Roses, rosemary and other blooms topped Chic Chef Carly Andrews Oubre’s cupcakes at The Port Arthur International Seafarers’ Center cocktail party. Bruce Branick and Judge Jeff Branick invited supporters to the center this past Thursday for music and mingling all in support of the good works this group offers. Grace Liu Anderson provided violin music while guests caught up on seafarer news and Chef Carly Andrews Oubre’s spread included a purple hit: spicy glazed chicken meatballs with crispy red cabbage. Quite a presentation. Warm Bloody Mary gazpacho in a cup topped with a fried oyster was also a conversation starter. For information on seafarer projects, contact aosusa@sbcglobal.net

Dine out

Rodair Roadhouse, Reel Cajun and Neches River Wheelhouse were, I’m guessing, among top spots Mid-County residents took their holiday visitors for our area’s flavor. I’m guessing Tia Juanita’s will be another favorite. I’ve had an eye on their construction.

Other spots I’ve had a taste of recently include Koi Japanese Sushi Bar & Lounge with friendly service, bold flavor and matcha ice cream; Bruno’s Italian Kitchen with an upscale atmosphere; Amacate Tortilla Bar for an affordable Sunday brunch in a festive atmosphere; and Crown Pizza, your only cozy-in-a boxcar offering in the area. These are down the road in Beaumont. Got to say, all of Southeast Texas is known for creative dining.

Coffee Connection

If holiday travel puts you in Texas City, look for Coffee Connection, with the tagline “Touching Lives One Cup at a Time.” I stopped in ever-so-briefly and enjoyed a welcome from patrons and servers who were a mix of genres and ages all chatting together. Christian projects and discussion were part of the atmosphere along with a heavenly aroma from Geva Premium Coffee, roasted in Houston. If their tagline doesn’t move you, try a message from their web site: Coffee: Because you can’t win friends with salad.

Darragh Doiron is a Port Arthur area foodie ready for Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas, which will hit Port Arthur Feb. 28-March 3. Contact her at darraghcastillo@icloud.com