Tepatitlan Bakery on Spencer Highway - The Second Best Bakery in the greater Houston area

 When you are over Pasadena way, on Spencer Highway, perhaps checking out a local Michoacana for a paleta, or shopping at Mi Tienda, also plan to buy some baked goods at Tepatitlan.  Many Mexican pastries can be very dry, and they are typically (example: conchas) dipped into your morning coffee or chocolate. But over the years, the inventive bakers in Mexico have come up with some very interesting and creative pastries. Like pasta in Italy that comes in different shapes, each with its associated name, Mexican baked goods come in many shapes and types, each with its own name.

What I love about Tepatitlan is that they offer an extensive range of traditional baked goods. And for some reason, everything just seems a little bit fresher and tastier here. 

Tepatitlan Bakery. It is a place that was introduced to me by friend Robert Martinez, and if I’m ever in this area, I have to make a stop because everything is fresh and delicious. And there’s an incredible variety to choose from. It is like being in Mexico.

Quesos to Go - Venezuelan Cuisine in Houston

 Tucked into a little strip center just one street over from Fry Road is a delightful grocery store with regional cheeses and specialties from Venezuela. 

Friend, John Nechman, calls this area of Fry/Mason : "Katyzuela", because of the number of South American eateries and options out there.

Here is where you will find your various ground corn for arepas and other South American dishes, and cheeses, and snack foods. 

Look out for the assortment of ají chile based hot sauces and the extensive collection of cookies and chocolates. 

Even Venezuelan style sandwich bread (butter bread).

Tequeños in different flavors, (a fried snack) perfect for parties, are available in the freezer section. And empanadas, also in the freezer section (see menu below).

We chatted with one of the owners about methods for making arepas. Although one can buy electric arepa makers, similar to a waffle maker, a good old griddle or cast iron pan will work just fine. Lots of recipes on YouTube if you want to tackle them at home. And the owners will walk you through the corn flours for the masa when you visit.