JMG Magazine / Live Oak Bar & Grill

Photos: Ulisses Garcia

Renowned Chef Takes Comfort Food to the Next Level

by Jacquari Harris
| February 8, 2017 1:33 pm CST

JMG Magazine / Chef Javani King

Chef Javani King

Fresh seafood, rich sauces and a little spice are only a few ingredients you’ll find in a Creole-inspired kitchen. Of course, the execution of this beloved style of cooking takes the right cook with the knowledge and culinary prowess to pull it off. And when it’s time to reach out to the who’s who of Southern recipes, it’s Chef Javani King who gets the call.

The talented Javani King is a Houston-based chef who really doesn’t need an introduction. He’s made several TV appearances on Fox 26, KHOU and just last month on the Food Network’s show Chopped, where he appeared on their New Year’s Bash episode.

Furthermore, King has wooed food lovers, celebrities and public figures, including First Lady Michelle Obama, with his private catering company, and at local restaurants such as Davis Street in Hermann Park and at the new Live Oak Bar & Grill, where King serves as executive chef.

Live Oak Bar & Grill is located in the space formerly occupied by Sugarhill Bar & Lounge near downtown Houston. As an upscale restaurant and lounge, Javani has crafted a menu that’s known as “Creole-Southern comfort food.” It’s a specialized menu that I’m sure its neighborhood guests will definitely appreciate.

“We told Javani that we wanted a Creole style concept,” said Marketing Manager Sterling Lewis. “He came in and whipped up something for us that fits the community and the taste of what people want. There’s not many places to eat (in the neighborhood), so we’re going to be the provider, the No. 1 spot to eat, lounge and to bring your family to. It’s a chill spot where you can smoke hookah, have some drinks and enjoy a good time.”

JMG Magazine / Live Oak

Some signature dishes on the Live Oak menu include the Oak Wing Pops, which consists of three deliciously battered chicken wings with a Cajun zing and jalapeno cilantro ranch for dipping. Then there’s my favorite, the Hot Shrimp Opelousas with jumbo shrimp, andouille sausage, corn and red potatoes.

And Live Oak is definitely prepared to keep guests entertained with a full outdoor patio and a garage-esque opening that’s perfect for the warmer weather and outdoor events. Live Oak is open Tuesday through Sunday with a weekly lineup that will consist of live music, poetry, karaoke and DJs.

But for Live Oak, keeping guests happy goes beyond custom cocktails and great food. The restaurant wants to give back to the community, as well.

“We really want to be involved in the community and schools like UH and TSU with back to school events and even a Live Oak scholarship,” said Lewis. “This is a neighborhood spot, so as long as we get the neighborhood to support us, we’re going to support them as much as we can.”

Live Oak Bar & Grill | 2533 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004 | Liveoakhtx.com