A look at the happy hour menu at Underbelly’s wine bar makes it clear that chef Chris Shepherd harbors a love for hearty snacks. The temptations include smoked-then-fried crispy chicken wings, a fried bologna sandwich and poutine. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that Underbelly’s fifth birthday features street food—and a carnival, to-boot. The festivities happen on Sunday, April 2 from 1 to 4 p.m.

The food offerings span the globe: smoked brisket from the South, discada tacos from Mexico (named for the disc harrow these were traditionally cooked on; it’s akin to a shallow wok), Vindaloo Pani Puri from India, whole hog ssam (pork wrapped Korean-style in lettuce leaves) and Shrimp and Rice Paper Salad from Vietnam.

A carnival has to have games, too, though. To fill that requirement, Underbelly’s managers have bravely stepped up as targets for the dunk tank while their boss will man a “hug booth.” (One of these things is not like the other…) There will also be balloon darts and ring toss games, with prizes, of course.

The popcorn, cotton candy and sno-cones (made a little fancier with Underbelly’s housemade shrubs) are included in the $45 ticket price. Also included are five food tickets and three game tickets. Additional ones are $2 each. Folks who’d like to drink can belly up to the cash bar (which does also accept credit cards).

Tickets are available online. Kids 12 and under, though, get in for free.

Phaedra Cook

Phaedra Cook has written about Houston’s restaurant and bar scene since 2010. She was a regular contributor to My Table magazine (now closed) and was the lead restaurant critic for the Houston Press for two years, eventually being promoted to food editor. Cook founded Houston Food Finder in November 2016 and has been its editor and publisher ever since.