Memories of Brennan's

Deb and I were deeply saddened by the burning down of Brennan’s last weekend. Although not our favorite restaurant or the best in Houston, it seems like every time we wanted to celebrate a momentous occasion we would go there.

Sunday brunch on our first anniversary with Deb’s best friend. The chef’s table with another couple on our fifth anniversary. The advantages of being married on Halloween – reservations are easier to get. For some reason they discouraged us from wearing costumes that night. For my 40th birthday, we invited ten friends and had the wine dinner.

Two years ago, Deb’s partners gave us a gift card to dine at Brennan’s as a token of appreciation for my helping them negotiate the buyout of their firm’s founders. It sat in a drawer as we waited for the right night to use it. Three months ago, we found that night. We celebrated my 50th birthday with seven friends at the Chef’s table.

Layne	Deb	Greg
Stacey		Abigail
Tony	Cathy	Charlie

It is one of the most memorable dining experiences I have had. Not because of the food, which was excellent, but because of the group. The nine of us sat around for four hours, ate great food, enjoyed fine wines, received outstanding service. We all wore hats, because Deb says it is not a party without hats, and told stories about each other, some of which were true. We were the last patrons to leave, but never felt rushed.

Tonight, Deb and I are going to Divino’s and Radio Music Theater with Charlie and Stacey, and Greg and Sara. To start the evening, we will raise a toast to Brennan’s for all the great memories it holds for us. Brennan’s, you will be missed.