite LGBTQ Travel Destination
Ireland
Finalists: Puerto Vallarta, Amsterdam, San Francisco, Ogunquit (Maine), Wimberley (Texas)
Favorite LGBTQ-Friendly Campgrounds
Rainbow Ranch Campground
Finalists: Grizzly Pines, D-Ranch Retreat
Favorite Place to Take Out-of-Town Visitors
Ripcord
Finalists: POST Houston, Club Houston, Barcode, Cecil’s Pub, The Hobbit Cafe, Houston Museum District
Best Local LGBTQ Travel Agency
Cruise Planners–Peter Weeks
Finalists: Concierge Travel, Niki B Cruiselady
Best Travel Insurance Services
AAA Travel Insurance
Finalist: Travel Guard
Thank you to all of our readers, advertisers, and sponsors—as well as everyone who voted—for making our 28th annual Readers’ Choice Awards possible!
This list appears in the October 2025 edition of OutSmart magazine.
