"There’s only one place in town to get a saag wild mushroom dwaffle (dosa plus waffle) for brunch, and it’s at Pondi Bake Lab. The second-floor bakery and cafe above its namesake Pondicheri in Upper Kirby serves a kaleidoscope of colorful food. Think breakfast wraps, or frankies with cilantro chutney, masala-spice-spiked eggs, and warm brioche toaster sandwiches with gooey cheese. Order everything, including a mountain of pastries and cakes laced with hibiscus and saffron, at the counter. Then join the River Oaks athleisure moms sipping green juice on the balcony. " - gianni greene, chelsea thomas